Brahma Vihara Arama Temple

The temple sits southwest of Lovina, three kilometers inland from the small town of Dencarik, and its architecture reflects a graceful blend of Balinese and Buddhist styles. This storybook monastery has a gleaming orange-tiled roof crowned with Sukothai-style golden-leaf Buddha images, a brightly painted stupa, and exquisite woodcarvings. Interior panels depict Buddhist fables, and the grounds hold a temple bell from Thailand as well as a branch of the Bodhi tree of enlightenment. The lower hall is for prayer, while the upper level is reserved for meditation.

The vista over the north coast is breathtaking. At night the stars illuminate the rice paddies and fireflies fill the air.

Bali’s largest Buddhist monastery lies about 11 kilometers from central Lovina, in the hills near Banjar village. A drive or scooter ride from Kalibukbuk takes roughly 20 minutes, following the coastal road (Jalan Raya Singaraja-Gilimanuk) before turning inland at the signs for Banjar. Ample parking sits near the entrance, and a short walk leads up to the complex.

• What is it? Bali’s largest temple, set on a scenic hilltop overlooking the coastline
• Opening hours: 06:00 to 18:00 daily
• Entrance fee: no charge, though a small donation is customary
• Where: on a hilltop, three kilometers from Dencarik in southwest Lovina

The site opened in 1970 and remains the only Buddhist monastery on the island of Bali. Tibet’s Dalai Lama visited in 1982, and Bali’s Chinese population regularly make pilgrimages to this peaceful hillside sanctuary. Although the temple was severely damaged by an earthquake in July 1976, it has since been fully restored.

The Theravadic Vipassana breathing technique commonly practiced here aims to promote clarity and mindfulness. All visitors are welcome, though those wishing to stay overnight should write a letter of request in advance.