Best Temples to Visit in Bali
What I thought would be a checklist stop of snaping a few photos turned into moments of pause, for stepping into pure-cool spring water at Tirta Empul, sipping lake-side coffee as mist curled around Ulun Danu, and watching offerings flutter in the breeze at Besakih. These temples aren’t just architecture. They’re invitations to slow down, breathe, and lean into Bali’s heartbeat.
They’re also real places, not just postcard-perfect backdrops. I climbed steep stairs at Gunung Kawi, almost slipped in the mossy courtyard at Goa Gajah, and tiptoed barefoot on the wooden floorboards at Taman Saraswati. These are the sacred spaces where Balinese life unfolds in a dance of incense, prayer, and quiet hospitality.
Here are my 9 favourite temples in Bali, from holy springs and royal gardens to sea temples and mountain shrines.
Quick Overview
- Tirta Empul – Experience a traditional holy spring cleansing ritual
- Besakih Temple – Feel the scale and spirit of Bali’s ‘Mother Temple’
- Ulun Danu Beratan – Visit the iconic lakeside temple on Bratan Lake
- Tanah Lot – Catch a dramatic sunset by the sea temple
- Gunung Kawi – Explore ancient cliff-carved shrines
- Pura Taman Saraswati – Sip coffee by lotus ponds in Ubud
- Goa Gajah – Discover the “Elephant Cave” near Ubud
- Tirta Gangga – Stroll through a royal water garden and fountains
- Taman Ayun – Wander a temple complex surrounded by a moat
TRAVEL
Tirta Empul
Near Tampaksiring, Central Bali
If you’re looking for a meaningful and immersive temple experience in Bali, Tirta Empul should be at the top of your list.
Located just 30 minutes from Ubud, this sacred water temple is known for its purification ritual called melukat. Visitors can join in the ritual by wearing a sarong and sash (available to rent at the entrance) and stepping into a crystal-clear, spring-fed pool lined with stone fountains. You’ll move from spout to spout, dipping your head under each stream of water, some whisper prayers, others stand silently, letting the cold water wash over them.
It’s a refreshing and humbling experience, and whether you join the ritual or simply observe from the sides, it’s hard not to feel the energy of the place.
Tip: Visit before 9 AM to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Entrance Fee: IDR 50,000 (~$3.25 USD), plus guide if desired (~IDR 100k)
Dress Code: Sarong and sash required; rental available on site
About
Hi, I’m Nitisha. I grew up in a world that told me to follow the script, but somewhere along the way I traded the script for a compass. These days, I follow where my feet and heart lead, from sleepy towns to saltwater coves, capturing stories that feel like home even when I’m far from it.
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Besakih Temple
On the slopes of Mount Agung, East Bali
Often called the “Mother Temple” of Bali, Besakih Temple is a vast and powerful place set on the slopes of Mount Agung.
This is Bali’s largest and most important temple complex, consisting of over 20 temples spread out across a terraced mountainside. Walking through Besakih would feel different from other temples in Bali, with its stone shrines, towering gateways, and ceremonial spaces surrounded by clouds and incense.
Hiring a local guide is recommended, as they’ll explain the significance behind the various shrines and rituals, helping you see how spiritual life here flows between generations. It’s easy to spend a couple of hours wandering the courtyards and watching locals prepare offerings wrapped in banana leaves or draped in white cloth.
Tip: Be prepared for a lot of walking and bring water.
Entrance Fee: IDR 60,000 (~$4 USD), plus guide fees (~IDR 150k recommended)
Dress Code: Sarong and sash required; rentals available at the entrance
Ulun Danu Beratan
Lake Beratan, Bedugul, Central Bali
Ulun Danu Beratan is one of Bali’s most iconic temples, known for its dreamy location on the edge of Lake Beratan.
In the early morning, when mist lingers over the water and the multi-tiered shrines reflect perfectly on the lake, the temple looks like it’s floating. It’s dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, making a key site for Bali’s agricultural and spiritual harmony.
You can wander through peaceful gardens, watch locals leave offerings, and explore smaller shrin tucked around the temple complex. There’s also a small local market just outside where you can snacks or buy handwoven crafts.
Tip: Arrive at sunrise for the best light and fewest crowds.
Entrance Fee: IDR 50,000 (~$3.25 USD)
Dress Code: Shoulders and knees should be covered
Tanah Lot
Coastal West Bali, near Canggu
Tanah Lot is probably Bali’s most photographed temple, and for good reason. Perched on a rugged sea rock and surrounded by crashing waves, it’s especially breathtaking at sunset.
At low tide, you can walk across the stone path to the base of the temple (though visitors aren’t allowed inside the inner sanctum). The scene is especially magical as golden light hits the temple and waves crash against the rocks. Despite being a tourist hot spot, Tanah Lot manages to feel serene and powerful.
