Nestled on a lush hillside about 2 km north of the town center, Pura Kehen is considered to be one of Bali’s more impressive temples – many locals refer to it as a miniature version of Pura Besakih, the ‘Mother Temple’ of Bali, and similarly, it also houses eight stepped terraces. Built in the 11th century, the name ‘Kehen’ was derived from the ancient word keren, which translates into ‘flame’. There are 43 altars on the various levels of Pura Kehen, with the most distinguished shaded by a tower that has 11 thatched roofs, dedicated to Sang Hyang Api, the God of Fire; while at one of the temple corners sits a massive three-compartment stone throne, carved with intricate reliefs. On the temple premises stands a lofty banyan tree that is more than 700 years old, which adds to the attraction. Pura Kehen is regarded as the most sacred temple in the region and also serves as the state temple of Bangli.