Climate fight 'will end cheap flights' for holidaymakers

The era of cheap flights for millions of British holidaymakers is over, the Government's most influential climate change advisers warn today.

The Committee on Climate Change says green taxes will have to rise over the next few decades to curb the growing demand for fuel-guzzling air travel.

Without tough measures, demand for flights could more than double over the next 40 years  -  releasing 'dangerous' amounts of carbon dioxide, it claims.

Final destination? Cheap flights provided by companies such as EasyJet could become a thing of the past

However, the committee, led by Lord Adair Turner, believes the UK can meet its climate change targets even if the aviation industry continues to grow. Heathrow's controversial third runway could also go ahead, it says.

The report comes on the first day of the United Nations climate change talks in Copenhagen.

Over the next 12 days, 15,000 delegates from 190 countries will try to thrash out a deal to cut the world's emissions of greenhouse gases and stop global warming.

 

Air travel accounts for around 6 to 8 per cent of Britain's greenhouse gas emissions.

But as demand for flights grow  -  and the UK switches to more renewable and nuclear energy in the next decade  -  carbon dioxide from aircraft could account for a quarter of all Britain's emissions within 40 years.

The committee says the number of flights is forecast to treble from the current 230million passengers a year to nearly 700million by 2050 if the Government takes no action.

Melting hopes: A sculpture of a polar bear at the Copenhagen summit

David Kennedy, chief executive of the committee, said the UK could only meet the Government's pledge to keep aviation bring down demand for flying by 10 per cent.

Last night Professor Geoff Hammond, director of the Institute for Sustainable Energy and the Environment at the University of Bath, warned that Britons 'have become accustomed to taking long-haul holidays and short breaks, courtesy of cheap flights'.

He added: 'Governments are hesitant to place restrictions on these flights in case they induce a backlash from passengers, who are also voters.

'But, if we seriously want to mitigate global warming over the coming century, then aviation will need to play a role.'

Friends of the Earth's transport campaigner Richard Dyer said: 'The committee says that technology can significantly cut the impact that individual flights have on our climate.

But if air travel grows to the dangerous level that the aviation industry is pushing for, these benefits will be completely swamped.

'The Government should tear up its Aviation White Paper, abandon plans to expand UK airports and develop an aviation policy that doesn't wreck the planet.'

But Matthew Sinclair, of the TaxPayers' Alliance - which yesterday estimated the cost of the Copenhagen summit at 130million pounds - said: 'Further massive increases in the cost of flights would be a completely unjustified attack on ordinary families' ability to enjoy a well- earned holiday.'

Swindon, the maligned place that brought us the Magic Roundabout becomes first town twinned with Disney World

Dream come true: Disney World in Orlando, Florida

One is a magical world where children's dreams come true.

The other, is Swindon.

You would be forgiven for thinking someone was taking the mickey, but the much-maligned West Country town whose main attraction is a surprisingly elaborate roundabout, has been twinned with Walt Disney World in Florida.

It is the first time the enormous theme park which opened 38 years ago has ever been twinned, and its judges applied a stringent vetting process for candidates, turning down entries from 24 UK hopefuls including Cambridge, Brighton and Aberdeen.

The unlikely partnership  will be officially announced at a 'twinning ceremony' in Swindon next month which will include Disney representatives who will enjoy a celebratory party.

But last night tourist officials in Swindon, widely known as a depressing concrete metropolis, were already toasting the good news.

It is all thanks to resident Rebecca Warren, a building society clerk who made a promotional video and poem in homage to her hometown which impressed Disney's judges.

Miss Warren, 20, will fly to Florida to unveil a plaque emblazed with 'Walt Disney World twinned with Swindon' at the theme park next year, and a similar sign will also be on display at the multiple roundabout in the West Country town.

Swindon's mayor David Wren said last night: 'We are delighted the judges decided that Swindon's magic complemented that of Walt Disney World. Rebecca did a great job promoting our town and we look forward to linking up with Disney over the coming year.'

A special Swindon exhibition will run throughout next year at Disney's Epcot theme park, although it is not known what the display will contain.

Disney bosses may have been struck by Swindon's own piece of architectural fantasy, the Magic Roundabout - five mini roundabouts arranged in a circle around a large central one, which was constructed in 1972.

Landmark: An aerial photograph of the 'Magic Roundabout' in Swindon

It featured in her video, which was intended to extoll the virtues of the much derided town of 200,000 people. 

Who could forget the excruciating moment in Ricki Gervais's comedy The Office when he jokes with his new employees from Swindon: 'I heard they dropped an atomic bomb on Swindon?...and it did about £15 worth of damage'.

Last night she said: 'I still cannot believe that my entry has been selected - it's fantastic. What a great opportunity for Swindon.' 

