Bali is home to the most spiritually rich and visually appealing temples in Southeast Asia. It is not all about beaches and water only, but covers cliffside sanctuaries and lakeside shrines as well. The amazing island offers a perfect mix of cultural heritage and architecture. Visiting famous temples in Bali is a must for travellers planning a holiday. Those religious sites show a glimpse of Balinese spirituality, along with amazing photography options.

So, in this guide, TrekHops lists the best temples in Bali that one should not miss. Each sacred site has its own spiritual significance and story setting. Find out which temples can take a place in your next Bali itinerary.

8 Most Worth Visiting Temples in Bali 

Bali is no less than a miracle when it comes to exploring temples. It is a paradise for temple lovers as it offers a mix of history, culture, and spirituality. Hindu culture is deeply rooted in the history of Bali, and breathtaking temple sites are proof of that.

From remarkable sea temples like Uluwatu to sacred sites like Besakih Temple, each offers scenic and spiritual charm. Rituals and ceremonies performed at these temples make them more than a travel spot. Along with this, each temple in different Bali villages sets the visitors on a spiritual journey.

However, if you are still wondering which temple is worth visiting in Bali, then the information below is for you.

1. Besakih Temple

Besakih Temple is the “Mother Temple of Bali” for travellers. It is the largest and holiest Hindu temple in Bali. Besakih Temple provides stunning views and a sacred atmosphere based on the slopes of Mount Agung. The temple complex houses 80+ shrines along with Pura Penataran Agung at its centre. Besakih features a rising, high terraced layout which shows the relation of humans and gods.

Besides that, the best time to explore Besakih Temple is April, as the Eka Dasa Rudra Festival is celebrated in the temple premises. Travellers can also visit the temple early in the morning when Mount Agung becomes clearly visible. One can join to perform rituals at the temple, but only after wearing a Sarong and Sash (traditional dress). Besakih’s sacredness, rich culture, and mountains in the backdrop make it more beautiful.

Location

Besakih, Rendang, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80863, Indonesia

Opening and Closing Time

Monday to Sunday (7 am to 6 pm)

Entry Fees

• Entry Fee for Domestic Plus Shuttle charges: Rp 80,000
• Entry Fee for International visitors, along with Shuttle charges: Rp. 150,000

Note: Sarong and Sash are included in the above entry fees.

2.Gunung Kawi Temple

Gunung Kawi Temple is one of the must-see temples in Bali, which is famous for its age-old rock-cut shrines carved into a riverside cliff valley. It is located in the Tampaksiring area in Bali, close to Ubud. Along with offering a serene ambience, Gunung Kawi temple is enclosed by tropical greenery and mesmerising rice terraces.

Gunung Kawi temple amazingly features the ten large shrines, which local people consider as memorials to Balinese royalty since the 11th century. The best time to visit Gunung Kawi temple is between April and October, especially early morning to avoid crowds and heat. Travellers can observe rituals, offerings, and ceremonies performed at the temple. Gunung Kawi’s peaceful ambience and historical essence make it a spectacular travel stop in Bali.

Location 

Jl. Gn. Kawi, Tampaksiring, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80552, Indonesia

Opening and Closing Time

Monday to Sunday (Between 8 am and 6 pm)

Entry Fees

• Domestic travellers (adults (above 12 or above)): Rp 30,000
• Domestic visitors (children 5 to 11 years ): Rp 15,000
• Under 5 years: No charges
• Foreign travellers (Adults 12 years or above): Rp 50,000
• Foreign travellers (children 5 to 11 years): Rp 25000
• Under 5 years: No charges

3.Pura Penataran Sasih

Pura Penataran Sasih is a moon temple located in Pejeng village, close to Ubud, Bali. The temple was founded in 1266 AD and was once the state temple of the Pejeng Kingdom. Pura Penataran Sasih is also a famous Hindu temple in Bali, which features the amazing colossal Moon of Pejeng, a 1.86 m tall single cast bronze drum. It is said that the bronze drum has been here since the Bali Bronze Age. People here believe that the bronze drum came to Earth to bring rain and ensure protection.

The best time to visit Pura Penataran Sasih for Visitors is between April and October, as it offers dry and clear weather to explore the temple in its entirety. Enjoy ceremonies like tawur pancawali or Piodalan ceremonies. It is the time when Sang Hyang Jaran trance performance and rituals light up the temple.

Local traditions and rituals include joining by observing offerings after wearing a Sarong or decent dress to show respect ambience. Pura Penataran Sasih is famous for its rich historical essence, age-old statutory(Lord Ganesha, dwarapala, etc) and archaeological value. The mystical stories about the temple draw pilgrims from different countries here.

Location

F7PV+C74, Jalan Raya, Pejeng, Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571, Indonesia

Opening and Closing Time

Monday to Friday (11 am to 5:30 pm) and on Saturday (11 am to 3:30 pm)

Entry Fees: No entry fee is required for visitors. However, the temple may appreciate the donation as per your will.

4.Tirta Empul Temple

Tirta Empul Temple is in Central Bali, close to Tampaksiring. It is a famous temple in Bali for its holy spring water. The purification pool is the unique feature of this temple, where Balinese Hindus and tourists indulge in Melukat. It is basically a process to clean one’s mind and soul. The best time to visit Tirta Empul Temple is between April and October when the weather remains dry and pleasant. Morning is the best time to feel the peaceful ambience and stay away from the crowd.

