Temples in Bali are spectacular spiritual centers known for their intricate architecture. These sacred sites reflect Bali’s rich cultural heritage and religious devotion.
Bali, often referred to as the ‘Island of the Gods,’ is home to thousands of temples that play a central role in the spiritual and cultural life of its people. Each temple, or ‘Pura’ in Balinese, is a sanctuary where locals perform religious rituals and ceremonies.
Tourists flock to these temples not only for spiritual enlightenment but also to witness the awe-inspiring Balinese architecture, which often features majestic gates, stone sculptures, and lush gardens. The most iconic of these include Tanah Lot, perched on a rock formation by the sea, and the serene Besakih Temple on the slopes of Mount Agung. As you explore these hallowed grounds, you’ll find the air filled with the fragrance of incense and the sounds of gamelan music, providing a truly immersive cultural experience. Remember to dress respectfully and follow temple etiquette to honor the local customs.
How Many Temples Does Bali Have?
With more than 20,000 temples present on the island, the Island of the Gods, Bali offers visitors an opportunity to explore Bali at its cultural and spiritual zenith. These shrines, known as ‘Pura’, are located all over the various landscapes of the island, from misty hill tops, all the way to crowded towns, and peaceful beaches.
Out of them all, the grandest and holiest of them all is the Pura Besakih, situated at the foot of Mount Agung. These Balinese temples are not simply places of worship; they are important focus points for entire community life, hosting regular festivals and ceremonies, which are often bustling events and offer a great introduction into local customs and traditions.
It is a great way to understand how orthodox wellness and spirituality reigns in the people of Bali in the simplest way possible and that is through their everyday lives.
What Is The 1000 Year Old Temple In Bali?
Among all the ancient temples in Bali, no shrine is older or more revered than this. Built more than a thousand years ago, Pura Besakih is an exquisite complex of shrines set against a lush mountain backdrop in the south of the islandlbrakks most prolific rice belt. Sitting high on the slopes of Mount Agung, this celebrated temple is a series of scape that weaves across the hillside that tells a tale just as old it seems.
Rumor has it that Balinese heritage resides in this holy place, guarded by masonic dragons that prowl over the dense fumes of incense. Not only a vestige of historical importance but also a testament of a bygone spiritual age, Pura Besakih is an icon of the island, welcoming pilgrims of all persuasions to be enveloped in its temporal grace.
Which Is The Famous Temple In Bali?
Located on the peaceful shores and lush landscapes of Bali, the Tanah Lot is an icon of the island’s cultural history. The sublime rock formation overlooking the tempestuous waves of the ocean has been an attraction for people from all over the world to pay their respect in this age-old Hindu temple.
Not only in terms of its religious importance but its location having achieved an almost unholy nirvana of natural beauty and man made architectural wonder. At sunset, the silhouette of Tanah Lot aglow with the last rays of the day is a picture-perfect tableau that holds all the spiritual meaning of Bali.
There are many temples spread across the island, although none cast quite the spell that Tanah Lot does — it is the iconic, must-see temple for anyone who cares to understand the otherwordly magic of the Balinese heritage.
26 Biggest Beautiful Temples in Bali to Visit This Year
1. Uluwatu Temple
Jutting out onto a precipice to the Indian Ocean, the Uluwatu Temple represents as high of a calibrator of spiritual reverence as well as architectural charm. This ancient temple not only has a great religious significance but the sky is painted with hues of orange and purple due to which it is also popular for fabulous sunsets.
One of the more mystical experiences you may have is the traditional Kecak fire dances at sunset that is left can leave some visitors in a trance. Located on a hilltop above the roaring surf, the temple offers a tranquil retreat and a view of the synthesis of culture with natural surroundings.
When visiting this Sacred Site it is recommended to wear Respectful Clothing and be aware of the local customs. Uluwatu Temple has a great history besides of beautiful view, one of best place to visit in Bali.
2. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Located by the side of Lake Bratan, this beautiful temple shows its majesty in the form of a serene figure blending in with the calm water of the lake in the background. Dedicated to the goddess of the lake Dewi Danu, this iconic temple represents the respect for natural elements that keeps farmers in Bali alive.