The town was put on the map when it was chosen as the starting point for the Great Western Railway, Isambard Kingdon Brunel's great project to link London and the West of England which was founded in 1833.

Since then things have deteriorated somewhat for Swindon on the international stage, but it does boasts a few well-known exports - in the shape of glamour model Melinda Messenger, Dr Who star Billie Piper and silver screen legend Diana Dors.

Industrial: The Honda car plant in Swindon

More than 500 people from across the UK nominated their home towns for the competition, and he winning entry was selected by a team of judges including Disney bosses and TV star Angellica Bell.

Hugh Wood,of Disney Destinations International said they had selected Miss Warren's entry for its creativity, sense of fun and the way  it showcased elements of Swindon which reflect aspects of the Walt Disney World Resort in the sunshine state of Orlando.

He said: 'Her local pride and creative approach, coupled with her obvious knowledge of Walt Disney World just made the difference.'We’re looking forward to building a friendly and magical relationship with our new twin, Swindon.'

Namesake: Children's programme 'The Magic Roundabout' with puppet characters Florence and Zebedee 

The Walt Disney Community Relations team will also embark on a 'community outreach programme' devised in collaboration with Swindon’s officials to teach people in the sunshine state about their West Country twin following the official ceremony in January.

Bryn Jones, of the Visit Wiltshire Tourism Partnership, said last night: 'Now I know its not a wind up I think this is brilliant news.


'The town of the magical roundabout has been twinned with the magical kingdom and that is very fitting. There's a lot going on in Swindon which has been much underplayed.'

'Transgressions' -- Tiger Woods is latest of many stars caught up in cheating scandal

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Tiger Woods is the world's top golfer, but it appears he is a sub-par husband.

Woods, 33, issued a "profound apology" to his wife, Swedish model Elin Nordegren Woods, family and fans for "transgressions" after being linked to three different women.

Reports of Woods' alleged affairs -- with (inset, left to right) cocktail waitress Jaimee Grubbs, Las Vegas exec Kalika Moquin and New York party promoter Rachel Uchitel -- began emerging after Woods crashed his Cadillac Escalade outside his Orlando mansion late Thanksgiving night.

Above, the Woods family seen during happier times: (left to right) Daughter Sam, 2, wife Elin, Woods, son Charlie, 9 months, and their dogs Yogi and Taz.

Tiger Woods Scandal: Alleged Mistress Rachel Uchitel (Pictures) Cancels Press Conference

Tiger Woods Scandal Pictures

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Rachel Uchitel seen outside her

Rachel Uchitel in Los Angeles Airport

Tiger Woods and wife Elin Nordegren 2006 Ryder Cup opening ceremony in Straffan, Ireland, Thursday, Sept. 21, 2006.

Rachel Uchitel arrives with her lawyer Gloria Allred at Los Angeles Airport,

Tiger Woods wife, Elin Nordegren.


Rachel Uchitel, the first woman accused of being a mistress to Tiger Woods, has cancelled her scheduled press conference for Thursday afternoon.

Uchitel emerged on the radar of national media after Woods crashed his SUV Nov. 27 and tabloids reported that the accident happened after his wife grew angry from a National Enquirer story that alleged an affair between Woods and Uchitel.


Since then, the mystery surrounding that crash and the scandal surrounding Woods' personal affairs have grown.

Florida Highway Patrol concluded their investigation into the crash Tuesday, hitting Woods with a $164 ticket for careless driving, but not getting to the root causes of the crash or how Woods wound dazed on the pavement outside his Ilseworth, Fla. home, according to neighbors.


Two new alleged mistresses have also emerged.

Los Angeles cocktail waitress, Jamie Grubbs, has claimed she had a long standing sexual affair with Woods and has voicemails to prove it.

Another woman, Las Vegas club manager Kalika Moquin, was also accused of having an affair with Woods, but she has not commented.

In a 317-word statement on his Web site Wednesday, Woods acknowledged he had "let my family down and I regret those transgressions with all of my heart."

He did not detail exactly which "transgressions" he was talking about.

Uchitel's attorney Gloria Allred had intimated that her client would set the record straight on her alleged involvement with Woods one way or the other this afternoon.

That is no longer the case.

The investigation into Woods' accident ended Tuesday when the Florida Highway Patrol issued a $164 citation for careless driving.

