Bali is full of fascinating temples all around the Island. These temples depict the cultural, artistic and rich heritage of Bali. Check out the 10 Best Temples in Bali Worth Visiting in the blog below.
Indonesia is an Islam dominated country, where Hindu population is just around 1-2%. One will be surprised to know that Bali has around 85% Hindu population and hence, the island is full of Temples. It is said that there are more than 20,000 temples in Bali. These temples (Pura in Balinese) are an integral part of the Island and one will find beautiful, authentic and serene temples almost everywhere. The intricate crafting, unique rock designs and spectacular views are few of the reasons, why these temples should be visited, even if you are not a follower. Out of the many, here I am sharing the 10 most popular and extremely scenic temples in Bali, worth visiting.
As I have personally visited these temples, I can vouch that a trip to Bali is not complete, unless one visits a few, if not all the temples mentioned below.
HOW TO PLAN A VISIT TO THESE 10 BEST TEMPLES OF BALI
It is not easy to visit all these temples in just few days, as the locations of these temples are quite far off. It takes a lot of time and effort to travel from one place to another, in Bali.
The best way is to make location wise day plans. A full day for South Bali to cover the temples and other attractions of the area, a day or two for Ubud (Central Bali) to cover the temples and attractions of this area and like wise for the rest of the days. This will help in covering the maximum locations, temples and attractions.
Chauffeur driven cars for a full day are readily available in Bali. Drivers are the best guides and can help you plan your trip with their valuable tips and advice. You can book them from either various tour operator shops in popular markets in Bali or from hotels travel desk or even online from portals like www.klook.com.
Go through this list of “10 Best Temples in Bali Worth Visiting” – check out the description of each temple, its ratings, pictures etc. and then make a decision which ones should be visited. It is not necessary to cover all the temples given in the list. Visit those, which match your interest and curiosity.
Location and duration of your stay plays a very important role. Some of the temples may interest you but if they are very far off and other attractions nearby are not worthwhile, you may drop the idea of visiting that temple.
Click here and check out my blog – 9 Days in Bali, to get an idea of how to cover maximum attractions of Bali in just 9 days. Most of the temples listed here are covered in this 9 days itinerary for Bali.
TIPS FOR VISITING 10 BEST TEMPLES IN BALI
1. The best thing to do is to start your day early by 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM. This will help you avoiding road traffic, crowd and enjoy the nice morning weather.
2. Dress appropriately for visiting these temples. Shoulders and legs need to be covered. Buy or rent a Sarong – easily available everywhere in Bali.
3. Respect their culture and tradition. Visit them only if you have taken a bath in the morning. Offer prayers after washing your hands. Take off your shoes wherever required. Do not step on the offerings kept for the god.
4. Most of the temples have entry charges and some of them accept donations. Please donate as per capacity.
5. Some of the temples involve a lot of walking and climbing steep high stairs. The elderly, kids and tourists with health issues should avoid visiting such temples.
6. It is very important to keep yourself hydrated. Carry a hat to avoid the scorching heat of the sun. Carrying a water bottle is advisable. Coconut water and fruit juices – often sold outside the temples can be good and healthy intakes.
7. If possible, try to visit these temples during festivals or at the time of important rituals, as the temples are very beautifully decorated and worth admiring during these times. One can check with hotel staff or locals for this.
8. There are various cultural dance shows/performances – taking place in the temple premises of some of the temples like the Kenak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple. Buy tickets to watch them, if interested. You can check them out on You Tube before hand and then make a decision.
LIST OF 10 BEST TEMPLES IN BALI WORTH VISITING
I have visited Bali thrice and still can’t get enough of it. Temples of Bali have always fascinated me. I have personally visited all the temples listed below. Few of the temples I highly recommend to visit. My list here reflects my choice of preference as well. So the temple listed first is strongly recommended and then so on.
10 Best Temples in Bali Worth Visiting:
- Uluwatu Temple – The temple with Best View in Bali
- Ulun Danu Beraton Temple – The Most Beautiful Temple of Bali
- Tanah Lot Temple – The Most Popular Temple of Bali
- Goa Gajah Temple – The Most Interesting Temple in Bali
- Taman Ayun Temple – The Royal Family Temple of Bali
- Gunung Kawi Sebatu – The Most Serene Temple in Bali
- Tirta Empul Temple – The Holiest Temple of Bali
- Lempunyang Luhur Temple – The “Gateway of Heaven” of Bali
- Besakih Temple – The Oldest Mother Temple of Bali
- Tirta Ganga – The Instagram Popular Water Palace of Bali
1. ULUWATU TEMPLE
Out of all the temples in Bali, Uluwatu Temple offers the best view of the place. Located 70 meters (230 Ft) above sea level on a cliff, this temple offers amazing view of the surroundings with the ocean waves splashing against the rocks below. Take care of your belongings here as there are a huge number of monkeys in the temple premises. There is a special fire dance performance called Kecak – that takes place every day at 6:00 PM at the temple’s amphitheatre. The dance depicts the story of the Hindu epic Ramayana.
