Banyu Pinaruh

Banyu Pinaruh is one of the key events held during Saraswati celebrations in Bali. The event is celebrated every 210 days following the Balinese Calendar.

At the core of this event is the celebration of the virtue of knowledge and its role in the present-day world.

‘Banyu Pinaruh’ is derived from two words: Banyuh, which translates to ‘holy waters’ and Pinaruh, which means ‘knowledge’, symbolising the purification of the body and mind to prepare for receiving divine knowledge and blessings. It is a day dedicated to self-cleansing, both physically and spiritually.

On the morning of Banyu Pinaruh, Balinese Hindus wake up before sunrise and go to the sea, rivers, lakes, or other holy water sources for ritual bathing. This purification ceremony represents washing away negative energies, ignorance, and impurities, allowing devotees to start anew with a clear mind and soul. People believe that by cleansing themselves, they become spiritually ready to absorb wisdom and blessings after honouring Goddess Saraswati the previous day.

After bathing, families return home to prepare offerings called banten, which typically include flowers, fruits, rice cakes, and incense. These offerings are placed at family shrines and temples to express gratitude for knowledge, life, and natural resources. Some also prepare special dishes, such as nasi kuning (yellow rice) and jajan pasar (Balinese sweets), which are shared among family members as part of the celebration.

Banyu Pinaruh is closely tied to the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, which emphasises harmony between humans, nature, and the divine. By connecting with sacred water sources, Balinese Hindus honour nature’s role in sustaining life and acknowledge water as a symbol of purification, fertility, and renewal.

This ritual complements Saraswati Day and Soma Ribek, forming part of a three-day spiritual cycle in Bali that celebrates knowledge, gratitude, and balance—core values deeply rooted in Balinese culture and religion.

Tanah Lot Temple, one of Bali’s most famous sea temples, is a favourite destination for Banyu Pinaruh, so visitors who want to join the locals can stop at this intricate sea temple.

Tanah Lot Temple is a unique temple perched on a rocky outcrop over the sea. Located near North Kuta, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Bali. To reach the temple, you will walk through stalls selling a variety of food, drinks, and souvenirs. Be prepared to haggle for souvenirs, as the prices are “tourist prices” and can often be negotiated down.