The Best Temples to Visit in Bali

Tanah Lot Temple, known locally as Pura Tanah Lot (pura means ‘temple’ in Balinese) is one of the most visually striking structures on the whole island. Set atop a rocky outcropping off Bali’s western coast, it honours the god of the sea and is said to be protected by venomous sea serpents. The temple is particularly picturesque when bathed in the golden light of dusk.

Need to know: Tanah Lot is located about an hour and half’s drive southwest of Ubud. We can arrange a trip to see it at sunset, followed by a visit to a night market or a traditional royal dinner.

Far from the sun-drenched beaches of Bali, 1,500 metres (nearly 5,000 feet) above sea level in the mountains of Bedugul, you’ll find the majestic temple of Ulun Danu Beratan. It includes several structures on the shores of the volcanic Lake Beratan, but the main shrine is the most picturesque, appearing to magically float on the surface when water levels are high.

Need to know: Ulun Danu Beratan’s main temple is a prime example of a Balinese meru: a tiered tower with several thatched roofs symbolising the sacred Mount Meru.

One of the most picturesque places on the island, this pura is best known for its spectacular ‘Gate of Heaven.’ The best time to visit Bali’s famous Lempuyang Temple is first thing in the morning to avoid large crowds – and to see a truly breathtaking sunrise over Mount Agung. Climbing the 1,700+ stairs to the summit is well worth it for the jaw-dropping views of East Bali.

Need to know: Like all Hindu temples in Bali, Lempuyang has a specific dress code for visitors including a traditional sarong and sash; you can either bring your own or borrow them.

Tirta Gangga is far newer than most of Bali’s temples; it was built in the late 1940s to serve as a retreat for the royal family and later opened to the public. Built atop a sacred spring and known as the ‘water palace’, it includes several pools, ponds, fountains and gardens to explore. Its name literally translates to ‘water of the Ganges’ in reference to the holy river in India.

Need to know: Tirta Gangga can be combined with a visit to the floating palace of Taman Ujung, known for its peaceful grounds and eclectic architecture.

Take a dip in the hallowed waters of Tirta Empul, where the pools and fountains are fed by natural springs. This temple, whose name literally means ‘holy spring’, has long been used for ritual cleansing ceremonies. People come from far and wide to participate in the purification ritual of melukat in the pools of Jaba Tengah (the central area). 

Need to know: Visitors are welcome to bathe at Tirta Empul, but if you’d rather stay dry, you can also admire the pools, shrines and sculptures and learn about their significance from a renowned local healer.

Known as the ‘mother temple’, Besakih holds the title of Bali’s largest and tallest temple. It’s also the most spiritually significant, making it an absolute must-visit for anyone interested in Balinese culture. The six-level complex includes dozens of structures built along the side of Mount Agung, with the main shrine (Pura Penataran Agung) boasting the most impressive meru tower.

Need to know: Besakih Temple is located northeast of Ubud, just over an hour by car. It can easily be combined with Tirta Gangga, which is about another hour’s drive to the east.

If you want to enjoy traditional architecture, terraced courtyards and tranquil koi ponds, Taman Ayun Temple is for you. This temple is more easily accessible and relatively small compared to some others on this list, but certainly just as beautiful – in fact, its name means ‘beautiful garden.’ It was built in the 17th century by the King of Mengwi as a tribute to his ancestors.

Need to know: Taman Ayun Temple can be visited in under an hour, making it the perfect stop on a drive between the island’s southern beaches and inland regions like Sidemen.

Located within the town of Ubud, Saraswati Temple is a lovely oasis of lotus ponds and ornate architecture. It’s dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, learning and wisdom, as well as music and art. The main structure is a striking shade of orange and covered in detailed stone carvings.

Need to know: This is one of the few temples in Bali with free admission. That said, we recommend sticking around for the nightly dance performance, which costs about $6.

With an irresistible combination of sun, sand and surf, Uluwatu would be worth visiting even without its eponymous temple. But the placement of Pura Luhur Uluwatu, some 70 metres (230 feet) above the waves on a dramatic cliff, makes this site all the more impressive. Visit the temple at sundown for unbeatable views or in the morning before heading down to the beach.

Need to know: This is one of the best places in Bali to see the traditional kecak dance, which involves rhythmic chanting and is illuminated by torchlight.