On our way to Pura Tanah Lot (Tanah Lot Temple), we met a group of Balinese dressed in their traditional attire with various offerings. The female carried the offering on top of their head while the male some walked with musical instruments. It was mythical and magical at the same time. It’s not often that we get to see this, so my mom and I got very lucky.
We approached one of the staff to ask what was going on and he told us that they were doing Nyegara Gunung which is part of “Ngaben” rituals where they will respect the deceased for the last time. On top of just asking the staff, our driver Mr Ketut told us many things about Balinese tradition and customs. It was a very enlightening conversation despite the fact that I already knew some of it.
We followed the rituals until they were seated at the temple facing the sea, which was part of Tanah lot temple. My camera managed to capture some of the offerings and when they were praying. The music that they played was also alluring that it makes you want to follow them into the temple.
Apparently it seems like around this time, there were plenty of people doing Nyegara Gunung. Even when we got back from Uluwatu, we met with another dozen on their way to their village temple. I wanted to get out of the car but I was already exhausted. So I just took a picture from inside the car. I hope I can see cultural displays like this because I think this is what makes Bali unique and enchanting.