Bali is known as the "Island of a Thousand Temples." These temples, called a Pura in the local language, hold great cultural and spiritual significance, which is why a visit to one of Bali's best temples is a must-do activitiy whilst visiting here.
Some of these temples are part of what is called Sad Khayangan, which the six major temples of Bali, considered to be important protectors of the island. The six major temples are Besakih, Lempuyang, Goa Lawah, Uluwatu, Batukaru, and Pusering Jagat.
When choosing which temple to visit, the main consideration is your itinerary, including the locations you intend to visit during your trip. Whilst some of the temples in this list are remarkable, most visitors prefer not to drive for many hours for a single visit. The list below covers the best temples throughout Bali, covering areas such as Ubud, Uluwatu, Kuta, north Bali, central Bali and even in the island of Nusa Penida in Bali province. Other factors to consider when choosing which temple to visit in Bali include cultural significance, the surrounding landscape and scenery, whether visitors can enter, how crowded the temples are, whether there is an entrance fees, and whether the temple has special features that make it unique. We have highlighted the unique features of each temple on this list, explaining why it has made our list of the island's best.
Bali's temples are not just tourist attractions, they are part of religious life for the local Balinese, and the island's cultural heritage. Oftentime the temples are not in use, in which case they are often kept open for visitors. Occasionally, an odalan (temple anniversay festival) takes place, which includes offerings prayers and performances on traditional instruments. Some visitors to Bali are even invited to join in on these celebrations.
When visiting the temples in Bali, it's important to respect the local culture and dress modestly. In most cases, visitors are required to cover below the knee, and wear a sarong, or even a headdress in some cases. Some temples are free to enter, while others require paying a small entry fee which usually covers rental of a sarong and goes towards upkeep of the buildings or grounds.
Above all, Bali's temples are a fun and engaging attraction which are a worthwhile add to your itinerary.
The 6 best temples in Bali are:
- Besakih Temple: Considered the "Mother Temple of Bali", Besakih Temple is the oldest and most culturally significant temple in Bali. Located 100m up the eastern slopes of Mt Agung, Besakih contains 23 temples in one complex.
- Uluwatu Temple: Uluwatu Temple is a Balinese "sea temple" (Pura Segara), found 70m high on the cliffs of Bali's Uluwatu area. Visitors flock to this temple for the incredible ocean views, especially at sunset. At nighttime, Uluwatu Temple serves as the backdrop for the capitaviting Kecak shows, which feature Hindu Balinese fire dancing.
- Tanah Lot Temple: Meaning "Land in the Sea", Tanah Lot is an iconic rock formation which is one of Bali's main landmarks. The temple itself, called Pura Tanah Lot, is only accessible at low tide, and is incredibly scenic especially at sunset.
- Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: Known in the local language as Pura Ulun Danu Beratan this is a major temple complex found in the Bedugul mountain area and overlooking Lake Beratan. This postcard perfect temple has an incredible atmosphere, especially in the mornings when the air is crisp and mist forms across the lake.
- Taman Ayun Temple: Taman Ayun translates to "beautiful garden", and this temple couldn't be more aptly named. Featuring an art gallery, theatre and the impeccably kept gardens and grounds, visitors love the lack of tourists at this architecturally impressive temple.
- Tirta Empul Temple: Tirta Empul is one of the most famous temples in Ubud, which is located in the forest next to a sacred pools. Visitors are attracted from all over Bali to take part in the water purification rituals that take place here.
For the full list of Bali's best temples, and tips and guidelines for your visit, read on!
Besakih Temple, often referred to as the Mother Temple or Pura Besakih, is Bali’s largest temple complex - and is widely considered the most important and holiest temple in Bali. Situated in Bali’s east on the slopes of the sacred Mount Agung, Besakih Temple comprises 23 temples, set amongst mountainous scenery and beautiful gardens.
Many visitors to Besakih Temple particularly enjoy the sheer size of the complex, the magnificent architecture and the stunning views from the mountainside. We recommend spending about two hours here, arriving earlier in the morning or late in the afternoon when there are fewer crowds. A sarong and a local guide are included in the ticket price (IDK 60,000 IDR / 6 AUD), so beware of scammers trying to make you pay for things you don’t need. Two sarongs don’t make a right…!
