Mengwi - Pura Taman Ayun

The Pura Taman Ayun ("Garden Temple in the Water") is one of the six (according to an unofficial count) royal temples on Bali, and thus one of the most important temples on the island. This imposing complex stands on an island in a river, and the inner temple is in addition surrounded by a moat. In front of the entrance to the inner temple, beyond a split gate (candi bentar), is a large fountain basin dedicated to the rulers of the underworld.

In the innermost courtyard, which is entered through a covered gate (candi korung), are no fewer than 27 buildings of varying size and function.

The Pura Taman Ayun is one of the network of temples which covers Bali. Its importance can be judged from the fact that in this temple are venerated not only the divinities for whom it was built but also those who visit it on the occasion of festivals. Among them are the gods who dwell on Gunung Agung and Gunung Batur.