Brahmavihara Arama Buddhist Monastery

A Tribute to Borobudur Above Bali’s Northern Coastline

At 300 metres above sea level, Brahmavihara Arama rises out of the hills of Northern Bali and is the largest Buddhist monastery on the island. Completed around 1970, it’s a relatively recent addition to the island’s spiritual map but it more than earns its place. Also known as Vihara Buddha Banjar, the complex is tucked into Banjar village, about 20 minutes inland from the black volcanic shores of Lovina. From its hillside perch, it looks out over a sweep of rice terraces, clove groves and coconut palms, with the shimmering expanse of the Bali Sea in the distance. While younger than Bali’s historic Hindu temples, it stands out for its peaceful atmosphere, impressive size, and panoramic views.

The architecture and layout of Brahmavihara-Arama reflect a fusion of religious traditions and artistic styles. The temple’s name combines three key Sanskrit terms: Brahma (noble), Vihara (monastery) and Arama (retreat), which together convey the idea of a sacred place for self development and inner awakening. The design blends Buddhist and Balinese Hindu motifs, illustrating the cultural coexistence and mutual respect between the island's dominant religions. Ornate carvings of lotus flowers, stupas and bodhisattvas are interwoven with elements such as naga serpents and guardian figures more commonly seen in Hindu shrines.

One of the monastery’s most striking features is the miniature replica of Borobudur that crowns its uppermost terrace. Though much smaller in scale than the original located in Central Java, it captures the essence of the 9th century Mahayana Buddhist UNESCO-listed masterpiece. Circular in shape and built from grey stone, the replica includes bell-shaped stupas and intricate relief carvings that closely resemble those found on its ancient counterpart. It serves not only as an homage to Indonesia’s rich Buddhist heritage but also as a visual tool to aid in meditation and spiritual reflection on the Buddha’s teachings and his journey toward enlightenment.

The monastery unfolds across multiple terraced levels, linked by broad stone staircases that invite a slow, mindful ascent. At the entrance, visitors are greeted by carefully manicured gardens, fragrant frangipani blossoms and neatly trimmed hedges. As you climb higher, open air pavilions appear, where dharma talks are held, alongside prayer halls heavy with the scent of burning incense and quiet libraries filled with ancient Buddhist scriptures. Throughout the grounds, meditation rooms and shaded nooks offer peaceful retreats for both monks and visitors, spaces crafted to encourage stillness, deep breathing, and thoughtful reflection.

Brahmavihara Arama is a living monastery, home to a dedicated community of Theravada monks who carry out daily rituals and prayers. Despite its active religious role, the monastery warmly welcomes visitors of all backgrounds and beliefs. The atmosphere truly comes alive during Vesak, Buddha’s birthday, when vibrant processions, chanting and glowing candlelight ceremonies draw worshippers from across Bali and beyond. At other times, the monastery transforms into a peaceful sanctuary, a perfect haven for yoga practitioners, spiritual seekers and curious travellers looking for calm and connection away from the crowds.

In a region more often associated with beach resorts and waterfalls, Brahmavihara Arama stands out for its quiet dignity and spiritual focus. Beyond being a religious site, it’s a place to pause, reflect and reconnect. Anchored by its stunning miniature replica of Borobudur, one of the greatest Buddhist monuments on the planet, the monastery combines striking hilltop views, thoughtful design and an inclusive atmosphere to stand out as one of the region’s most significant cultural and spiritual destinations.

🗺️ Location

Tangeb Hamlet, Tegeha Sub-Village, Banjar District, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia

🚆 How to get there

Brahmavihara Arama is located roughly 20km's west of Singaraja, the former colonial capital of Bali and just 11kms inland from Lovina, the island’s well known northern beach resort. While its remote hillside setting is part of its charm, reaching it from the more tourist heavy south takes time. From Denpasar or Kuta, the journey covers about 100 km's and typically takes 4 hours by car, while those coming from Ubud can expect a slightly shorter drive of around 3 hours. The route winds through Bali’s mountainous interior, offering glimpses of authentic village life and scenic farmland along the way. Because of the travel involved, visiting this monastery is best done as part of a full day tour with a private driver, which will set you back between 800,000 - 1,000,000 VDR. This allows you to pair the monastery with nearby highlights such as the Banjar Holy Hot Springs, sunrise dolphin watching at Lovina Beach or a nature walk through the twin lakes and waterfalls of Munduk. If you want more bang for your buck, I would suggest staying in the area for a night or two.

⭐ Attraction Info

 Brahmavihara Arama is typically open to the public daily between 8am - 6pm. Entry is free of charge, though voluntary donations are welcomed and go toward the maintenance of the monastery and support of the resident monastic community. As with most religious sites in Bali, proper temple attire is required. This includes wearing a sarong and a waist sash, which are available to borrow free of charge from the front office for those who do not bring their own. Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees and to observe a respectful silence in designated prayer and meditation areas. Photography is allowed in most parts of the complex but it's courteous to avoid disturbing monks or worshippers during religious activities. An hour is enough time to explore this site.

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