In addition to its beautiful beaches, stunning waterfalls, dream landscapes and traditional villages, Bali’s temples are undoubtedly some of the most interesting and important places to visit when you travel to this Indonesian island. Therefore, suffice it to say that no holiday in Bali will be complete without at least visiting one of Bali’s most famous temples.
There are many Hindu temples in Bali that offer different uniqueness and history. That is why the Bali is nicknamed the island of a thousand temples. In this article we will talk about the most important temples in Bali that you should not miss.
Temples in Bali are scattered throughout all areas of the island, so it’s easy to visit one of the temples on our list, regardless of the Bali area you’re staying in. Some temples are located in the highlands, such as the temple of Besakih and the temple of Ulun Danu Beratan. But there are also temples located on the coast and temples built on cliffs.
Due to the large number of Hindu temples on the island, it is normal for you to ask a typical question of which Bali temples should I visit during my holiday? In this post, we help you solve that question by giving you an extensive list of information on the best temples to visit in Bali.
Temples are such an important part of Balinese life and culture that visiting them is a great way to get an idea of how the local people of the island live. In addition, some of Bali’s best temples are simply stunning.
As a tourist destination, there are many fantastic attractions that you can enjoy on the island of Bali, and one of them is art and culture. There is a form of Balinese art and culture that manifests itself in the form of a temple. Some temples in Bali have become an icon of the island’s tourism, showing the unique Balinese beauty and architecture. In addition to its architectural beauty, most temples are located in amazing places. That’s why many of temples in Bali have become the favorite tourist spot for photo lovers, as they usually have a natural beauty as a backdrop print.
The best time to visit a Balinese Hindu temple is during a religious ceremony, where you can see the process of Balinese Hindu rituals. In addition, during a celebration, the temple will be decorated with many religious ornaments. Many of these religious decorations are not possible to see them on normal days.
1️. In most Bali temples, you need to pay to enter. The ticket price is quite low and you will receive a sarong (to use on your visit and then return it) included with your ticket.
2️. Therefore, you will always need to wear a sarong to enter and visit the temples (even if you are wearing pants).
3️. It is forbidden for women to enter temples if they are menstruating.
4️. Always carry cash. You’ll need it to pay for temple admission as they don’t accept credit cards. Also, if you drive, there is usually a parking fee in the car parks near the temples (it’s a small amount, but remember to reserve some cash for this as well). Outside the temple grounds there are usually souvenir shops, where it is also necessary to pay in cash.
5️. Although most temples are easily accessible, some are large and have many stairs, so you’ll have to walk quite a bit, so come prepared!
In the following map we have marked the best temples in Bali to help you plan your route around the island more easily.
Bali’s ancient temples have remained pure over the years, adorned with colorful offerings to the gods, scented with incense and revered daily by the beautiful people of Bali. To help you decide which Bali temples to visit, we provide you with a list of some of the best temples in Bali.
In addition to the name of the temple and its features and history, we also indicate the location and price of the entrance. Please note that the entrance fees shown in this list of the best temples to visit in Bali are subject to change at any time.
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Uluwatu Temple is, according to the Government of Bali, the second most visited attraction on the island after Tanah Lot Temple. In addition to the extensive and spectacular temple complex located on a cliff 70 metres above the sea, it is also known for the traditional Balinese Kecak show and fire dance.
Probably one of Bali’s most impressive temples, with the ocean as a backdrop, Pura Luhur Uluwatu lies on the edge of the gigantic Uluwatu cliffs and on its waves that break beneath.
This is an important sacred temple that was built in honor of sea spirits in the 10th century. Pura Luhur Uluwatu is decorated using a ancient architecture, intricate sacred sculptures and. Hundreds of monkeys! Yes, this place is also known as the Temple of Monkeys. It is famous for its trails along the edge of the cliff that are bordered by families of macaques (sometimes annoying). Despite their antics (you’ll have to hide your belongings so they don’t steal them from you), these monkeys are an amazing opportunity to take photos, always sitting on the walls of the temple with the ocean in the background and the sunset on the horizon.
Try to schedule your visit to see the traditional Kecak dance of 100 men singing, which takes place every night at sunset.
