Bali – as we all know is famous for its surf, beach, and sunshine, but it also has a deeply spiritual culture. Every day, temple prayers take place on Bali, which is a spiritual island. It is interesting to plan your trip to Bali by changing focus. You can definitely enjoy the sunshine and beaches in Bali – but I would recommend exploring the temples of this mystical place as well.
Each temple in Bali has its own distinct personality. Some are architecturally stunning, while others are spiritual, with ancient figurines of gods and devils. Each temple is a manifestation of Balinese art and culture. Get more insights by reading about Bali’s most stunning temples. We are confident that you will plan a different itinerary from the one you first had in mind.
Tanah Lot Temple
Originally deriving from the words Tengah Lot, which meant from the sea, Tanah Lot is now more frequently known as the Land on water. The 15th-century temple Tanah Lot is perched on a rock away from the sea.
You can only visit this temple during low tides. You should visit this temple between 4 and 6 p.m. for the best sunset views and before 10 a.m. to avoid crowds. The complex is surrounded by shops, lush tropical gardens, a cultural park, and restaurants that frequently hosts dance performances.
Uluwatu Temple
One of the main temples of Bali – The Uluwatu Temple – majestically perched on a cliff – is held in high esteem as the spiritual pillar of the Island. With the sun setting over the gorgeous ocean in the background, it provides one of the best locations for enjoying sunsets.
In the evening, you may see the Kecak Dance, a Balinese dance performed just in front of the temple’s door. Men with white and black sarongs sit in the lotus position and lift their hands while saying ke-cak-ke-cak in this mesmerizing performance.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
The famous water temple Ulun Danu Beratan, one of Bali’s most prestigious temples, is about an hour’s drive from Ubud. This temple is the perfect location for pictures with the Swiss-looking mountains in the background as it is set by the beaches of Beratan Lake.
You can enjoy some water recreation in addition to strolling around this site, boating, and learning about its history and heritage. Explore the area and discover the bliss!
Besakih Temple
The largest, most sacred, and the mother temple of all the Hindu temples in Bali is the Besakih Temple. The moment you step in this temple – you are bound to feel heavenly vibes. You will be in awe of everything about this temple on Mount Agung! It is encircled by gorgeous natural features such as rice fields, hills, mountains, rivers, and jungles.
The several staircases that go up to it pass by the numerous temples that are a part of the complex, and with Mount Agung as a backdrop, the area takes on a mysterious aura.
Goa Gajah
The Elephant Cave, also known as Goa Gajah, is one of Bali’s oldest and most prominent ancient monuments. Do not be surprised if you didn’t find any elephants here. Goa Gajah, located on a hillside, is well-known for visitors who gather for spiritual meditation.
The scary entrance to the cave in Goa Gajah, where the rock has been sculpted into a face with its mouth open, is the site’s main draw. You will see the bathing pools, the central meditation cave, the relic-filled courtyard, and the rock carvings on the walls.
Underwater Temple
The Devata Vishnu temple is one of the most amazing structures and a sight to behold on its own. It is located in North West Bali at Pemuteran Beach, 90 feet beneath the ocean’s surface.
Under the surface of the peaceful waters, a Balinese Hindu temple with a stunning split gate and statues of mythical creatures may be found. Snorkeling or diving are two ways to reach the underwater temple. It provides a unique, calm, and fascinating temple tour experience.
Taman Ayun Temple
For royalty, the Taman Ayun Temple was built in the seventeenth century. It is renowned for its spectacular traditional architectural features dotted throughout its courtyards and enclosures.
The temple also boasts vast gardens with lovely lotus-filled fish ponds. Taman Ayun translates to a beautiful garden in English. This palatial complex is an excellent spot to see traditional Balinese architecture as well as get a glimpse of how Balinese kings used to live behind the palace gates.
Also read: WHY RENTING BALI APARTMENTS AT THE JAYAKARTA COMPLEX MAKES THE PERFECT BALI HOLIDAY?
Goa Lawah Temple
One of Bali’s distinctive and most beautiful temples is the Goa Lawah Temple. Its name, which translates to The Cave of Bats, refers to the complex built around the opening of a cave that is home to numerous bats.
This temple plays a significant role in Balinese tradition by protecting the island of Bali from evil spirits. The inside of the cave is said to extend more than 30 kilometers underground before coming to light at Pura Besakih.
Tirta Empul
More commonly known as the Holy Water Temple – the Tirta Empul is another renowned site with lovely holy springs. Visitors from all over the world come to the Tirta Empul Temple; to be in awe of its beauty and take a dip in its cool, blessed water.
It is said that the god Indra built this temple because it has healing qualities. One of the most beautiful temples on the island, it is recognized for its wonderful ponds and lush surroundings.
Gunung Kawi
The Gunung Kawi temple in Bali is an intriguing collection of antique shrines carved into majestic cliffs and surrounded by lush green rice paddies. This 11th-century temple is a tribute to the island’s rich cultural and spiritual past. It is among the most striking and valuable archaeological sites of Bali.
Gunung Kawi temple, with its serene surroundings and beautiful carvings, is a must-see for anyone interested in Balinese history and culture. Visitors are welcome to tour the complex and take in the serene ambiance and stunning views of the surroundings.
What to keep in mind before touring Balinese temples?
As we wrap up this blog, I would like to share a few essential tips to follow before you visit these stunning temples in Bali.
- Adequately dress up for a Balinese temple. A head cover for men in some temples. For females – a shawl or top to cover your shoulders, a long dress or wrap to cover your legs.
- Be mindful about all that the Balinese or the temple priest tells you – especially if there is any ritual going on – so that you do not get in their way.
- Speak softly.
- Females who are on their period are not allowed to enter.
- Sit lower than the priest or offerings at all times.
- Disable the notifications on your phone.
- Avoid using flash photography.
Conclusion:
By now, you must be fascinated as I am by these stunningly beautiful temples in Bali. I am sure you will want to add a few beautiful Balinese temples in your agenda for Bali. Leave it to our destination experts to decide how, when, and which ones to include in your Bali Tour packages and prepare to fly to this spiritual land.