The temple looks like is floating on the lake thereby creates an ethereal charm that attracts to visitors and all surrounded by a subtle mist. Tucked away in the cool mountain air as the only royal temple in Bali, this site nestled deep into its serene forest and picturesque mountain setting, the site allows you to get away from the intense heat of Bali’s coastal heat, revealing a series of garden landscapes, followed by various ancient structures that date back to the beginning of the 17th century.
3. Taman Ayun Temple
Situated in the middle of Pagirangan royal park, Taman Ayun Temple is world renowned as one of the most beautiful testament to the artistic accomplishments of the Balinese people. The old temple — which means ‘beautiful garden’ in Balinese — is encircled by freshwater moats and huge gates adorned with epic carvings, setting a cinematic view.
Established in the 17th century by the royal family of the Mengwi kingdom, the so-called Water Palace features the typical Balinese architectural style with multi-tiered shrines and interconnected courtyards built around a clear river emanating from the beautiful lake Buyan and Tamblingan. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, it will be familiar to those seeking to discover something more of Bali; its cultural richness and its spiritual peace.
Not just a place of worship, Taman Ayun is a Balinese cultural jewel that encapsulates Bali’s history and architectural excellence.
4. Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is a majestic cultural icon of Bali, perched dramatically on a rock formation with the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean. It is a physical representation of the islanders profound spiritual roots, and also their architectural genius. People come here to get spiritual peace and to view the enchanting sun taned sunset which gives Silhouette of the temple a magical touch.
Sea snakes like the one in this picture are said to be the guardians of the Coral Ball at the Pura Gede Perancak temple, protecting it from evil spirits. Combining nature at its best and cultural significance, Tanah lot offers a perfect mix of a life-changing experience and a tourist spot located at the island temple trail.
5. Goa Gajah
Such is the case with Goa Gajah, the Elephant Cave situated within the lush greens of Bali. Visitors can stroll among its delicately-carved stone statues, and its quiet courtyards, all dating back to the ninth century.
These frontages looks like the prophetic old evil of demonic animals being graven into the rocks. Once inside, the complex leads to an interior space, intended to be a meditative refuge. Go for a walk to the site’s bathing pools, and of its fountains, illustrating how the ancient crafts appeared to be.
It is the incorporation of every attraction for the cultural enthusiast, artistic soul, and spiritual seeker, and also a heartfelt tribute to Bali’s deep historical past.
6. Tirta Empul Temple
Tirta Empul Temple also known as the “Water Temple” is one of the most famous temples in Bali, with a long history of Balinese water temples, and a notable example of how beautiful this island is. Evinston (photo by Ryan Edwards/Visit Gainesville)Krishna Lunch at the Krishna House in Gainesville, FloridaFacebookRecurring weekly on Monday(352) 336-4600Free Evinston, Florida Evinston, FL was settled in the early 1850s by Wm. Dating back to around 962 A.
D. ly, the temple complex is a cultural gem, with its bathing pools and ornate Balinese carvings attracting tourists from all over the world. The Balinese believe the waters to be holy and healing, and that they bring people’s souls back to life, meaning that when you bathe in the waters, your body and your spirit can be renewed and revived.
It has the tranquil space where the soft prayers of the devotees blend with the silence moulding an enigmatic experience, nothing related in books that talks about the charm of the island isles.
7. Taman Saraswati Temple
Taman Saraswati Temple, is situated within the lush green landscapes of Ubud and dedicated to the Hindu goddess of learning – Saraswati. This stunning water temple, created with traditional Balinese style architecture, which has a pond of lotus that will make a peaceful and contemplative ambiance.
The temple itself is covered with reliefs and statues whose complexity and depth imparts stories of an ancient wisdom wherein the skill of an ageless artist is evident. Every evening the performance of dance is held on a stage at the pond side which opens a window to experience cultural blend for the devotees and the tourists visiting the place.
Surrounded by lush forest, this peaceful place of worship provides a contrast with the vibrancy of Ubud, so anyone who strolls in might want to take a rest and enjoy the beauty of Bali spiritual being.