RAJA AMPAT ISLANDS WEST PAPUA INDONESIA

The Richest Marine Habitat in the World The Raja Ampat, or “Four Kings,” archipelago encompasses more than 9.8 million acres of land and sea off the northwestern tip of Indonesia’s West Papua Province. Located in the Coral Triangle, the heart of the world’s coral reef biodiversity, the seas around Raja Ampat possibly hold the richest variety of species in the world.   The area’s massive coral colonies show that its reefs are resistant to threats like coral bleaching and disease —threats that now jeopardize the survival of corals around the world. In addition, Raja Ampat’s strong ocean currents sweep coral larvae across the Indian and Pacific Oceans to replenish other reef ecosystems. Raja Ampat’s coral diversity, resilience to threats, and ability to replenish reefs make it a global priority for marine protection. Survey Confirms Highest Marine Biodiversity on Earth   In 2002, The Nature Conservancy and its partners conducted a scientific survey of the Raja Ampat Islands to collect information on its marine ecosystems, mangroves, and forests. The survey brought Raja Ampat’s total number of confirmed corals to 537 species— an incredible 75% of all known coral species. In addition, 899 fish species were recorded, raising the known total for Raja Ampat to an amazing 1,074. On land, the survey found lush forests, rare plants, limestone outcroppings, and nesting beachesfor thousands of sea turtles.   Though human impacts here are less severe than elsewhere in Indonesia, Raja Ampat’s natural resources are endangered by over fishing and destructive fishing, turtle poaching, and unsustainable logging. The Indonesian government recently established Raja Ampat as a separate administrative unit, which will give communities a greater say in managing the natural resources upon which their livelihoods depend. This structure also offers an important opportunity to include conservation in the spatial planning of the newly formed local government. Ensuring Conservation through Partnerships   To address these issues, the Conservancy launched a new project to protect Raja Ampat, working in close partnership with the government and communities to: 1) contribute to a comprehensive conservation action plan to protect Raja Ampat’s reefs and forests; 2) help incorporate marine protected area management into long-term planning and policy; and, 3) establish a network of marine protected areas for Raja Ampat. The Conservancy’s ultimate goal is to protect Raja Ampat’s magnificent reefs while sustaining the livelihoods of local people. Raja Ampat includes the four large islands of Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati, and Misool, plus hundreds of smaller islands. The archipelago is part of an area known as the Bird’s Head functional seascape, which also contains Cenderawasih Bay, the largest marine national park in Indonesia.

http://www.rajaampatlodges.com

Quick Guide For International Travel And Vacation

Whether planning a trip to Europe or a cruise to the Caribbean, there are few things you should realize before booking your vacation. Global travel and vacations are somewhat different than the average three-hour drive from your home. If you don’t plan in advance, you might realize yourself stuck in an undesirable hotel with no money left for fun! Here’s a immediate guide to produce your vacation planning experience easier and more enjoyable.

Choose a Travel Destination

Don’t settle for the norm! Choose a global travel destination that will manufacture a lasting impression. Consider the following before making your decision.

1. What leisure activities do you enjoy while on vacation? Golf, amusement parks, nightlife, fun on the beach, skiing, hiking, biking, or some other activity?

2. Climate of the destination. Will it be cold, hot, or mild for the time of year you will travel?

3. Do you want seclusion from the hustle and bustle of the city or do you want to stay where the action is?

4. What is your travel budget and available vacation time frame?

These four things should be carefully considered before booking a trip. Choose a destination that features the activities you and your family will enjoy. If it’s a beautiful beach resort you want, try an Asian beach in Indonesia, Thailand, or Singapore. If it is art and culture you enjoy, try a destination in Europe such as Rome, Venice or France. If you’re an avid shopper while on vacation, choose Hong Kong, where open-air markets, shops, boutiques and malls are at every turn!

Research Your Destination

Once you choose a destination, narrow it down to a city and airport hotel accommodation or resort within that city. Use online resources to research the area and realize the best deals. But, be sure a “good deal” doesn’t mean sacrificing service or quality of the beach hotels luxury. With global travel and vacations, you should research in detail so you’ll understand what you’re getting beforehand.

If you want huge savings on luxury resorts, consider joining a travel group that offers membership discounts for booking. This will save you both time and money. They will research and book your vacation for you. Some travel groups will even allow you to sell memberships or travel packages to others as a “work at home” business. You can save money and produce money at the same time, all while traveling to the places you love!

Plan for Legalities

Give yourself plenty of time to get your passport and other important documents you may need while traveling internationally. Different countries require different things, so check with the country’s government offices to realize out what is crave ed. If you don’t realize where to begin, ask a travel agent for help in this area, or use the Internet for research. Be sure to ask about car rentals or car hire, driver’s license compatibility, airport luggage regulations, and travel insurance.

Plan Activities before You Travel

Once you accept your destination, use the Internet to found activities you’d like to do while there. This will save you time when you arrive and will give you a overall idea of what’s available in the area. Find out where the best spot at the ocean shore is for swimming or sunbathing. Get directions to local golf courses. Find holiday coupons online for amusement parks, museums, aquariums, and other sites.

Planning ahead has many advantages for quality hotel reservation or cruises, and you can enjoy your vacation without worry when you arrive at your destination. Start planning for your global travel and vacations today!



