The monastery is often referred to as 'Little Borobudur' due to its detailed replica of the famous Javanese temple.
The complex was established in 1969 by a local monk, Bhante Girirakkhito Mahathera.
It is built on a slope, requiring visitors to navigate multiple levels of stairs to reach the highest points.
The monastery features a Bodhi tree, a symbol significant to the Buddha's enlightenment, planted within the grounds.
The architecture incorporates traditional Balinese stone carving techniques, including 'karang' floral motifs.
It remains an active site for Vipassana meditation retreats.
Brahmavihara-Arama is the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali, located in the hilly Banjar region of Buleleng. The complex is designed as a series of terraced gardens, shrines, and meditation rooms reflecting traditional Balinese architecture. Its design integrates Buddhist motifs with local Hindu-Balinese stylistic elements. A prominent feature is the miniature replica of Borobudur, the world's largest Buddhist monument, situated on the upper level. The site includes a dedicated meditation area, several stupas, and a library. It functions as an active monastic site where practitioners study and meditate. The layout takes advantage of the hillside elevation to provide expansive views toward the northern coastline of Bali.
The upper terrace featuring the miniature Borobudur stupa overlooking the gardens and sea.
Bring a sarong or scarf to cover your knees and shoulders, as it is a place of worship.
Visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and the largest tour groups.
Walk all the way to the top terrace for the best panoramic views of the northern Bali coastline.
Do not take photos of monks or individuals in meditation without explicit permission.
Visitors must cover shoulders and knees; maintain silence in meditation areas; remove footwear before entering the shrine rooms.
