If we ask you to ditch the beaches for a while, and visit the Bali temples instead, would you do it? Maybe or maybe not. But, while temple hopping sounds like a cliche thing to do, it is not when you’re holidaying on this gorgeous island. With over 10,000 temples, which are unique in their own way, there’s a lot to witness and experience at the same time. And for that, you don’t have to be traditionally religious at heart!
Take a look at the best temples in Bali, tips, and more before you get convinced for making changes in your Bali trip itinerary.
Reasons To Visit Bali Temples
You get to witness the spellbinding location of the temples, and savour the mesmerizing views around
It inspires you with the spectacular architecture and structure of the Balinese temples
Gives you an opportunity to witness the cultural side of Bali at its best
Lets you get an insight into the historical tales behind the temples
Best Temples In Bali
Exuding mysticism and serenity, Bali temples are a gateway to immense tranquillity. With impeccable architecture, these magnificent places of worship offer a peaceful time to visitors. Here is a list of the best temples in Bali, Indonesia where you can seek blessings and absorb the beautiful views they offer!
• Tanah Lot Temple
• Uluwatu Temple
• Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
• Besakih Temple
• Goa Gajah
• Underwater Temple
• Taman Ayun Temple
• Goa Lawah Temple
• Tirta Empul
• Gunung Kawi
1. Tanah Lot Temple
Of all the Bali temples, Tanah Lot is the most popular one to visit. This scenic sea temple situated on the top of an outcrop lets you witness the best sunsets on the island, and keeps you entertained with restaurants, shops, and a cultural park that showcases regular dance performances. Hands down, it is one of the best tourist attractions in Bali.
Must Witness: Heirloom pilgrimage parade that takes place five days prior to the temples anniversary, the gorgeous sunset, panoramic views, and other cultural offerings.
Main Deity: Dewa Baruna
Entry Fee: IDR 30,000 for adults, and IDR 15,000 for children
Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Location: Jalan Raya Tanah Lot, Beraban Village, Kediri, Tabanan, Bali
2. Uluwatu Temple
Known widely for its cliff-top location, which is 250 feet above the waves of the Indian Ocean, this temple is magnificently fascinating and one of the best Balinese temples. Archaeological remains, gorgeous views of the ocean & the sun, and a peaceful ambience is what youd witness and experience here.
Must Witness: The beautiful Kecak dance performance at the adjacent cliff-top stage, which takes place every day from 6:00 Pm to 7:00 PM with a breathtaking backdrop of the sunset.
Main Deity: Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa as Rudra
Entry Fee: IDR 30,000 for adults, and IDR 20,000 for children
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Location: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
3. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
A heaven in a lake, thats what Ulun Danu truly is. Located on the western side of Beratan Lake in Bedugul, this floating temple is a famous picturesque landmark, and also a recreational place for anyone visiting Bali. Apart from its structure, the cool atmosphere and positive vibes here are perfect for rejuvenating your mind, body & soul. Amongst all the temples in Bali, Indonesia, this is one of the most serene temples.
Must Witness: The temples anniversary ceremony or Piodalan, and the serene views around.
Main Deity: Lord Shiva
Entry Fee: IDR 7,500 for domestic tourists, and IDR 10,000 for foreigners
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Location: Jl. Bedugul – Singaraja, Candikuning, Baturiti, Candikuning, Baturiti, Kabupaten Tabanan, Bali
4. Besakih Temple
Of all the Hindu temples in Bali, Besakih is the biggest and the holiest temple complex on the island. From its entrance that feels like a ladder taking you directly to a paradise to its location on the slopes of Mount Agung, everything would surely leave you in awe! Amongst all the temples in Bali, Indonesia, this is certainly one of the most famous temples in Bali.
Must Witness: The breathtaking view of the mountains and the streams around.
Main Deity: Naga Besukian
Entry Fee: IDR 35,000 per person (approx)
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Location: Desa Besakih, Rendang, Besakih, Rendang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali
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5. Goa Gajah
If youre looking for Bali temples to visit during your trip, make sure that you put Goa Gajah on your list too. This century old cave built on a hillside for spiritual meditation is a popular attraction in Ubud for learning about the significant history, and experiencing unique sights. Undoubtedly, it is also one of the top Bali tourist attractions.
Must Witness: The relic-filled courtyard, rock-wall carvings, the central meditation cave, and the bathing pools around.
Main Deity: Lord Ganesha
Entry Fee: IDR 20,000 per person
Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Location: Bedulu Village, Jalan Raya Goa Gajah, Blahbatuh, Gianyar
6. Underwater Temple
If you’re looking for water temples, Bali is the right place. A visit to the Underwater Temple Bali is undoubtedly the most unique temple tour experience. Packed with serenity and adventure, a visit to this temple situated below the water in the Pemuteran bio rock area via diving or snorkelling is a must, especially for those who love non-cliche holiday ideas. One of the most famous temples in Bali, snorkeling in the glistening blue water of this underwater temple is certainly one of the most sought-after things to do in Bali.
