Alright, so you're headed to Bali and someone probably already told you: “You’ve gotta visit the temples.” And yep, they’re not wrong. The island’s packed with ‘em — from towering sea temples on cliff edges to ancient jungle shrines wrapped in mist. But the thing is, not all temples are worth your time, especially if you're on a short trip and trying to soak in the best of what Bali offers. That’s exactly why I’m laying out this list — the best temples in Bali for tourists — not just the famous ones, but the ones that genuinely feel like something.
And I’ve done the sweaty hikes, waited out the rain under leaky pavilions, and had those random, quiet, magical moments while locals laid down offerings beside me. So yeah, I’ve got stuff to share that you’re not gonna find just flipping through a travel brochure or Instagram.
Let’s get into it.
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Tanah Lot – The Instagram-Famous Cliffside Temple That’s Still Worth It
Okay, I know — Tanah Lot is the poster child of Balinese temples. You’ve seen the photos: dramatic sea views, temple perched on a rock, orange sunsets melting into the ocean.
But listen, it’s popular for a reason.
The place is genuinely jaw-dropping, especially if you time it right. I always tell friends: get there around 4:30 PM, way before sunset. Most tourists rock up just in time for the golden hour, but if you go earlier, you can explore a bit while it’s still relatively quiet. There’s a little cave beneath the temple too — with a “holy snake” that’s supposed to guard the temple from evil spirits. Not exactly a must-see, but kind of fun if you’re into local myths.
The catch? You can’t actually go into the temple itself unless you’re there for prayer. Tourists can walk around the base when the tide’s low, but that’s it. Still, standing there while the waves slam into the rock is something else. It feels… alive.
Skip the tourist shops at the entrance and grab a fresh coconut from the vendors near the cliffs instead. Way cheaper. And way more refreshing in the heat.
Tirta Empul – The Temple Where You Actually Get In the Water (and It’s Kinda Amazing)
This one’s different. At Tirta Empul, you’re not just looking at a temple — you’re stepping into it. Literally. It’s a water purification temple where locals and tourists alike queue up to bathe under a series of fountains to “cleanse” their body and soul.
And yeah, it’s touristy now. There’s no denying that. But it doesn’t feel fake or forced. You can tell the locals still treat it with reverence. You’ll see older Balinese men and women doing the cleansing ritual like they’ve done it for decades. It’s humbling, actually.
Here’s what most blogs won’t tell you: the water’s cold. Like, shockingly cold. Especially if you go early, which I recommend. Less crowded, more peaceful. Bring a sarong — they rent them at the entrance, but the quality is meh, and you don’t wanna be adjusting it mid-dip with 50 people watching.
There are 13 spouts (I think?), and technically, each one has a different spiritual significance. Some locals skip a few, like the death-related ones. If you’re just doing it for the experience, no biggie, but I like to follow their lead out of respect.
Afterward, there’s a koi pond near the exit that’s oddly relaxing. I usually sit there to dry off, snack on a fried banana, and just watch the fish swirl around. Not a bad way to kill an hour.
Besakih Temple – Bali’s Biggest Temple, But Also a Bit of a Maze
This one's known as the “Mother Temple” of Bali — and it's huge. Like, actual-complex-of-23-temples huge. It sits on the slopes of Mount Agung, which adds this wild, dramatic backdrop to everything.
Now, I won’t sugarcoat it: visiting Besakih can be overwhelming. The layout’s confusing if you’re not with a guide, and yes, the area’s had issues with overly pushy “unofficial” guides asking for donations. It’s annoying. Just be firm, polite, and stick to official ticket counters.
But once you’re inside, man — the energy shifts. Maybe it’s the altitude, or the sheer age of the place (some parts date back over 1,000 years), but it feels different here. More intense.
You’ll climb a lot of stairs — so wear real shoes, not flip-flops. I made that mistake once. It’s also much cooler up there, especially if you go in the morning. I actually brought a hoodie the second time. The higher you go, the quieter it gets. And the views? Unreal. Rice fields below, the volcano behind, temple roofs everywhere. It’s like a scene out of a fantasy movie.
Quick heads-up: during big ceremonies, tourists aren’t allowed into certain parts. But even just seeing the locals in traditional dress, carrying offerings, the sounds of the gamelan — it’s unforgettable.
Uluwatu Temple – Come for the View, Stay for the Fire Dance (Even If It’s Cheesy)
I have mixed feelings about Uluwatu. On one hand, it’s one of the most stunning cliff temples you’ll ever lay eyes on. On the other… well, let’s just say the monkeys here are straight-up thieves.
Seriously, don’t wear sunglasses or dangly earrings. I’ve seen a monkey steal a woman’s flip-flop and hold it hostage for food. No joke.
Anyway — the temple itself is perched on this steep cliff overlooking the ocean. The sunsets here are mind-blowing, especially if there are some clouds to add drama. You can’t get super close to the temple itself, but the walking path along the cliff makes up for it.
