Goa Gajah meaning “The Elephant Cave”, is located on the island of Bali near Ubud. Although the exact origins of the cave are uncertain, it is believed to have been built as a place for spiritual meditation. One folklore relates that it was created by the fingernail of the legendary giant Kebo Iwa. However, examining its style, the sanctuary was probably dated from the 11th century Bali Kingdom. The complex contains both Hindu and Buddhist imagery, as the cave contains lingam and yoni, symbols of Shiva and the image of Ganesha, , while by the river there are carved images of stupas and chattra, imagery of Buddhism. The cave was rediscovered by Dutch archaeologists in 1923, but the fountains and bathing pool were not discovered until 1954. it’s a beautiful serene place. They also uncovered a bathing area separated for men and women An elderly man offered to be a guide, we agreed because it supports local economy, though there was nothing to be guided
ubud
Ubud, Bali, Indonesia day 2
The day began with a lovely continental breakfast at Bale Gaja Resto, the in-house restaurant of Purana Ubud Suite and Spa, where we’re staying. Bale Gaja translates to House of Elephant in Balinese. one of many words that closely resemble those in Indian languages. In fact, many of their customs and rituals feel strikingly familiar, reminiscent of what I’ve seen in South India. Our driver for the day was Made (pronounced Maadé) Juli, and his name opened the door to an interesting glimpse into Balinese social culture. Here, birth order determines a person’s name prefix: the firstborn is Wayan, the second Made, the third Nyoman, and the fourth Ketut. For instance, Juli’s wife is Wayan Chitra, the eldest in her family. Simple, structured, and easy to follow—much like our Barki, Mejki, and Chutki—except we don’t formally attach these to our names! Our first stop was at Gunung Kawi Gunung Kawi is an 11th-century temple and funerary complex renowned for its rock-cut shrines carved directly into the cliffs of the Pakerisan River
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