By: Brigadier General Tony Kurniawan, TNI Marine Corps
On the bright morning of January 27, 2025, I, Brigadier General Tony Kurniawan, S.A.P., M.A.P., Head of the Bali Regional Intelligence Agency, embarked on a spiritual journey that was not only a feast for the eyes but also a stirring experience for the soul. Our destination was Pura Batur Gangsian, a place that holds both mystery and breathtaking natural beauty. The journey began in Denpasar, where heavy rain accompanied our steps. However, as we entered the village of Tinggarsari, the rain stopped as if nature itself was welcoming us with open arms, creating space for us to uncover the hidden wonders behind the ancient stone blocks.
Pura Batur Gangsian, located in Banjar Kapas Jawa, Desa Pakraman Tinggarsari, Busungbiu Subdistrict, Buleleng, is no ordinary temple. As a Pura Kahyangan Jagat, this place holds a unique allure. Thousands of large stones are mysteriously arranged around the temple, stones that are believed to date back to the Megalithic era—an enigmatic trace of prehistoric history.
The ancient architecture of this temple is truly mesmerizing. The stones are carefully arranged in five- and six-sided shapes, creating an extraordinary impression. Pura Batur Gangsian is believed to be the residence of Ida Ratu Mas Melanyat, the ruler of these ancient stones. The presence of these stones is the main attraction for visitors eager to experience the mystery they contain.
As we moved closer, we couldn’t contain our awe. The massive stone blocks were arranged with such precision, forming vertical and horizontal lines that seemed to speak of the grandeur and balance of nature. Some of these stones were still buried in the ground, adding to the mysterious and ancient aura that envelops the site. Their shape, reminiscent of the Gunung Padang site in Cianjur, raised numerous questions: How were these stones formed, and who arranged them?
The local community believes that these stones were formed through a natural process caused by a failed mountain formation. However, the orderly arrangement of the stones has led to speculation that this might be the work of ancient humans, a mystery that remains unsolved to this day.
The philosophy embedded in this site is profound. The community believes that Pura Batur Gangsian is a source of powerful spiritual energy. The solid arrangement of stone blocks symbolizes the strength and harmony of the universe. This site also serves as a reminder of God’s greatness, who created the universe with all its wonders.
After absorbing the beauty and mystery of Pura Batur Gangsian, our journey continued to Pura Batur Kendengan, which is equally fascinating and rich with history waiting to be explored. This journey became an unforgettable experience, one that not only opened our eyes to the beauty of nature and the uniqueness of the temple’s architecture but also provided valuable lessons about the philosophy of life embedded within it.
Visiting Pura Batur Gangsian is like diving into the traces of an ancient civilization, unraveling the mysteries hidden within, and reflecting on God’s greatness in His creation. The site of these stone blocks is a priceless heritage that we must preserve and protect so that future generations can continue to learn from and be inspired by the hidden wonders of nature contained within it.
The Author is: Head of Bali Regional Intelligence Agency.