5 Most of Beautiful Temples in Bali

5 Most of the Beautiful Temples in Bali You Need to Know

Ancient Bali temples dot the highlands and coasts and feature magnificent centuries-old architecture. Several have become some of the island’s most iconic landmarks. Great for photos, they’re usually set against exotic backdrops. They’re most colorful during festive temple anniversaries. Such events occur twice a Gregorian year since dates are based on a local 210-day calendar. On any other day, these temples are great places to visit at least once during your visit. Each temple is unique. Try the Besakih ‘mother temple’ against the cloudy peaks of Mount Agung, for instance. Or, the mysterious ruins of Goa Gajah near Ubud. Uluwatu and Tanah Lot against golden sunsets can be truly magical. Remember to wear proper attire for your visit. A sarong and sash are provided ‘for rent’ at most temples in Bali.

1. TANAH LOT (TABANAN, WEST BALI)

Tanah Lot regularly features on Bali postcards and travel brochures, thanks to its stunning and unique offshore setting. It comprises an ancient Hindu shrine that sits on top of an outcrop amidst constantly crashing waves from the Indian Ocean. The sea temple is a constant highlight on tours to Bali’s western region – sunsets here are not to be missed. The temple is about 45 minutes’ drive north from Kuta. Nearby are smaller onshore village temples and visitors’ leisure facilities such as restaurants, shops and a cultural park where dance performances are shown. The best time to visit Tanah Lot is during the day of Kuningan and on the temple’s anniversary 5 days later when festive pilgrimages are among the common sights.

2. ULUWATU TEMPLE (PECATU, SOUTH BALI)

Uluwatu is one of Bali’s picture-postcard temples, whose cliff base is also known among surfers as an exotic surf spot. The temple sits on a clifftop in Bali’s southwest, about 70 meters above the crashing waves. ‘Pura Luhur Uluwatu’ as the locals call it, similarly shares the splendid sunset backdrops of the Tanah Lot sea temple in West Bali. Even so, Uluwatu’s more elevated perch provides broader and more breathtaking seascapes. Pathways throughout the site allow you to witness the ancient architecture and sculptures from up close. A dense forest inhabited by grey long-tailed macaques surrounds the temple. An open-air amphitheater nearby regularly shows the Ramayana ballet or Kecak dance during the golden sunset hours – perfect for memorable pictures.

3. BESAKIH TEMPLE (KARANGASEM, SOUTH BALI)

Besakih Temple is often referred to as Bali’s ‘mother temple’ – a grand complex of different clan temples and shrines on the south-western slopes of Mount Agung. At least 70 celebrations are held at Besakih yearly, as each shrine has its own anniversary. Exploring the whole site can take a day. Even so, most visits cover only the largest central complex, Pura Penataran Agung. Another temple, Pura Pasimpangan, lies east of Pura Penataran Agung. On the higher slopes is Pura Pengubengan, offering great vistas from 1,000 meters above sea level. Sarongs and sashes are compulsory attire when visiting the temple, available usually for a ‘donation fee’ at the main entrance. You can also buy some colorful souvenir textiles from the many kiosks that dot the parking area.

4. GOA GAJAH (UBUD, CENTRAL BALI)

Goa Gajah is an archaeological complex with historical significance that’s great for a brief stopover on tours to the Ubud and central Bali region. Even though its name translates to ‘Elephant Cave’, you won’t find any pachyderms here. The cave was built as a hermitage back in the 11th century. It’s quite shallow, containing stone idols and meditation spaces. In front of the mysterious cave, you’ll find a Wantilan or meeting hall and a temple courtyard. An open-air gallery of large stone relics lies near an ancient bathing pool that was excavated in 1954. You can enter the pool and see the statues of nymphs holding waterspout vases up close, or explore the legendary Petanu River and its stone artifacts behind the temple grounds.

5.ULUN DANU BERATAN TEMPLE (BEDUGUL, TABANAN)

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a picturesque landmark temple in Bali’s central highlands. The temple sits on the western side of Beratan Lake. The smooth reflective surface of Beratan surrounds most of the temple’s base, creating a unique floating illusion. The mountain range provides the temple with its hazy, dreamy backdrop. The striking scenery and cool atmosphere of these uplands have made the temple a favorite sightseeing spot. The large flowering lakeside gardens offer an enjoyable time with many photographic moments. Recreational activities include short boat trips on the lake. You can also enjoy leisurely rides on 2-seater duck paddle boats as well as a host of other water sport activities.