Location:
The Temple is located at the southern most part of Bali. It is 21 kms (30-40 mins drive) from Kuta and 55 kms (1.5-2 hours drive) from Ubud.
Best Time to Visit:
Best time to visit this temple is around sunset, which can then be followed by Kecak Dance Performance.
Timings:
7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry Price:
30K IDR/Person for Adults and 15K IDR/Person for Children
What All Can Be Clubbed While Visiting:
An entire day trip can be planned for the Southern part of Bali. Places like Garuda Visnu Kencana, Green Bowl Beach, Pandawa Beach, Nusa Dua, Padang Padang Beach (if interested in surfing) etc. can be covered. If interested in Bars then Rock Bar – Ayana Resort and Omnia can also be planned.
2. ULUN DANU BERATAN TEMPLE
If you ask, which is the most beautiful temple in Bali? It is definitely Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, commonly known as The Temple Of The Lake. Although it is located quite far on the northern side, yet it is totally worth the travel time and effort. Mountains and greenery surround the entire area of this temple giving the most picturesque view. Temple is lying in the lake Braton and it feels like it is floating in that lake. One can also take a boat ride on Lake Braton. Temple premises is huge, full of large gardens very well decorated with flowers.
Location:
Temple is located in the Northern part of Bali on the banks of Lake Bratan. It is 60 kms (1.5-2 hours drive) from Kuta and 45 kms (1 hour drive) from Ubud.
Best Time to Visit:
Try to visit the Temple before noon to beat the crowd and heat.
Timings:
8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Price:
50K IDR/Person for Adults and 25K IDR/Person for Children.
What All Can Be Clubbed While Visiting:
This area is full of mountains and lakes, hence, many waterfalls and lakes to visit near by. There are 3 good options of waterfalls to visit – Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, Gitgit Waterfalls and Aling Aling Waterfalls (choose any 1). There are 3 lakes in this area. First is the Braton Lake, where this temple is situated and the other two are Lake Tamblingan and Lake Buyan. Lovina Beach, extremely famous for spotting Dolphins (visit before sunrise for spotting them) can also be visited. While returning, Jatiluwih Rice Terrace can also be covered. If visiting from Kuta, Taman Ayun Temple can be covered, on the way.
3. TANAH LOT TEMPLE
Tanah Lot (meaning Land in the Sea) is the most popularly visited temple in Bali. As the name suggests, the main temple is located on a piece of land slightly offshore, in the sea and can be visited during low rides only. The area is totally submerged in the sea during the high tides. Usually, only locals are allowed to enter the temple, but, there is no harm is trying as many tourists have been able to visit it.
Nevertheless, other than visiting the main temple, there are many things to admire in the temple premises. As it is situated on the seashore, the view of the sea and the splashes of the waves hitting the rocks, give a very soothing feeling. In addition to this, the entire temple area and the rock structure is worth admiring. As this temple is the most popular temple in Bali, hence it is always crowded. Temple premises and near by area is loaded with numerous shops and restaurants.
Location:
Temple is located on the Western side of Bali, very close to Canggu. It is 20 kms (45 mins drive) from Kuta and 33 kms (1 hours drive) from Ubud
Best Time to Visit:
Best time to visit the temple is definitely around sunset, as the temple is famous for its sunset view. But it is very crowded around this time. Morning hours are equally good to visit, as it is less crowded. If interested in visiting the main temple, visit during low tide.
Timings:
7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry Price:
60K IDR/Person for Adults; 30K IDR/Person for Children.
What All Can Be Clubbed While Visiting:
There are not many attractions near by. People usually travel to this area just to visit this temple. Taman Ayun Temple can be included along with Tanah Lot visit, as it is just 18 kms (30 mins drive) from here. Apart from that, Canggu can also be explored, as it is just 10 kms (20 mins drive) from Tanah Lot. Canggu’s Batu Batong Beach is best for surfing. Moreover, there are amazing Vegan Cafes worth trying in Canggu.
