The Charisma of Pura Sabang Daat: A Hindu Temple in Bali with Unique Spiritual Wonders Without Physical Shrines in the Heart of the Forest

Pura Sabang Daat is one of the unique temples in Bali, differing from other temples that typically feature sacred buildings or pelinggih (shrines). Located on the border of Gianyar and Bangli regencies, specifically in Desa Pakraman Puakan, Desa Taro, Tegallalang District, Gianyar, this temple is nestled in the midst of a forest. Its uniqueness lies in the absence of physical structures, yet it is rich in spiritual values and historical significance in the development of Hinduism in Bali.

Pura Sabang Daat has a long history closely related to Ida Bhatara Rsi Markandeya, a Maha Yogi who played a crucial role in the spread of Hinduism in Java, Bali, and Lombok. He is also known as the figure behind the establishment of Pura Besakih, the largest and oldest temple in Bali, as well as the introduction of the traditional irrigation system known as Subak. Several village names in Bali, such as Desa Besakih, Desa Taro, Desa Puakan, Desa Payogan, and Desa Payangan, mark his journey in Bali.

Pura Sabang Daat (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

Pura Sabang Daat is considered one of the oldest temples established by Ida Bhatara Rsi Markandeya. It was here that he first held a meeting with his followers. The name "Sabang Daat" derives from "Sabang," meaning a gathering of important people, and "Daat," meaning sacred or holy. Thus, Pura Sabang Daat can be interpreted as "a sacred meeting place."

What makes Pura Sabang Daat special is the absence of physical structures like most temples. The temple does not have any shrines or grand buildings; instead, it has an "asagan," a place to lay down offerings or "banten," and sacred stones made from natural rock, which now serve as remnants left behind by Maha Rsi Markandeya. However, spiritually (niskala), the local community believes that Pura Sabang Daat is inhabited by very powerful spiritual energy. It is said that in the spiritual realm, there exists a very luxurious and magnificent sacred building, including a golden shrine known as "Padasana." The temple also has a Lingga yoni, a symbol of Purusa (Shiva), representing Sang Sangkan Paraning Dumadi (the One Supreme God), which naturally emerged from the earth at this temple, serving as the center of worship for devotees seeking blessings.

Another intriguing aspect is the topography of the temple area. Although the land surrounding the temple is higher, the area around the lingga yoni remains low and never floods, even during heavy rain. This phenomenon is regarded as protection from unseen spiritual forces, as if an invisible wall guards the temple grounds.

Asagan, a place for placing Banten or offerings (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

Pura Sabang Daat is also believed to be a highly sacred place for seeking blessings, especially for healing and fertility. Many people come to request tirta (holy water) as a form of spiritual remedy, and some couples who had been childless believe they were able to conceive after seeking blessings and requesting tirta (tamba) at Pura Sabang Daat. This process usually begins with an omen or spiritual sign they receive in the unseen realm (niskala) before eventually performing the ritual at the temple. There are no specific requirements for the offerings that must be presented at this temple. Everyone who comes can offer sesajen (offerings) according to their ability and faith. For the local community, the most important aspects are sincerity and faith in making the offering.

Pura Sabang Daat is supported by 35 pakraman villages scattered throughout Gianyar, including those from Taro, Ubud, and Kintamani. Each year, especially during the Galungan festival (Galungan, Umanis Galungan, Pahing Galungan, Pon Galungan, Wage Galungan), the representatives from these villages come to the temple to perform matur piuning (request permission) before carrying out ceremonies in their respective villages.

Sacred stones made from natural rock (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

A unique tradition at Pura Sabang Daat is the prohibition of musical instruments like gamelan or genta during rituals. Even Hindu priests (sulinggih) are not allowed to lead ceremonies at this temple. Only the local Jero Mangku is permitted to conduct rituals, as this temple is regarded as the sacred abode of Ida Rsi Markandeya, who possesses a very powerful spiritual force. This rule also applies throughout Desa Pakraman Puakan, where sulinggih are not allowed to lead ceremonies.

Sacred Tree as a Symbol of Nature (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

Despite the lack of physical structures, Pura Sabang Daat has a natural symbol in the form of a Kayu Sugih tree. This tree is considered a marker of the temple's harmony with its surroundings, upholding the principle of balance among humans, nature, and ancestral spirits. It also symbolizes the spiritual power that safeguards the purity of the temple and its environment.

For Hindus in Bali, Pura Sabang Daat is one of the most revered sacred places. This temple teaches the importance of balance between spirituality and nature, as well as how faith and sincerity can bring blessings to human life. Its existence serves as a reminder of Ida Bhatara Rsi Markandeya's spiritual journey in disseminating Hindu teachings in Bali.

With all its uniqueness and spiritual strength, Pura Sabang Daat remains a meaningful sacred destination for Hindus in Bali to this day.