Bali has become the most popular island in Indonesia. In fact, the moment you touch down and head to the customs counter at the airport, you will see throngs of people waiting to get their visas stamped. This isn’t just the case during the peak season mind you.
One of the most popular things that tourists look forward to is visiting the iconic temples in Bali. The island is covered with so many of them and many of them are particularly unique.
I highly recommend starting out early in the day. There are loads of temples in Bali and it is hard to cover all of them in a short while. Plus depending on the season that you visit, it can get really really hot!
Luckily Bali has lots of great places to crash and enjoy the AC alongside a meal. If you are vegan (and even if you aren’t!) don’t forget to try out some of the epic vegan cafes in Bali.
On a side note, if you are headed to Bali make sure that you take the precautions required to prevent Bali Belly. It can really mess up your whole trip if you are not careful!
If you want to avoid all the tourist traps make sure to read up on all the popular tips before you visit Bali.
Anyways, I’ve gotten a bit sidetracked. Let’s talk about the gorgeous temples in Bali!
In order to give you a comprehensive list, we reached out to a number of travel bloggers to collaborate on a post that would describe their favorite temples in Bali. Before we start out, let’s take a look at the basic temple etiquette that you need to follow when entering these temples.
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Table of Contents
Temple Etiquette Everyone Should Know
It is important to understand that the temples in Bali like in every other place in the world are places of worship whether they are in use or not. That means that you need to follow proper etiquette when visiting them. What does that entail?
- Wear decent clothing in the sense that your knees and your shoulders should be covered. If you don’t want to make alterations to your dress code, I suggest carrying a sarong along with you. You can tie this around your waist before entering.
- Be quiet and respectful when you enter the temple. It is important to remember that people pray in the temples and they are not just a tourist attraction.
The Gorgeous Temples In Bali
With all that said, let’s take a look at some of the gorgeous temples in Bali that travel bloggers fell in love with when they visited.
1. Kehen Temple
Pura Kehen is one of the many temples in Bali you should consider visiting.
LOCATION: Bangli Regency
ENTRANCE FEES: 30k IDR, sarong required for entrance but can be rented for free with the purchase of an entrance ticket.
GETTING THERE: ~45 minutes by motorbike or car from Ubud
Located far away from the touristy areas of Bali, there’s a hidden gem tucked away in the Bangli Regency. Kehen temple, the second largest temple in Bali, is as big as it is beautiful.
Unlike the Tanah Lot temple located in Tanah Lot that receives thousands of visitors every day, Kehen temple might only receive a few hundred a day. That’s means you can enjoy this ancient Hindu temple and its amazing architecture in peace.
The perfectly crafted stairs with 38 steps will take your breath away if the amazing details and carefully crafted Balinese folklore figure statues have not already. This temple can be easily reached by car or on a motorbike. Some tours such as the Kintamani tour might include this temple as part of the tour.
One thing to be aware of is all the shop vendors that will attack you when you get off your transport. They will try to make you buy a sarong and say it is necessary to enter the temple.
While that is true, you can rent a sarong for free once you buy a ticket for the entrance of the temple. Once you are done checking out the incredible Kehen temple, make sure you stop by some of the best waterfalls in Bali around the area.
By Sean from Living Out Lau
2. Taman Ujung Soekasada (Ujung Water Palace)
Taman Soekasada Ujung is one of the gorgeous temples in Bali that made the list.
LOCATION: Karangasem, Bali
ENTRANCE FEES: 50,000 IDR
GETTING THERE: Since this temple is located in Northeast Bali, it’s best to hire a driver to get there. From Ubud, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes if there is no traffic. This temple was not very strict with their dress code, but out of respect it is best to have your shoulder and knees covered.
Taman Ujung Soekasada also known as the Water Palace is easily one of the most beautiful temples in Bali! It is nestled right between Mt. Agung and ocean and presents you with a paradise, history, and culture all in one! Taman Ujung Soekasada was built in 1909 and stretches over 10 hectares including 3 large pools/ponds along with detailed bridges and historic architecture.
When you arrive, you are greeted with a picturesque bridge full of flowers that leads to a tropical oasis of palm trees and lush gardens. For the best view, head to the back of the complex and climb the stairs which gives you a panoramic view of the grounds, mountains, and sea! Don’t be surprised to find dogs and Guinea Fowls (a land bird also known as a speckled hen) roaming the complex!
Did you know Taman Ujung was faced with complete destruction twice? Once in 1963 from hot ash following the eruption of nearby Mount Agung and in 1979 from an earthquake!
By Sam from Find Love And Travel
3. Besakih Temple
The Besakih temple is another one of the popular temples in Bali
LOCATION: Base of Mount Agung
ENTRANCE FEES: The fee is 60,000 IDR for adults and 30,000 IDR for kids. Also, make sure the amount is in cash and to have some spare on you.
GETTING THERE: Getting to Besakih is simple although there is no public transportation to get there and you will need to hire a driver or have a car to get there. For reference, the temple is located about 2 hours from the Ngurah Rai Airport or Kuta, or a 1 ½ hour drive from Ubud.