8. Besakih Temple
Besakih Temple, the largest and most important Hindu temple of Bali, sits on the slopes of Mount Agung. Known as the ‘Mother Temple’ of Bali, this complex of 23 temples in central Bali is the largest and holiest temple of the ancient Hindu religion.
The spiritual sanctuary Here is where you can enjoy a stunning view of the panorama of Mount Batur and natural showers A high-taste cultural that offers a blend of local nature and traditional Balinese architecture, which can be used as a place of spiritual and refreshing. The beauty of its location and the grace and serenity that radiates from it, cannot be easily described, attracting visitors from all over the world to come and experience the spiritual legacy of Bali.
9. Lempuyang Temple
Perched prettily on the slopes of East Bali’s Mount Lempuyang, Lempuyang Temple is a spiritual gem that enthralls with its otherworldly allure. This Balinese Hindu temple, Pura Lempuyang Luhur, is more than an hours drive from Canggu, but it is one of the most Instagrammable places in Bali and makes for a great day trip!
The entrance of the temple, called Heaven’s Gate, curtains the sky-high Mount Agung providing for an incredibly picturesque snap that would make anyone with a camera ask for more. As Pilgrams and visitors climb the stairs, they enjoy the peaceful ambiance the views, which extend over the verdant beauty Bali is known for.
The complex is rich in history and is one of the island’s most ancient and the holiest Hindu temples, situated in the 7 temples built in ascending to the mountain top. Doused in mythology, decked with ornate dragon staircases, Lempuyang Temple is an eternal representation of Balinese culture and spirituality. A humbling—and incredible—experience.
10. Gunung Kawi Temple
Embraced by verdant rice terraces within the idyllic heart of Bali, Gunung Kawi temple is a fascinating ancient site and excellent example of the island’s historical legacy. A rock face sanctuary from the 11th century, this complex comprises ten candi (shrines) dedicated to King Anak Wungsu, and his most important queens.
Its magical surrounds and the sound of the sacred Pakerisan River just below only add to the already peaceful vibe that travelers often find themselves hardly able to get enough of. The complex relief carvings on the temple bear witness to a history of fine craftsmanship and spiritual zeal.
Travellers are encouraged to stroll though the historical site at a leisurely pace, taking in the cultural value and architectural sophistication that has stood for centuries.
11. Ling Gwan Kiong
Located in the center of Singaraja, Ling Gwan Kiong tells so much about Bali culture. This vibrant red and gold Chinese temple which is a magnet to visitors from near and far. Intricate carvings of dragons and lanterns that both equally depict tales of history and myth fill the prostrate side of a room as the aroma of burning incense waft in the symphony of reflection and silent supplication
Loved by worshippers and those looking for a little calm and quiet, take in the intricate statues and architecture as a beautiful mix of Chinese and Balinese design are on display around the Temple. A bastion of peace and religion, Ling Gwan Kiong provides an engagement with Bali’s polyglot culture that’s impossible to replicate without a visit to this evocative holdfast.
12. Petitenget Temple
Located centrally within Seminyak, the Petitenget Temple is an island of culture in the ever crazy immigrant mecca. Pura Petitenget (also known as Petitenget Temple) is a centuries-old temple that is a must-visit for tourists looking to be soaked in Bali’s beautiful spiritual culture.
Petitenget Temple, BaliContrast Petitenget Temple and its intricately carved gates which draw a parallel to the tranquillity of modern-day temples near by. The temple has old school architecture which attracts a lot of tourist, the area is calm and is a peaceful place. It adds to the intrigue, exhibiting the colourful customs that have been passed down through the generations.
One of the most important sites within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed irrigation system of ‘Subak’, the temple holds not just religious but historical importance to the Balinese people.
13. Gunung Lebah Temple
Situated at the junction of two rivers just outside the town of Ubud, you will find Gunung Lebah Temple, one of those lesser-known spiritual spots that is not overrun with the crowds of the more mainstream touristy equivalents. This temple was built in 8th century and it reflects the cultural glory and spiritual traditions of the people of Bali.
