Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati : Balinese Hindu temple
Pura Saraswati or Saraswati Temple is a Balinese Hindu temple located in the center of Ubud, Gianyar Regency, not far from Puri Saren or the Ubud Palace. It is about 18 kilometers away from Denpasar City and would take approximately 40 minutes to reach the temple. Pura Saraswati is dedicated to honor the Hindu Goddess Saraswati, the Goddess of learning, literature and art. This temple was founded by an art master, I Gusti Nyoman Lempad on the 19th century. He was commanded by the prince of Ubud to build the temple as a homage the Hindu Goddess of knowledge, Saraswati.
Saraswati Temple is slightly different to other temples in Bali. This temple is surrounded by a water garden and lotus pond which is the main attraction of this Temple. Visitors get to see beautiful lotus blossoms growing very neatly around the temple area. The temple is decorated with beautiful Balinese carvings, the main temple is located in the northeast side of the temple area.
In the temple area, visitors also get to see statues of Saraswati Goddess, a 3 meter high statue of devil Jero Gede Mecaling in front of the temple, giant masks, as well as bale Barong.
Kecak Dance is also performed in this temple. But the dance is not performed everyday, it is only performed every Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Especially on Saraswati Holiday, the temple will be full with Balinese Hindu who come to pray and worship Saraswati Goddess. Saraswati temple is a great temple to visit, the beautiful water garden and lotus blossoms attracts many tourists to come and visit this temple.