The Besakih Temple is the largest in Bali and a must see during your visit. Located at the base of Mount Agung, it has amazing views and architecture that is awe inspiring.
While there are plenty of temples that make up the complex, the largest and one of the most beautiful sites is the Pura Penataran Agung.
Slightly resembling a Mayan temple, the terraces that lead to the top are all showcases gorgeous flora and fauna and the top being capped by two striking spires.
“The picture of the Besakin temple does not show its majestic beautifulness in real – a capture worth seeing. The watterfall Tukad Cepung was spectacular and the Taman Wisata Kertha Gosa was absolutely amazing.
Our driver Darma was so nice and attentive with us and with its curtesy and knowledge about Balinese customs and culture gained our hearts… Thank you Darma 😊”
Lea (read more reviews now!)
As you walk around, its easy to see how import the temples are for the Balinese. Where each smaller temple represents some form of the universe or some form of god in Hindu.
After arriving, you can purchase a ticket at the ticket counter in the parking lot at the entrance. Finally, it’s best to get a sarong to wear while visiting and making sure your knees or shoulders aren’t visible out of respect.
By Casey from Viraflare
4. Pura Lempuyang Temple
Another one of the gorgeous temples in Bali that you will hear being talked about is the Pura Lemputang temple.
LOCATION: On Mount Lempuyang in Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem
ENTRANCE FEES: Free, but a small donation is highly appreciated.
GETTING THERE: To get to Pura Lempuyang Temple, it’s a 2+ hour drive from Ubud. You can ride a motorbike, hire a driver, or take an organized tour. Be careful if you decide to ride a motorbike as the roads are windy and narrow.
Pura Lempuyang Temple is a magical place to visit. Located in the hills of East Bali, this is one of the oldest Hindu temples on the island. The complex has a total of seven temples.
Most people tend to visit the first temple, Penantaran Lempuyang Temple, which is also called “Gateway to Heaven.” It’s a popular site splashed over social media of the gates overlooking Mount Agung, the highest mountain in Bali.
Hopefully, your visit has clear skies as there is no guarantee to see Mount Agung. With the photo opportunity, you’ll need to wait in a long line so we suggest that you come to this place early.
“Dexde was our tour guide and we had an amazing time. Despite the rainy weather, he went above and beyond to ensure we had a fantastic time. He was knowledgeable, friendly, and resourceful, making the whole experience enjoyable. Highly recommend Dexde for any Bali tour!”
Thien (read more reviews now!)
If you have the time, consider visiting the other temples in the complex. It’ll take around 3 hours to complete. You can take a motorbike taxi between the first and second temple to reduce your time. Although we didn’t complete the full circuit, we loved how there were very few people on the route.
We saw a handful of locals bringing offerings, but it was a quiet hike up. The walking path is a bit strenuous with over 1,440+ steps to reach the top yet you’re surrounded by luscious trees, plants, and adorable monkeys along the way.
By Jackie from Life Of Doing
5. Pura Taman Ayun
Looking for beautiful temples in Bali to visit? Pura Taman Ayun may just be one of them.
LOCATION: Pura Taman Ayun is not too far from Denpasar/Gilimanuk main road, about halfway between Ubud and Denpasar. It is a major destination on Bali.
GETTING THERE: Any tour or private driver can take you here, but it is not difficult to get there yourself with a scooter.
ENTRANCE FEES: The entrance fee is Rp.20,000 (around $1.42) and it is worth the price!
Deep in the heart of Bali’s Badung Regency, you can find one of the most scenic temples in Bali. Pura Taman Ayun, or the Taman Ayun Temple, once was part of the Mengwi Kingdom that ceased to exist in the late 1800s.
Together with Mengwi Temple, Pura Taman Ayun’s construction can be traced back to the early 1600s. Its royal water temple is surrounded by a wide moat, with water that gives the impression that the temple complex is floating!
If you are in the area, don’t miss the great eateries in Mengwi, one of the culinary destinations in Bali. It is where you’ll find all the best Indonesian food featuring Balinese delicacies like suckling pig, roast duck and sate lilit.
By Halef from The Round The World Guys
6. Tirta Gangga
The famed Tirta Ganga remains on ost people’s list of temples in Bali.
LOCATION: In the East of Bali, North of Amlapura
GETTING THERE: By taxi or motorcycle
ENTRANCE FEES: IDR 30,000 + IDR 10,000 for swimming
The Tirta Gangga Water Temple is probably one of the most unique temples one can add to your Bali itinerary . This water palace was built in 1946, but was destroyed in 1963 at the outbreak of Mount Agung and then rebuilt later.
Tirta Gangga is full of beautiful water pools and wonderful Balinese architecture. You can walk around and watch the koi swimming in some of those water pools. The water that fills the various basins and fountains comes from sacred springs, which are located above the Water Palace. And also the name of this extraordinary temple can be translated as “Holy Water of the Ganges”.
In the back of the temple, you can find a bigger pool which is actually made to swim in it. If you have your towel and your swimming outfit with you, this is the perfect place to refresh a little before going on. Even though the water is a little bit cool at first, it’s nice to have a little swim here.
