Barongs are traditional in Bali. A barong is a panther-like creature and character in the mythology of Bali.

The building in which the barongs of the ashram currently are housed, is deteriorating fast.

One of the first projects that the Yayasan Ratu Bagus Telaga Mas (RBTM) decided to do is to build a new temple for the barongs.

Last year the preparations started. First a design was made and approved.

As a next step all the woodwork needed to be prepared. Windows and doors were made from wood in a traditional way. These days only a few people master this art. Craftsmen have been chipping away for months and slowly the carved frames appeared.

A contractor was found who was willing to build the temple. It is not easy to get good workers at the ashram since the location is quite remote for these type of companies. A senior Balinese shaker who has experience with building processes offered to oversee the building of the temple. Through  offerings of the Western shaking community the finances were secured and the building process could start.

First some space needed to be cleared and work on the foundation started. Once the foundation had been laid, it took only a few weeks for the contour of the building to become visible. The work then continued and stopped quite a few times because of Ramadan, rains and ceremonies.

Balinese lions were placed in front of the Ratu’s Barong temple. They are at the base of the beautiful crafted pillars for the roof. After this the roof could be completed.

The beauty of Ratu’s Barong temple becomes more visible and we are looking forward to its completion.