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Temples in Bali

Uluwatu Temple offers one of the most dramatic Bali temple experiences, perched on a 70-metre high cliff above the Indian Ocean in Pecatu. Built in the 11th century by Mpu Kuturan, it is one of Bali’s main directional temples, guarding the southwest. Often listed among the best places to visit in Bali, the temple honours Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa in his manifestation as Rudra.

Uluwatu is also known for the Kecak fire dance held at sunset, set against panoramic sea views. Monkeys roam freely around the complex and are believed to protect the sacred grounds. Traditional stone gateways, ocean breezes, and ceremonial offerings define this clifftop site revered by locals and pilgrims alike.

Top Highlights

• This sea temple is located atop a coastal cliff, offering dramatic views over the Indian Ocean
• Traditional Kecak fire dance is performed daily during stunning sunset hours
• Long-tailed macaques roam freely, and are regarded as spiritual protectors by locals

Timings: 07:00 a.m. to 07:00 p.m.

Location: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Nearby Attractions: Padang Padang Beach, Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, Karang Boma Cliff

Tip: Arrive before 05:00 p.m. to explore the temple complex before the sunset show

• The temple features a vibrant lotus pond that acts as a natural walkway to the entrance
• It honours Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of wisdom, creativity, and knowledge
• Free traditional Balinese dance performances, such as Legong, are held at night on the temple stage

Arguably the most recognisable sea temple in Bali, Tanah Lot rests on a tidal rock formation off the island’s western coast. This famous Bali temple was founded in the 16th century by Dang Hyang Nirartha, who felt a strong spiritual force in the area. Dedicated to sea deity Dewa Baruna, the temple is accessible by foot only during low tide, and local legend says venomous sea snakes guard the site. 

Sunset draws large crowds to witness its surreal silhouette against golden sea waves. Ceremonies are held regularly, while the surrounding complex hosts markets, traditional Balinese dances like Barong and Legong, along with scenic coastal paths for casual exploration before or after your visit.

Top Highlights

• Temple stands offshore, safely walkable only during low tide hours
• It is protected by sacred sea snakes believed to guard the shrine
• Spectacular sunsets create iconic silhouettes against crashing coastal waves

Timings: 06:00 a.m. to 07:00 p.m.

Location: Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia 

Nearby Attractions:  Batu Bolong Temple, Kedungu Beach, Taman Ayun Temple

Tip: Stay until dusk to capture sunset photos from the clifftop.

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Goa Gajah, often recognised as a famous Bali temple, dates back to the 11th century and lies just outside Ubud. Its name translates to Elephant Cave, possibly referring to the Hindu god Ganesha, whose statue sits inside. The cave’s entrance is carved with a menacing demon face, believed to ward off evil, and opens into a meditation chamber used by priests centuries ago. Outside, you can find stone fountains fed by sacred springs and sculptures of female figures representing the seven holy rivers of India. This site reflects Bali’s spiritual history of Hinduism and Buddhism, making it one of the best temples in Bali and the island’s most significant early spiritual centres.

Top Highlights

• Demon-faced cave entrance carved into solid cliffside stone
• Hindu and Buddhist carvings coexist here in a single sacred space
• The temple is surrounded by spring-fed bathing pools and chambers for meditation

Timings: 08:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m.

Location: Bedulu, Blahbatuh, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Nearby Attractions: Yeh Pulu Reliefs, Ubud Centre, Tegenungan Waterfall, Museum Rudana

Tip: Wear sturdy footwear as the stone paths can get slippery, especially after rainfall.

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• Sacred spring water flows through purification fountains in long pools
• Devotees perform Melukat to cleanse their body and spirit
• It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, symbolising balance and protection

Lempuyang Temple, known for its "Gates of Heaven," is a famous Bali temple complex nestled on Mount Lempuyang. It is one of Bali’s Sad Kahyangan or six holiest temples, guarding the island’s eastern spiritual axis. While many stop for photos at the lower gates, others undertake a sacred trek of over 1,700 steps to reach Pura Lempuyang Luhur. 

This journey, passing through forested paths and shrines, symbolises a pilgrim’s path to enlightenment. On clear days, Mount Agung perfectly aligns with the temple gate, offering surreal vistas and spiritual resonance.

Top Highlights

• The famous split gate frame the sight of Mount Agung at sunrise and sunset perfectly
• Reaching the main temple requires a climb of more than 1,700 steps through dense jungle paths and sacred landmarks
• It is the holiest eastern temple, guarding Bali’s spiritual balance

Timings: 07:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.