With its quiet and remote location, a place that only offers the view of all things green,it also makes it a great meditation and self-reflecting spot. The intricacies of carvings and the beautiful green canopy on the entire temple will gatecrash the minds of the visitors and this is a perfect place to loose some peace by detaching oneself from touristy crowd.
Try and take some time to watch Balinese people make their traditional offerings, and feel the divine energy that occupies this spiritual land.
14. Batukaru Temple
Perched on the verdant slopes of Mount Batukaru in the Tabanan regency, Batukaru Temple is a place of spiritual retreat, a world away from Bali’s crowded tourist hubs. Here this so-called Pura Luhur Batukaru offering you a tranquil attitude with the misty forests covered well this sacred site being ambiance mystique.
The temple dates back to early Balinese history and third character as one of the nine directional temples on the island to protect Bali from evil spirits. Its singular thatched pinnacled shrines (meru), draw the pilgrims and just add to the tranquil fumes-filled environment that reverberates with the natural peace right in the middle of upariver/nativeAmazons.
At Batukaru, the spiritual connection is deep; it is a place where the whispers of the past collide with the prayers of the now. A visit here provides a raw, off the beaten path look at the spiritual heart of Bali, encouraging personal reflection among its otherworldly pagodas and holy springs.
15. Batuan Temple
Located amidst Batuan village, the Batuan Temple is an epitome of spiritual grace and architectural majesty. Welcome to a world of tradition and craftsmanship dominated by ornately sculpted stone gates surrounding this Hindu temple in Bali.
A central locale for village ceremonies and festivals give the temple a livelier ambiance and you will notice the scent of incense and hear the harmonious melodies of the gamelan getalong (small orchestra) at regularly scheduled daily rituals. Visitors are advised to cover up in a sarong when entering the waters, to respect the local heritage and enhance the peaceful ambience of the temple as they enjoy the experience.
Impressive as this structure may be, the Batuan Temple in Bali, a stark contrast of modesty, yet steadfast in its resilience, stands as evidence to the enduring culture and spiritual legacy of the island.
16. Kehen Temple
Hidden in the tranquil hills of Bangli, Kehen Temple is an inspiring symbol Bali’s cultural fabric. Pura Kehen is a holy sanctuary located in the local village and has roots dating to the 11th century, a real ancient site of the island.
This banyan tree stands before a terraced entrance, beneath elaborate temple carvings, inviting visitors into a sanctuary. The Balinese architecture in the temple are actually displayed in classical view, and the shrines and pavilions are dotted on a hill.
Kehen Temple is a site of deep religious importance where devotees including Hellen Abram Darmanyu flock in to offer prayer during vivid ceremonies that pay homage to both gods and ancestors. Aided by the verdant surroundings, the atmosphere of the temple is also enhanced, adding to the timeless, sanctified ambiance that prevails here.
17. Vihara Dharmayana
Kuta might be a hectic spot nowadays, but in its very heart is a peaceful oasis, a symbol of cultural integration: the Vihara Dharmayana It is also a major Balinese Temple be it from a Chinese Buddhism perspective and provides a peaceful escape from Bali’s craziness at times.
The temple provides a peaceful environment for the surrounding urban energy, with its intricate dragons and massive red lanterns. The smell of incense and the site of worshippers performing silent prayers greeted visitors — an air of reverence presided over the scene.
As proof of the island’s religious heterogeneity, Vihara Dharmayana exists not just as a spiritual haven for the local Chinese community but also as a conduit to unify thousands of tourists from all over the globe, seeking to gain insight into the diverse spiritual tapestry that is Bali.
18. Penataran Sasih Temple
Photo by Taro Kono Nestled in the hearth of Bali is the Penataran Sasih Temple which stands as a heritage and testimony of the island culture. This historical site of the ex-state temple of Pejeng kingdom is well known for the Moon of Pejeng, the largest single-cast bronze kettle drum in the world.