Uluwatu Temple is atop a cliff on Bali's southern tip and is one of the top places to watch an ocean sunset. Also known as Pura Luhur Uluwatu, the temple towers 70 metres above the Indian Ocean and is regarded as one of Bali's most important spiritual sites
Combine a visit to watch the daily Kecak dance at the nearby amphitheatre. The one-hour sunset performance involves 50 to 60 male dancers moving in concentric circles around a set of torches and chanting "Cak! Cak! Cak!" or "Keh-Chak", akin to monkey sounds and creating a wall of sound.
Consider visiting the temple in the early hours to avoid crowds. When visiting, be mindful of your belongings, with the temple's resident monkeys known to take loose items.
Purchasing tickets in advance online or at the ticket counter is advised. Tickets are IDR 150,000 IDR (~$15 AUD) per adult and IDR 75,000 IDR (~$7.50 AUD) per child (4- 9 years old).
Tanah Lot Temple is one of Bali's most iconic landmarks. Meaning 'Land in The Sea', the ancient Hindu shrine is famous for its picturesque offshore setting on a rocky outcrop surrounded by ocean and roughly 300 metres from the coast in Tabanan.
To access the temple grounds, visit by foot at low tide in the morning. Temple officials are on standby to assist in crossing the reef to visit the sacred site. As access to the main temple is for praying pilgrims only, visitors can walk around the temple grounds, appreciating its beauty and location, with full coverings not required.
Restaurants, shops, toilets, a culture park and an information centre are nearby the temple. We recommend arriving early for the sunset as coastal restaurants get busy during golden hour. Just be aware that this temple is one of the most popular and becomes crowded at peak times.
Encircled by mountainous scenery on Lake Baratan is Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. Known as the 'floating temple', it sits on a lake plateau 1500 metres above sea level in Bali's central Bedugul region, under two hours drive north of Denpasar. Four sacred buildings make up the Hindu complex, built in honour of Goddess Danu – queen of water, lakes and rivers - landscaped gardens surround the temple.
We recommend visiting in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds. In the morning it's often possible to see mountain mist over the clear lake. By the way, aside from being Bali's most beautiful temple, Ulun Danu Beratan is also the most exciting! There is so much fun and vibrancy at this temple site, which features cultural ceremonies, local animal sightings and a children's play park. Visitors are even able to take a speedboat ride across Beratan lake at a cost of 175,000 IDR (~$17.50 AUD).
Just be mindful that this temple isn't the best choice for serenity and tranquility. We highly recommend it just the same!
Entrance fees are IDR 75,000 IDR (~$7.5 AUD) per adult and IDR 50,000 IDR (~$5 AUD) per child.
Another sight to behold is Taman Ayun Temple in Mengwi village, a 35-minute drive north of Denpasar. At Taman Ayun, visitors get an amazing history lesson into Bali's royal past and the cultural legacy of the temple.
Translating to 'A Beautiful Garden', the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site's imposing shrines are dedicated to different gods across four courts. One of six royal temples, it was built in the 17th century as a family temple of the Mengwi Empire and, at the time, was only accessed by royals.
Combine a temple visit with exploring nearby attractions: Alas Kedaton Monkey Forest, the historical Nasional Marga Rana Monument and Tanah Lot Temple. We recommend coming in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat!
Entrance fees are IDR 30,000 (~$3 AUD) per adult and IDR 15,000 (~$1.50) per child.
Tirta Empul Temple is a major water temple in the village of Manukaya in central Bali. The UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the island's holiest sites, famous for its holy spring water.
The large temple complex is separated into three courtyards decorated with tropical plants and statues and takes roughly an hour to explore. Allocate more time if participating in a purification ritual at the temple's rectangular bath with sculpted spouts pouring cold mountain water. Full coverings are required, with sarongs available for hire at the temple's entrance.
Explore Ubud and the Presidential Palace of Tampaksiring, just a short drive away.
Lempuyang Temple (Pura Lempuyang) is one of Bali's oldest and most revered temples, located 1,175 metres above sea level in Bali's east.