Must Witness: The statues built below the water tucked between beautiful corals.
Main Deity: Lord Shiva
Entry Fee: The cost would be the same as that of your snorkelling or diving tour, which youd take to visit this temple.
Timings: The timings would vary and depend on the snorkelling company youd choose for your visit.
Location: Pemuteran, Bali
7. Taman Ayun Temple
Wrapped with greenery and serenity, this is one of the most beautiful temples in Bali. The magnificent architecture, and expansive landscapes with fish and lotus ponds in between, make it a beauty worth witnessing. Among all the temples to visit in Bali, this will definitely make you fall in love with Bali. Visiting Bali temples- Well, you just cannot miss out on this one!
Must Witness: The traditional Balinese architectural features, best reflected via thatched multi-roofed shrines.
Main Deity: Deities of Balinese Hinduism
Entry Fee: IDR 15,000 per person
Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Location: Jalan Ayodya No.10, Mengwi, Kabupaten Badung, Bali
8. Goa Lawah Temple
Your Bali temple tour would stay incomplete until you tick Goa Lawah off your list. This temple is located on the southeast coast of Bali, and is built around a cave, which is home to a lot of bats. Apart from its location, the motifs of the dragon, shrines in the centre & large banyan trees at the entrance are pretty mesmerizing too. Hands down, it is one of the most famous temples in Bali.
Must Witness: The beautiful coast of Nusa Penida at the horizon.
Main Deity: Lord Shiva
Entry Fee: IDR 15,000 per person
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Location: Jl. Raya Goa Lawah, Pesinggahan, Klunkung, Kabupaten Klungkung, Bali
9. Tirta Empul
One of the largest water temples in Bali, Tirta Empul is famous for its holy water that is believed to be used for purification rituals. With statues amidst lush green gardens & tropical plants at the entrance, and the first pools behind the gate, it looks like a beautiful scenery. While visiting Bali temples, do make a visit to this one also!
Must Witness: The ritual baths in the holy water of the temple.
Main Deity: Lord Vishnu
Entry Fee: IDR 15,000 pr person
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Location: Jalan Tirta, Manukaya, Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
10. Gunung Kawi
Situated near the Tirta Empul Temple, Gunung Kawi is one of the oldest and the best temples in Bali. What makes it worth visiting is the thrill one experiences while reaching the temple, which involves a beautiful walk and descending some 370 stone steps.
Must Witness: The tall carved shrines, and local women preparing & then walking with the offerings on their head.
Main Deity: Dedicated to King Anak Wungsu and his queens.
Entry Fee: IDR 15,000 for adults, and IDR 7,500 for children
Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Location: Banjar Penaka, Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
Tips For Visiting Bali Temples
• Plan your visit to the temples early in the morning as it is the best time to witness the beauty with peace, and barely any crowd around.
• If not in the morning, check for special ceremonies or performances that happen in the temples, and visit during that time.
• Make sure you follow the Bali temple dress code. Dress up decently, and if you don’t have a sarong & a sash with you, borrow it from the temple.
• Most of the temples have souvenir shops and local restaurants in their vicinity, try to explore them too.
• Don’t forget to carry your camera, as every temple offers a sight worth capturing.
• Keep all the rules and rituals of the temple in mind, and abide by them.
• Prepare a Bali temples list so that you don’t miss out anything during your trip.
• You might be asked to pay an entrance fee for visiting the temple, which is a donation collected by the local community for renovations and ceremonies. Rest assured, and give it with all your heart.
• Now, you know where to seek blessings while holidaying in Bali! Feel like planning your next holiday or making changes in your itinerary already? Well, you are in luck. Explore and customize your Bali holiday with TravelTriangle, and discover the island the way you want to!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bali Temples
Q. Which are the best temples in Bali?
A. Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, and Ulun Danu Beratan are the three best temples in Bali that you should not miss out on your next trip to Bali.
Q. What is the best time of the day to go to Tanah Lot?
A. The best time of the day to go to Tanah Lot is the early afternoon. You can explore the temple at your own pace during these hours, and then visit the Surya Mandala Cultural Park’s open stage near Batu Bolong to watch the sunset Kecak ‘fire dance’ performances.
Q. Where is the Underwater Temple Bali located?
A. The Underwater Temple in Bali is located in Pemuteran and can be visited by taking a snorkelling tour.
Q. How much time does a temple visit require?
A. While it depends on the tourists, an ideal duration for visiting and spending time at one temple is two hours.
Q. What do you wear to temples in Bali?
A. A long sarong and a temple scarf are mandatory in Bali temples. The clothes should be longer than the knee and the shoulders should be covered.
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