Bali is a truly magical adventure. Bali is not only famous for its natural scenery but also accessible for spectacular shows and traditions. As a part of its beliefs, the Balinese built various temples on the island. They believe that some of the temples exist to protect Bali from demonic power. Your visit to Bali would not be complete without visiting its most famous temples. Here is the list of top 5 must-visit temples in Bali. Let’s enjoy the beautiful Bali right away.
Table of contents
1. Pura Besakih (Besakih Temple)
The village of Besakih is the home of the most important temple of Bali, Pura Besakih. Stretch at almost 1000 meters in the foot of Mount Agung, it consists of 23 separated temples. The largest one of them all is Pura Penataran Agung. It has up to six-level porch on the right slope. Candi Bentar marks Pura Besakih’s entrance. And, Kori Agung serves as its second gateway to the courtyard.
2. Pura Lempuyang Luhur
Pura Luhur Lempuyang is one of the famous Hindu Temples in Bali Island, Indonesia. Located in Mount Lempuyang Karangasem, Pura Luhur is a part of the more complex temple. It is also considered as one of the six holiest places to worship in Bali. People called them Sad Kahyangan Jagad or the sanctuaries of the universe. Balinese believes that they bestow balance to the island.
3. Pura Luhur Uluwatu
Pura Luhur Uluwatu might be the most beautiful temple you can visit in Bali. Located above Uluwatu Cliff, you can enjoy the fantastic scenery as well as a spiritual vibe during your visit. This temple is also a part of Sad Kahyangan Jagad. Balinese build it to worship Rudra, Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa. Aside from the magnificent view, Pura Uluwatu also offers a spectacular show of Tari Kecak. You can book a seat and learn the story of Ramayana at night time.
4. Pura Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot temples was built centuries ago. Balinese believes that Dang Hyang Nirartha created the temple during his night visit on the island. This temple is a part of Seven Sea Temples you can find throughout Bali’s coast. Seven Sea Temples form a chain of temples in the south coast of Bali. People believe that the series of temples will protect Bali from evil being and intruders. Bhatara Segara is the central deity worship in these temples.
5. Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah or Elephant Cave is located in Ubud, Bali. Balinese name it Goa Gajah for its unique carving characteristic. Hindu God Ganesh, who has the head of the elephant, is the main deity in this temple. Thus, walking through the site, you can see various sculptures of elephants. The complex of Goa Gajah also features seven figures of women holding water pitchers. Each of them represents seven sacred rivers of India.
The top 5 must-visit temple in Bali is genuinely a list of spiritual places to connect with your inner serenity. To enjoy this mysterious island is to explore its magical traditions. Bali awaits your first step to a journey of knowing yourself.