Tirta Empul Temple offers a warm welcome to visitors to participate in the purification ritual after wearing a Sarong. It is a famous temple in Bali for its spiritual significance, age-old legends and peaceful enclosure.

Location

Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80552, Indonesia

Opening and Closing Time

Monday to Sunday (8 am to 6 pm)

Entry Fees: Updated since 1st January 2025

• Children below 5 years of age: No ticket
• Children aged 5 to 12 years: Rp 50,000
• For Adults (Above 12 years): Rp 75,000

Note: Entry ticket does not include Melukat Ceremony or entrance to sacred spring pools.

5.Lempuyang Temple

Lempuyang Temple falls in Mount Lempuyang in East Bali. It is an old and holy temple in Bali, popular for its “Gates of Heaven”. With Mount Agung in the backdrop, Lempuyang Temple is the most photographed temple in Bali among tourists. The best time to explore Lempuyang Temple is between April and September, which are dry and pleasant months.

Visiting early in the morning or late afternoon helps travellers avoid the rush. Travellers need to climb 1,700 steps as a test of their devotion. Further, visitors can witness ceremonies and offerings, particularly on full moon days. Spiritual aura, stunning views and cultural essence make it a must-visit temple in Bali for tourists.

Location

Bukit, Karangasem, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80852, Indonesia

Opening and Closing Time

Monday to Sunday (6 am to 6 pm)

Entry Fees

It costs around Rp 100,000, which includes the photographer’s charges.

Note: Additional charges required to pay for shuttle service and to rent a Sarong.

6. Taman Ayun

 

Taman Ayun is located in Mengwi, Bali, which is also listed in UNESCO cultural sites. It features a surprisingly beautiful multi-layered shrine (meru). Besides that, Taman Ayun Temple has a wide moat around it, which gives it a floating appearance. The ideal time to visit Taman Ayun temple is from April to October, ideally in the morning. Travellers can also choose the time when the temple comes alive with local festivals.

Besides that, enjoying Balinese prayer ceremonies and local offerings is also an option for travellers. Elegant architecture, tranquil gardens, and historical essence as a royal family temple are other reasons why visitors love this temple.

Location

Jl. Ayodya No.10, Mengwi, Kec. Mengwi, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80351, Indonesia

Opening and Closing Time

Monday to Sunday (between 8:00 am and 6:15 pm)

Entry Fees: 

• Domestic Visitors: Rp 20,000
• Domestic Visitor (Children): Rp 10,000
• Foreign Visitor: Rp 30,000
• Foreign Visitor (Children): Rp 15,000

Note: Charges do not include rent for the Sarong and shuttle service

7.Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati

Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati, also known as the Ubud Water Palace, is a famous Hindu temple in Central Ubud, Bali, dedicated to the goddess Saraswati. Balinese Hindu believes that Saraswati blesses them with knowledge and art. This amazing temple in Bali features a lotus-filled pond that opens to the beautifully carved entrance. It ultimately creates a heart-warming and photogenic surrounding for tourists. The best time to pay a visit to the Ubud Water Palace Temple is between April and October. Exploring it in the evening hours offers access to Balinese traditional dance performances on stage.

Additionally, visitors can witness the local offerings and rituals performed, particularly on Saraswati Day. This holy site is famous for its artistic charm, traditional performances and serene ambience. It further makes it a spiritual and traditional landmark in Ubud.

Location

F7V6+JHX, Jl. Kajeng, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

Opening and Closing Time

Monday to Sunday 7:00 am to 7 Pm

Entry Fees

No charges to visit Saraswati Temple in Ubud, Bali. However, rent needs to pay for Sarong. If you prefer, pay for a donation.

8. Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple, nestled on an astonishing cliff in South Bali, is a popular Hindu shrine. Travellers from across the world get to this temple to observe breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, as it is just 70 meters above that. Apart from that, one can enjoy the spectacular sunset views from the Uluwatu Temple in Bali.

Like other temples, the best time to explore Uluwatu temple is between April and October, particularly in late afternoon hours. It is when travellers can enjoy a traditional kecak dance performance with sunset. Further, all devotees have to wear traditional attire of Bali to observe local offerings and rituals at the temple. Spiritual essence, cliffside wonder, and cultural dance performances make this temple a memorable place to visit in Bali.

Location

Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Opening and Closing Time

Monday to Saturday (7:00 am to 7:00 pm)

Entry Fees

• International visitors (Adults): Rp 50,000
• International visitors (Children 6 to 12years ): Rp 20,000
• International Under 6 years: No charges
• Domestic Visitors (Adults): Rp 30,000
• Domestic Visitors (Children 6 to 12years ): Rp 15000
• Domestic Visitors under 6 years: No entry fee.

What to Wear in Bali Temples?

Bali temples are no less than a wonder. To enter these sacred temples, visitors have to follow appropriate dress etiquette. Still, if you want to learn about what to wear in Bali temples, check the following:

• All travellers should cover their 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?

Lempuyang Temple, without any doubt, gives the most photogenic vibes to travellers. Still, there are many other most photographed temples in Bali that a traveller must visit-

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?

A myth is circulating among travellers that there is a 5000-year-old underwater temple in Bali dedicated to Lord Vishnu. However, this is not he case actually. The “Underwater Temple Garden” close to Pemuteran Beach is a human-made project completed in 2005 to conserve the beauty of the reef. It has been done with an aim to attract fish by showing sculptures and to improve coral growth.

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.