Beyond its beaches and nightlife, the island is dotted with cliffside sanctuaries, lakeside shrines, ancient cave temples, and lush forest courtyards. Visiting the temples in Bali is essential for travellers who want to experience the island’s cultural soul, spiritual depth, and extraordinary photo opportunities.

For Indian travellers planning a trip to Bali, the destination remains visa-friendly because Indonesia offers Visa on Arrival for 30 days, and direct flights operate from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, and Kolkata to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS).

In this guide, TrekHops brings you the best temples in Bali you simply cannot miss. Each sacred site carries its own mythological significance, cultural heritage, and breathtaking scenery. Explore the list below to discover which temples deserve a place in your Bali itinerary.

8 Most Worth Visiting Temples in Bali

1. Besakih Temple

Besakih Temple is Bali’s largest and holiest Hindu temple, sitting dramatically on the slopes of Mount Agung. The complex includes over 80 shrines, with Pura Penataran Agung as its spiritual centre. Known for its multi-tiered architecture and breathtaking mountain backdrop, Besakih offers a deeply sacred and mystical ambience.

The best time to visit is early morning or during April, when the Eka Dasa Rudra Festival brings vibrant rituals to life. Visitors are required to wear a sarong and sash.

Location

Besakih, Rendang, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80863, Indonesia

Timings

Daily, 7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Entry Fees

• Domestic (incl. shuttle): Rp 80,000
• International (incl. shuttle): Rp 150,000

Sarong and sash included.

2. Gunung Kawi Temple

Gunung Kawi is one of Bali’s most fascinating temples, known for its massive rock-cut shrines carved into a cliff valley. Located near Ubud, this temple blends spirituality with nature, surrounded by rice terraces and tropical forest.

Its ten stone shrines, believed to honour Balinese royalty of the 11th century, make it a historically important site. Visit early morning between April and October to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.

Location

Jl. Gn. Kawi, Tampaksiring, Gianyar, Bali 80552

Timings

Daily, 8:00 am – 6:00 pm

Entry Fees

• Domestic Adults: Rp 30,000
• Domestic Children: Rp 15,000
• International Adults: Rp 50,000
• International Children: Rp 25,000
• Under 5 years: Free

3. Pura Penataran Sasih

Pura Penataran Sasih is an ancient moon temple located in Pejeng village, dating back to 1266 AD. It houses the iconic Moon of Pejeng, a 1.86-metre bronze drum believed to be the largest single-cast bronze drum in the world.

The temple is known for its ritual ceremonies, traditional performances like Sang Hyang Jaran, and deep archaeological significance. Visit between April and October for pleasant weather.

Location

Jalan Raya Pejeng, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571

Timings

Mon–Fri: 11:00 am – 5:30 pm
Sat: 11:00 am – 3:30 pm

Entry Fees

Entry is free, donations accepted.

4.Tirta Empul Temple

Tirta Empul is one of Bali’s most sacred temples, famous for its holy spring water pools used for ritual purification (Melukat). Located near Tampaksiring, the temple is an active spiritual centre where locals and tourists participate in cleansing rituals.

Visit between April and October, preferably in the morning, for a peaceful experience.

Location

Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80552

Timings

Daily, 8:00 am – 6:00 pm

Entry Fees

• Adults: Rp 75,000
• Children 5–12 yrs: Rp 50,000
• Under 5 yrs: Free

Melukat ceremony not included in ticket price.

5.Lempuyang Temple

Perched on Mount Lempuyang, this temple is globally famous for its iconic “Gates of Heaven”, a photogenic frame capturing Mount Agung in the distance. It is one of Bali’s oldest and most spiritually important temples.

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon between April and September. Travellers must climb 1,700 steps to reach the main temple.

Location

Bukit, Karangasem, Bali 80852

Timings

Daily, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm

Entry Fees

• Approx. Rp 100,000 (includes photographer fee)

Sarong rental & shuttle charged separately.

6. Taman Ayun

Taman Ayun, a UNESCO-listed cultural site, is known for its large multi-tiered shrines (meru) and a wide moat that creates an elegant floating-temple illusion. Located in Mengwi, this temple blends royal architecture with peaceful gardens.

Visit between April and October, ideally in the morning.

Location

Jl. Ayodya No.10, Mengwi, Badung, Bali

Timings

Daily, 8:00 am – 6:15 pm

Entry Fees

• Domestic Adults: Rp 20,000
• Domestic Children: Rp 10,000
• Foreign Adults: Rp 30,000
• Foreign Children: Rp 15,000

7.Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati

Located in central Ubud, this temple honours Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, art, and wisdom. With its lotus ponds, elegant carvings, and traditional dance performances, it is one of the most charming temples in Bali.

Visit between April and October, especially in the evening for dance shows.

Location

Jl. Kajeng, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571

Timings

Daily, 7:00 am – 7:00 pm

Entry Fees

Free entry

• Sarong rental available; donations optional.

8. Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple sits majestically on a 70-metre seaside cliff, offering dramatic ocean views and unforgettable sunsets. It is famous for its Kecak fire dance, performed daily at sunset.

Visit between April and October, ideally in late afternoon.

Location

Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung, Bali

Timings

Mon–Sat: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm

Entry Fees

• International Adults: Rp 50,000
• International Children (6–12): Rp 20,000
• Domestic Adults: Rp 30,000
• Domestic Children: Rp 15,000
• Under 6 yrs: Free

What to Wear in Bali Temples?

To maintain sacredness and respect local customs:

• All travellers should cover shoulders and knees before entering the temple.
• Temples in Bali do not allow entry in shorts, mini skirts, tank tops, etc.
• Sarongs and Sashes are available at the entrance of each temple for rent
• Wear comfortable and decent clothes, including pants, long skirts, or dresses(below knee length)

What is The Most Photographed Temple in Bali?

1. Ulun Danu Beratan 

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is based on the tranquil shores of Lake Beratan in Bedugul. It comes in the list of the most photographed temples in Bali. The remarkable floating pagoda of the temple in the misty, serene waters, along with mountains as a backdrop, makes it perfect for a captivating snapshot.

The ideal time to explore Ulun Danu Beratan temple is in the dry season (April to October), especially early in the morning or late evening(sunset). It is when fog and soft light show their magic in clicking pictures. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple’s wonderful and photogenic beauty makes it a point of appeal for its views.

2.Pura Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot is also one of the most photographed temples in Bali as it beautifully sits on a rock formation in the middle of the sea. It seems like floating over the water during high tides, making it perfect for a magical snap.

Visit Pura Tanah Lot during dry months (April to October), particularly during sunset, to capture the orange and golden hue in the sky. The ocean as a backdrop and silhouette during dusk makes it a wonderful spot for travellers and photographers.

Is There Any Vishnu Temple in Bali?

No — the rumoured “5000-year-old underwater Vishnu temple” is a myth. The Underwater Temple Garden near Pemuteran is a man-made conservation project created in 2005 to support coral reefs and attract marine life.

Conclusion

Bali has endless things to explore for travellers across the world. One of them is visiting famous temples in Bali, which offer amazing experiences. The temples mentioned above show a mix of traditional culture, spirituality and stunning scenery.

These religious sites, starting from cliffside wonders to tranquil water temples, provide a deep knowledge of Balinese traditions. So, whether you look for spiritual connectivity, a unique culture, or an exceptional photo spot, Bali temples cover it all.

So, start your temple journey today and find out why temples in Bali deserve a place on your travel bucket list.