For Spiritual Seekers, Culture Lovers, and Curious Travellers
Many come to Bali for its golden beaches, but somewhere along the way, they discover something deeper: the gentle rhythm of temple bells, the scent of incense drifting through the air, and the way the island’s sacred spaces seem to calm the heart instantly.
Welcome to the spiritual side of Bali, a place where tradition is alive, nature feels like part of the prayer, and every stone has a story.
Before You Visit, Here’s How to Honour the Experience:
Wear a sarong; it’s a sign of respect, and often provided at temple entrances.
Speak softly and move mindfully; temples are places of prayer.
Notice the small offerings on the ground; each one is a heartfelt gift to the divine.
Some areas are reserved for worshippers; this is part of the temple’s sacred rhythm.
Allow yourself to feel the peaceful energy; Bali’s temples have a way of touching the soul.
Bali’s Most Inspiring Temples to Visit in 2025
1. Lempuyang Temple: The Gates of Heaven
Framed by the breathtaking Mount Agung, this temple is both a visual wonder and a deeply spiritual site. Arriving before sunrise, you’ll see mist curling through the mountains as light gently bathes the temple gates.
Why visit:
The world-famous “Gates of Heaven” view
A serene, elevated atmosphere
Part of Bali’s six holiest temples
Best Time: Sunrise
Fun Fact: There are 7 temple levels; climbing them is a spiritual journey in itself.
2. Tirta Empul – The Holy Water Temple
Here, crystal-clear spring water flows through over 30 fountains, offering a centuries-old purification ritual that cleanses both body and spirit.
Why visit:
Participate in a traditional water blessing
Feel the stillness and beauty of ancient Balinese faith
Connect with locals in a truly meaningful cultural moment
Bring a change of clothes, the experience is unforgettable.
Best Time: Morning, before larger tour groups arrive
Fun Fact: The spring water has flowed continuously for over 1,000 years, making it one of Bali’s most sacred purification sites.
3. Tanah Lot Temple
Built on a rocky island surrounded by the sea, Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks. As the sun sets, the sky becomes a masterpiece of gold and crimson.
Why visit:
Temple Island views at high tide
Walk up close during low tide
Some of Bali’s most photogenic sunsets
Best Time: Sunset, when the ocean glows with golden light
Fun Fact: The temple is said to be protected by sea snakes believed to guard against evil spirits.
4. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Floating gracefully on Lake Beratan in the cool highlands of Bedugul, this temple is a living postcard. Surrounded by mountains and water, it celebrates the goddess of lakes and rivers, Dewi Danu.
Why visit:
Serene highland setting with cool mountain air
Photographs that look magical even without filters
A beautiful example of Bali’s connection to nature and agriculture
Best Time: Early morning, when the lake is calm and mist drifts across the water
Fun Fact: Dedicated to Dewi Danu, goddess of water and fertility, this temple plays a key role in Bali’s irrigation system.
5. Uluwatu Temple
Standing on a dramatic cliff edge with waves crashing below, Uluwatu Temple combines spiritual grace with breathtaking ocean views. At sunset, the Kecak dance performance here is truly mesmerizing.
Why visit:
Awe-inspiring ocean panoramas
Cultural performances set against the sunset
A peaceful yet powerful spiritual atmosphere
Best Time: Sunset, paired with the famous Kecak fire dance performance
Fun Fact: Monkeys at Uluwatu are believed by locals to protect the temple from negative spirits.
Other Temples Worth Visiting:
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): Ancient carvings surrounded by lush greenery.
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon for a quieter visit
Fun Fact: Despite its name, there are no elephants here — the name likely comes from the Sanskrit word “Gajah,” meaning elephant, symbolising wisdom.
Taman Ayun: Royal temple with perfectly manicured gardens.
Best Time: Mid-morning, when the sun highlights the tiered pagoda-like shrines
Fun Fact: Built in the 17th century, it’s considered one of the most beautiful royal temple complexes in Bali.
Pura Besakih (Mother Temple): Bali’s largest and most significant temple complex.
Best Time: Morning, when the skies are clear and Mount Agung is visible
Fun Fact: Known as the “Mother Temple,” it’s the largest and holiest temple in Bali, consisting of over 80 individual temples.
Bali Heritage Trail Day Tour
If you’d like to explore multiple temples and cultural gems in one seamless trip, the Bali Heritage Trail Day Tour is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the island’s history, beauty, and traditions.
Full Day Highlights (8 Hours):
Pass by Real Bali Swing: See the famous jungle swing en route, with an optional stop for unforgettable photos.
Sangeh Monkey Forest: Wander among towering nutmeg trees and meet the gentle grey long-tailed macaques that call this forest home.
Taman Ayun Temple: Step inside a royal temple surrounded by tranquil moats and lush, manicured gardens.
Tanah Lot Temple: Witness Bali’s legendary sea temple, dramatically set on a coastal rock formation.
Half Day Highlights (4 Hours):
Tanah Lot Temple: Experience the beauty of this iconic sea temple with sweeping ocean views.
Alas Kedaton Monkey Forest: Stroll through peaceful temple grounds while friendly monkeys roam nearby.
Taman Ayun Royal Temple: Explore a UNESCO-listed cultural site steeped in royal heritage.
Whether you choose the full day or half day option, Ulacab’s private transfers ensure you can focus entirely on the scenery, the stories, and the serene moments, while we handle the journey.
Temple Hopping Made Effortless
Exploring Bali’s temples is a journey best enjoyed without rushing. Instead of navigating traffic or worrying about routes, let Ulacab take you on a smooth, comfortable, and personalised journey.
With Ulacab:
- Enjoy insider tips and local stories
Travel in comfort between Ubud, Bedugul, Sidemen, and beyond
From Tirta Empul to Besakih and hidden gems in between, Ulacab ensures your temple journey flows as peacefully as the prayers you’ll witness.
Bali’s beaches may draw you in, but its temples will stay in your heart. Here, you’ll find harmony between nature, art, and spirit, and moments of peace that linger long after your trip.
Let Ulacab be your companion on this journey, taking you to the island’s most sacred places, with comfort, care, and cultural respect.
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