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Uluwatu Temple
Entrance fee: IDR 30,000
Location: Pecatu, South Kuta
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 08: 00-19:00
Tanah Lot Temple is a must for anyone on holiday in Bali. Tanah Lot, which means “Land at Sea” in Balinese, is Bali’s most visited tourist attraction for a reason. It really is one of the most iconic images of Bali and makes it a spectacular day tour.
This popular religious monument is built on a giant rock in the ocean about 300 meters from the coast and is the most famous and undoubtedly most photographed Hindu temple in Bali.
Tanah Lot is located 20 kilometers northwest of Denpasar, in the village of Beraban of Tabanan regency. For Balinese, Pura Tanah Lot is one of the most important and revered sea temples. This is one of seven sea temples along the coast of Bali. It was originally built in the 16th century, but has been significantly restored in recent times. The temple can be reached via a walk at low tide, but non-Hindu visitors are not allowed indoor access.
When the tide rises, local guides sometimes have to convince groups of tourists to get off the rocks, which can be covered by water quite quickly.
Tanah Lot has a very important meaning in Balinese history and mythology. It is said to have originated with the high 16th-century priest Dang Hyang Nirartha, who established this temple dedicated to Dewa Baruna, the deity of the sea. subsequently Niratha threw her sash into the ocean, which became sea snakes protecting the temple from evil.
At low tide, visitors can often find sea snakes in the small caves around. They are poisonous, so don’t touch them! There is a “sacred snake” that can be touched, paying a small fee for it. The temple also has a freshwater spring where visitors can receive a blessing from holy water.
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As you approach the gates leading to the temple, I recommend you turn right through the surrounding gardens so you can see Tanah Lot Temple from a higher perspective.
Looking at the temple from the rocks, there is also another path to the left that offers spectacular views of the temple, especially at sunset. There are about a dozen cafés with terraces overlooking the temple.
There is a large market where you can find some of the best souvenir deals on the island. Surprisingly, due perhaps to the competition and the large number of tourists visiting this temple, prices can be much better than in other markets in the tourist enclaves of Kuta, Seminyak and Nusa Dua, so this can be a good place to do your shopping if you’re thinking of taking some souvenirs from the island.
Tanah Lot Temple
Entrance fee: IDR 60,000
Location: Beraban, Kediri, Kabupaten Tabanan
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 07: 00-19:00
Located on the western shore of Lake Bratan in the mountains near Bedugul, Ulun Danu Beratan is one of Bali’s most photographed temples thanks to its magical location in the middle of Lake Beratan. When the mountain mist appears first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon, an optical effect makes the temple look like it’s floating in the water, it’s pure magic!
Dedicated to the God of Water, you will often see Balinese dressed in traditional outfits performing ceremonies, praying to the gods to make sure there is always enough water on the island. Being at the top of Bali’s central highlands, the weather can be quite cool, especially during the afternoon hours, when the mountain mist appears, so don’t forget to wear an extra layer of clothes.
Built in 1633, the temple is dedicated to the lake goddess, Ida Batara Dewi Ulun Danu in Balinese. To visit this temple from the south of the island, You’ll need a full day, as the temple is about 57 km from Seminyak, making it ideal to combine with other visits along the way.
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Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Entrance fee: Rp 50,000
Location: Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Tabanan Regency
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 07:00-19:00
Also known as Bali’s water temple, Pura Tirta Empul was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012. This temple is famous for its holy water that springs from a sacred spring in pools dedicated to purification. It is said to have magical properties, Pura Tirta Empul is recognized in many ancient myths and local legends. Along with its magical ponds and lush gardens around, it is also known for being one of the most beautiful temples on the island.
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Pura Tirta Empul was built in 926 by the Warmadewa dynasty and is one of the holiest in Bali. Tradition has it that the water of the fountains has mysterious medicinal powers, since according to the Hindu religion, Indra king of the gods, managed to heal his faithful with this magical water, after being poisoned.
The main attraction of the temple is a large rectangular stone pool. The water comes from the nearby Pakerisan River, reaching a volcanic heat pond, then flowing through 12 fountains that feed the huge pool.
If you are interested in performing the purification ritual in its springs, the temple has facilities to change your clothes. We recommend that you bring with you a swimsuit and towel, as well as a change of extra clothes for after bathing. This ritual is a unique and instructive experience and it is very worth it, we strongly recommend performing purification in the pools of this temple.