4. GOA GAJAH TEMPLE
Built centuries ago, Goa Gajah is an old temple in Bali, commonly known as the Elephant Cave. It is impressive to see the intricate carvings and rock structures in the temple. The Temple is surrounded by a beautiful forest with a waterfall. A walk in this area refreshes and rejuvenates you completely. The cave itself is small but the entry through the devil’s mouth is very impressive. It is a beautiful spot for photography. Avoid tour guide persuasion as it is not required.
Location:
This Temple is located in Ubud – the heart of Bali. It is 38 kms (1 hour drive) from Kuta. Everyone visits Ubud in Bali, hence, a short visit to this Temple can well be planned.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit this temple is definitely during the morning hours between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, in order to avoid the crowd and heat. If one has other plans during the morning hours, it can be visited in the day time as well.
Timings:
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Price:
50K IDR/Person for Adults and 25K IDR/Person for Children. Sarong on rent is included in the entry ticket. No need to buy or rent it separately.
What All Can Be Clubbed While Visiting:
There are numerous attractions to see and visit around and close by to this temple. Monkey Forest, Saraswati Temple, Ubud Palace, Kanto Tempo Waterfall and Tegallalang Rice Terrace etc. can all be clubbed together while visiting this Temple. If staying at Ubud, all these places can be covered in just a day.
5. TAMAN AYUN TEMPLE
Taman Ayun meaning “Garden in the Water” is the most peaceful and divine temple in Bali. It is known as the Royal Family Temple, as it was the temple of the then reigning Royal Family. It usually has a smaller crowd unlike other bigger temples of Bali. Thankfully, there are no lines of souvenir shops or tour guides troubling you throughout. This makes this temple even more special. Temple area is full of greenery with traditional structure, depicting Balinese culture very beautifully. The temple grounds, gardens and prayer area are all worth admiring.
Location:
This temple is located in Mengwi region of Bali. It is 25 kms (45 mins drive) from Kuta and 18 kms (30 mins drive) from Ubud.
Best Time to Visit:
As it is usually not very crowded, it can be visited any time during its visiting hours. But, as always, I suggest visiting the temple during the morning hours to beat the heat and enjoy both the weather as well as the temple visit.
Timings:
8:00 AM to 6:15 PM
Entry Price:
20K IDR/Person for Adults.
What All Can Be Clubbed While Visiting:
There aren’t many attractions near by to this temple. Both, Tanah Lot and Ubud, are 18 kms (30 mins drive) from this temple and can be clubbed. Usually, when trip to North Bali is taken from Kuta, which includes visiting Ulun Dhanu Beratan Temple – this temple is included as the first stop, as it comes on the way.
6. TIRTA EMPUL TEMPLE
It is a very auspicious temple of Bali. It is famous for its bathing pools with pure and holy spring water, which cleanses the body, soul and mind if taken a dip. Other than this, the temple’s ground and stonework is also worth admiring. Take the help of a guide, if looking forward for taking a dip in holy spring water. Carry extra pair of cloths for it. The entire experience at this temple is very spiritual and soothing.
Location:
The temple is located in the Central part of Bali – Ubud. It is 52 kms (1.5 hours drive) from Kuta.
Best time to Visit:
Best time to visit this temple is definitely during the morning hours or closing hours. It is full with tourists during the afternoon hours. Also, if planning to take a dip in holy spring water pool, there can be long queue for it during the afternoon (rush hours) and one might have to wait a lot for their turn.
Timings:
8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Price:
50K IDR/Person for Adults and 25K IDR/Person for Children.
What All Can Be Clubbed While Visiting:
This Temple can well be clubbed along with Ubud Trip. Ubud itself has many attractions near by. Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple is just 5 kms (15 mins drive) and Tegallalang Temple is 7 kms (17 mins drive) from this Temple. Both these destinations can be clubbed together while visiting Tirta Ganga Temple.
7. GUNUNG KAWI SEBATU
This is a small, beautiful and quiet temple, often not visited by many people. The Temple has 2 main large bathing pools, mainly used by the locals. The temple’s surroundings, walkways, greenery, interesting stonework and intricate carvings make it worthy of a short visit, specially when one is visiting Ubud. Please do not confuse with another temple with almost the same name, Gunang Kawi, in close vicinity. Always search Gunung Kawi Sebatu in Google Maps.
Location:
The Temple is located in Central part of Bali – Ubud. It is 48 kms (1 hours 15 mins drive) from Kuta.
Best Time to Visit:
This temple can be visited any time during its visiting hours, as it is usually not crowded. Try covering it before noon or later around sunset to enjoy nice weather.
Timings:
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Price:
30K IDR/Person for Adults.
