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Sojurn: Brahmavihara Arama - 'Buddhist monastery and 'mini Borobudur' in north Bali'
Words and Photos Anggara MahendraLocated in the hills of Banjar village in Buleleng, at a height of 125 meters above sea level, Brahmavihara Arama is a monastery that boasts an impressive mini replica of Borobudur temple
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Words and Photos Anggara Mahendra
Located in the hills of Banjar village in Buleleng, at a height of 125 meters above sea level, Brahmavihara Arama is a monastery that boasts an impressive mini replica of Borobudur temple.
Built on a 4 hectare plot, the mini version of the world's largest Buddhist archeological site, which is located in Yogyakarta, is situated at the highest point of the monastery grounds and is surrounded by meditation rooms, a beautiful garden and hills, all benefiting from cool weather.
The local people in Buleleng usually call this Vihara Banjar (Banjar monastery), referring to the name of the village.
Brahmavihara Arama was built 37 years ago for meditation by Bhikku Girirakkhito.
The place was named by the late founding father and consists of three words: brahma, vihara and arama, meaning 'a place for self-cultivation to facilitate a noble and commendable attitude'.
Brahmavihara Arama teaches Vipasana meditation, which is Sanskrit for seeing something the way it is, to deal with the problems of daily life with a clear mind. This is the most ancient method of meditation from India and was created by the Buddha more than 2,500 years ago.
The official website, brahmaviharaarama.com, provides information on meditation programs that commence at 4 a.m., with walking, sitting and chanting until 9:30 p.m. The program is free of charge, but donations from participants are welcomed.
Sightseeing here is also free of charge, but modest attire and a respectful attitude are required.
Brahmavihara Arama is visited by many who want to learn to meditate, especially over the holidays. The trimmed lawns, well-maintained flower gardens and the high altitude all add to the sense of peace that visitors can enjoy.
Brahmavihara Arama is 82 kilometers north of Denpasar, around a three-hour drive from the city.