Pura Tirta Empu is located near the city of Tampaksiring, a half-hour drive (15 km) north of Ubud.
Pura Tirta Empul Temple
Entrance fee: IDR 15,000
location: Jl. Tirta, Manukaya, Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 08: 00-18:00
Rising majestically on the western slopes of Mount Agung, and known as the Mother Temple of Bali, is Pura Besakih, or Besakih Temple, which covers a large area offering an impressive mountainous landscape surrounding this beautiful and artistic temple complex.
Facing the highest peak of Mount Agung, which is believed to be the abode of the gods, and located at an altitude of 900 meters, is the Pura Besakih. The name Besakih comes from the word “Basuki”, derived from the word “Wasuki” meaning Salvation in the classical Sanskrit language. While, in Samudramanthana mythology, the same name “Besuki” actually refers to the Dragon God “Naga Besukian”, who inhabited gunung Agung, Bali’s main volcano.
This large complex of temples has been revered as a sacred place since ancient times. The first recorded mention of its existence comes from an inscription dating back to 1007. It is known that since the 15th century Besakih was regarded as the central temple of Hinduism in Bali.
Pura Penataran Agung, or the “Great Temple of the State” is the center of the temple complex and is Bali’s main place of worship, a complex comprising twenty-two temples.
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This complex expresses the belief of The Balinese known as Tri Hita Kirana, which means that life on earth must be lived and maintained in balance and harmony between man and God, man and society and its fellowmen, and man and his natural environment.
During the full moon, Balinese and pilgrims flock to the temple. During the Odalan festival, the temple is more elaborately decorated. Odalan is held every 210 days.
Although Besakih Temple is quite far from Bali’s most touristic areas (66 km from Seminyak and around 2-2.5 hours depending on traffic), this temple is a must!
Pure Besakih Temple
Entrance fee: IDR 60,000
Location: Besakih, Rendang, Karangasem Regency
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 07: 00-22:00
Considered one of the holiest places on the island, The Temple Pura Lempuyang can not be missing from the list of the best temples in Bali. This is not only a sacred destination for Balinese Hindus, but it is also the place where you will find amazing views above the clouds, as this temple is located more than 1500 steps high, no less.
Known as “The Gates of Heaven”, the view from Pura Lempuyang is truly spectacular. It is better to visit it on a clear day, as the majestic peak of Mount Agung is perfectly framed by the gates of the temples. The visit to this temple can be conbined exploring other temples in the surrounding area, as well as waterfalls and beautiful rice terraces.
Pura Luhur Lempuyang is one of the most important religious places in Bali: It is one of six sad kahyangan (“temples of the world”) dedicated to Sang Hyang Widi Wasa (the supreme God), and is also one of the island’s nine directional temples that “protect” Balinese from evil spirits.
The temple presents an interesting challenge for visitors: reaching the top means conquering 1,700 steps located on the slope of a mountain, which requires approximately an hour and a half of walking. Balinese climb the stairs to ask for divine help when they have trouble making or asking for blessings from the top.
From the top, The temple offers stunning views of Gunung Agung, framed by the temple gate. While Lempuyang is spectacular, there are so many retouched images on Instagram that it can be a disappointment for many people. The reality is that Mount Agung can only be clearly seen for a few hours after sunrise, before the clouds appear. And those mirror-shaped Instagram photos that make it look like a lake are completely fake.
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Lempuyang Temple
Entrance fee: Rp 30,000
Location: Bunutan, Abang, Karangasem
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 06: 00-19:00
The temple of Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave Temple, dates back to the 11th century and was created as a spiritual place for meditation. It is a large complex with a swimming pool, fountains, a cave and stone-carved stupas.
In this cave complex Located by the Petanu River, there are Hindu and Buddhist temples that are normally visited by locals during some religious festivals. The iconic, monstrous open-mouthed carved stone door was destined to intimidate evil spirits from entering. The interior of the cave features a statue of the Hindu god Ganesha and a worship area dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.
Elephant Cave Temple is 5 km from Ubud, 31 km from Seminyak and 58 km from Nusa Dua.
