pura

the word for temple in Bali is pura, which is sanskrit word literally meaning 'a space surrounded by wall'

like a traditional balinese home, a temple is waled in, so the shrines you see in rice fields or at magical spots such as by old trees are not real temples. you'll find simple shrines or throne at all sorts of unusual places. they often overlook crossroads, intersections, or even dangerous curves in the road. they either protect passers-by, or give the gods a ringside view of the accidents!

(7th edition Lonely Planet, february 1999)