The mountain temple is Insta-famous, with its large gates perfectly aligning with views of Mount Agung. A visit is for the adventurous, with over 1,700 steps to climb to the temple's marble gate for views of Mount Agung and its surrounding peaks.
While in the area, visit the beautiful Tirta Gangga garden to have your picture taken with a pool full of koi fish and folklore statues, only a 20-minute drive away.
For those wo want a picture of the iconic 'Gates of Heaven', we recommend setting the alarm early to get your picture with before the crowds - we are talking as early as 5am! Expect to wait at least two hours to pose in Bali's iconic photo frame.
Entrance fees are IDR 100,000 (~$10 AUD) per person plus IDR 50,000 (~$5 AUD) shuttle fee to the peak.
Walk through the mouth of a God to enter Goa Gajah' Elephant Cave' in Bedulu Village. The unusual hillside temple is half an hour's drive from central Ubud, with many folks to see its intricate stone carving facade. Despite the lack of elephants, the temple's name is believed to be inspired by the nearby Sungai Petanu (Petanu River), once known as Elephant River.
Beyond its ornate entrance, follow a flight of stone steps down to the Goa Gajah temple's main area. Exploring the temple's courtyard, stone carvings, and relics takes roughly an hour. It also features a cave, two square bathing pools and fountains surrounded by lush rainforest. We recommend ignoring local vendors trying to sell you a sarong if you don't need one.
The entrance fee to Goa Gajah is IDR 50,000 (~$5 AUD) per person and includes sarong hire.
For a tranquil and private experience of a Balinese temple, here to Gunung Kawi Temple in Sebatu, about 30 minutes drive from Ubud. The ancient temple complex is renowned for its ten shrines carved into a rock cliff, each eight metres tall and overlooking the Pakerisan River.
Visiting the Hindu temple requires a moderate workout, walking the steps down to the temple's central area. Besides admiring its cliff carvings, you will be treated to views of paddy terraces and a lush green valley that will take you back in time.
One of the notable features of this temple is the large fish pond, where visitors can feed the koi fish. Additionally, the temple offers a water purification ritual, which offers a more private and secluded experience compared to other temples in Bali.
Gunung Kawi temple is a few hundred meters costs around DR 50,000 (~$5 AUD) per person to enter. We recommend bringing insect repellent, as there are sometimes lots of mosquitos in this area.
For a more authentic temple experience, visit Batuan Temple (Pura Puseh Desa Batuan), located 40 minutes drive south of Ubud. The 11th-century temple is most famous for its traditional Balinese architecture, paintings and stone carvings.
Often less crowded than other temples in the area, the small sacred site's main attractions are its tall red-brick gates and sculptures depicting mythical Balinese figures and florals. To be inspired by more local craftsmanship, head to Sukawati Art Market, a 7-minute drive away. Sukawati Art Market, a three-floor market, is one of the best markets in Bali, offering bargain prices for clothing and souvenirs. Both Batuan Temple and Sukawati Market are easy to access along Jalan Raya Batuan highway.
Entry fees to Batuan Temple are IDR 30,000 (~$3 AUD) per person.
Bali is filled with gorgeous temples, and Kehen Temple (Pura Kehen) is no exception - but what makes Kehen Temple different is that there are very few crowds or tourists here. This 13th-century Hindu temple is located on a hillside forest in Cempaga village in Bali's east.
It takes 38 steps to reach the top of the temple's staircase. From here, explore sandstone sculptures representing Balinese mythical figures dotted around the courtyard. For something different, check out the massive banyan tree in the middle of the complex and view the temple's wall decorated with porcelain plates.
Just be mindful that there isn't much tourist information at this temple, so it's more about enjoying the grounds than learning facts!
After your visit, see the Krisik Waterfall, an 11-minute drive east, to continue a tranquil tour of Bali. Entry to the temple is IDK 50,000 (~$5 AUD) per person and includes sarong hire.
The superb Pura Samuan Tiga Temple rests on a small lane in the village of Bedulu, a 20-minute drive from central Ubud. Translating to the "Temple of the Meeting of the Three", its name is believed to reference the Hindu trinity.