Don’t forget to explore the nearby market or find a quiet spot on the cliffs to take it all in.
Tip: Go early in the afternoon and stay for sunset.
Entrance Fee: IDR 60,000 (~$4 USD)
Dress Code: Casual is fine, though modesty is always appreciated
Gunung Kawi
Tampaksiring, near Tirta Empul
Tucked away in a lush valley, Gunung Kawi offers a more adventurous temple visit. You’ll descend over 300 steps through rice terraces and jungle paths to reach this hidden gem.
What makes it unique? Ten rock-cut shrines carved directly into towering cliff faces. These 11th-century monuments are believed to be royal memorials, and the site feels both ancient and alive. The temple grounds are quiet and contemplative, with a small river running through and moss-covered stone paths that add to the magic.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoe. The steps are steep and can be slippery.
Entrance Fee: IDR 50,000 (~$3.25 USD)
Dress Code: Sarong required; rentals available at the entrance
Pura Taman Saraswati
Ubud center
Right in the heart of Ubud, Pura Taman Saraswati is a compact but beautiful temple that often gets missed.
Dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and the arts, the temple is fronted by blooming lotus ponds and a floating stage where traditional dance performances take place in the evening. The temple itself is intricately carved with Balinese motifs, and the surrounding cafes make it a lovely spot to pause during a day of exploring.
Tip: Catch a traditional dance show here after sunset.
Entrance Fee: Free or small donation (~IDR 20,000)
Dress Code: Modest, casual attire is acceptable
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
Near Ubud
Goa Gajah, or the Elephant Cave, is an ancient archaeological site that combines Hindu and Buddhist elements.
Step through the dramatic stone face entrance and you’ll find a small cave used for meditation, along with bathing pools and shrines in a lush jungle setting. The atmosphere is mysterious, with moss- covered stones and giant banyan trees surrounding the area. It’s a compact site, perfect to visit as part of a temple-hopping day.
Tip: Visit mid-morning when it’s quiet but not too hot.
Entrance Fee: IDR 50,000 (~$3.25 USD)
Dress Code: Sarong and modest dress required
Tirta Gangga
Karangasem, East Bali
While not a traditional temple, Tirta Gangga is a royal water palace with fountains, pools, and lotus-filled gardens that feel like something out of a storybook.
Wander across stone stepping-stones or even swim in one of the spring-fed pools. The scenery is lush and peaceful, perfect for slowing down after a busy day. It’s one of the most photogenic places in East Bali and rarely overcrowded.
Tip: Bring swimwear if you plan to swim in the public pools.
Entrance Fee: IDR 50,000 (~$3.25 USD)
Dress Code: Comfortable clothes; swimwear allowed in designated areas
Taman Ayun
Mengwi, near Ubud
Taman Ayun is a beautifully maintained royal temple surrounded by a wide moat and lush gardens, making it feel almost like a floating palace.
The temple complex is full of elegant multi-tiered shrines, peaceful pathways, and traditional Balinese architecture. It’s less touristy than other major temples, making it a great stop for those seeking calm and quiet. It’s also a great spot for photography, especially in the early morning light.
Tip: Pair this with a visit to Tanah Lot for a full day trip from Ubud or Canggu.
Entrance Fee: IDR 50,000 (~$3.25 USD)
Dress Code: Sarong rental available onsite
Ethical Travel Tip: Don’t Feed the Koi Fish
At serene water palaces like Tirta Gangga or Ulun Danu Beratan, it’s easy to be drawn in by the sight of hundreds of colorful koi gliding through shallow ponds beneath ancient bridges and stone fountains. Feeding the fish may seem like a harmless or even joyful way to connect with the space. After all, small packets of fish food are often sold right outside temple gates.
But here’s the reality. These koi are being overfed to the point of harm. Their abnormally large size and sluggish movement are signs of chronic overfeeding, poor water quality, and crowded conditions, all unintended side effects of well-meaning but excessive tourist interaction.
Why Skip It?
- Koi fish in temple ponds are often fed multiple times a day, far beyond what’s healthy.
- Many have bloated bellies and slowed reflexes, signs of long-term overfeeding and inadequate filtration systems.
- Excess food leads to algae blooms and poor water conditions, harming the overall ecosystem.
- It contributes to the commercialization of sacred spaces, shifting focus from reverence to novelty.
Better Alternatives at Temple Ponds
- Enjoy the Stillness Without Interference
Sit by the pond and take in the natural beauty and ritual atmosphere , no fish food needed. The koi are beautiful to observe, and watching them glide peacefully beneath lotus leaves is meditative in itself.