Now, about that Kecak dance. It’s touristy as hell, no doubt. But I kinda love it. You sit in an open-air amphitheater as the sun goes down, and these shirtless men start chanting in this rhythmic, hypnotic pattern. There’s fire, a guy dressed as Hanuman (the monkey god), and a whole storyline from the Ramayana. Even if you don’t know the myth, it’s entertaining.
Try to book your tickets in advance, though — they sell out fast. And bring something to sit on. Those stone seats get real hard after a while.
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) – Small But Kinda Weird and Cool
Okay, this one's not big or flashy, but it’s got charm. Goa Gajah is this little cave temple outside Ubud. The entrance is carved like a demon’s mouth — you literally walk into its face. Inside, it’s dark and smoky and kinda creepy in the best way.
There’s not a whole lot to do here, so don’t plan your whole afternoon around it. But if you’re already in Ubud, it’s a fun stop. The grounds around the cave are peaceful, with mossy stone paths and little streams weaving through the jungle.
Here’s something that caught me off-guard the first time: it’s called the “Elephant Cave,” but there are no elephants. Not real ones, not carvings. Historians think the name comes from the nearby river, which was once called the Elephant River. Go figure.
Still, there’s a chill vibe here — like a little break from the chaos. I sometimes come here when Ubud starts feeling too touristy and I need a quiet spot to breathe.
Pura Lempuyang – The “Gates of Heaven” Spot Everyone’s Lining Up For
So, here’s the deal with Pura Lempuyang: it’s gorgeous. The temple gates perfectly frame Mount Agung on a clear day, and yeah, the photo is iconic. You’ve seen it a million times — the “floating reflection” shot that looks like it’s taken on a mirror of water.
Reality check though: that reflection? It’s a trick with a piece of glass held under your phone by a local photographer. Doesn’t make it less pretty, but just know it’s not a magic puddle.
Also, the line for that photo can be brutal. I waited 90 minutes once. Bring water, a hat, and prepare to get sunburned while waiting. Or better yet — go super early. Like sunrise early. You might skip the line and get better light anyway.
Now here’s something people forget to mention: the “Gates of Heaven” are just the first stop. The full Pura Lempuyang complex has several temples along a trail that climbs the mountain. Most tourists don’t go past the gates, but if you’ve got the energy, the hike is peaceful, green, and way less crowded. Just watch out for the monkeys (again).
Pura Gunung Kawi – Ancient Carvings and Jungle Vibes
This one feels like it belongs in an Indiana Jones movie. You hike down a long stone staircase through rice terraces and suddenly boom — these giant stone shrines carved directly into the cliffside pop out in front of you.
Gunung Kawi isn’t as famous as some of the others, but man, it’s got soul. The whole place is wrapped in jungle, and there’s a river running right through it. It’s cooler, damper, a little misty in the mornings.
Legend says the shrines were carved overnight by a giant. Whether you believe that or not, they’re impressive. You don’t see architecture like this just anywhere.
It’s one of those temples that’s more about wandering and soaking in the atmosphere than snapping a perfect photo. There are side paths, little shrines tucked in corners, and fewer crowds — especially if you get there early.
Wear good shoes for the stairs. And maybe don’t bring your elderly aunt unless she’s down for a serious leg workout.
Pura Taman Ayun – The Chill One You Can Actually Breathe In
If the other temples sound too intense, Taman Ayun might be your jam. It’s located in Mengwi, which is sorta in the middle of nowhere compared to the rest, but that also means: peace and quiet.
The temple grounds are spacious and really well maintained. There’s a moat around it, like a little island, and a ton of tiered shrines that look like stacked pagodas. You can’t go inside most of the areas, but walking around the perimeter gives you a good feel for the layout.
What I love about Taman Ayun is that it’s not trying too hard. It’s not swamped with tourists. There are benches to sit. Flowers everywhere. It’s just… nice.
I usually stop here on the way to or from Jatiluwih rice terraces or Bedugul. It makes a perfect detour when you need a break from the big crowds.
So, Which Temple in Bali Should You Visit First?
If you're short on time? Go to Tanah Lot for the views, Tirta Empul for the experience, and Lempuyang if you want that classic “Gates of Heaven” photo — just be ready to work for it.
If you’ve got more time and like your temples a little quieter and weirder (in the best way), Gunung Kawi and Goa Gajah are awesome.
Oh, and bring a sarong. Always. Most temples require one, and while they’ll lend you one at the entrance, it’s just easier (and cleaner) to have your own.
Bali temples aren’t just about religion — they’re about rhythm. The offerings, the smell of incense, the soft clang of a bell somewhere in the background… even with the crowds, there’s a sacred hum to it all. And once you find your own quiet corner in one of these places, you’ll feel it. That little shift. Like the island’s whispering something just for you.
And yeah — maybe bring a spare offering or two. You never know when you’ll feel like leaving something behind.
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