10 Must Visit Temples in Bali: Sacred Sites With Spectacular Views

Can you imagine a trip to Bali without exploring some of the iconic temples? Bali, known as the “Island of the Gods,” is famous for its temples that show deep faith in local beliefs and customs. 

These must visit temples in Bali offer visitors not only stunning architecture but also sacred rituals. From cliff-top temples to water temples, each sacred site tells a different story. Some temples honour sea gods, while others worship mountain deities. And many others become gathering hotspots for important ceremonies. 

Since there are so many temples to choose from, picking which ones to visit can be tricky when the time is limited. Let’s explore the most significant temples across the island, to experience Balinese spirituality, architecture, and stunning views!

1. Besakih Temple

Besakih Temple, known as “the mother temple,” is situated on Mount Agung’s slopes and is Bali’s largest and holiest temple complex. With over 80 temples, it is considered an important place for Hindu traditions.

Besakih Temple is surrounded by mountains, valleys, and rice paddies, making it one of the top temples to visit in Bali. Don’t forget your camera to capture the best views!

• Entrance Fees: ₹451/- per person approx
• Timing: 8 AM to 6 PM 
• Location: Besakih, Rendang, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80863, Indonesia

2. Tanah Lot Temple

 

Tanah Lot is a famous sea temple on a rock formation just 30 minutes north of Canggu. It became more popular after appearing in the “Eat Pray Love” movie. During low tide, you can walk to the temple for a blessing, though tourists can’t enter the main temple. Visit at sunset for the best views.

Tanah Lot is one of the famous temples to visit in Bali, with great spiritual significance and architecture. 

• Entrance Fees: ₹390/- each for Adults, ₹260/- each for Children
• Timing: 6 AM to 7 PM
• Location: Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali

3. Uluwatu Temple

 

Uluwatu is one of the famous temples to visit in Bali, situated on the southern cliffs. Visitors love the amazing ocean views and the traditional Kecak fire dance performed daily at sunset. 

During this unique performance, men chant “cak-cak-cak” while acting Hindu Ramayana stories ending with fire scenes. Uluwatu is among the must visit temples in bali for a mesmerizing experience. 

• Entrance Fees: ₹252/- each for Adults, ₹151/- each for Children
• Timing: 7 AM to 7 PM 
• Location: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

4. Ulun Danu Beratan

Ulun Danu Beratan temple, also known as the “floating temple,” is situated on Lake Beratan. The temple honours the water goddess, Dewi Danu. What makes Ulun Danu Beratan special are the traditional pagodas and the mountain backdrop. 

Visiting during religious ceremonies offers us an opportunity to witness Balinese culture. Early morning provides better light for photography, and you can experience fewer tourists too. 

• Entrance Fees:  ₹377/- each for Adults, ₹252/- each for Children
• Timing: 7 AM to 7 PM 
• Location: Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia

5. Tirta Empul Temple

Tirta Empul undoubtedly ranks among the best temples in Bali. This sacred temple site is built around a natural spring north of Ubud. The temple is famous for Melukat, a purification ritual where you bathe under fountains to cleanse mind, body, and soul.

To participate in the ritual, you need to wear a green sarong (available for rent) and make an offering. Tirta Emple offers a great insight into Balinese culture. 

• Entrance Fees: ₹377/- each for Adults, ₹252/- each for Children
• Timing: 8 AM to 6 PM 
• Location: Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80552, Indonesia

6. Gunung Kawi

Gunung Kawi is one of the best Bali temples and an archaeological site that features royal tombs from the 11th century. The temple has 7-metre-high shrines surrounded by jungle, creating an adventurous atmosphere. Be prepared for a steep staircase requiring moderate fitness. 

The temple is about 30 minutes from Ubud and near Pura Tirta Empul. With a breathtaking Bali tour package, visitors can explore both temples on the same day!

• Entrance Fees: ₹252/- per person 
• Timing: 8 AM to 6 PM 
• Location: Jl. Gn. Kawi, Tampaksiring, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80552, Indonesia

7. Luhur Lempuyang Temple

While often listed among must-visit temples in Bali, Luhur Lempuyang is famous for its “Gates of Heaven,” near by Mount Agung. Surprisingly, the perfect reflections seen in photos come from photographers using mirrors – there’s no actual lake at the site.

Additionally, this spot has become extremely crowded, with tourists typically waiting 3-4 hours just for a quick photo opportunity. Despite these, the temple offers great cultural significance and stunning mountain views. 

• Entrance Fees: ₹755/- per person
• Timing: 8 AM to 6 PM 
• Location: Desa Purwayu, Tri Buana, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia

8. Taman Saraswati Temple 

Taman Saraswati (Ubud Water Palace) is one of the beautiful Bali temples located in central Ubud. The temple features a stunning lotus pond with fountains and carvings representing Hindu mythology.

This Hindu temple is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of learning. Visitors can enjoy traditional dance performances at night for ₹503/- per person. You can also relax at Cafe Lotus, which overlooks the temple, and watch performances while dining. 

• Entrance Fees:  ₹302/- each for Adults, ₹226/- each for Children
• Night Performance Fees: ₹503/- per person
• Timing: 7 AM to 5 PM 
• Location: Jl. Kajeng, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

9. Goa Gajah 

Goa Gajah is a 1,000-year-old temple and an archaeological site. Its main attraction is an ancient manmade cave with carvings of mythological creatures. The complex features bathing pools, statues, and temple ruins. 

Beyond the central area, experience walking through rice fields to find a small cave and beautiful stupa carvings on the cliff walls. This makes it one of the top temples to visit in Bali. 

• Entrance Fees: ₹251/- each for Adults, ₹126/- each for Children
• Timing: 8 AM to 6 PM 
• Location: Bedulu, Blahbatuh, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Indonesia

10. Taman Ayun Temple

Taman Ayun temple, featuring beautiful gardens and lotus ponds, stands out for its historical significance. Built in the 17th century, it was the family temple for the King of Mengwi when Bali was divided into nine kingdoms. 

Taman Ayun has a small museum showing photographs of Ida Tjokorda Mengwi XII (the former king) and a cinema screening. This temple is part of Bali’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for the island’s irrigation system that considers rice a divine gift.

• Entrance Fees: ₹151/- each for Adults, ₹75/- each for Children
• Timing: 8 AM to 6:15 PM 
• Location: Jl. Ayodya No.10, Mengwi, Kec. Mengwi, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80351, Indonesia

Must Visit Temples In Bali – Important Tips

 

1. Wear A Sarong: All Bali temples require you to wear a sarong. They’re usually provided for free at the entrance or included in your ticket. 

2. Dress Properly: Cover your shoulders and knees. Don’t wear revealing tops, clothes with bad words, or swimwear.

3. Bring Cash: You need to carry cash to pay a small fee to enter most temples(some have fixed prices, others ask for donations). Cash is also needed for parking.

4. Ask Permission: Make sure to ask permission before taking photos of people praying or during ceremonies. Don’t take pictures inside sacred inner temple areas. 

5. Be Respectful: Remember, these temples are not just tourist spots but holy places where locals pray. Hence, be respectful and polite.