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Subsequently, the Madya mandala, the middle realm, is where several pavilions are located in elaborate layers. Access to the inner sections of the Pura Taman Saraswati Temple is provided by three red-bricked kori agung gates. e central kori agung is the largest of these gates and is flanked with two tall plumeria trees, marking the threshold into the most sacred space of the temple. e Utama mandala, inner layer, holds the highest importance. e sacred realm is home to the padmasana shrine (lotus seat). e sanctum is located at the most sacred northeast side of the temple, topped with a golden empty throne decorated with the image of Acintya, the highest deity in the Balinese Hindu pantheon. e base of the padmasana is adorned with carvings of the cosmic turtle and nagas (serpents), representing the world of demons. With a sweeping pond filled with blooming pink lotus flowers at its entrance – and an abundance of exquisite Balinese architecture – the Temple should be marked on the itinerary of any traveler whose journey takes them to Bali. Just off the main street, visitors can stop in during a leisurely morning walk to find peace within the walls of the Temple. If you arrive early (and you should) there is an attached café which welcomes visitors in for a cup of coffee before exploring Pura Taman Saraswati's breathtaking grounds. Admission to the Temple is free, however it does suggest a dress code: Patrons are asked to wear a sarong and tops to cover their knees, ankles, shoulders and midriff (though this is not always enforced). One of Bali's many picturesque photo ops, the Pura Taman Saraswati Temple is a stunning oasis amid the hectic and lively town of Ubud. Did You Know? With a population half the size of New York City, Bali is home to only 4,225,000 people. According to a 2010 census survey, roughly 83.5 percent of Bali's population adhere to Balinese Hinduism. Tourism-based businesses such as art, traditional and modern dance, sculpture, painting, leather, metalworking and music, make up 80 percent of its economy. Positioned just 8 degrees south of the equator, Bali's cluster of islands enjoys a fair climate year-round. The average temperature perpetually lingers at approximately 86 degrees Fahrenheit with humidity levels of about 85 percent. VUE ON TRAVEL V U E N J . C O M 134

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