The temple is a great spot to appreciate ancient artworks with ornate sandstone carvings - many covered by bright green moss - and temple gates. Unlike many of the island's temples having three courtyards, Pura Samuan Tiga Temple has seven, separated by walls and gates and interconnected by staircases.
The great advantage of this temple is that visitors are free to explore the entire grounds as they desire. The various sections of the temple are completely open, allowing you to feel truly free as you explore. Just be mindful that there is a dog here that tends to follow visitors around.
For those who want to hit 2 temples in a single day, the famous Elephant Cave temple is less than a kilometre away.
The ancient Chinese temple, Ling Gwan Kiong, overlooks the coast in North Bali's Singaraja. Built in 1873, the sacred Taoist site boasts traditional Chinese architecture with bright red roofs, mini gardens and red and gold murals.
The temple is within walking distance of Pura Segara temple and a 15-minute drive east to Lovina Beach.
Entrance to this temple is free of charge.
Goa Lawah Temple, also known as the Bat Cave Temple, is one of the eight holy temples in Bali and is a unique addition to your list of best temples to visit on the island. Located in Pesinggahan Village in the Klungkung Regency, this temple offers a distinctive and memorable experience.
As you approach the temple, you'll be captivated by its awe-inspiring location, perched on rocky cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean. The name "Goa Lawah" translates to "Bat Cave," and it lives up to its name. The temple is renowned for its natural cave that houses thousands of bats, adding an air of mystery and wonder to the site.
Goa Lawah Temple is a place deeply steeped in Balinese traditions and folklore. It is considered one of Bali's nine directional temples, protecting the Balinese people from negative energies and evil spirits. Visitors can immerse themselves in the sacred atmosphere of this temple while witnessing intricate Balinese architecture and stone carvings.
What sets Goa Lawah Temple apart is its ability to allow tourists to enter the innermost holy worship area. However, it's essential to be respectful and not disturb those who are praying. The temple's spiritual ambiance is palpable, filled with the soft chants of prayers and the scent of incense.
One of the most magical times to visit is during sunset when the temple is bathed in a golden glow, creating a serene and beautiful atmosphere.
Despite its spiritual significance, some visitors have reported minor inconveniences, such as pushy vendors trying to sell sarongs and souvenirs. However, these experiences don't take away from the unique appeal of Goa Lawah Temple.
In Ubud's centre is the 8th-century temple, Gunung Labah Temple (Pura Gunung Lebah). Bamboo forests surround the temple that overlooks the Campuhan Valley and Campuhan River.
For the most part, it isn't possible to actually enter this temple except on a couple of days per month - not so convenient for a visit! However, the temple is beautifully maintained and worth seeing from the outside - and it's located right at the base of the Campuhan Ridge Walk. The Ridge Walk is one of the most popular Ubud attractions, consisting of a 2km walking trail through vegetation and rice fields. Consider visiting both attractions together in the morning when the sun is rising over Ubud.
Batukaru Temple (Pura Luhur Batukaru) is located at the foothills of namesake Mount Batukaru, the island's second-highest peak, which rises 2,270 metres above sea level in the Tabanan regency.
Visitors can enter the revered site daily; however, access to some areas is only available for pilgrims. But don't worry; the temple is a great vantage point to view Bali's central highlands and forests. For more greenlit sights, head to Bali's famous Jatiluwih Rice terraces, a 20-minute drive away. Jatiluwih is considered one of the best rice terraces in Bali, and it's also the largest. Combining a visit to Jatiluwih with a visit to Batukaru Temple is a great idea for a day trip.
Just be aware that the surrounding Tabanan area is a colder, mountainous region of Bali so we recommend bringing a jacket with you to the temple!
Dharmayana Temple (full name: Vihara Dharmayana Temple) is a more than 200-year old Chinese Buddhist temple in the heart of Kuta.
Built in 1876, the hidden temple's Eastern-style architecture features bright red structures that have yet to age, thanks to generations of local devotees maintaining its upkeep. Expect to spend half an hour or less walking around the temple's grounds.