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Number of American tourists to Bali up 2.69 pct

Denpasar - The number of Americans holidaying in Bali reached 47,445 in the January-August 2009 period, which was an 2.69% increase compared to the 46,203 in the same period last year.

"This has placed the United States in the ten big foreign tourist suppliers to Bali," Head of the Bali Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) Ida Komang Wisnu said in Denpasar Tuesday.

Ida Koming Wisnu said that the American tourists contributed 3.08 percent of the 1,538,048 foreign tourists visiting the island paradise, which is a 13.32 percent increase compared to the 1,357,263 in the same period last year.

Ida Komang Wisnu also said that most of the American tourists arrived in Indonesia at Ngurah Rai airport, and only 419 arrived by yachts.

Of the ten countries with the biggest contribution of tourists to Bali, seven had booked a significant increase, but three others a decline.

The seven countries whose number of tourists had been increasing significantly, besides the United States, were China with 61.36 percent, Australia 39.59 percent, Malaysia 17.13 percent, France 39.98 percent, the UK 10.50 percent, and Germany 1.22 percent.

In the meantime, the three countries whose foreign tourists to Bali had been declining include Japan down by 10.56 percent, South Korea 4.19 percent, and Taiwan 14.87 percent. (*)

The Temple of Borobudur

Borobudur was built around 800 BC or 9th century. Borobudur Temple was built by the Mahayana Buddhists during the reign Sailendra. This temple was built in the heyday of Sailendra dynasty. The founder of the Borobudur Temple King Samaratungga from Sailendra dynasty or dynasties. The possibility of this temple was built around 824 AD and was completed around the year 900 AD in the reign of Queen Pramudawardhani who is the daughter of Samaratungga. While architects who contributed to build thistemple according to the story of a hereditary named Gunadharma.

Borobudur own words based on the first written evidence, written by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, Governor General of the United Kingdom in Java, which gives the name of thistemple. There is no written evidence that older who named this temple of Borobudur on. The only document that shows the existence of the oldest temple is Nagarakretagama book, written by mpu Prapanca in 1365. In the book was written that this temple was used as a place of Buddhist meditation.

The meaning of the name Borobudur “abbey in the hills”, which comes from the word “coal” (temple or monastery) and “beduhur” (hills or high places) in Sanskrit. Therefore, in accordance with the meaning of the name Borobudur, then this place since long ago used as a place of Buddhist worship.

This temple for centuries no longer used. Then because of volcanic eruptions, most of the buildings covered Borobudur volcanic soil. In addition, the building is covered with trees and shrubs for centuries. Then the building of this temple began in the time-forgotten Islam arrived in Indonesia around the 15th century.

In the year 1814 when the British occupied Indonesia, Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles heard of the discovery of huge archaeological objects in the village of Magelang district Bumisegoro. Because of the great interest of the history of Java, then immediately ordered Raffles HC Cornelius, a Dutch engineer, to investigate the discovery of the location was a hill covered with shrubs.

Cornelius assisted by about 200 men cut down trees and remove shrubs that covered the giant building. Because the building is considered fragile and could collapse, then report to the Raffles Cornelius invention includes several images. Since the discovery, Raffles received an award as one who started the restoration ofBorobudur and world attention. In 1835, the entire area of the temple has been unearthed. This temple was restored to keep the Dutch colonial period.

After Indonesian independence, in 1956, the Indonesian government requested the assistance of UNESCO to examine the damage to Borobudur. Then in 1963, out of the official Indonesian government’s decision to conduct the restoration of Borobudur temple with the help of UNESCO. However, this restoration was only really started to be done on August 10, 1973. The process of restoration was completed in 1984. Since 1991,Borobudur Temple, designated as World Heritage or World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Tanah Lot Temple

The name of Tanah Lot temple in tourism bibliography about Bali almost never absent. Among those temples as a tourist visit it is probably Tanah Lot is second most popular after Besakih. The name Tanah Lot is probably from " tanah laut " means land in the sea. It is the fact that the strong sea abrasion has separated the temple area with Bali mainland, so it looks that the temple nests on a small speck of rock building up on the ocean. Despite the fact that strong hit of sea wave but the site is still standing while the whole side have disappeared by the raged waves of hundreds of years.

No historical record is found so far to construct the history of the temple. Scripture of Dang Hyang Nirarta mentions that the priest Dang Hyang Nirarta had visited the temple and asked the people around the area to build shrine. While the priest also educate the fishermen there in making fish trap.

