Bali, the “Island of the Gods,” is not just famous for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture but also its numerous ancient temples. Each temple has its unique history, architecture, and spiritual significance.
When visiting Balinese temples, always remember to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and legs. Most temples provide sarongs and sashes for tourists, either for free or for a small fee. Respect the local customs, and if a temple has an ongoing ceremony, observe quietly from a distance.
Exploring these temples provides an authentic experience of Bali’s rich spiritual heritage and the opportunity to witness the island’s fascinating blend of history, art, and culture.
Must-Visit Temples in Bali for Every Tourist
Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot Temple is located in Tabanan, about 20 kilometers from Denpasar. It is perched on a rocky outcrop in the sea, making it a unique and picturesque sight. The temple is dedicated to the sea gods and is believed to guard the island against evil spirits. During low tide, visitors can walk across to the temple, but during high tide, it appears as if the temple is floating on the water. The temple complex also features smaller shrines, beautiful gardens, and a market where visitors can buy souvenirs.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 60,000 for adults, IDR 30,000 for children
Getting there: Tanah Lot Temple is located in Beraban, Tabanan Regency, Bali. It is about an hour’s drive from Seminyak or Canggu. You can take a taxi or public bus to get there.
Besakih Temple
Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, Besakih Temple is considered the holiest temple in Bali. It is a complex of 23 separate temples, each dedicated to a different deity. The temple complex is spread over a vast area and features terraced steps, courtyards, and beautifully adorned gates. Visitors can explore the various temples, learn about Balinese Hindu rituals and traditions, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rice terraces.
Besakih Temple is the largest and holiest temple in Bali. It is a complex of over 200 temples that is dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The temple is located on the slopes of Mount Agung and is a must-visit for any visitor to Bali.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 50,000 for adults, IDR 25,000 for children
Getting there: Besakih Temple is located in Rendang, Karangasem Regency, Bali. It is about 2 hours’ drive from Seminyak or Canggu. You can take a taxi or public bus to get there.
Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple is situated on the southwestern tip of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula. It is one of the most important sea temples in Bali and is dedicated to the spirits of the sea. The temple is perched on a steep cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Visitors can explore the temple complex, which includes several shrines and statues, and witness the mesmerizing Kecak dance performance that takes place at sunset. The temple is also home to a large population of monkeys, so visitors should be cautious with their belongings.
Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 30,000 for adults, IDR 15,000 for children
Getting there: Uluwatu Temple is located in Pecatu, Badung Regency, Bali. It is about an hour’s drive from Seminyak or Canggu. You can take a taxi or public bus to get there.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Situated on the shores of Lake Beratan in Bedugul, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a stunning water temple dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu. The temple complex features several shrines and pagodas, surrounded by lush gardens and a serene lake. The temple’s unique architecture and its reflection on the lake’s surface create a mesmerizing sight. Visitors can explore the temple, rent traditional boats to explore the lake, and enjoy the cool mountain air.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a Hindu temple that is located on the shores of Lake Beratan. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bali and is a must-visit for any visitor to the island. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, and is said to be a place of great power.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 30,000 for adults, IDR 15,000 for children
Getting there: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is located in Bedugul, Tabanan Regency, Bali. It is about an hour’s drive from Seminyak or Canggu. You can take a taxi or public bus to get there.
Goa Gajah Temple
Goa Gajah Temple, also known as the Elephant Cave Temple, is an ancient archaeological site located in Bedulu village, near Ubud. The temple is known for its intricate stone carvings, including a menacing entrance depicting a demon’s mouth. Inside the cave, visitors can find ancient relics, meditation chambers, and bathing pools. The temple complex also features beautiful gardens and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular spot for meditation and spiritual contemplation.
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 30,000 for adults, IDR 15,000 for children
Getting there: Goa Gajah Temple is located in Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali. It is about an hour’s drive from Seminyak or Canggu. You can take a taxi or public bus to get there.
Tirta Empul Temple
Tirta Empul Temple is a Hindu temple that is dedicated to the god of water, Vishnu. It is a holy spring temple where pilgrims come to bathe in the sacred waters. The water is said to have healing properties and is believed to cleanse the body and soul.
