The uniqueness of Goa Giri Putri Temple apart from being a pilgrim tour is also a favorite destination in East Nusa Penida. There are 2 places of worship in Goa Giri Putri, namely Hindu temples and behind the cave there is also a Buddhist temple.

The uniqueness of Goa Giri Putri

The first uniqueness, Pura Giri Putri Nusa Penida is hidden, Unlike most temples in Bali that stand out from a distance. This sacred temple in Bali 3 Nusa – Nusa Penida is actually located in a cave.
Practically, anyone who wants to witness the beauty of this Hindu worship building must first enter Giri Putri Cave.

The cave that was just named is the largest cave in Nusa Penida. Goa Giri Putri Temple itself, the location is at an altitude of 150 meters above sea level and has a length of 310 meters.
The word ‘Giri’ in the series of names, means hill or mountain. While ‘Princess’ means woman.

In Hindu teachings, the princess is symbolized as the power of the gods. Furthermore, because this cave is a place of worship of Shiva in the form of a manifestation of the goddess who is caring for, protects and loves humans, the name Giri Putri was pinned to the name of the cave.

 Holy Spring Water

In addition to the location and philosophy of the name, uniqueness also lies in the existence of a spring that flows inside this Goa Giri Putri Temple. Hindus believe that flowing water has natural powers that can cure disease. They also often ask for Tirta Pengalukatan (self-cleaning water) and bring the water home to treat sick families at home.

Prohibition of women’s menstrual cycle

This cave also should not be entered carelessly. Women who are menstruating are prohibited from entering, because they are not clean. Clothing to enter the cave is also not arbitrary. Apart from sarongs, the typical clothing when entering this area is a shawl. For tourists who want to enter the Goa Giri Putri temple, they must also maintain their attitude and behavior.

Small Cave Door

The second uniqueness is that the mouth of the cave is small, only less than 80 centimeters and narrow for an adult’s body. However, no matter how big your body is, it will definitely feel right when you enter the door of this cave.

Therefore, to enter it really requires guts and strong strength. To reach the middle of the cave, visitors must walk by crouching 3 meters long.
The exoticism of this temple is increasingly radiated thanks to the shape of the building which blends with the stalagmites and stalactites in the cave.

Meanwhile, the small lights in several cave locations add to the sacred impression. Some rooms are even left dark, because they are places of meditation.

Another part that is no less interesting than this cave is the end. There are many stone long chairs with statues of gods in front as a place of worship. This is where religious ceremonies are usually held. Moving 100 meters from that point, you will see a wide cave exit. Thus, to get out of this area, visitors will no longer experience difficulties like when entering.