The temple as a whole is dedicated to the god of the sea. Fishermen pray to get fish and prosperity. A story mentions that one of the shrine at Batukaru temple was lost, and was found here standing at Tanah Lot temple complex. It was very probable that the temple was built by Mengwi kingdom as the sea temple. A kingdom in Bali normally had 3 main temples, one located near the sea, one in the city or near the palace, and one on the mountain or near the mountain. This concept of 3 temples has also influenced the smaller unit of Balinese settlement in the level called " Banjar ". Every Banjar in Bali has also 3 main temples dedicated to different way of worshipping the gods and ancestor's spirits.

Now only 3 villages that responsible for the temple those are all nearby villages of Braban, Kelating, and Tibu Biyu, and still as the temple for Mengwi palace. The ceremony is performed every 6 month, based on Hindu-Java calendar which is already printed out during November every year.

For tourists, it is not only the traditional magic of the temple is interested, but the location in the natural setting, especially during the sunset, the temple changes into silhouette against the sunsets above Indonesian ocean.

Besakih Temple

The Temple
In Balinese word, temple is called " Pura ", which might be quiet a new name for the sacred place, where Balinese praying. Historical facts such as various inscriptions clearly mention such a place is called " Hyang ". Now the word Hyang is used to refer the holy spirit of ancestor. It was correct that original believe of Balinese as well as all ethnics in Indonesia had the worship of ancestor's holy soul in various form of rituals. Thus when the name of
Hyang changed into Pura. It is an interesting question to explore, while formal source is not available, we can just understand in the level of theory.

When Indian influence spreading into South East Asia, the Sanskrit words become very special among the local. Many places were given Sanskrit name, such as
kingdom, people, king, and even places. One name for a city is "Pur" such as Singapura, Sukapura, Amblapura, and others imitating the name of cities in India such as Nagpur, Rajpur, Kantipur, and others. The development of cities in Indonesia started by king palace, except commercial centers such as Jakarta, Surabaya, Balikpapan, Makassar, and others.

Hindu king from 11th century on, had been inspired strongly by Hindu tradition with it's Sanskrit language. The story about world salvation "Avatar" might have became real example of the thought inspiring the king status in the society and heaven. King Erlangga of Mataram kingdom in Java in 1019 AD mentioned in his inscription that he was the incarnation of god Wisnu, so did kings in Balinese ancient kingdoms. The king is the center of culture, and was considered the one who able to bring the prosperity of the emporium and it's society.

A thought among Hindu literature
is also mention that this world is divided into 2 parts, those are " Buana Alit " and " Buana Agung " Buana Alit literally means " small world ", while Buana Agung means Big world, or with most historian's terminology
Buana Alit is called micro-cosmos, and Buana Agung is macro-cosmos. The thought further asserted that Buana Alit has the character of Buana Agung, or is given the characters of Buana Agung. This small world is identified with human being, or miniature of the macro-cosmos. So that is said that human being also has got divine characters. Sanskrit language is very good in expressing this thought, since it introduced gender. For example
2 entities have the same characters with different nature such as one is powerful while the other one weaker, they differentiate with gender. Nouns with ultima [ a ] refers masculine gender, and with ultima [ i ] refers feminism. For example " Putra " means son, and "Putri" means laughter, Dewa means male gods, and Dewi means goddess, Santa means peaceful in the world, and Santi means peaceful in the heard, and so on. So it might be from this ever living thought that the concept micro-cosmos and macro-cosmos had given a strong inspiration of the kingdoms. The king than identified himself as micro-cosmos, as the the miniature of macro-cosmos, or as personalization of all-mighty. The king was born to save the world with the human being, and got the divine revelation. Due to his absolute power, and his autocratic style of managing the kingdom, he easily identified himself with the story of " Avatar " or in Balinese called " Awatara ". The story of Awatara mentioned that god some time need to incarnate into human being to save the world from corruption, tyranny, and natural catastrophe. According to the Hindu literature there had been 10 consecutive awataras during the world history, and the 11th is yet to come when the world will really need.

Departing from the inscription those mentions the king as the incarnation of gods we could not find the indication about when the Hyang was changed into Pura, since almost all inscriptions before 1345 AD still mentioned the temple as Hyang. Although a very strong indication was found in Cambodia during the 7th century that the king was personalized in a statue, so did their family for the worship. It was also in Java some old stone sculptures have been identified as the personification of kings, which mostly found in all Candis ( temple ). An ethnic ritual in Kalimantan called " Tiwah " give an indication how a person dead and given homage
by his family and a chieftain by his people. It was also in Pararaton a manuscript written probably during the 13th century mentioned about the ceremony called çraddha. The ceremony is for the dead king with, something like cremation ceremony in current Bali. Some inscriptions also giving clues to the thought that when a king dead his body or ash preserved in a candi, such as " the king is çinandika ..... means the king was rested at ......"Based on these
facts Dr. Stutterheim wrote that the ancient temples in Java supposed to be the co-memorial tomb.Archaeological excavations then was carried out at some temples, and was found like a pallets with 7 or 9 pallets. This is supposed to be the place of the king ash. But this opinion has been opposed by Dr. Soekmono on his dissertation " Candi It's Function and Meaning " that the temple in Java nothing to do with ash of a cremated king. He support his exposition with the tradition in Bali during building the family temple or other temples. He found that what is a sculpture of a king that was found in the temple, he asserted that this is only the symbol of king holy soul, while the ash was thrown to the sea or in the river. So he is against the idea of personal apotheosisme in Indonesia. So there is no indication that the king at that moment put himself as parallel with god. Based on above description it is not possible that the name of Pura was given by the king during the period of old Javanese kingdom or old Balinese kingdom the period that covers before 14th century.