Location: Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia

Nearby Attractions: Tirta Gangga, Taman Ujung Water Palace, Virgin Beach

Tip: Arrive before 08:00 a.m. for enjoying clear views and shorter waiting lines

Click Here To Book Now: Bali Temple Tour

Besakih Temple, also known as the Mother Temple of Bali, is the biggest temple in Bali, located 1,000 metres up Mount Agung. The sprawling complex includes over 80 temples and shrines built on multiple terraces. Dating back to prehistoric times, it was formalised as a Hindu centre in the 14th century. 

Its central temple, Pura Penataran Agung, honours Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Festivals like Betara Turun Kabeh and Panca Wali Krama draw thousands of devotees. The site remarkably survived the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung, reinforcing its divine significance. For those interested in witnessing grand-scale spiritual ceremonies and panoramic mountain views, Besakih remains one of the best temples in Bali. 

Top Highlights

• More than 80 temples are spread across Mount Agung’s slopes
• Central sanctuary is dedicated to the Hindu Trinity- Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva
• It hosts major island festivals like Betara Turun Kabeh and Panca Wali Krama

Timings: 07:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m.

Location: Besakih, Rendang, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80863, Indonesia

Nearby Attractions: Mount Agung, Tirta Gangga, Bukit Jambul Viewpoint

Tip: Hire an official guide to understand the layout and ceremony rituals

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Gunung Lebah Temple is one of the best temples in Bali for peaceful meditation and spiritual solitude. Tucked away at the confluence of the Wos Kiwa and Wos Tengen rivers in the Campuhan Valley, this 8th-century temple was founded by Rsi Markandeya, the sage who introduced Hinduism in Bali. 

The name means “Mountain in the valley,” reflecting its unique placement below the jungle canopy. Its lush surroundings and layered Balinese pavilions make it a lesser-known gem compared to more touristy temples. Though still active, the temple is quieter and mostly visited during local festivals like Banyu Pinaruh. The location offers a scenic stop on the Campuhan Ridge Walk and feels especially serene during early mornings. 

Top Highlights

• The temple is situated at the meeting point of the Wos Kiwa and Wos Tengen rivers inside Campuhan Valley
• ts ancient origins are linked to Rsi Markandeya’s spiritual journey
• It is one of the earliest spiritual sites in Ubud

Timings: 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.

Location: Jl. Raya Ubud No.23, Sayan, Kec. Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

Nearby Attractions: Campuhan Ridge, Blanco Renaissance Museum, Pura Dalem Ubud, Museum Puri Lukisan

Tip: Visitors must wear a sarong and sash to respectfully enter the temple complex

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Ling Gwan Kiong is a Chinese Buddhist temple in Singaraja that poses a striking contrast to the island’s traditional Hindu temples. As one of the best temples in Bali reflecting multicultural harmony, it was built in the 19th century and serves the Chinese-Balinese community. Often recommended among the top places to visit in north Bali, the temple features bold red columns, dragon carvings, and gold detailing, blending Balinese and Chinese styles of architecture.

It is dedicated to deities like Kwan Im, Guan Gong and Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. During Chinese New Year, the temple comes alive with lanterns, incense, and vibrant rituals. Visitors can explore the grounds, walk across the pond bridge, and observe ongoing prayers inside the main worship hall on their tour to this place.

Top Highlights

• It is a colourful Chinese temple with active Buddhist and Taoist worship
• The temple offers a rare fusion of Balinese and Chinese design traditions
• Major Chinese festivals with rituals and lantern displays are celebrated here

Timings: 08:00 a.m. to 07:00 p.m.

Location:  Erlangga No.65, Kp. Bugis, Kec. Buleleng, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81114, Indonesia

Nearby Attractions: Gedong Kirtya Library, Buleleng Harbour, Pura Beji Sangsit, Pura Maduwe Karang

Tip: Visit during the Chinese New Year to see the lantern-lit festival rituals

Tucked away behind Kuta’s bustling streets, Vihara Dharmayana is a peaceful sanctuary and one of the famous temples in Bali that is known for its Buddhist heritage. Built in 1876, this temple is also known as Kongco Leeng Gwan, and it welcomes visitors of all faiths. Its architecture is distinct, with red and gold walls, Chinese-style curved rooftops, golden statues and incense-filled shrines. A notable visit by the 14th Dalai Lama in 1982 added to its spiritual status. The temple remains active with prayer services, especially during Vesak Day and Chinese holy days, making it a rare but meaningful find in a tourist-heavy district.

Top Highlights

• This Buddhist temple is known for its red-and-gold exteriors and curved Chinese-style rooftops
• It was honoured by a visit from the 14th Dalai Lama, boosting its spiritual legacy
• Important celebrations like Vesak Day and Chinese festivals are observed with full rituals and community events

Timings: 09:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m. 

