History records various stories from the past. With history, a regular building could become meaningful. In Bali, tens and even hundreds of tourist attractions have historical aspects. The place holds meaningful events that cannot be forgotten. One of them is Gumang Temple, located in Pakraman Village, Panempahan, Tampaksiring, Gianyar. This temple had stood before the Majapahit Kingdom. That means the holy place of the Alas Ukir Sari Catur Paiguman keeps a variety of interesting stories.

The Gumang Temple, located in the upper reaches of the Pakerisan River, holds artifacts in the form of statues and stupas. Around the temple, there’s a forest with large trees and plants for medicine. Three Lingga-shaped Yoni statues that are stored in the Gumang Temple are considered to be the largest statues in Southeast Asia. Yoni Linga is a symbol of fertility. Therefore, it also becomes a place to sing prayers for fertility. There are also Tepasana Trisula, Bulan, Matahari, Astadala statues. Besides that, the Mandala stupa is still well preserved.

Architecturally, Gumang Temple has four entrance gates. The gate depicts four directions symbolically. The building is no different from other temple buildings. Although it looks quiet if there is no ceremony, but this holy place turns out to save inspiring stories. According to a cultural observer, in the XI century, various sects of animism developed. The nine sects include Ciwa-Sidhanttha, Pacupata, Bodha, Bhairawa, Brahmana, Wesnawa, Rsi, Sora, Ganeca. Because at that time, Bali Mula's belief was indeed developing. Then, there was competition with each other resulting in conflict.

To mediate the conflict, a meeting of all sects was held at the Gumang Temple. The meeting or paruman was led by Mpu Kuturan. From this paruman, there was an agreement that all sects must unite and not trigger each other conflicts. From the story, we can learn a lesson that a difference should create a harmonious whole.

If the artifacts at Gumang Temple store historical and inspiring stories, what about the story of your trip to the Island of the Gods? Make your tourist destination meaningful by visiting the Gumang Temple!