Bali Temple Tours: 15 Must-Visit Temples for Every Traveler
Bali, the Island of the Gods, welcomes you with thousands of sacred temples scattered across its lush landscapes. From dramatic cliff-side shrines to serene water temples nestled in rice terraces, Bali temple tours offer an unforgettable journey into the heart of Balinese Hindu spirituality and culture.
Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, photography enthusiast, or cultural explorer, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the most stunning Bali temples to visit. We’ve curated 15 essential temples that showcase the island’s rich religious heritage, complete with practical tips to make your visit meaningful and respectful.
Why Bali Temple Tours Should Be on Your Bucket List
The Balinese Hindu temples (locally called “pura”) are not just tourist attractions—they are living spiritual centers where locals perform daily offerings and ceremonies. Visiting these sacred spaces offers a rare glimpse into a culture where religion seamlessly weaves into everyday life.
Each temple has its own unique character, from the ancient cave temple of Goa Gajah to the majestic sea temple of Uluwatu. A well-planned Bali temple tour can take you from mountain retreats to coastal shrines in a single day.
15 Must-Visit Sacred Temples Bali
1. Pura Besakih – The Mother Temple of Bali
The largest and most sacred of all Balinese Hindu temples, Pura Besakih sits on the slopes of Mount Agung. This temple complex comprises 23 separate temples arranged on parallel ridges. The ancient priestly lineages here date back over 1,000 years.
Location: Besakih, Rendang, Karangasem
Best time to visit: Early morning (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM)
Tip: Hire an official local guide to learn about the temple’s rich history and symbolism.
2. Tanah Lot – Bali’s Iconic Sea Temple
Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop in the sea, Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most photographed temples. Built in the 16th century, this sea temple offers spectacular sunset views and is especially magical during high tide when the temple appears to float.
Location: Beraban, Tabanan
Best time to visit: Sunset (around 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM)
Note: Non-Hindus cannot enter the inner temple, but the outer grounds and sunset views are spectacular.
3. Uluwatu Temple – Cliff-Side Spiritual Sanctuary
Sitting atop a 70-meter-high cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple is one of the seven sea temples forming a chain around Bali’s coast. This 11th-century temple is dedicated to the sea god Dewa Kapican. Don’t miss the nightly Kecak fire dance performance held in the open-air amphitheater.
Location: Uluwatu, Badung
Best time to visit: Late afternoon for sunset and Kecak dance
Warning: Watch out for monkeys who are known to steal glasses and jewelry!
4. Tirta Empul – Holy Water Temple
Tirta Empul is a sacred Hindu Balinese water temple dating back to 962 AD. The temple is famous for its holy spring water where Balinese Hindus perform ritual purification. Visitors can participate in the traditional water blessing ceremony conducted by temple priests.
Location: Tampaksiring, Gianyar
Best time to visit: Morning hours (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Experience: Bring a change of clothes if you wish to join the purification ritual.
5. Ulun Danu Beratan – Temple on the Lake
This iconic water temple sits on the shores of Lake Bratan in the mountains of central Bali. The stunning five-tiered meru tower rising from the misty lake creates one of Bali’s most recognizable images. Dedicated to the goddess of the lake, this temple is part of the UNESCO-recognized Cultural Landscape of Bali Province.
Location: Bedugul, Tabanan
Best time to visit: Morning when mist often shrouds the lake
Nearby: Explore the beautiful botanical gardens and strawberry farms.
6. Goa Gajah – The Elephant Cave
Discovered in 1923, Goa Gajah is an archaeological site dating back to the 9th century. The entrance features a menacing stone-carved face flanked by animals and mythical creatures. Inside, you’ll find ancient meditation chambers and a courtyard with bathing pools fed by sacred springs.
Location: Bedulu, Gianyar
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
History: The cave predates the Hindu arrival in Bali, originally serving Buddhist monks.
7. Pura Lempuyang Luhur – Gateway to Heaven
Famous for its “Gates of Heaven,” Pura Lempuyang Luhur has become one of Instagram’s most sought-after locations. The dramatic split gate frames Mount Agung perfectly, creating a spiritual pathway between the earthly and divine realms.
