Lombok Island has many similarities with its neighbor, Bali.Lombok was once an island that was dominated by Hindus before eventually Islamcame and became the majority religion on this island.
Many Hindu relics can still be seen in Lombok, especially inthe western part of the island. One of them is the existence of the temple ofMeru. This temple has a unique history and is still used as a place of worshipfor Hindus.
Location of the temple of Meru
The formal address of Pura Meru is on Jl. Selaparang,Cakranegara, Kota Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara. Because it is located in thecity of Mataram, you will not encounter any difficulties to get to this temple.You can use private vehicles or public transportation to reach this temple.
The biggest and its history
This temple is the largest on Lombok. Meru, in the locallanguage, is a building structure similar to a tower with a multi-tiered roofmade of palm fiber. This temple was built in mutual cooperation by theresidents of 33 villages in Lombok, led by Anak Agung Made Karangasem. Theconstruction was carried out in the 18th century.
There are three merus in this temple complex. The main Meruhas a roof of 11 levels while the other dua Meru are only 9 levels. This placeused to function as a place to organize the mass, as well as a punishment sitefor criminals. Needless to say, this temple is also of course used as a placeof worship.
Three main areas
Like most Hindus, Pura Meru is also divided into three main areas. The first is the most sacred part of the temple, the Utama Mandala. This is the location of worship for Hindus who come here.
In this area, there are 33 white Sanggah, which are representations of 33 villages that helped build this temple. There are also several gazebos with different functions in the worship procession.
The center of the temple is called Madya Mandala. In thisplace, you can find a two-level gazebo whose function is to hold negotiations.The last part is Nista Mandala. This third part is a simple yard that isusually used to hold various performing arts in certain ceremonies.
Some basic rules in Pura
Like almost all Holy Hindu temples, there are some basicrules that must be adhered. For one, you have to dress modestly and politely.Remember, this is still a worshipping place. There is also an obligation towear a sash at the waist, you can borrow a sash from the temple guards. Womenwho are on their period are not permitted to enter the temple area.
If you are already done exploring Pura Meru, you can shopfor souvenirs and various other things at Cakranegara Market. You can alsocontinue your exploration to Mayura Park, which is located right in front ofMeru Temple.