If we see Balinese kingdom after the invasion of Majapahit on, since 1345 AD to 17th AD we found that the spirit of king as micro-cosmos was still alive, even in a more stronger sense. One of Balinese king in 16the century called himself as " Dewa Agung " a title is truly means god. " Dewa" means god, "Agung " means The Great. So it might be the concept of this
" king-god" thus grew fertile during this period. According to my opinion this thought was really developed and become the tradition of the palace. Since the king is the personification of micro-cosmos, as the miniature of macro-cosmos, then the palace is called " Puri ", and the temple is called " Pura " a two parallel entity with different nature. Since the king is the symbol of power in the world who full in control to the world and it's contents, while the god is the all-mighty and controls them all. So between Pura and Puri such a 2 parallel source of power.

Among various pura in Bali it can be grouped into : puras built by the king, pura built by the desa ( village ), and pura built by personal. In the kingdom there are at least 3 temples, one dedicated or located near the sea, one in the city ( near palace ), and the other one on the mountain( or near the mountain). While every Desa has 3 temples associated with Hindu Trinity besides many temples related to natural preservation such as irrigation temple, beginning of a river, and some considered sacred places.

Historical Record
There are many manuscripts mention about establishment, rituals, and the status of Besakih. This kind manuscript is called " Purana " The descriptions mentioned on the Purana mostly could be understood by human thinking, since many magical aspects were involving in the events. Relating to the establishment of the temple only one Purana giving description that is Markandeya Purana or is also called
Raja Purana. Beginning the establishment of the temple is full of magical events. It is said that Besakih temple was built by a Priest from East Java, and he was the first who put the "Panca Datu" base for the establishment of a temple. The Panca Datu is 5 elements to be buried under the basements to protect the construction from evil spirits.

See from archaeological remains which are still preserved in the temple, it must have been a very old site, as old as Shivaitic tradition in Bali, as a crude linggas, the symbol of Shiva is preserved in one of the shrines. As already been known the practice of Shivaitic sect was very wide in Bali, and until now the Hindu in Bali still has strong character in ritual aspect. If we try to see the Shivaitic practice outside Bali, we will have the clear prove that is Prambanan temple which was built in 9th century. At one of the temple complex is preserved a manuscript mentions Sri Wira Kesari, and the area was part of his palace. We do not have prove that relate Sri Wira Kesari with the king mention by stone pillar inscription of Sanur. It is true that the king mentioned by the inscription in Sanur named Sri Kesari Warmadewa, from 9th century.

Careful observation on the linggas has shown a strong megalithic tradition. It was possible the site had already been a sacred place since very much older, but in what form of temple architecture would be difficult to know. Since most of the ancient temple remains in Bali in the form of rock-cut shrines such as Goa Gajah, Yeh Pulu, Goa Garba, and others. One reconstructed ancient shrine is at Pura Pegulingan, Basangambu near Tampaksiring, but the shape is modern Balinese Padma Sana, and it is not possible to put lingga or sculpture in the shrine. It was probable that the shrines were made in perishable materials.

During the kingdom of Middle Bali from 1343 AD to 17th, a kingdom established by Mahapahit, Besakih was mentioned as main temple and it was probably during this period the temple was added and rebuilt with many new shrines. The palace
the beginning was located at Samplangan village near Gianyar, and later moved to Klungkung.
When Bali was broken into many smaller kingdoms, each of their king still considered king of Klungkung as the highest ruler in Bali, and claimed to have their origin from Klungkung. Since Besakih was a state temple of Klungkung, then each of the smaller kingdom felt obliged to worship at the temple. Each smaller kingdoms and the main clans of Bali built their ancestral temple ( Bali : Padharman Temple ) around Besakih area, so the complex has become bigger and bigger. According to the inventory made by Institute Hindu Dharma Denpasar, there are 18 temple complexes with total shrines around 202.

See from the name of gods worshiped in Besakih there is clear mixed concept between Hindu gods, local believe and ancestors' worship. While Pura Penataran Agung complex is considered the center of Besakih temple with 53 shrines. Here are concentrated the shrines of Merus with superimposed roof-tops up to the highest with 11 roof-tops.