As a visitor, you can explore the temple without paying any entry fees, making it accessible for anyone. While Dharmayana isn't as crowded as some of Bali's more famous temples, it is perfect for a quick stop to soak in the calmness and explore the beautiful surroundings. The temple is particularly charming during Chinese New Year, when visitors can see the famous lions dance.
Pura Dalem Segara Madhu, or Pura Dalem Jagaraga, is a Balinese Hindu temple in the village of Jagaraga in northern Bali.
The temple is renowned for its dramatic gate entrance and carvings, including some Dutch-inspired bike motifs.
At the entrance to Pura Dalem Jagaraga, there is a man who tells the story of this ancient temple, which was destroyed after the war and then rebuilt. The telling of the exciting tale takes about 10 mins, and a small tip is a great way to show thanks to those responsible for the temple's upkeep.
Kerobokan Beach is less than a 15-minute drive away from this temple, so pack your bathers for a post-visit dip.
Kintamani's Ulun Danu Batur Temple fringes Lake Batur and features nine temples containing over 200 shrines and pavilions.
It was established in 1926 after damages from a volcanic explosion at the foot of a volcano and is considered one of the island's most important Hindu temples. The temple features a striking 11-tiered structure and three smaller structures.
This temple is particularly popular amongst tourist, which naturally attracts vendors trying to sell items like sarongs. We recommend bringing a sarong with you and keeping your distance from pesky sellers.
Feel at peace at the sight of the Buddhist temple Vihara Dharma Giri in the village of Pupuan in West Bali. The temple is renowned for its giant white Buddha statue in a sleeping position, and the incredibly peaceful ambiance here.
This temple is an incredible place to come for some quiet and solace, and for the spiritually minded, a place to meditate and connect with the divine. Upon entering the Buddhist area, visitors are asked to remove their footwear and a sarongs are provided. Once you enter the temple, you are free to walk around at your own pace.
Nearby the temple are expansive rice fields which are great for taking some photos.
Saraswati Temple (Pura Taman Saraswati), is a water temple located in the heart of Ubud, known for its beautiful lotus ponds. This is a great temple to pop in whilst exploring Ubud on foot. The ambiance here is lovely, and it's a great temple for photography.
Entry to Saraswati costs 35k (~$3.50 AUD) but visitors are given traditional Balinese costume to wear, including a sarong, waistband, and for men, a headdress. Although the ponds are temporarily under renovation, we still recommend popping in.
Nearby, the Cafe Lotus offers a relaxing spot to enjoy the temple's ambiance, or otherwise, for those who need regular caffeination to fuel their Bali itinerary, there is a Starbucks next door as well! The ponds are viewable looking out from Starbucks.
Batu Bolong Temple in Bali stands out due it's position on a rock peninsula overlooking the ocean. Located close to the famous Tanah Lot Temple, Batu Bolong is a great temple to stop in on your journey through to see its older brother.
Batu Bolong temple is situated on a natural arch, creating a great place to stop and watch the sunset whilst feeling the ocean breeze. When the tide is low it's also possible to explore the area below.
Beji Temple (Pura Peji) is a temple located in the village of Sangsit in Bali's north, nearby rice paddies. This massive 15th-century temple is not very touristy, making it a lovely calm place to visit.
One of the unique features of Beji Temple is that visitors are invited to face three doors, with the advice to take the door on the right (the middle door is reserved for the gods). The temple is known for its unique natural colors, with carvings made from soft lava rock called paras in shades of reddish, bluish, and greenish gray.
Bring your bathers as Lovina Beach is a short 8-kilometre drive away.
Entry costs IDK 10,000 (~$1 AUD) per person.
Pulaki Temple (Pura Pulaki) is a Balinese Hindu temple located to the west of Singaraja in Bali. Pulaki is a sea temple ("pura segara") which forms a chain of temples around the island, and is believed to protect it.
The temple's history dates back to the prehistoric age. In the 14th century, Pulaki was associated with the development of Vaishnavism, a Hindu sect. Dang Hyang Nirartha, a Hindu priest from Java, introduced the Shaivite priesthood to Bali and built Pura Pulaki in 1489. The temple was abandoned but later restored and protected by the Indonesian government.