Location: Blambangan, Legian, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia

Nearby Attractions: Kuta Beach, Waterbom Bali, Bali Sea Turtle Society, Discovery Shopping Mall

Tip: Reach before 10.00 a.m. to enjoy quiet prayers without a crowd

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Tucked in the heart of Sukawati, Batuan Temple is one of Bali’s oldest and most beautifully preserved Hindu temples. Maintained by the residents of the Batuan village, this 11th-century temple showcases stunning Balinese craftsmanship with intricate stone carvings and traditional ornaments. The temple’s dark thatched roofs, made from black palm fibre, give it a distinctive and ancient appearance.

Visitors begin their journey at the large communal pavilion, the central gathering point of the temple. While the temple is impressive year-round, visiting during local ceremonies offers a deeper cultural experience as the courtyard fills with vibrant offerings, prayers, and traditional decorations.

Top Highlights

• One of Bali’s oldest temples dating back to the 11th century
• Features traditional Balinese architecture with carved stone ornaments
• Unique dark thatched roofs made from black palm fibre
• Cultural ceremonies offer the best glimpse into Balinese traditions

Timings: 09:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m

Location: Jalan Raya Batuan, Batuan Village, Sukawati, Gianyar

Nearby Attractions: Goa Gajah, Tegenungan Waterfall, Celuk Village, Ubud Art Market

Tip: Visit during a temple ceremony to witness colourful rituals and traditional offerings.

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Pura Petitenget is one of the most famous temples in Bali, known for its significance in Bali’s coastal spiritual network. Despite being located in Seminyak’s modern settings, the temple remains spiritually active and historically important. Often included in a Bali group tour package for its cultural value, this temple was built in the 16th century by the priest Dang Hyang Nirartha and is believed to guard the shoreline from negative sea energies.

It is named after a mystical chest (peti = chest, tenget = haunted) said to be placed here by a priest. Its red-brick shrines and traditional courtyards contrast with the modern surroundings of Seminyak. The Melasti ceremonies before Nyepi festival draw large processions of people dressed in white, carrying offerings towards the sea. 

Top Highlights

• This sea temple plays a vital role in Bali’s spiritual defence along the western coastline
• During Melasti, hundreds gather here for processions leading to the beach for sea purification
• Its ancient red-brick design stands in contrast to the cosmopolitan backdrop of Seminyak

Timings: 06:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m.

Location: Kerobokan Kelod, Kuta Utara, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Nearby Attractions: Seminyak Beach, Double Six Street, Petitenget Beachfront Shrine, Seminyak Village Market

Tip: Sunset visits offer cultural experiences without heavy daytime crowds

• Accessible through a small rock crevice, the temple opens into a giant limestone cavern
• It features multiple shrines and is popular during full moon ceremonies and purifications
• The cave honours Shiva and other deities, promoting interfaith worship in a single sacred space

Goa Lawah Temple, considered one of the most famous temples in Bali, is known for its bat-inhabited sacred cave on Bali’s east coast. With black-stone shrines, coastal breezes, and fluttering bats overhead, the site has a mystic energy. Believed to date back to the 11th century, it was founded by the sage Mpu Kuturan and is considered to be a gateway to the underworld. 

The temple is a major stop for Balinese cremation rites or Ngaben, and is often included in purification ceremonies held before funerals. Locals believe the cave leads deep into Mount Agung. Ceremonies occur year-round, and the temple’s seafront setting adds to its appeal as one of the best temples in Bali.

Top Highlights

• Sacred cave temple filled with thousands of protected fruit bats
• Integral site for Balinese Hindu cremation and purification rituals
• Black-stone shrines contrast beautifully against the bright coastal sky

Timings: Open 24 hours

Location: Raya Goa Lawah, Pesinggahan, Kec. Dawan, Kabupaten Klungkung, Bali 80761, Indonesia

Nearby Attractions: Kusamba Beach, Candidasa, Taman Ujung Water Palace, Virgin Beach

Tip: Avoid evening hours as bat activity increases after sunset.

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• Exceptional pink sandstone carvings in Buleleng architectural style
• Dedicated to Dewi Sri, goddess of rice and fertility
• Key temple in Bali’s subak agricultural ceremonies for centuries

• It is considered an important temple for Melasti purification rites
• This coastal shrine is deeply tied to sacred ocean purification rites
• Balinese-style Meru towers here honour marine spirits and deities

• This is Bali’s highest temple complex with a panoramic mountain backdrop
• It houses ancient relics from early Hindu dynasties of the island
• The 11 terraces here showcase centuries-old statues and stone structures

• The temple is situated atop a natural rock bridge carved by ocean tides
• Sunsets through the rock arch create breathtaking silhouettes across the shoreline
• It serves as a spiritual site for sea-based offerings and ceremonial cleansing rituals