The largest temple in Lombok features three stunning multi-tiered shrines to the Hindu gods and Indonesia’s towering volcanoes, in the heart of Mataram city.
Pura Meru is Lombok’s largest Hindu temple and lies in the heart of Mataram. The temple was built in 1720 with the patronage of a Balinese prince who wished to connect Bali and Lombok through Hinduism. Pura Meru and its magnificent Balinese architecture offer an insight into Lombok’s Hindu worshippers.
Enter the temple grounds through the courtyard and find a hall filled with wooden clapping instruments and drums. These are used to call worshippers to celebrations and ceremonies.
Pura Meru has dedicated shrines to the three Hindu gods: Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Walk into an inner courtyard to see the three major “meru”, or tiered shrines. In the centre is an 11-tiered shrine for Shiva, flanked by a nine-tier shrine for Vishnu and a seven-tiered meru dedicated to Brahma. According to traditional lore, these three meru are also representative of Indonesia’s biggest volcanoes: Gunung Bromo, Agung and Rinjani. Wander around the temple courtyard to find over 30 different shrines to honour the different Hindu deities.
Pura Meru is still actively used as a temple, so remember to dress modestly and respect the temple’s purpose. Bring a sarong or sash for covering up or pay a small fee to rent one at the entrance. Worshippers visit the temple throughout the day to give offerings of incense, fruit and flowers, and the temple becomes especially active during Hindu full moon ceremonies in June.
Once you’ve taken in Pura Meru’s tranquil atmosphere, visit the cool reflective pools at the Mayura Water Palace across the road. Find a Balinese-style pavilion floating in the centre of a wide man-made lake. This pavilion once held official meetings and court hearings during Balinese rule over Lombok.
Pura Meru is located in the centre of Mataram. Reach Pura Meru by public transport or taxi to the centre of the city. The temple is open daily but closes at sunset each day.