What All Can Be Clubbed While Visiting:
This Temple can be clubbed along with Ubud Trip. Ubud itself has so many attractions near by. Tirta Empul Temple is just 5 kms (10 mins drive) and Tegallalang Temple is just 5 kms (10 mins drive) from this temple. Both these destinations can be clubbed together while visiting Gunung Kawi Temple.
8. LEMPUYANG LUHUR TEMPLE
You can find this Temple’s pictures flooded on Instagram. It is one of the oldest temples of Bali – very auspicious but people mostly visit this temple to get clicked on Gateway of Heaven. This temple is really far from the main tourist area of Bali. It is located on the slope of Mount Lempuyang. One has to climb the slope as well as a flight of high stairs to reach the temple. There are motor bikers to help you reach as well. The view from the Temple is spell bounding. The gateway looks heavenly beautiful with Mount Agung in the backdrop. It is totally worth the long tiring walk and the steep climb.
In reference to the pictures with Gateway of Heaven, there are cameramen sitting to take the special shot. Pictures taken by them are definitely mind blowing but it’s a hoax. There isn’t any water in front of the gates as it is usually shown in the pictures. It is photoshopped by these cameramen. There is always a huge queue for this special shot and waiting time is approx. 2 hours. If you want to avoid standing in a queue, reach early morning around 5:00 AM when there is hardly any crowd. If not interested in these special shot photographs, just enjoy the view – click natural pictures and come back, exactly like I did.
Location:
This temple is located in the East side of Bali. It is 80 kms (2-2.5 hours drive) from Kuta and 70 kms from Ubud (2 hours drive).
Best Time to Visit:
If looking forward to photoshopped picture with the help of cameramen, visit this temple early morning. Else try to reach here before noon.
Timings:
The Temple is open round the clock – 24 hours.
Entry Price:
No entry charges but they accept donations. Please donate as per capacity.
What All Can Be Clubbed While Visiting:
People visiting this temple mostly cover Tirth Ganga Water Palace, which is just 10 kms from this temple. Apart from this, Besakih Temple can also be planned, but for that one needs to start early morning, if not staying in East Bali.
9. BESAKIH TEMPLE
This temple is the largest and the most sacred temple of Bali, located on the slopes of Mount Agung. It is known as the Mother Temple and is around 1000 years old. The entire temple area is a big complex consisting of many temples. The biggest temple in this complex is Penataran Agung Temple. Located 3000 feet above sea level, this temple offers splendid view of the mountains, rice farms, villages, hills, waterfalls etc. It takes a lot of effort in walking and climbing to reach the temple.
Location:
Temple is located in the village of Besakih in the Eastern part of Bali. It is 63 kms (1 hour 45 mins drive) from Kuta and 45 kms (1 hour 20 mins drive) from Ubud.
Best Time to Visit:
Best time to visit is either before noon or around sunset.
Timings:
8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Price:
60K IDR/Person including entry price/guide/sarong on rent and bike ride till the main Temple.
What All Can Be Clubbed While Visiting:
As it is located in the Eastern part of Bali, hence, Besakih Temple, Lempuyang Luhur Temple (Gateway of Heaven) and Tirta Ganga Water Palace can be combined with it.
10 TIRTA GANGA WATER PALACE
Tirta Ganga is named after the holy river Ganga from India and means Water From the Ganga. This is a kind of a palace, which was built by the Royal Karangasem between 1940-1950. It is huge and consists of many water ponds and home to numerous species of fishes. Fish food is available in the premise to feed them. The most interesting is the stone walk way between the water, which is quite popular on Instagram. Apart from this, the whole walkways, lovely gardens and structures are worth admiring.
Location:
This water palace is located in the East side of Bali. It is 58 kms from Ubud (1.5 hour drive) and 75 kms from Kuta (2 hours drive).
Best Time to Visit:
It can be visited any time during its visiting hours. It is usually not very crowded, as it is located on the East side of Bali andnot many tourists travel so far.
Timings:
8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry Price:
40K IDR/Person for Adult.
What All Can Be Clubbed While Visiting:
It is mostly a part of East Bali Trip. East Bali trip includes Pura Lempuyang Luhur Temple, Tukad Cepung Waterfall and sometimes Besakih Temple. All these or some of these places can be clubbed together.
* Entry Prices given for each temple is as per travel history dated 2018-2019. Check for latest prices around your time of travel*
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Great guide to these Temples, lots of helpful info and advice. The photos at beautiful too. I visited only one of these Temples and another that is not on your list. This is a great guide for those who need Temple info. Thanks
Thanks Barry, means so much.