Pura Luhur Pucak Tedung: The sacred Umbrella on the highlands

Pura Luhur Pucak Tedung is located in Sulangai Village, Petang Subdistrict, Badung Regency. The temple is known as one of the resting places of Danghyang Nirartha during his sacred journey. From the temple complex, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of East Bali, South Bali, and West Bali, as well as the main route connecting Baturiti and Denpasar.

Pura Luhur Pucak Tedung consists of three main courtyards: Jeroan (covering 730.77 m²), Jaba Tengah, and Jaba. In the Jeroan, the main palinggih are found, including the Meru Tumpang Tiga for Danghyang Nirartha, the Meru Tumpang Tujuh, which represents Puncak Beratan, and the Padmasana, serving as the throne of God Almighty. In Jaba Tengah, there are Bale Kulkul and Bale Panggungan, while in the Northwest of the temple lies Pura Sekartaji, which has a close relationship.

Pesamuan Agung (Source: Personal Collection)

One of the unique features of Pura Luhur Pucak Tedung is the presence of a sacred forest surrounding the temple. This forest is believed to be the dwelling place of guardian spirits that protect the temple and its surroundings. The local community is dedicated to preserving the biodiversity of this forest, as it holds not only spiritual value but also ecological importance for maintaining the region's environmental balance. Visitors are reminded to show respect by adhering to customary rules when entering the forest.

Within the Pura Luhur Pucak Tedung complex, there is the Areal Pesamuan Agung, a special space for traditional meetings and grand ceremonies. This area is usually utilized during major piodalan celebrations, where the village community and temple priests gather to perform rituals together. The Pesamuan Agung features a large Bale Pesamuan that can accommodate many people and is adorned with traditional Balinese architecture, reflecting spiritual and cultural values. This space often serves as the center for important decisions regarding temple ceremonies and management, making it a hub of spiritual and social activity in Pura Luhur Pucak Tedung.

Dang Hyang Nirartha Statue (Source: Personal Collection)

The name Pura Luhur Pucak Tedung originates from the story of Danghyang Nirartha, who left his sacred tedung (umbrella) on the highlands before continuing his journey. The temple features a Meru Tumpang Tiga to honor him and a Meru Tumpang Tujuh, symbolizing Pura Puncak Beratan, which facilitates the community in praying for prosperity. Additionally, the temple serves as a significant place for the community to request tirtha pengentas (holy water for spiritual cleansing).

During the golden age of the Mengwi Kingdom in the 17th century, the temple was under the supervision of Puri Carangsari, before the responsibility was transferred to Puri Petang. Today, eight traditional villages, namely Sulangai, Munduk Damping, Lipah, Sandakan, Angantiga, Batulantang, Kerta, and Petang, work together to preserve the temple. Beyond the local community, devotees from various regions in Bali also come to worship at this temple.

Utama Mandala (Source: Personal Collection)

The piodalan ceremony at this temple is held every six months on the day of Tumpek Krulut. The event begins with a mekiyis or melasti procession to Pura Beji. Offerings presented include Banten Catur, Bebangkit, and Peras Daksina. During major piodalan ceremonies, each palinggih is given specific offerings according to tradition.

Pura Luhur Pucak Tedung is a site rich in spiritual, cultural, and historical significance, making it an essential center of worship for the surrounding community and Hindu devotees throughout Bali.