North Bali is full of gems often overlooked by Bali visitors – hidden waterfalls, temples, beaches, and so much more to explore. Among those gems is Bali’s largest Buddhist Monastery, Brahmavihara-Arama.
The Buddhist temple and monastery offers a tranquil vibe to all visitors and tons of space to explore in the hills of Banjar. You can visit this beautiful destination during a North Bali Day Tour or the Lovina Dolphin Watch Tour.
About Brahmavihara-Arama
Brahmavihara-Arama (alternatively Brahma Vihara Arama), is quite a unique temple due to the fact that Bali is predominantly Hindu, with about 87% of the population practicing Hinduism. So among the 20,000 Hindu Bali temples, Brahmavihara-Arama is the only Buddhist temple and monastery.
The Buddhist temple and monastery was founded in the 1970s by Bhante Girirakkhita Mahathera, a highly respected Indonesian Buddhist monk who played a significant role in establishing Buddhism in Indonesia.
Brahmavihara-Arama was built to serve as a sanctuary to practice Buddhism and meditation in a tranquil atmosphere. The temple follows one of the oldest schools of Buddhism, Theravada Buddhism.
Brahamvihara-Arama Location
The buddhist temple sits in Banjar, a district in Buleleng. It’s just a short drive from Banjar Hot Springs (which is also in Banjar), making it an ideal stop after a relaxing swim in the sulphuric waters.
Brahmavihara-Arama is just 20 minutes away from Lovina (read my Lovina Guide on fun things to do in Lovina), so you can add this to your itinerary if you plan on exploring Lovina and surrounding areas in North Bali.
Exploring Brahmavihara-Arama
Within the massive temple grounds lies several structures, halls, and statues – all surrounded by intricate architecture, landscaping, and nature.
The first thing you’ll notice as soon as you arrive to the temple is its unique architecture. The Buddhist temple displays a unique fusion of Balinese design and Buddhist elements, like the 2 intricate dragons along the stairs in the first courtyard.
There are multiple Buddha statues scattered around the monastery and the Stupa – a large bell-shaped structure, often used as the focal point of worship. You will also come across multiple meditation halls, some of which you’ll have to take your shoes off before entering.
At the highest level at the top of the big stairs, you’ll find the main attraction of Brahmavihara-Arama, a miniature version of Borobudur (the famous Buddhist temple in Java). The temple is surrounded by ponds and gardens.
Brahmavihara-Arama Entrance Fee
The entrance fee to Brahmavihara-Arama is 25k IDR – just about $2.50 AUD. If you happen to be wearing revealing clothing like shorts or short skirts, a sarong will be lent to you and is already included the entrance fee price.
There is a small office by the entrance of the temple where you can pay the entrance fee.
Attractions near Brahmavihara-Arama
You have a handful of wonderful attractions to visit near Brahamvihara-Arama in North Bali, most of which are relatively nearby the temple.
A few minutes away is Banjar Hot Springs, one of the most famous hot springs in North Bali. Heading towards the coast, you can try water sports at Krisna Waterpark.
Make your way there early in the day to encounter some dolphins with the Lovina Dolphin Watching Tour, and perhaps have some more fun with snorkelling and fishing.
In terms of nature, some of the best waterfalls in Bali are located in North Bali, such as Aling-Aling waterfall, Gitgit Waterfall, Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, and Munduk Waterfall. You’ll definitely have a packed itinerary.
How to get to Brahmavihara-Arama?
Since getting to North Bali is quite the commute, I recommend you book a private car and driver. You’ll be picked up from your hotel or villa in a well-maintained SUV by a friendly driver, who will take you to visit Brahamvihara-Arama and other attractions, and return you to your accommodation at the end of the trip.
Depending on the time of day you decide to make the trip to Brahmavihara-Arama, here are some average times it takes to get there from major areas in Bali:
- Canggu: 2.5 hrs
- Kuta: 3 hrs
- Nusa Dua: 3.5 hrs
- Sanur: 2 hr 45 mins
- Seminyak: 2.5 hrs
- Ubud: 2.5 hrs
- Uluwatu: 3.5 hrs
If you’re renting a scooter in Bali, I suggest packing a raincoat / rain poncho just in case you get caught in the rain during your ride. You will likely travel through Bedugul which is up in the mountains and weather can be quite unpredictable there. Don’t forget to wear your helmet!
Explore North Bali and Lovina
Another fun tour day that you will love is the Lovina Dolphin Watching Tour. It’s a 12-hour tour that takes you to Lovina early in the morning for some dolphin watching on a private boat. You can also continue exploring the rest of North Bali, including Brahmavihara-Arama and other destinations with your own private car and driver.