Last but not the least, A drum from the bronze age is believed to be kept at the temple adding a mystical curiosity to the place attracting people of both historical and spiritual interests. The building structure of Penataran Sasih is a combination of traditional architectural style and spiritual symbol that reflects the distinct and rare trait of Balinese religious system and also their social community sense.
The tranquil atmosphere of the place helps devotees connect with the higher power; it’s because of the beautifully carved walls, the artefacts, which narrate the excellent past of Bali.
19. Samuan Tiga Temple
Hidden among the lush Bali landscapes, Samuan Tiga Temple speaks to the historical and spiritual heart of the island. Just 10 minutes away from Ubud, you can find this sacred site which is also known as Pura Samuan Tiga, a temple with a history that dates back to the 10th century. This is the place where Balinese Hindus often come to perform the Siap Sampian ritual – a sort of annual symbolic battle good against bad. Photo by Bandilla · Samuan Tiga follows the intricate designs and stone carvings which are synonymous with Balinese temples, every piece and part of the architectural brain system holding religious sensitivity. You can feel the serenity of the temple where it creates the perfect place for meditation and to get to know one of many in the cultural history of Bali.
20. Blanjong Temple
Located in serene Sanur, Blanjong Temple was recently renovated and refurbished to be a tranquil reminder of a time gone by. This historical site that dates back to the 10th century is famous for ancient inscriptions and artistic stone carvings. The massive gateway of the temple welcomes visitors to traverse back in historic time while exploring the remains of the past decades.
The cornerstone is the stone pillar Blanjong Inscription that has an importance to history, being an old Balinese record and demonstrating the connection of the island with the antiquated Javanese Kingdom. Tucked away in the serenity of sanur, amongst the many tourist attractions in Bali, the Blanjong Temple offers a secret peek into the soul of the island, which dates back decades if not centuries, and awaiting by default in the itinerary of every purist to set out in search of reliving the mystique of Bali.
21. Beji Temple
Located in the peaceful area of North Bali, Beji Temple is proof of Bali’s deep spirituality. An oasis revered by the local population as a cleansing sanctuary, this hallowed ground features traditional Balinese design, including ornamental stone gates and statues celebrating the island’s talent for intricate carving.
Bathed in lush gardens and serene setting, Beji Temple provides a garden environment for a variety of cultural ceremonies that have lodged the site right in the heart of community life. One of the things that strikes visitors is the peace that envelops the complex, an oasis, a green lung in the middle of Bali where you can relax and think.
22. Meduwe Karang Temple
Meduwe Karang Temple on the north coast of Bali is a reflection of the rich spirituality and culture of the island of Bali. Greetings and welcome to this review of a hidden gem that lures in explorers with its intricate carvings and calm surroundings in the Western United States. The temple and its verdant grounds and intricate facades pay homage to the deities so revered by the Balinese.
Every stone relief has a tale to say, such as the ones from myth or daily life, while the flowers that offer adorns the complex, that sound as if it is praise which will go on perpetually. If you seek a peaceful sanctuary, here you may relax in the quiet Balinese elegance as the spiritual currents of Bali whisper through the distant scrolls of Meduwe Karang.
23. Sakenan Temple
Sakenan Temple is one of Padang Galak Bay attractions and is one old temple which is located on the shore of Serangan Island in the southern portion of tranquil island of Bali a place uruly historical and spiritually. This temple was constructed in the 10th century and has been slowly restored over the years to recreate the singular Hindu-Balinese style of architecture.
It becomes a hub of cultural festivities, with large crowds of devotees performing rituals and offerings here during the Kuningan festival, which is celebrated every year. The temple itself falls into two main sections, both abundant with elaborate carvings and holy shrines that provide an insight into Bali’s elaborate religious life.
The serene environment and open sea view are what hypnotizes the senses of the visitors and makes Sakenan Temple a compulsory landmark for everyone on a spiritual tour of Bali.
24. Goa Giri Putri Temple
Perched up in the tranquil karst hills of Nusa Penida, one of Bali’s highest water temples, Goa Giri Putri Temple, offers a taste of Bali’s spiritual charm. The sacred cave temple is an architectural wonder where pilgrims need to pass through an aperture and there, lie an enormous constructed sanctuary.
