Blitar – Located in Centong Hamlet, Sawentar Village, Kanigoro District, Blitar Regency, East Java Province, Sawentar Temple is one of the fascinating historical legacies of the Majapahit Kingdom.
This temple is situated in a clean and well-maintained location, offering visitors a unique historical tourism experience.
Sawentar Temple has two main parts: a central temple complete with intact statues and buildings, and a smaller temple, located opposite the main temple, with only the base remaining.
Uniquely, this temple is buried approximately 4 meters underground, so visiting it feels like you’re visiting a site excavated from a pile of earth.
Although small, Sawentar Temple displays awe-inspiring artistic beauty and opulence, inviting us to imagine its past glory.
The temple complex is well-maintained by local staff, ensuring the comfort and cleanliness of the surrounding area. Entrance to the temple is a small fee, making it an affordable tourist destination for all.
This temple is also known as one of the resting places of King Hayam Wuruk when he visited Blitar. The reliefs on the Main Temple depict the history of the Majapahit kingdom, making it a suitable educational tour for children and adults who want to learn more about Indonesian culture and history.
Furthermore, Sawentar Temple is quite easy to access. Visitors can reach the site by two-wheeled or four-wheeled vehicles.
Guides are also available to help you explore and understand the temple better. Parking is also available around the temple area, adding to the convenience of visitors.
In the Negarakertagama (Indonesian text), Sawentar Temple is also referred to as Lwa Wentar. Standing on an area of 1,565 square meters, the temple appears to be situated in a pond due to its lower elevation than the surrounding land.
The upper part of the temple visible from the road is only one meter high, while the entire temple reaches 10.65 meters in height. The temple entrance is located on the west side, flanked by small niches on the left and right, giving it a majestic and historic appearance.
Sawentar Temple is a worthy tourist destination, offering a rich historical and cultural experience. So, don’t hesitate to schedule a visit and enjoy the historical charm it offers.