This temple complexes is a real valuable heritage for Balinese not just the value of religious activity, but have built up the solidity and close affinity among Balinese Hindu, although in the past was broken into more than 9 small kingdoms. Until now these small kingdoms was maintained by Indonesian government by forming a local government based on the area of kingdom in the past. That is why Bali now is divided into 8 local government in the level of second under provincial administration. Although in fact one aspect has been made so complicated that is rituals aspects. Furthermore the purana associate natural changes with the incompleteness of the rituals aspects, or any shortcoming in elements of offerings, it is actually Besakih is most famous for their ritual compared to their architecture and historical values.

To have the idea some of the temple complex will be described in short below. This is only a short descriptions on name and main feature, while the real fact is very complicated and impossible to described within some pages.

1. Pura Pesimpangan Group. Located around 1.5 kms from center of Besakih with 4 shrines. This temple is used as temporary stop by devotees and god's symbols during procession to ask holy water, which is performed every year of Caka year
2. Pura Dalem Puri Group. Located just before the center, with 10 shrines and is dedicated to Goddess Durga. Durga in Hindu Java tradition is considered the power of Shiva
as the god of death or returning living being into its origin.
3. Pura Manik Mas Group. Located 700 meters before the center and have 6 shrines, and is mentioned to be dedicated to Ida Ratu Mas Melilit. This figure might be ancestor's spirit.
4. Pura Bangun Sakti Group. Just on the other side of Manik Mas Group have 4 shrines and is the abode of Sanghyang Anantabhoga. Anantabhoga is often related to the rice goddess.
5. Pura Ulun Kulkul Group. Located around 350- meters before the center have 7 shrines dedicated to Mahadewa who rule the west direction
6. Pura Merajan Slonding Group have 5 shrines, and according to the manuscript preserved here this was part of the palace.
7. Pura Gowa Group, have 4 shrines, dedicated to the fairy tale of Naga Basuki serpent who resided the cave
8. Pura Banuwa Group have 4 shrines dedicated to Goddess Sri who is the goddess of the rice.
9. Pura Merajan Kanginan Group have 7 shrines, sounds like a family temple. It may be the family temple of the palace, since a shrine is dedicated to a Priest called Empu Bharadah
10. Pura Hyang Aluh Group have 7 shrines dedicated to Ida Ratu Ayu, sound like an ancestral worship.
11. Pura Basukihan Group have 10 shrines dedicated to fairy tale Naga Basuki serpent.
12. Pura Penataran Agung Besakih Group have 53 shrines. This is the center of the temple have Merus and 3 open shrines for Trinity, a real Hindu gods, but some priests still consider it as a Shivaitic character since they think that the open shrines is dedicated to God Shiva's aspects such as Siwa, Sadha Siwa, and Parama Siwa.
13. Pura Batumadeg Group. have 29 shrines dedicated to god Wishnu
14. Pura Kdiduling Kreteg Group have 21 shrines dedicated god Brahma
15. Pura Gelap Group have 6 shrines dedicated to god Iswara as the ruler of East direction
16. Pura Peninjauan Group have 12 shrines dedicated to Priest Empu Kuturan, an ancestral worship
17. Pura Pengubengan Group have 6 shrines. This temple is a temporary above or a place to " inform " other temple there will be a ceremony in Besakih.
18. Pura Tirta Group have 2 shrines, around 300 meters east of the center. Here is a water source. During the ceremonythe priest request the holy water here.
19. Pura Pasar Agung Group, located on the higher slope of Mt. Agung and is via Selat village, and is considered as part of Besakih.

Temple Maintenance
To maintain the temple in the sense of management a foundation has been established under the Center Hindu Assembly in Jakarta. The decision to manage the temple by Central Assembly was issued by Bali Governor by his memo no. 206/I/C/1968 dated 10 August 1968.
The foundation name is BESAKIH PRAWARTAKA Foundation. While the committee ( Bali " Pengempon " ) of the temple are those villages surrounding the temple, consist of 4 villages. According to the recordin 1976 these 4 villages have 3791 residents. Those villages are:

1. Banjar Besakih Kanginan ( East Besakih village )Banjar Besakih Kawan ( West Besakih village )Banjar Temukus ( Temukus village )
2. Banjar Simpar ( Simpar village )

For daily maintenance works these 4 villages are divided into 8 group which are in charge for each complex of the temple. So all 18 complexes of the temple are divided into 8 permanent working groups.

Religious Ceremony
There are various ceremonies which are conducted in Besakih temple. There are 12 ceremonies conducted every 210 days. This is based on Hindu - Java calendar which is consist of 30 months and one month consist of 7 days. Each temple complex has it's own ceremony based on this dates.

