I have been to Kehen Temple in Bangli, but I found this ancient temple always so interesting. When I arrived, I was really amazed by the carvings on the gate, doors, and walls. There are so many statues, and everything looks like a big piece of art.
The layout of the temple has trees around and a peaceful feeling. But for me, the most impressive thing was the big gate. It is very tall, and the carvings show plants, trees, and mythical animals. The gate has three doors: the left door is for entering, the middle door is always closed, and the right door is for exit.
To reach this gate, I had to walk up about 30 steps. Along the stairs, there were stone guardian statues on both sides. Their faces look fierce, maybe to protect the temple from bad spirits.
In the first yard, I saw several temple buildings. On the right side, there was a huge banyan tree, probably 500 years old. Hanging from the tree was a wooden bell, which is usually used during temple festivals. To ring the bell, people must climb the tree or use a ladder. When I visited, it was not a festival, so nobody rang the bell.
I continued to the second yard, which is smaller. Here, I saw a shrine for a Chinese goddess. Even though this is a Balinese Hindu temple, there is Chinese influence here. This is not surprising because Chinese culture has been part of Bali since the 14th century.
The third yard is the most sacred place in the temple. In the past, people who wanted to serve the kingdom would come here to take an oath of loyalty. When I stood in front of the main shrine, I imagined how the kings and their officials stood in this place long ago, swearing to serve the kingdom.
I walked around and saw many shrines, which I think are for the gods, goddesses, and ancestors of this region. Finally, it was time to leave. I took a different way out, walking down to the street. From this high place, I could see the houses below. It made me think about how this temple has been part of the community for so many years.
Kehen Temple, built around the 13th century, is not only a place for praying but also full of history.