Java and Bali Trip 2009: First set of photos is from the temple complex of Besakih. History: Sri Markandeya, was a Javanese monk, founded Besakih in the 8th century. Lontar manuscripts indicate that during the Majapahit empire in 1343, Besakih was already a very important place. Stairs lead up the mountain to more temples with more structured terraces.
The largest temple on the grounds of the Besakih complex is Pura Penataran Agung, known as the Great Temple of State. It posseses 7 tiered terraces, and over 50 structures including bales, thronees and shrines. The entrance stairway is lined by 7 levels of carved figures. The ones on the left are featured in the Mahabharata, those to the right from the Ramayana. You cannot go into the courtyards unless you are a worshipper.