Serpents, or naga, are powerful sacred beings in Balinese religion, and two of them are especially important: Antaboga and Basuki. They are not seen as monsters but as cosmic forces that help keep the world in balance. Their carved, crowned bodies coil around temple shrines, stair rails and gateways, and they appear often in Balinese art, offerings and cremation rites.
In Balinese cosmology, Antaboga existed at the beginning of time and through meditation created Bedawang Nala, the world turtle. Antaboga is linked with the earth, and Basuki with the waters of the ocean. Together the two serpents bind the turtle so the world stays stable, the image carved at the base of every padmasana. Basuki is also linked with Mount Agung, and one explanation of the name Besakih traces it to him.
Naga are easiest to spot along temple stairways, where their bodies form the balustrades and their crowned heads rear up at the bottom. Below Besakih, the cave temple of Pura Goa Raja honors the cosmic serpents, and legends hold that Basuki dwells within the mountain. Watch for the naga on padmasana bases too, coiled tightly around the turtle, a reminder that stability depends on balance between forces.
Highlights
- Naga balustrades on temple stairways
- Serpents coiled around the padmasana base
- The Besakih and Mount Agung connection
- Crowned serpent heads in stone
Good to know
- At Besakih, look at the stair balustrades and shrine bases for naga carvings.
- Hire a local guide at Besakih to learn the serpent legends tied to the mountain.
Bali: Culture, Religion & Traditions
How Balinese Hinduism shapes every day on the island, from the morning offering to the cremation tower, and how to take part respectfully.