Tirta Empul Temple is a significant water temple located in the village of Tampaksiring. The temple is famous for its holy spring water, which is believed to have curative properties. Visitors can participate in a purification ritual by bathing in the sacred pools, following a specific sequence of rituals. The temple complex also features beautiful architecture, including shrines, pavilions, and a large bathing pool filled with koi fish. The serene surroundings and the spiritual experience make Tirta Empul Temple a must-visit for those seeking purification and spiritual healing.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 20,000 for adults, IDR 10,000 for children
Getting there: Tirta Empul Temple is located in Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali. It is about an hour’s drive from Seminyak or Canggu. You can take a taxi or public bus to get there.
Pura Taman Ayun Temple
Pura Taman Ayun Temple is a Hindu temple that is surrounded by gardens and ponds. It is one of the most beautiful temples in Bali and is a popular spot for relaxation. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of purity, Dewi Saraswati, and is said to be a place of great peace.
Taman Ayun Temple is a royal temple located in Mengwi village, about 18 kilometers from Denpasar. The temple is known for its impressive architecture and beautiful garden setting. It was built in the 17th century and served as the main temple of the Mengwi kingdom. The temple complex features multiple courtyards, pagodas, and a large moat. Visitors can explore the intricately carved gates, admire the well-preserved shrines, and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding gardens.
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 30,000 for adults, IDR 15,000 for children
Getting there: Pura Taman Ayun Temple is located in Mengwi, Badung Regency, Bali. It is about an hour’s drive from Seminyak or Canggu. You can take a taxi or public bus to get there.
Pura Luhur Lempuyang Temple
Pura Luhur Lempuyang Temple is one of the most iconic temples in Bali and is known for its “Gates of Heaven” archway. The temple is dedicated to the gods of the three worlds: heaven, earth, and hell. It is a popular spot for sunrise viewing and is said to be a place of great power.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 50,000 for adults, IDR 25,000 for children
Getting there: Pura Luhur Lempuyang Temple is located on Mount Lempuyang, Bali. It is about a 2-hour drive from Seminyak or Canggu. You can take a taxi or public bus to the nearest town, Amlapura, and then hire a car or motorbike to get to the temple.
Pura Goa Lawah Temple
Pura Goa Lawah Temple is a Hindu temple that is built into a cave. It is one of the most unique temples in Bali and is home to a colony of bats. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of the underworld, Dewi Danu, and is said to be a place of great power.
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 20,000 for adults, IDR 10,000 for children
Getting there: Pura Goa Lawah Temple is located in Klungkung, Bali. It is about an hour’s drive from Seminyak or Canggu. You can take a taxi or public bus to get there.
Pura Penataran Sasih Temple
Pura Penataran Sasih Temple is a Hindu temple that is dedicated to the god of the moon, Chandra. It is a large and impressive temple that is known for its giant bronze drum. The drum is said to be able to summon rain and is used during important ceremonies.
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 20,000 for adults, IDR 10,000 for children
Getting there: Pura Penataran Sasih Temple is located in Pejeng, Gianyar Regency, Bali. It is about an hour’s drive from Seminyak or Canggu. You can take a taxi or public bus to get there.
Pura Masceti Temple
Pura Masceti Temple is a Hindu temple that is dedicated to the god of death, Yamaraja. It is a sacred temple that is only open to Hindus. The temple is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 20,000 for adults, IDR 10,000 for children
Getting there: Pura Masceti Temple is located in Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali. It is about an hour’s drive from Seminyak or Canggu. You can take a taxi or public bus to get there.
Pura Dalem Temple
This temple is located in every village in Bali and is dedicated to the spirits of the dead. It is a place where villagers come to pray for their ancestors and to ask for protection from evil spirits.
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee: IDR 20,000 for adults, IDR 10,000 for children
Getting there: Pura Dalem Temple is located in every village in Bali. It is a small temple that is dedicated to the spirits of the dead. The temple is often located near a cemetery and is a place where villagers come to pray for their ancestors and to ask for protection from evil spirits.
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