Location: Lempuyang, Karangasem
Best time to visit: Early morning to beat the crowds and see Mount Agung clearly
Note: Queues can be long during peak season; arrive before 7:00 AM.
8. Pura Taman Ayun – The Garden Temple
Another UNESCO-recognized site, Pura Taman Ayun is a royal temple of the Mengwi kingdom established in 1634. The temple complex features beautiful multi-tiered merus, expansive gardens, and tranquil moats. It’s often combined with a visit to the nearby monkey forest.
Location: Mengwi, Tabanan
Best time to visit: Morning hours for peaceful exploration
9. Pura Semarap Dana – Hidden Mountain Temple
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path sacred temples Bali experiences, Pura Semarap Dana offers an authentic encounter far from tourist crowds. Located in the mountainous region near Mount Agung, this temple provides breathtaking panoramic views and genuine spiritual ambiance.
Location: Sintang, Karangasem
Best time to visit: Clear mornings when Mount Agung views are best
Tip: A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for the steep, unpaved road.
10. Pura Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) – Modern Cultural Icon
While technically not an ancient temple, GWK features one of the world’s largest statues depicting Vishnu riding the mythical bird Garuda. The cultural park hosts traditional dance performances and offers panoramic views of southern Bali’s coastline.
Location: Ungasan, Badung
Best time to visit: Late afternoon for sunset views and evening performances
11. Pura Taman Saraswati – Lotus Temple
Located in the heart of Ubud, Pura Taman Saraswati is famous for its stunning entrance framed by pink lotus flowers in the temple’s front pool. This 17th-century temple dedicated to the goddess of knowledge and arts is a peaceful retreat from Ubud’s busy streets.
Location: Ubud, Gianyar
Best time to visit: Early morning for beautiful lotus bloom photos
Bonus: Walk to the nearby Ubud Palace and enjoy evening dance performances.
12. Pura Goa Lawah – Bat Cave Temple
Pura Goa Lawah is built around a cave that is home to thousands of bats. According to Balinese legend, this cave extends all the way to Pura Besakih, some 15 kilometers away. The temple is one of the nine directional temples protecting Bali from evil spirits.
Location: Kusamba, Klungkung
Best time to visit: Any time of day; the cave setting is consistent
Smell alert: Be prepared for the natural smell of the bat colony.
13. Pura Masceti – Sacred Beach Temple
Located on a beautiful black sand beach in the southeast, Pura Masceti is one of Bali’s lesser-known temples but no less sacred. The temple offers a serene atmosphere where you can witness local ceremonies away from tourist crowds.
Location: Pantai Masceti, Gianyar
Best time to visit: Morning for peaceful beach temple exploration
14. Pura Pulaki – Northern Coastal Temple
In North Bali, Pura Pulaki is famous for its resident monkeys and dramatic clifftop setting. The temple is dedicated to the sea gods and is known for its friendly monkey population that locals consider sacred temple guardians.
Location: Pulaki, Buleleng
Best time to visit: Late afternoon before sunset
Tip: Hold onto your belongings—the monkeys here are quite bold!
15. Pura Kehen – The Lesser Known Treasure
Often called a smaller version of Pura Besakih, Pura Kehen is a royal temple of the Bangli kingdom featuring impressive stone carvings and multiple courtyards leading up the hillside. The gradual ascending terraces create a magnificent architectural progression.
Location: Bangli town, Bangli
Best time to visit: Morning light for photography
Advantage: Much fewer tourists compared to major temples.
Essential Dress Code for Bali Temples
Proper attire is essential when visiting Balinese Hindu temples. The dress code shows respect for the sacred space and ensures you can enter all areas of the temple complex.
- Sarong: Required for everyone. You can rent or buy sarongs at temple entrances (typically 10,000-25,000 IDR)
- Selendang (sash): Worn around the waist over your sarong
- Shoulders covered: No tank tops, short sleeves are usually acceptable
- Knees covered: No shorts or short skirts
- Hair ties: Some temples require women to have covered shoulders when carrying offerings
Most tourist-friendly temples provide sarong rentals at the entrance. For more remote temples, bring your own or wear clothing that meets requirements from the start.