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Goa Gajah Temple
Entrance fee: IDR 15,000
Location: Ubud, Bedulu, Blahbatuh, Kabupaten Gianyar
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 06: 00-19:00
Pura Taman Saraswati Temple (also known as Ubud Water Palace) is an ancient Hindu temple in central Bali that was built in the 1950s by one of Ubud’s princes in honor Hindu goddess Saraswati (the goddess of knowledge, literature and art).
It is located in central Ubud, just a 2-minute walk from the Art Market. It is a beautiful temple with stunning ponds filled with pink lotuses and features some of Bali’s finest carved stones.
You can combine your visit with other nearby attractions such as Ubud Royal Palace or art market. Traditional dance performances are held every night at 7:30 p.m.
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Taman Saraswati Temple
Entrance fee: Free
address: Jl. Kajeng, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 9:00 – 16:00
Pura Taman Ayun Temple was built for royalty in the 17th century and is known for its magnificent traditional architectural features spread over its courtyards and enclosures. The temple also has large gardens with beautiful fish ponds full of lotus flowers.
The name Taman Ayun translates as “beautiful garden”. This palatial complex is a great place to marvel not only at classic Balinese architecture,but also to imagine how Balinese royalty lived its life behind the palace walls in the past. There are large ponds, for example, where palace maids sailed in small canoes.
This temple is located in Mengwi Village, 17 km from Ubud and 21 km from Seminyak.
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Taman Ayun Temple
Entrance fee: IDR 20,000 per person
Address: Jalan Ayodya No.10, Mengwi, Kabupaten Badung
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 9:00 – 16:00
Pura Goa Lawah Temple is one of Bali’s unique and most picturesque temples. It has an omplejo built around the opening of acave that is inhabited by thousands of bats, and its name translates as “The Cave of Bats”.
This temple was established in the eleventh century by Mpu Kuturan, one of the first priests to lay the foundations of Hinduism on the island. This temple is central to the Balinese tradition, as protects the island from evil spirits. Legend has it that the interior of the cave extends more than 30 kilometers underground to emerge in Pura Besakih.
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Pura Goa Lawah Temple
Entrance fee: IDR 15,000 per person
address: Jl. Raya Goa Lawah, Pesinggahan, Kec. Dawan
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 8:00 – 18:00
The also known as the “Valley of the Kings” of Bali is located in a ravine among rice fields. Pakerisan River flows through this ravine, and the flanking cliffs feature stone-carved shrines in honor of kings and queens of the 11th century. Balinese, who are great believers in the sanctity of water, believe that the river sanctifies Pura Gunung Kawi.
The site is not a temple in itself, nor is it a rea tomb, the royals honored here were probably cremated according to Balinese custom. It comprises 10 shrines excavated in the rock that are carved into 7-meter-high tombs on the steep cliff wall.
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Pure Gunung Kawi Temple
Entrance fee: IDR 15,000
Location: Banjar Penaka, Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 08: 00-18:00
Different hotels each night
Lovina dolphins
Kintamani
Tenganan Village
Besakih Mother Temple
5 nights in Ubud
3 Nights stay in Seraya
3D2N Borneo Orangutan Tour based with private klotok
Travel with transfers included
Island of the Gods
Based in Ubud
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Jatiluwih rice fields
Mother Temple Besakih
Tanah Lot Temple
6 nights in Ubud
2 nights in Nusa Dua
Travel with transfers included
Island of the Gods
5 nights in Ubud
3 Nights hotel stay in Nusa Penida
3D2N Borneo Orangutan Tour based with private klotok
Travel with transfers included
Island of the Gods
3 nights in Ubud
3 Nights stay in Gili Trawangan
2 nights in Candidasa
Travel with transfers included
Island of the Gods
Born in Valencia (Spain), his professional career has always revolved around the tourism sector. He studied tourism degree and later specialized in digital tourism marketing.
After working in various travel agencies. In 2018, he was a beneficiary of an Indonesian government scholarship to study at one of the most prestigious universities in the country. After specializing in the destination and having traveled and lived in various areas of Indonesia, he joined our team in early 2020.
Fernando is passionate about surfing and extreme sports. He’s the first to sign up for a trip, always looking for new adventures!
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