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Travel Best For You – Ah, Bali. The mere mention of this Indonesian paradise conjures images of pristine beaches, lush rice terraces, and vibrant culture. But beyond the well-trodden tourist trails lies a world of hidden temples, each with its own captivating story to tell. As someone who’s spent countless hours exploring the island’s lesser-known corners, I’m here to let you in on a little secret: some of the most awe-inspiring hidden temples in Bali worth visiting are tucked away in the most unexpected places.
Picture this: you’re trekking through a dense jungle, sweat beading on your brow, when suddenly the foliage parts to reveal an ancient stone structure, its intricate carvings weathered by time but no less magnificent. That’s the kind of magic that awaits those willing to venture off the beaten path in search of Bali’s hidden sanctuaries.
Hidden temples in Bali worth visiting
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Hidden temples? Aren’t all the good ones crawling with tourists?” Well, my friend, that’s where you’d be wrong. While Tanah Lot and Uluwatu certainly have their charms (and crowds), there’s something truly special about discovering a temple that feels like it’s been waiting just for you.
In this article, we’re going to dive deep into the world of Bali’s secret temples. We’ll explore ancient sites that have stood the test of time, temples perched on cliff edges with views that’ll make your jaw drop, and sacred spaces hidden in the heart of the jungle.
So grab your Indiana Jones hat (metaphorically speaking, of course), and let’s embark on an adventure to uncover some of the most hidden temples in Bali worth visiting.
Pura Lempuyang Luhur: The Gateway to Heaven
Let’s kick things off with a temple that’s not exactly a secret, but still manages to feel like a hidden gem: Pura Lempuyang Luhur. Perched high in the mountains of East Bali, this temple complex is often referred to as the “Gateway to Heaven” – and let me tell you, that nickname is no exaggeration.
The journey to Pura Lempuyang is an adventure in itself. As you wind your way up the mountain, the air grows cooler and the views become increasingly spectacular. But nothing can prepare you for the sight that awaits at the top: a pair of ornate stone gates framing the majestic Mount Agung in the distance.
Now, I’ll be honest – getting that perfect Instagram shot can involve a bit of a wait. But here’s a pro tip: arrive early in the morning, not just to beat the crowds, but to witness the sunrise painting the sky in hues of pink and gold. It’s a sight that’ll make you forget all about your social media feed and simply bask in the moment.
But Pura Lempuyang is more than just its famous gates. The temple complex consists of seven sanctuaries spread across the mountainside, each more breathtaking than the last.
As you climb the 1,700 steps to the summit (yes, you read that right), you’ll pass through ancient forests and encounter mischievous monkeys. It’s a pilgrimage that’ll test your stamina, but trust me, the sense of accomplishment – and the views – are worth every step.
Pura Goa Lawah: The Bat Cave Temple
If you’re looking for a temple with a dash of the extraordinary, look no further than Pura Goa Lawah. Nestled on the eastern coast of Bali, this temple is built around a natural cave that’s home to thousands of bats. Yes, you read that correctly – bats.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Bats? In a temple? Is this some kind of joke?” But I assure you, it’s very real – and very fascinating. According to local legend, the cave extends all the way to Besakih Temple on the slopes of Mount Agung, though no one’s been brave (or foolish) enough to test that theory.
As you approach Pura Goa Lawah, you’ll be struck by the ornate architecture typical of Balinese temples. But it’s when you get closer that things start to get interesting. The sound of chittering bats fills the air, and if you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on your perspective), you might even see a few of the cave’s residents swooping overhead.
But don’t let the bats deter you – Pura Goa Lawah is a place of profound spiritual significance. The temple is one of Bali’s nine directional temples, believed to protect the island from evil spirits. And while it may not be as grand as some of Bali’s more famous temples, there’s something undeniably magical about this place where nature and spirituality intertwine so seamlessly.
Pura Gunung Kawi: The Valley of the Kings
Now, let’s venture into the heart of Bali, to a place that feels like it’s been lifted straight from an adventure novel: Pura Gunung Kawi. Nestled in a lush river valley near Ubud, this 11th-century temple complex is one of the most unique and awe-inspiring hidden temples in Bali worth visiting.
As you descend the steep stone staircase into the valley, you’ll feel like you’re traveling back in time. The air grows cooler, the sounds of the modern world fade away, and suddenly you’re face-to-face with a series of 7-meter-high shrines carved directly into the cliff face.
These towering monuments, known as candi, are believed to be dedicated to King Anak Wungsu and his wives. But Gunung Kawi is more than just a royal memorial – it’s a sprawling complex of courtyards, meditation caves, and ancient bathing pools fed by sacred springs.
One of my favorite spots in Gunung Kawi is a hidden meditation cave tucked away behind a curtain of vines. It’s a place of profound stillness, where you can sit in quiet contemplation and feel the weight of centuries all around you.
But what really sets Gunung Kawi apart is its setting. The temple is surrounded by terraced rice fields that cascade down the valley walls, creating a scene of such breathtaking beauty that it’s been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you explore, you’ll cross bubbling streams on narrow bridges and wander through groves of towering palm trees. It’s a place that feels both ancient and timeless, a hidden world that’s remained largely unchanged for a thousand years.
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Pura Taman Ayun: The Royal Water Temple
Let’s shift gears a bit and explore a temple that, while not exactly hidden, is often overlooked by visitors to Bali: Pura Taman Ayun. Located in the village of Mengwi, about 18 kilometers north of Denpasar, this royal water temple is a masterpiece of architectural beauty and spiritual symbolism.
