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<\/a> \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Photo: Panca Bala Stupa – Replica of the Borobudur stupa<\/p>\nHistorical and religious background<\/strong><\/p>\n The name of the stupa “Panca Bala” (or “Pa\u00f1ca 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:<\/p>\n 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\u2019s characteristic Buddha statue.<\/p>\n The story behind the temple\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n\n
<\/a>Photo: View of the gardens at Brahmavihara Arama<\/p>\n<\/a>Photo: Buddha statue<\/p>\n<\/a>Photo: Marianna and her mum by the Buddha statue<\/p>\n<\/a>Photo: Dharmasala 1 – Wall depicting the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha<\/p>\n<\/a>Photo: Aliya meditating in Dharmasala 1<\/p>\n<\/a>Photo: Me and Marianka at the Gate of Heaven<\/p>\n