Best Times to Visit Bali Temples
| Temple Type | Best Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Temples | Sunset | Tanah Lot, Uluwatu offer stunning views |
| Mountain Temples | Early Morning | Clear views of Mount Agung, fewer crowds |
| Water Temples | Morning | Best light for photos, cooler temperatures |
| Tourist Hotspots | Weekday Mornings | Avoid weekend crowds at popular sites |
| Hidden Gems | Anytime | Flexible timing due to fewer visitors |
Photography Tips for Bali Temple Tours
Capturing the beauty of Bali temples to visit requires some planning:
- Golden hour magic: Visit sea temples during golden hour for warm lighting on the temple structures
- Respect restrictions: Some inner sanctums prohibit photography—always check signs and ask guides
- Drone regulations: Drones are generally prohibited at temples; permits are rarely issued
- Wide angles: Bring a wide-angle lens for capturing grand temple architecture
- Details matter: Focus on intricate stone carvings, offerings, and temple guardians for unique shots
- Crowd management: Arrive early morning or use photo editing to remove crowds in post-processing
Cultural Etiquette When Visiting Temples
Showing respect at sacred sites enhances your experience and honors local traditions:
- Walk clockwise: When moving through temple courtyards, walk in a clockwise direction
- Pointing feet: Sit with feet tucked beneath you or pointed away from shrines; never point feet at offerings or sacred objects
- Keep voices low: Temples are places of worship; maintain a respectful volume
- Ceremonies first: If a ceremony is in progress, observe quietly and give priority to worshippers
- Don’t touch offerings: Daily offerings (canang sari) placed on the ground are sacred; step over them carefully
- Ask permission: Before photographing local worshippers, politely ask for their permission
Plan Your Bali Temple Adventure
Bali offers an incredible diversity of temple experiences, from world-famous landmarks to hidden spiritual retreats. A well-planned Bali temple tour can take you from the dramatic clifftop shrines of Uluwatu to the serene mountain temples of central Bali in just a few days.
Whether you have three days or two weeks, incorporating these sacred sites into your Bali itinerary will enrich your understanding of Balinese culture and create memories that last a lifetime. Start with the iconic temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, then venture to the lesser-known gems like Pura Kehen and Pura Semarap Dana for authentic experiences.
Ready to explore the spiritual heart of Bali? Your journey through these magnificent temples awaits!
FAQ
What is the best way to visit multiple temples in Bali?
Hiring a private driver for the day is the most convenient option for visiting multiple temples. Drivers typically charge $50-80 USD per day and can customize your route based on your interests. Alternatively, join organized temple tours from operators in Ubud, Seminyak, or Kuta.
Do non-Hindus need permission to enter Bali temples?
Most major tourist temples allow non-Hindus to enter outer courtyards with proper sarong and sash attire. Inner sanctuaries are typically reserved for Hindus. Some temples like Pura Besakih require a guided tour for non-Hindus. Always check specific entrance requirements before visiting.
What should I wear to visit Bali temples?
Wear a sarong wrapped around your waist (available for rent at temples), a sash, and clothing that covers shoulders and knees. For women, long pants or a long skirt with a top covering shoulders is ideal. Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves.
Are there any temples that are closed to tourists?
Yes, many village temples (pura puseh) are exclusively for local worshippers and not open to tourists. Major tourist temples welcome visitors but may restrict access to inner sanctums. Always look for official signage or ask locally before entering smaller temples.
How much does it cost to visit Bali temples?
Entrance fees vary: major tourist temples charge 50,000-100,000 IDR ($3-7 USD) for foreign visitors. Smaller temples are often free or ask for a small donation. Sarong rentals cost 10,000-25,000 IDR. Hiring a guide at major temples typically costs 100,000-200,000 IDR.
What is the most sacred temple in Bali?
Pura Besakih, known as the Mother Temple, is considered the most sacred temple complex in Bali. Located on Mount Agung's slopes, it dates back over 1,000 years and serves as the main sanctuary for Balinese Hinduism.
