The Goa Gajah complex includes a demon-mouthed cave, a sacred pool, a section dedicated to the Buddha, and a meeting hall, making it one of the most revered religious sites in Bali. The cave, known as Elephant Cave, houses a lingam and yoni depicting Hindu God Shiva and his wife and a statue of Ganesha, Shiva's son. There are Buddhist images of stupas and chattras around the pool.
Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, is an ancient religious sanctuary in Bali dating back to the 11th century. It houses several Hindu and Buddhist treasures illustrating the richness of Indonesia's architectural and cultural heritage.
The main attraction of the Goa Gajah is a narrow cave that is guarded by a wide-eyed demon-like edifice. Inside the cave, there are lingas depicting Lord Shiva and his son and a yoni depicting his wife Parvati. A statue of Lord Ganesha, Shiva's son is also there. There is a little space in the cave that is ideal for meditation and it also has statues of goddess Ratu Brayut and Ratu Jhempinis. An elephant-like structure at the cave's entrance is believed to ward off evil which gives it the name Elephant Cave.
There is a large meeting hall in the complex that houses a collection of religious sculptures representing the Balinese culture. Six female statues fill two sacred bathing ponds with the holy water, which is believed to have healing properties and heavenly attributes. The complex also has a Buddhist section located downhill where a Buddha statue once stood.
Goa Gajah is a perfect example of architecture and religious marvel where both Hindu and Buddhist elements coexist. It draws a huge number of tourists for its religious and archaeological values and also for its tranquil environs and lush surroundings.
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• The Goa Gajah Complex combines Hindu and Buddhist elements and emits a calm aura, making it a worthwhile stop on your Bali journey.
• This venerated place attracts both tourists and devotees with its magnificent cave, ancient treasures, and sacred bathing pools.
• The cave's entrance resembles a monstrous mouth, creating the illusion of entering an unknown world through the darkness.
• The Hindu relics housed within the cave depict Hindu God Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha, making it a revered site for Hindus.
• Six waterspouts, each held by a female figure, provide holy water for two square bathing pools, adding to the place's divinity and allure.
• Another highlight of Goa Gajah is its picturesque surroundings, including rice farms, gardens, and stone steps leading to the Buddhist section, Jungle Temple, and pristine Elephant River.
Goa Gajah is easily accessible by road from all local sites and cities. The best ways of transportation to reach this famous location are by motorcycle or cab. If you're visiting Goa Gajah by car, the road is well-signposted. Parking is available at the site at a nominal fee.
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The best time to visit Goa Gajah is during the dry season, which lasts from April to October. The best time to visit, however, is early in the morning, when the weather is pleasant and the outdoor exploration experience is delightful. It's also the best time to avoid crowds, allowing you to easily explore the complex.
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The demon's mouth at the entrance to the Elephant Cave leads to a small T-shaped hall through a dark and narrow path. The hall houses stone lingams wrapped in different colored clothes, symbolizing God Shiva, his son Lord Ganesha, and his female counterpart Yoni. Each of these idols holds a great religious significance for Hindus.
Additionally, there is a statue of Ganesha, the Hindu God who has the face of an elephant. There are black soot streaks on some of the cave's walls from previous incense fires, as well as some etchings on the walls indicating how the priest meditated in the past.
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The entrance wall of the cave as well as the walls of the hall are adorned with a kaleidoscope of landscapes, monsters, and people carvings depicting ancient Balinese Art. You can see sculpted mountain scenes, trees, interlaced leaves, stones, and ocean waves inside the cave. The engravings of animals, demons, and phantoms running in terror from the cave's entrance also represent ancient Balinese tales through art.
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Goa Gajah's natural splendor is as captivating as its historical and religious significance. The rice paddies are a lovely place to visit after exploring Elephant Cave. Take a stroll through the beautiful countryside to the rice paddies and learn how rice farmers cultivate and harvest rice. Visit a traditional home to learn more about the culture of the Balinese people.
Take in the breathtaking scenery while learning about the island's people and their way of life. Don't forget to capture these beautiful scenery on your lovely trip.
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A set of ancient stone steps lead down to the Goa Gajah complex from the parking. These are tucked away in the shade of towering trees, resulting in an enchanting scene and a chilly atmosphere. From these stairs, one can overlook the entire complex of Goa Gajah. Many other stone stairways lead to the sacred pools, meditation area, Elephant cave, the Buddhist section, rice paddies, and an enchanting forest. These stone stairways are great examples of ancient architecture of Bali.
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The temple complex is located at the banks of Bedulu river just 150 meters from the entrance of the Goa Gajah Cave.
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Yes, taking you back to the ancient times with relics of history depicting legends of Hindu mythology, Goa Gajah is definitely one of the best places to visit in Bali.
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There are several adventure sports in Bali:
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Here are some of the activities to enjoy in Bali that you can book through Thrillophilia:
1. Finns Beach Club Bali Day Pass
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9. Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking
10. Bali Safari and Marine Park Ticket