The 13 Best Temples You Should Visit in Bali

Bali is home to a rich cultural heritage and stunning Hindu temples. These architectural marvels attract thousands of visitors every year. In this article, Atlas Beach Club will provide you with a list of some of the best temples in Bali to explore.

The 13 Best Temples You Should Visit in Bali

Which one is the most famous temple in Bali? Check this out before you go on holiday to Bali.

1. Gunung Kawi

Gunung Kawi Temple, located in Tampaksiring, Bali, is a remarkable archaeological site steeped in ancient history and spiritual significance. Carved into the cliffs, the temple features ten rock-cut shrines dedicated to Bali’s kings and queens from the 11th century.

In addition, as you descend the temple, you’ll be awestruck by the towering stone monuments and the serene atmosphere.

2. Gunung Kawi Sebatu

Nestled in the serene village of Sebatu, Bali, Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple is a hidden gem that exudes tranquilly and spiritual energy. Surrounded by lush greenery and rice fields, this sacred water temple offers a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist areas.

Furthermore, visitors can marvel at the ornate shrines, pristine pools, and serene gardens. Whether seeking solace, cultural immersion, or a serene spot to unwind, Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple offers a sanctuary.

3. Pura Taman Saraswati

Pura Taman Saraswati, located in Ubud, Bali, is a stunning temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess of knowledge and arts, Saraswati. Moreover, as you enter the temple, a picturesque water garden adorned with blooming lotus flowers will greet you.

The intricate carvings and traditional Balinese architecture add to the temple’s beauty. Pura Taman Saraswati is a place of worship and a cultural hub, hosting captivating traditional dance performances in the evening.

4. Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah, or the Elephant Cave, is a fascinating archaeological site near Ubud, Bali. Furthermore, stepping into the cave’s entrance reveals a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences.

The highlight is the menacing entrance, adorned with intricate stone carvings depicting mythical creatures. You’ll discover meditation chambers and a tranquil courtyard as you explore further.

5. Tirta Empul

Tirta Empul in Tampaksiring, Bali, is a revered water temple known for purification rituals. It features natural springs flowing into bathing pools for traditional cleansing ceremonies. Immersing in holy water brings spiritual renewal and purification. With its serene surroundings, Tirta Empul is a captivating cultural immersion and personal reflection spot.

6. Lempuyang Temple

Perched high in the eastern hills of Bali, Lempuyang Temple is a majestic and revered Hindu temple complex. Its iconic split gate, known as the “Gateway to Heaven,” offers breathtaking views of Mount Agung.

Moreover, a serene atmosphere surrounds you as you climb the stairs to the main temple. Lempuyang Temple is a spiritual site and a photographer’s paradise. It perfectly captures the ethereal beauty of Bali’s landscapes and religious devotion.

7. Besakih Temple

Besakih Temple, known as the “Mother Temple of Bali,” is the island’s largest and holiest Hindu temple complex. Situated on the slopes of Mount Agung, it offers awe-inspiring panoramic views.

Furthermore, the temple is a complex of numerous shrines, pavilions, and courtyards, each with its own significance. Thus, its grand architecture makes Besakih Temple a must-visit temple for cultural enthusiasts.

8. Goa Giri Putri Temple

Goa Giri Putri Temple is a unique and spiritually significant site in a limestone cave in Nusa Penida. Moreover, to enter the temple, visitors must crawl through a narrow opening, revealing a vast cavern of sacred spaces.

The cave’s natural formations and echoes create a mystical atmosphere. Goa Giri Putri Temple is revered for its purification rituals and is an extraordinary destination for those seeking a profound spiritual experience in a truly awe-inspiring setting.

9. Beji Temple

Beji Temple, located in Sangsit, Bali, is a remarkable water temple dedicated to the goddess Gangga, associated with water and fertility. The temple is home to intricate carvings and vibrant frescoes depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

Furthermore, it features multiple bathing pools where visitors can participate in a purification ritual. The serene atmosphere, ornate decorations, and sacred rituals make Beji Temple a beautiful destination for cultural immersion.

10. Petitenget Temple

Nestled in the vibrant Seminyak area of Bali, Petitenget Temple is a significant Hindu temple overlooking the stunning Petitenget Beach. Known for its unique architecture and cultural importance, the temple attracts visitors seeking a connection to Balinese traditions.

In addition, the temple also hosts regular ceremonies and rituals, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich heritage. Petitenget Temple is a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling energy of Seminyak, surrounded by lush greenery and a peaceful ambiance.

11. Tanah Lot

Perched on a rocky outcrop along Bali’s southwestern coast, Tanah Lot is an iconic sea temple with mystique and natural beauty. In addition, the temple is dedicated to the Balinese sea gods and offers breathtaking views during sunset.

Accessible via a stone causeway, Tanah Lot stands tall against the crashing waves, creating a picturesque sight. Thus, you can explore the temple grounds, witness traditional ceremonies, and marvel at the fusion of cultural and natural elements in this temple.

12. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Nestled on Lake Beratan in Bedugul, Bali, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a picturesque water temple with spiritual significance.

Set against misty mountains, the temple complex features ornate pagodas and shrines dedicated to Hindu deities. Moreover, the lake’s surroundings create a serene atmosphere, making it a popular spot for prayer, meditation, and capturing stunning photographs.

13. Uluwatu Temple

Perched on a cliff edge overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple is Bali’s most dramatic and revered Hindu temple. Famous for its breathtaking views and mesmerising sunsets, the temple is dedicated to the protective deity of the sea, Dewa Rudra.

Thus, you can explore the temple’s intricate stone architecture, watch traditional Kecak fire dances, and marvel at the crashing waves below. Moreover, Uluwatu Temple offers a spiritual ambiance and an awe-inspiring experience, making it the most famous temple in Bali.

As we conclude our exploration, we hope this post has ignited a sense of wonder for the island’s magnificent spiritual sites. Therefore, Bali’s temples have something to offer, whether you seek architectural beauty or a deeper spiritual connection.

So, pack your curiosity, open your heart, and embark on a journey to discover the best temple in Bali.