Mount Agung
Mount Agung (Gunung Agung) is the highest mountain on the island of Bali and is considered to be the holiest mountain in Balinese Hinduism. It is the home of the gods and goddesses, and it is a place of regular pilgrimage for Balinese Hindus.
Balinese people believe that Mount Agung is the center of the universe, the point where heaven and earth meet, and it is a place of great power and energy. The volcano is also associated with fertility and abundance.
There are many temples and shrines located on the volcano, the most important being Pura Besakih, which is the mother temple of Balinese Hinduism. Pura Besakih is a sacred complex of over 200 temples.
Finally, Balinese people typically use cardinal directions (east, west, north, south) instead of relative directions (left, right), referencing the cardinal directions based on Gunung Agung. Because of this, even the architecture is oriented around Gunung Agung. For example, temples are always built facing the volcano, and beds are traditionally never placed with the feet facing the volcano.
Canang Sari
Canang Sari (pronounced “chanang sari”) are small, handcrafted offerings made from a variety of materials, including flowers, leaves, and turmeric rice. They are placed at altars in front of homes, temples, and other places of worship as a way to show devotion to God, ancestors, spirits, and to ask for blessings.
Canang sari are often made by women, and made as a form of meditation, with families often needing to use 30 a day. The process of making one is seen as a way to connect with the divine and to express gratitude for the blessings of life. They can also be purchased. You will get the chance to learn more about them and make one yourself during your trip!
You will notice these everywhere once you arrive! So, make sure not to accidentally step on them as some might be just by the doorsteps.