You can also meet some locals that come here to refresh themselves. If you want, you can rent some floaties for even more swimming fun. If you have ever wanted to combine a cool refreshing swim and a temple visit, Tirta Gangga is the perfect place to do so.
By Vicki from Vicki Viaja
7. Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is another popular choice among the temples in Bali that people visit.
LOCATION: The Tanah Lot is located in Berbaran village (North West of Denpasar).
ENTRANCE FEES: Before you get to the temple you will have to pay an entrance fee to the Tanah Lot complex. The entrance fee us 60,000 IDR ($4).
GETTING THERE: It is easily accessible from the popular tourist areas of Kuta and Seminyak.
No visit to Bali is complete without visiting one of the best temples on the land – Tanah Lot. This is an awesome seaside temple that attracts visitors from all over the world. It’s a picturesque temple and worthy of an Instagram photo for any travel profile.
Tanah Lot is a really cool place and you will get to see the local market stalls, tasty local restaurants and of course – the picturesque Tanah Lot.
You can enter the amazing temple, however you must make a small donation of $1 to the locals that stand at the entry. This donation will grant you access to the stairs of the temple. Also, you will be given a blessing and receive a small flower gift.
“This was our third trip with this company and second with our guide YOGAKAMAREKA. Again everything was perfectly planned and most importantly adjusted based on weather conditions and our needs.
The trip itself was great. We visited amazing places and made beautiful photos and memories. YOGAKAMAREKA was very knowledgeable – he though us a lot about the local traditions and Balinese culture. He was also our personal photographer.”
Dimitar (read more reviews now!)
If you want to stay near the Tanah Lot, there is plenty of accommodation for you to stay at and at a cheap value. There are rooms for less than $12 a night.
By Louis from The Northern Boy
8. Goa Gajah – The Elephant Temple
Goa Gajah is another one of the gorgeous temples in Bali that you should think of visiting.
LOCATION: Goa Gajah
GETTING THERE: It’s only about 12-20 min drive from Ubud and is not too expensive to get there using a metered taxi or you can there yourself on a rented scooter.
ENTRANCE FEES: The temple is open every day from 8am to 4:30pm and costs 15,000 Rupiah to enter. You should dress modestly and have your knees and shoulders covered. If you are not dressed appropriately, you may be denied entrance, but they also provide sarongs free of charge so I highly doubt it would be an issue as long as your shoulders are covered.
When you arrive at the Goa Gajah temple grounds, you’ll first see two pools of water which have 6 Hindu angels pouring water into the pool. Many come here to pray and bathe themselves in the holy water.
After seeing the pools, head to the Goa Gajah cave which has an intricately carved figure on the front. To enter, you walk through the mouth of the animal. There is a narrow hall which opens up inside and you’ll find 2 Hindu shrines. It’s really amazing to see it up close and photos look amazing entering the mouth of the cave.
After visiting the pool and the caves, head down into the ravine area for some shade under a beautiful tree with stunning roots. You can take a relaxing walk around the grounds and fully immerse yourself in the beautiful nature.
I really loved this ravine area and took so many photos here! Keep walking and you’ll find a pond with lilies and a rice paddy field as well. You only need an hour or two to walk around the temple grounds and it’s a great way to spend a morning in Ubud! In fact it is one of the top things to do in Ubud!
By Naomi from Eat Love Explore
What’s The Best Way To Explore The Temples In Bali?
Shawn and I usually explore Bali on our own. We rent bikes and rive around the island. One thing that you have to keep in mind is that the traffic can be crazy so you have to be confident on the roads. Always wear a helmet. Also make sure that your driving license is valid in Indonesia.
Another alternative is to book tours. You could book individual tours to each of the different temples like I have listed up above or head out on a tour that encompasses a number of the temples together. I would advise the later if you are short on time.
One popular tour combines Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah) and Tirta Empul temple with Tegenungan Waterfall, Tegalalang Rice Terrace.
It gives you a glimpse of the vibrant landscape of Bali along with some of the historic temples in Bali.
“Ketut Angus was absolutely amazing guide and driver. From the get go he was super friendly, very knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile to make our experience enjoyable. Would highly recommend!
As a first time traveler in Bali we felt very safe and learnt so much about the history and culture! Would book again and would recommend to friends”
Alicia (read more reviews now!)
How many of these gorgeous temples have you visited? Are there any others you would add to the list? Let us know in the comments below.
*This post contains Affiliate links
** The photographs in this post are not the property of Globetrove and have been provided by the individual contributing authors.
Kay
Friday 5th of July 2019
These are beautiful! Though I heard if you are on your period you are not allowed into the Temples. Did you hear anything about that?
Penny
Friday 5th of July 2019
I do know that is true in Indian temples though I never had that mentioned to me in Bali. Intriguing since the religion the same, the rules are also probably the same?
Abhisek Nayak
Tuesday 2nd of July 2019
Truly said, Gorgeous. Very well captured and described.
magiceye
Monday 1st of July 2019
Beautifuly captured in pictures and words.