Pura Blanjong, Sanur: Bali's Oldest Dated Inscription, Almost Always Empty

Five minutes from the warungs and cafés of Semawang Beach, at the southern end of Sanur, sits a small temple holding one of the most important objects in Balinese history: Pura Blanjong. Inside stands the Blanjong Pillar, the oldest dated inscription on the island — and there is almost never a queue.

Bali's Oldest Inscription

The stone pillar, close to two metres tall, is dated Saka 835, or roughly 913–914 CE. Its text marks the victories of Sri Kesari Warmadewa — the first Balinese king whose name survives in writing — over enemies at Gurun and Suwal. Remarkably, it is carved in two scripts, Pre-Nagari and Kawi/Old Balinese, using two languages: Sanskrit and Old Balinese.

What's Inside the Compound

• The lotus-topped inscription pillar, standing inside a protective shelter and often wrapped in yellow-and-white cloth.
• A carved stone Ganesha, a couple of lingga and animal statues.
• A small, shady temple yard; a relaxed visit takes 20–30 minutes.

Pair It With Sanur

• Start with sunrise at Sanur or Mertasari beach, then drop by the temple before the heat builds.
• Have breakfast around Pasar Sindhu, then cycle the flat Sanur beachfront path.
• Nearby Semawang Beach is good for a simple seafood lunch.

Practical Info & Visiting

• Location: Jl. Danau Poso, Sanur Kauh, South Denpasar — View on Google Maps
• Getting there: about 5 minutes' ride from Semawang Beach, 10–15 minutes from central Sanur and roughly 20–30 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport. Roadside parking for scooters and cars is limited.
• Hours & cost: generally open from morning to late afternoon (around 08:00–17:00 WITA); no ticket, just a voluntary donation of about Rp10,000–Rp20,000.
• Bring: a sarong (kamen) and sash — usually available to borrow at the entrance; also water and a hat, as the yard is open to the sun.
• Etiquette: never touch or climb the inscription pillar, don't step into the sacred inner area, and avoid visiting during a piodalan festival unless the temple caretakers invite you.
• Photos & updates: search on Instagram

Sanur makes an easy base for exploring the historical side of Denpasar without rushing. Check the AccessiaPass hotel vouchers to keep room rates in the Sanur area down before you travel.