When visiting Pulaki, watch out for the presence of mischievous monkeys that sometimes try to steal the belongings of tourists.
Although Goa Giri Putri Temple is not situated on the main island of Bali, it's one of the top temples in Nusa Penida, which is part of the Bali province. Hence, we've included it in our recommendations! Nusa Penida is a remarkable Hindu temple concealed within a cave. Accessing the temple involves climbing about 60-70 steps, with a mandatory requirement to rent a sarong before entering. Despite a small and challenging entrance, the cave expands into a vast, humid space, hosting the temple. The atmosphere inside the temple is unforgettable, which is why we have included it as one of the top attractions in Nusa Penida. Visitors here have the option to accept blessings from the head priest and witness traditional worship by local people, so it's a great way to understand Balinese culture as well.
There is an entrance fee of 50,000 (~$5 AUD) to see this temple.
When visiting Bali's temples and sacred sites, it is customary for visitors to dress modestly. Whilst wearing Western-style clothing is perfectly acceptable, a sarong (Indonesian skirt) should be used to cover shoulders and below the knees. At most of the temples, sarongs are provided either for free or as part of the entrance fee.
It's important to remember that to the local Balinese, temples are not just tourist destinations, but culturally and religiously important sites, as such, it's important to consider cultural norms whilst visiting a temple.
Firstly, appropriate clothing is part of the dress code at the temples, and usually visitors are required to wear a sarong to enter. Sarongs are available for rent at the entrance to most of the temples.
Secondly, it's important to maintain a respectful demeanour whilst making your way through temple grounds, or checking out temple interiors. This includes keeping your voice down, avoiding overly raucous behaviour, keeping your distance from priests or locals engaging in prayer or rituals, and removing your shoes in some cases.
Lastly, it's a nice touch to offer a small donation, especially at temples which don't require a fee to enter. Temples require time and money to maintain and do repairs, and a small contribution from visitors is much appreciated by the locals.
Planning a visit to Bali's temples is typically pretty self-explanatory, but as experienced Bali travellers there are a few things we have found useful to keep in mind.
Below are 4 top tips for visiting temples in Bali:
- Time Your Visit Well: Some of Bali's most popular temples like Besakih, Ulun Danu Beratan, Lempuyang and Uluwatu Temple become extremely crowded at certain times of the day. In most cases, by visiting very early in the morning or late in the evening, you beat the crowds. For example at Lempuyang, throngs of photographers come to take photographs of iconic "the Gates of Heaven", but the line to do so sometimes comes with a wait time of up to 3 hours! By coming very early, it gives you a better chance to take photographs uninterrupted, or explore grounds without being bothered. Other temples, like Uluwatu Temple, are extremely popular at sunset, so expect to deal with large crowds if visiting at this time.
- Check the Weather Forecast: Whilst temples themselves are usually covered, oftentimes the majority of a visit is spent exploring the surrounding grounds. Bali has a tropical climate, making it typically warm and humid, so sun protection like a hat or sunscreen is a good idea on sunny days. By the same token, it's best to bring a raincoat or poncho with you on rainy days, so that you don't return from your temple visit absolutely soaked (unless you took part in a water purification ceremony that is!)
- Bring Snacks and Drinks: Depending on which temple you visit, it isn't typically always easy to find food and drinks around Bali's temple sites. Some of the more touristy temples do have nearby cafes and restaurants, but for some of the temples located "off the beaten track", it's very handy to have water and snacks with you to keep you going.
- Check Opening Hours in Advance: Nothing is worse when travelling then heading all the way to an attraction, only to find it isn't actually open. Whilst many of Bali's temples are open daily, this isn't always the case, and temples often close to visitors if they are hosting an odalan .ys of the month, and sometimes temples close for periods of a time for maintenance
- Combine Your Temple Visit with a Nearby Attraction: Many of Bali's temples are located close to other attractions, so combining multiple attractions into a single day is a great way to form a Bali itinerary. For example, Lempugang Temple is located just 20 minutes from Tirta Gangga, a former royal palace which is one of Bali's must-see attractions. By visiting both in one go, you save time travelling and it will create a day you don't forget.