Taman Beji Pura Dalem Tungkub Mambal: Purification Rituals Amidst the Natural Beauty of Mambal Village

Taman Beji Pura Dalem Tungkub, located in Desa Adat Mambal, specifically in Banjar Agung, Badung Regency, Bali, holds a sacred spring that plays an essential role in the religious activities of the local community. Nestled along the banks of the Ayung River and surrounded by lush trees, this temple area offers a cool and serene atmosphere that supports the spiritual peace of its visitors. Taman Beji is part of Pura Dalem Tungkub, and "Beji" refers to a sacred space used as a patirthan or purification site for the ritual of melukat, a cleansing ceremony meant to purify the mind and soul. With its sacred spring, Taman Beji holds great significance for the people of Desa Adat Mambal, who come here for religious rituals, with the temple's major odalan ceremony taking place on Anggara Wuku Parangbakat.

Pura Dalem Tangkub (Photo Source: Private Collection)

Visitors to Taman Beji Pura Dalem Tungkub are expected to observe the protocols and rules of this holy site. In addition to being required to wear traditional Balinese attire as a sign of respect, visitors are expected to wear a sash around their waist to maintain decorum and show reverence while in the sacred area. Moreover, women who are menstruating and individuals in a state of cuntaka or impurity, such as those who have recently given birth or are in mourning, are advised to postpone their visit to preserve the spiritual sanctity of the temple. This rule is strictly observed because the purity of the temple area is deeply respected by the local community, and following these protocols demonstrates care for preserving the sacred traditions of Pura Dalem Tungkub.

The ritual of melukat at Taman Beji should ideally be performed under the guidance of a local priest, who will lead the ceremony and provide instructions during the process. To maintain the sanctity and preservation of the spring, the melukat is conducted in the western area of Beji, not directly from the main spring. This is done to ensure that the spring remains protected and undisturbed by direct activities that could diminish its purity. The melukat is usually carried out on sacred days, such as during the full moon or the dark moon, which are believed to be the best times for purification. Through this process, not only are the body and soul purified, but also a greater awareness of environmental preservation and the importance of protecting nature is nurtured within the community.

Taman Gria Sakti (Photo Source: Private Collection)

Not far from Taman Beji Pura Dalem Tungkub, there is another sacred area known as Taman Gria Sakti. Both places are located in the same area, separated only by a slightly different path. To reach Taman Beji, visitors can continue straight ahead after descending the stairs, while the path to Taman Gria Sakti is to the right after the stairs, making both sites easily accessible in a single visit without a long journey.

Taman Gria Sakti is situated amidst a captivating natural environment, surrounded by towering trees and expansive green landscapes, creating a cool, peaceful, and calming atmosphere for every visitor. Similar to Taman Beji, Taman Gria Sakti is also respected as a sacred place. Therefore, visitors are expected to maintain proper behavior and adhere to the rules set forth, in order to honor the traditional values and sanctity upheld in this area.

 Ayung River near Beji Pura Dalem Tungkub (Photo Source: Private Collection)

The surroundings of Taman Beji Pura Dalem Tungkub offer a lush and natural landscape, with large trees growing abundantly, creating a cool and tranquil atmosphere. This area is enveloped in green vegetation that blends with the terraced contours of the land and the descending steps leading to the sacred area, providing a sense of harmony with nature along the path. Beside Taman Beji, a river flows far below, adding to the calm ambiance with the sound of flowing water. Visitors can enjoy the lush green scenery while listening to the sounds of nature, enhancing the serenity and sacredness of this place.

Access to Taman Beji Pura Dalem Tungkub is quite easy, via a paved village road that can be passed by both two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles. Visitors coming from Jalan Raya Mambal-Abiansemal can head towards Desa Mambal. After passing SD No. 1 Mambal, turn into the alley beside it. Continue along the road until reaching Lapangan Mambal as a landmark. If coming from the east, just continue straight ahead, while if coming from the south, turn left after Lapangan Mambal to reach Pura Dalem Tungkub. The journey to the temple also offers a peaceful and natural rural landscape. Although the location is slightly hidden, Taman Beji Pura Dalem Tungkub is still easy to find because it is close to the main access road.

The presence of a sacred spring at Taman Beji Pura Dalem Tungkub serves as an essential patirthan, or melukat site, for the local community. With its well-preserved environment and unique natural ambiance, Taman Beji invites visitors to experience a sense of calm and serenity rarely found elsewhere. The blend of natural beauty and cultural significance makes Taman Beji Pura Dalem Tungkub a destination worth visiting, especially for those seeking peace and a deeper connection to Bali’s cultural heritage.