This hilltop temple , 9km south of Mataram, has spectacular views across undulating rice fields towards distant volcanoes and the sea. Japanese soldiers hid here towards the end of WWII, and cannon remnants can be found, as well as plenty of playful monkeys.
Once a year, in March or April, a buffalo is taken up the steep slope and sacrificed to give thanks for a good harvest. The Desa Bersih festival also occurs here at harvest time – houses and gardens are cleaned, fences whitewashed and roads and paths repaired. Once part of a ritual to rid the village of evil spirits, it’s now held in honour of the rice goddess, Dewi Sri.
It’s a 15-minute walk up to the temple top from the entrance. You’ll need your own wheels to get here.
