The Enigmatic Charm of Pura Paluang: Bali's Peculiar Car Temple

 

Often referred to as the Island of a Thousand Temples, Bali is renowned for its spiritual landmarks. 

 

Among these, Pura Paluang stands out as one of the most peculiar and intriguing temples on the island.

 

 Known as 'Car Temple', Pura Paluang greets its curious visitors with two car-shaped statues surrounded by fascinating history and myth.

 

 Here's its enticing story...

 

 

 

 

To reach Pura Paluang, travelers embark on a journey through the rugged landscapes of Nusa Penida, navigating winding roads and sandy paths. 

Despite the challenging terrain, the allure of this unique temple draws adventurers from far and wide. 

 

Approximately 40 minutes on a motorbike brings you to the entrance of the temple.

Mystical Wonders

 

As you arrive at Pura Paluang, you'll be greeted by a lush forest canopy and a peculiar sight – numerous monkeys frolicking around the temple grounds. These playful creatures are believed to be the guardians of the temple, adding to its mystical ambiance.

 

 

 

 

Pura Paluang is renowned for its distinctive features, each adding to its allure. The most striking feature of Pura Paluang is its shrine in the form of a car. This unusual structure serves as a place of worship for Ida Bhatara Ratu Gede Ngurah and Hyang Mami, revered ancestors of the local community.

 

This temple is famous as Pura Mobil because pelinggih shaped car, which makes a plus for visitors and tourists to come to visit Pura Paluang because in this world only this temple which has pelinggih shaped car and location of temple located in high cliff bounded sea has 13 pelinggih (2 pelinggih shaped cars Jimmy and VW Beatle). Want to know why pelinggih in this temple shaped car?

 

Originally constructed from wood, the car-shaped pelinggih underwent a renovation, with their materials being replaced with sandstone. This transformation imbued the shrines with a sense of permanence and durability, ensuring their preservation for generations to come.

 

 

 

 

According to local beliefs, the history of Pura Paluang began with the aspirations of the community to cultivate new agricultural land. 

 

During the land-clearing process, a large coral rock had to be moved to another location. 

 

However, to their surprise, the next day, the massive rock had returned to its original position. 

 

As the tale goes, during the night, the community often heard the sound of vehicles and saw bright lights emanating from cars. 

 

Yet, these sounds were fleeting, and the whereabouts of the vehicles remained unknown. 

 

Interpreting these occurrences as spiritual messages, the community decided to erect a temple known as Pura Paluang.

 

 

 

Ref:  The Enigmatic Charm of Pura Paluang: Bali's Peculiar Car Temple (whatsnewindonesia) 

Photo Credit:  Hotels.com/Bali.com/fotocommunity/Pinterest/Wonderful Nusa Penida