- Capture, Don’t Compromise
Photograph the koi respectfully from above. Use natural light reflections to capture their movement without disturbing their space or tossing in food for effect.
- Support Conservation-Friendly Temples
Temples that focus on sustainable garden and water management (l visitors on balance and respect for nature. Choose sites that emphasize preservation over profit.
Pro Tip:
If you see vendors aggressively selling fish food, it’s okay to politely d sacred water feature, not a petting zoo. Ethical travel means leaving better.
Map of Bali’s Top Temples
(Add a downloadable or embedded Google Map featuring locations l Ulun Danu Beratan, Goa Gajah, etc.)
Location:
Bali, Indonesia — a Hindu island in the heart of the Indonesian archi temples nestled among jungles, lakes, mountains, and coastlines.
How to Reach the Temples:
- From Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar):
The journey to most central and northern temples takes 1–2.5 hours depending on the location and traffic.
- A private car or driver is the most convenient option if you’re t remote sites like Besakih and Ulun Danu.
- By Private Driver:
Hiring a local driver (usually IDR 600k–800k for a full day) gives in one itinerary.
- By Scooter:
Ideal for confident Scooter rentals are ~IDR 80–120k/da like Goa Gajah and Taman Saraswati.
- By Guided Tour:
Join a cultural temple tour with added experiences like traditio terrace stops
Best Time to Visit:
- April to June:
Post-monsoon season brings lush greenery, clear skies, and vibrant ceremonies.
- July to September:
Bali’s dry season — ideal for exploring all day long. Expect temple festivals, clean paths, and scenic drives.
- October to Early November:
Quieter travel months with great light for photography. Rain begins later in the season but usually arrives in short bursts.
Low Season:
- December to March:
Rainy season. Expect more temple rituals and lush surroundings, but carry an umbrella or light raincoat — stone paths can get slippery.
Ideal Stay for Temple Lovers:
- 5–7 days is perfect if you want to explore a mix of water temples, sea temples, and jungle shrines at a relaxed pace, with time for cultural classes, dance performances, or sunrise hikes like Mount Batur.
Hidden Gems for Photographers:
- Gunung Kawi at Sunrise:
Morning mist in the river valley makes the cliff-carved shrines look ethereal.
- Ulun Danu Beratan in the Mist:
Arrive early to catch mirror-like reflections on the lake.
- Lotus Pond at Taman Saraswati:
Perfect light during golden hour — especially when the lotus flowers are in full bloom.
- Tirta Empul Rituals:
Capture silhouettes of worshippers mid-cleansing under the fountains (respectfully and from a distance).
- Tanah Lot at Low Tide:
Waves and lava rocks reflect the setting sun — best with a wide lens or drone (where allowed).
Top Cultural + Spiritual Experiences:
- Join a Holy Water Blessing at Tirta Empul:
Rent a sarong, follow the guide’s steps, and cleanse beneath 30+ sacred spouts.
- Watch a Balinese Dance Performance at Taman Saraswati:
Held in the evenings on a floating lotus stage — mystical and mesmerizing.
- Visit During Temple Ceremony Days:
Known as Odalan, these days are marked by colorful offerings, music, and your hotel for the temple’s celebration dates.
- Meditate at Goa Gajah:
This jungle cave temple is ideal for a short seated meditation or silent walk in the surrounding gardens.
- Explore the Spiritual Corridor from Tampaksiring to Gunung Kawi:
A lesser-known path links multiple temples, offering scenic walks past rice terraces and rivers.
Pro Travel Tips:
- Pack a Sarong & Sash: Most temples require both for So others charge ~IDR 10–20k.
- Respect Ceremonies: If a ceremony is taking place, observe quietly and follow the lead of locals.
- Bring Small Cash: Many rural temples only accept cash for entry or donations.
- Hire a Local Guide: Their insight adds depth — from temple legends to daily rituals.
- Stay Hydrated: Especially if you’re visiting higher-altitude temples like Besakih or Gunung Kawi.
- Plan for Steps & Slopes: Wear shoes with grip for temples like Gunung Kawi or Goa Gajah.
- Avoid Flash Photography: Many temples are active places of worshi ceremonies or meditation.
- Skip Drone Use at Sacred Sites: Always ask permission before flying drones. Some temples have clear “no drone” signs for cultural and spiritual reasons.
- Be Temple-Ready Every Day: In Bali, temple invitations can happen unex roadside ceremonies, or A sarong in your backpack means you’ll always be ready to join respectfully.
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Hi, I’m Nitisha. I grew up in a world that told me to follow the script, but somewhere along the way I traded the script for a compass. These days, I follow where my feet and heart lead, from sleepy towns to saltwater coves, capturing stories that feel like home even when I’m far from it.
