Brahmavihara Arama is the largest and most well-known Buddhist monastery in Bali, often referred to as the “Buddhist Monastery of Bali.” The monastery is particularly valued for its beautiful architecture, which harmoniously blends Balinese and Buddhist elements.

Another interesting feature is that the monastery has a unique replica of the Borobudur stupa, one of the largest and most important Buddhist monuments in Indonesia. Although the replica is much smaller than the original, it has been carefully crafted to pay homage to this significant symbol of Buddhism.

        Photo: Panca Bala Stupa – Replica of the Borobudur stupa

Historical and religious background

The name of the stupa “Panca Bala” (or “Pañca Bala”) refers to a concept in Buddhism that signifies the five spiritual powers that help achieve inner freedom and enlightenment. These powers are key elements of Buddhist practice, developed through meditation, moral living, and wisdom. They include:

• Faith (Saddhā): Faith in the Buddha, Dhamma (Buddha’s teachings), and Sangha (the Buddhist community). In this context, faith does not mean blind belief but rather trust based on personal experience and understanding of the Buddha’s teachings. Faith is the force that motivates a practitioner to continue on the spiritual path.
• Energy (Viriya): Energy, effort, and determination in pursuing spiritual growth. This force drives practitioners to endure the challenges of meditation, moral practice, and self-improvement. Energy helps overcome apathy and discouragement.
• Mindfulness (Sati): Practicing awareness and mindfulness in every moment. Mindfulness is the act of being aware of one’s thoughts, feelings, and actions in the present moment. It aids in developing an understanding of the nature of reality and leads to greater mental clarity.
• Concentration (Samādhi): Focus of the mind on a single object or thought. Concentration is developed through meditation practices, leading to a state of one-pointed attention. Strong concentration allows for deep introspection and leads to inner peace.
• Wisdom (Paññā): Understanding the true nature of reality, including the Four Noble Truths and the principle of dependent origination. Wisdom allows one to see the impermanence, suffering, and lack of a self (anatta), which leads to liberation from illusions and the attainment of enlightenment.

The monastery is surrounded by lush gardens, and from its hilltop location, there is a view of both the temple grounds and the entire surrounding area. On the day we visited, the number of tourists could be counted on two hands. Entrance to the temple costs a symbolic 1.5 GBP per person, which includes a mandatory sarong. Just beyond the entrance gate is the site’s characteristic Buddha statue.

Photo: View of the gardens at Brahmavihara Arama

Photo: Buddha statue

Photo: Marianna and her mum by the Buddha statue

The story behind the temple’s founding is fascinating: a monk from the island of Java named Bhante Girirakkhito established the temple after arriving in Bali in the 1960s. Bhante arrived with the mission of spreading Buddhist teachings, which were little known in the Hindu-majority country at that time. Nevertheless, Bhante Girirakkhito was warmly received and met with interest from the local community. Thanks to the support of the local people and donors, including some local leaders, he was able to establish the Brahmavihara Arama monastery.

The construction of the monastery was a challenge, requiring not only funds but also appropriate materials and labour. Over time, the monastery expanded, attracting more and more people interested in Buddhism. Dharmasala 1, the first and main building of the temple, is an ideal place for meditation and reflection if someone needs a moment to themselves. On one of the walls, there are depictions of scenes from the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha.

Photo: Dharmasala 1 – Wall depicting the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha

Photo: Aliya meditating in Dharmasala 1

You can easily spend the entire day in this temple, walking through the Gate of Heaven, exploring various buildings, and admiring statues adorned with Buddhist symbols. If the day is particularly hot, you can take shelter in the cool underground chambers of the stupa.

Photo: Me and Marianka at the Gate of Heaven

Photo: Brahmavihara Arama statues

Photo: Inside the stupa