The interior of the temple; it was natural to expect the high ceiling and the rock formations said to have been in that space since ancient times. The calm, serene atmosphere of the temple, along with the elaborate rituals of the priests here, often leave devotees and tourists alike in awe. With incense smoke curling up into the cave roof and the sound of chanting echoing off the cavernous space, the visitor is poised for a a sense of being transported to another world.
An exception on the island, this spiritual site allows you to witness a different experience to the popular beach temples, offering a window into the- oftentimes delicate- ritualistic practices of Balinese Hinduism.
25. Vihara Dharma Giri Temple
Vihara Dharma Giri: Nestled in the tranquil highlands of Bali, is Vihara Dharma Giri a testament to peace and transcended spiritual experience. It beckons tourists, as it is a beautiful temple with a reposing Buddha statue against the backdrop of greenery.
Nowadays, the visitors often get attracted to those intricately laid-bared architectural features and tranquil surrounding ambience of the entire complex. In contrast to the mainly Hindu temples that dot the island, it is beautifully preserved as one of few worship spaces. It gives you a deeper look into Balinese religious duty.
Sublime serenity The gardens at the temple are exquisitely crafted, giving guests a refuge to sit in to meditate or reflect, to have a moment in the tranquil atmosphere.
26. Ulun Danu Batur Temple
Nestled on the furthest shores of Bali’s Lake Batur, the impressive Ulun Danu Batur Temple is one of the nine directional temples of the island will take its name from this lake. This holiest of places after the mother temple of Besakih, is one of the island’s most beautiful places; with it’s own share of mystery that literally haunts the island this sacred complex is both a sanctum and a solitude, a place of solace for the pious and a scenic attraction for any tourists.
History of the Temple: The temple, originally situated on the slope of Mount Batur was moved to its present day location to protect it from a devastating eruption so it is highly revered. These days tourists flock to gawk at the ornate Balinese architecture and the view for miles from this venerated site.
The quiet, serene setting is a perfect way to connect with one’s inner being, and the crisp mountain weather is just the cherry on top! It is an important religious site as well as a key cultural landscape within the subak system, and was recognized by UNESCO World Heritage for the perfect harmony between people and nature in Bali.
Why Does Bali Have So Many Hindu Temples?
The Island of the Gods aka Bali is home to numerous Hindu temples that boast of its spiritual and architectural richness. Bali, with a Hindu culture that has been able to survive the dominant Islam of other parts of Indonesia for centuries, has the highest density of sanctuaries and, as expected, it is the island with which the attribution of rarety is always accustomed.
Apart from temples being the centres for worship, they also serve as community meeting points where numerous colourful festivals and religious ceremonies are celebrated, depicting the honour and love that Balinese have for their traditions. These are characterised by the interconnected Nagar style architecture of regional craftsmanship including a few features and themes absord from Hindu temples with the central features having a elevation beyond the wide gaterooms, which are the tallest parts of these temples.
An enduring devotion to their faith and heritage is why the island’s lush landscapes are brimming with their omnipresence.
What Is The Largest Bali Temple?
One of the most cropped temples in Bali, the Pura Besakih, is located amongst the verdant beauty of Bali. The island’s highest peak is Mount Agung where the “mother temple,” Besakih, stands on its slopes. The 23 temples here are spread over a huge complex and all have something to offer to travellers and pilgrims.
Pura BesakihThe vastness and depth of Pura Besakih have a spiritual history that is crucial to Balinese culture and tradition, with various ceremonies that take place here that articulate the distinctly Balinese combination of the island’s Hindu practices. Spend time investigating this holy site and take this chance to look deep into the religious past of the island which has molded its identity.
Conclusion
Temple-hopping in Bali gives visitors a feel for the soul of this island that is as spiritual as it is beautiful. There is a story in every building we see; they are but pieces of a greater whole. Just be sure to keep in mind local customs when roving through these holy lands.
You will realize the trip is far from over as Bali’s temples promise to awe and inspire with their ancient grandeur.
