By Rosemarie John - One of the least known temples of Bali, Pura Masceti guards the island from evil sea spirits, an important role usually taken on as one of the nine directional temples. Directional temples are known as kahyangan jagat and play an important function in the Hindu religion of the Balinese. The main entrance of the temple faces a wide stretch of pristine beach, free of tourists and scandalizing bikini’s.
Any touristy activity including sun-bathing and swimming in the area is strictly prohibited. Considered a sacred site, the beach is specially designated for Hindu religious ceremonies. The peacefulness of the Masceti Beach is unlike any other. It truly showcases the beauty of the Balinese coastline with soft sand and the rushing in of waves.
The elegance and symmetry of this beach is best observed in silence as temple devotees offer prayers and flowers to the Sea God. During the Melasti ceremony, temple paraphernalia are taken down to the beach for ceremonial cleansing. To surf, swim or sun-bathe on this coastline, travellers would have to move to either the right or left side of the beach where you will find big white umbrellas. This holy beach site is accessible through Jalan Prof Dr Ida Bagus Mantra, Pantai Masceti, Gianyar.
Notice the white umbrellas on the far left corner?
Text & Photography by Rosemarie John © All Rights Reserved
How peaceful and spiritual! Saying no to the bikinis is funny but so true — a mark of respect. I’ll bet such a beach won’t fly in Brazil
Hahahaha…. its such a mesmerizing place to just sit and observe and soak in the customs and rituals that make the Balinese people so mystical.
The photos are like pop art with such vibrant colours! Loved Bali when I was there about 10 years ago and would love to go back. Wonder how it has changed? At least the culture and rituals are the same.
Hi Cole, thanks for dropping by. Bali has become even more commercialised than ever! Kuta can get pretty annoying with constant pestering from touts to either braid your hair or give you a massage for $5! These days when we head to Bali, we go further in for some tranquillity, away from all the hustle and bustle that can sometimes ruin the whole Balinese experience.
I happen to surf a lot at a nearby reef which hols one of Indonesia s best surfing waves. i stay at Masceti beach and love how quiet and peaceful it is. Truly special