Special ceremony based on Çaka year is conducted 6 times a year. This ceremony is called " Ngusaba ", a kind of
blessing ceremony. At the other village temples in Bali this type of ceremony is also conducted in relation with rice harvesting, especially in the regency of Gianyar. During the Ngusaba ceremony in Gianyar there is a very long procession of girls dressed in Balinese traditional costumes, and women with offering on their head, followed with deafening sound of Balinese traditional musics.

A ceremony called " Betara Turun Kabeh " is conducted every year. " Betara Turun Kabeh " means all gods are presence. This is the biggest yearly ceremony. While a ceremony every 10 years called " Paca Wali Krama", and a ceremony every 100 years called " Eka Dasa Rudra". All dates for above ceremony can be known in December for the following year, when Bali calendar has been issued. Normally Bali calendar already at the shop latest by December every year.

Selected Readings

Publish Post

• Bernet Kempers, Dr. A.J. Monumental Bali Introduction to Balinese Archaeology, Guide to the monument Periplus Edition, 1989
• I.H.D., Kumpulan Hasil Penelitian Pura, Diterbitkan untuk Kepentingan Intern, Institute Hindu Dharma Denpasar, Bali
• Goris, Dr. R. : Sekte-Sekte di Bali, Bhrattara, Jakarta, translated by Soejono S.
• Goris, Dr. R. : Bali Atlas Kebudayaan, Pemerintah Republik Indonesia, No date
• Goris Dr. R. : Arti Pura Besakih Menurut Sejarah dan Ibadat. Majalah Bhakti Th. II No. 17
• Linus, Drs. Ketut : Sedikit Tentang Hubungan Konsepsional Antara Candi di Jawa dengan Pura di Bali, Fakultas Sastra, Universitas Udayana, Denpasar, 1974
• Mantra, Prof. Dr. I.B. : Pengertian Candi dalam Majalah Ilmiah Universitas Udayana, Th.I, No.1, 1970
• Rata, Drs. I.B. : Konsepsi Dasar dan Perkembangan Fungsi Pura di Bali, Fakultas Sastra, Universitas Udayana, Denpasar, Bali, 1974
• Soebandi, Ktut : Pura Kawitan/Padharman dan Penyungsungan Jagat, Guna Agung, 1981
• Soekmono, Dr. R. : Candi Fungsi dan Pengertiannya,Direktorat Pembinaan dan Pengabdian Masyarakat, Dirjen Pendidikan Tinggi, Departement P & K, 1977
• Stutterheim, Prof. Dr. Willem Frederik : Oudheden van Bali, translated by I.G. Tjakera, Hortel Dirga Yusa Denpasar, Bali, No date.
• Toko Buku Ria : Riwayat Rsi Markandeya, 1981

I Made Terima
25 April 2003

Bedugul

Bedugul tourist resort, located in the district of Tabanan, offers a soothing atmosphere of the hills and the beauty of the lake Tamablingan

To enjoy the beauty of the lake here, enough to rent a speed boat around the lake you can. Close to this lake you can also enjoy lunch at local restaurant with Indonesian dishes as well as internationally.

and visit the Botanical Garden Eka Karya Bedugul as buy souvenirs of strawberry, which is one source of income of local residents.

Kintamani

which is located in Bangli regency, is one of the favorite tourist attractions tourist options both domestic and abroad.

Generally, in almost any travel agent or tour operator in Bali, Kintamani included in the itinerary (travel route) after visiting the Batu Bulan (Tari Barong), tourist areas or Sukawati, Ubud as a shopping center.

Kintamani offers a fresh atmosphere in the hills surrounding air temperature of 18 degrees Celsius, much like air in Bedugul. The main attraction of the area is the view of Mount Kintamani and Lake Batur. Mount Batur is a mountain that is still an active status and the second highest after Mount Agung at Besakih. The atmosphere is best when the lunch meal while enjoying the beauty of this mountain lake and the belching smoke friendly.

You can also visit Trunyan village located near the lake. But you have to cross by boat to get there by traveling approximately 20 minutes. Interesting and unique is the way the funeral of local residents who would differ from the prevalence in Bali. The corpse was propped on a tree without buried. But the body does not smell.

Dream Land Beach in Uluwatu

it was a beautiful beach and Kuta beach was not crowded visitors. Of course, this situation will be more comfortable and can enjoy the atmosphere of the famous beach as a place to surf is.

With travel approximately 30 minutes from Kuta and Jimbaran direction Pecatu, you’ll get here.

Dreamland beach area currently being developed as a tourist area Resorts Bali Pecatu complete with 18-hole golf courses, international schools, international hospitals, shopping malls and other tourist facilities.

Certainly not much longer this region will become the exclusive tourism areas and dimanage better.