Built in 1634 by the king of Mengwi, Pura Taman Ayun was designed to serve as the main temple of the kingdom. And let me tell you, they didn’t skimp on the grandeur. As you approach, you’re greeted by a vast, moat-like pool surrounding the temple grounds, its still waters reflecting the ornate multi-tiered meru towers like a mirror.
The name “Taman Ayun” means “beautiful garden” in Balinese, and it’s easy to see why. The temple grounds are a meticulously landscaped paradise, with manicured lawns, tranquil ponds, and fragrant frangipani trees. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours just wandering, discovering new details and hidden corners at every turn.
One of the things I love most about Pura Taman Ayun is how it embodies the Balinese concept of tri hita karana – the harmony between humans, nature, and the divine. The layout of the temple, with its concentric courtyards, represents the Balinese cosmos in miniature. As you move from the outer courtyard to the inner sanctum, you’re symbolically ascending through the layers of the universe.
But what really makes Pura Taman Ayun special is its atmosphere. Unlike some of Bali’s more popular temples, Taman Ayun rarely feels crowded. Visit in the late afternoon, when the setting sun gilds the temple towers and casts long shadows across the lawns, and you might find yourself alone with the whisper of the wind in the palm trees and the distant chime of temple bells.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: The Floating Temple
No list of hidden temples in Bali worth visiting would be complete without mentioning Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Hidden? But I’ve seen this temple on every Bali postcard!” And you’re not wrong. Ulun Danu Bratan is indeed one of Bali’s most photographed sites. But trust me, experiencing this temple in person is a world away from seeing it in pictures.
Perched on the western shore of Lake Bratan in the central highlands, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan seems to float on the water’s surface. Built in the 17th century to honor the lake and river goddess Dewi Danu, this temple is a prime example of the importance of water in Balinese Hinduism.
The best time to visit is early in the morning, before the tour buses arrive. If you’re lucky, you might catch the temple shrouded in mist, its pagodas seeming to hover above the glassy surface of the lake. It’s a sight that’s nothing short of magical, the kind of view that makes you catch your breath and wonder if you’ve somehow stepped into a fairy tale.
But Ulun Danu Bratan is more than just a pretty face. The temple plays a crucial role in Bali’s subak system of water management, a UNESCO-recognized method of irrigation that’s been in use for over a thousand years. The priests at Ulun Danu Bratan perform regular ceremonies to ensure the fertility of the surrounding farmland and the prosperity of the Balinese people.
As you explore the temple grounds, keep an eye out for the Pura Lingga Petak, a small shrine dedicated to Shiva. According to legend, if you make a wish here and then circle the shrine three times, your wish will come true. (I’m still waiting on that lottery win, but hey, maybe the third time’s the charm!)
The Hidden Gems: Off-the-Radar Temples
Now, dear reader, we come to the real treasures – the truly hidden temples in Bali worth visiting that you won’t find in any guidebook. These are the places that require a bit of effort to reach, but reward you with experiences you’ll never forget.
Take, for example, Pura Goa Gajah, the “Elephant Cave” temple near Ubud. Despite its proximity to one of Bali’s most popular towns, this ancient site remains relatively uncrowded. As you descend into the cave mouth, carved with demonic figures, you’ll feel like you’re entering another world. Inside, you’ll find ancient bathing pools and a meditation chamber that’s been in use for over a thousand years.
Or how about Pura Beji in the village of Sangsit? This hidden gem is dedicated to the rice goddess Dewi Sri, and its walls are covered in some of the most intricate and well-preserved carvings you’ll find anywhere in Bali. The temple’s location, surrounded by rice fields and accessed by a narrow path, adds to its sense of mystery and seclusion.
For those willing to venture even further off the beaten path, there’s Pura Penataran Sasih in Pejeng. This unassuming temple houses the “Moon of Pejeng,” the largest single-cast bronze kettle drum in the world. According to local legend, this massive drum was once part of the wheel of a chariot belonging to the god Indra.
These hidden temples offer more than just photo opportunities – they’re windows into Bali’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. As you explore these lesser-known sites, you’ll often find yourself alone with the whisper of the wind and the weight of centuries. It’s in these quiet moments, standing before ancient stone carvings or listening to the chant of a solitary priest, that you can truly connect with the spirit of Bali.
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Conclusion
As we come to the end of our journey through Bali’s hidden temples, I hope you’re feeling inspired to embark on your own adventure of discovery. The hidden temples in Bali worth visiting are more than just tourist attractions – they’re living, breathing centers of Balinese culture and spirituality.
Each temple we’ve explored, from the mist-shrouded gates of Pura Lempuyang to the bat-filled caves of Pura Goa Lawah, offers a unique window into the island’s rich heritage. These sacred spaces remind us that Bali is more than just beautiful beaches and luxury resorts – it’s a place where the spiritual and the earthly intertwine in fascinating ways.
As you plan your own temple-hopping adventure, remember to approach these sacred sites with respect. Dress modestly, observe local customs, and always ask permission before taking photos. And most importantly, take the time to simply be present. Sit for a while in a quiet corner, listen to the rustle of prayer flags in the breeze, and let the peace of these ancient places wash over you.
Who knows? You might just stumble upon your own hidden temple, a secret spot that speaks to your soul. After all, the real magic of Bali lies not just in its famous sights, but in those unexpected moments of wonder and connection that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
So go forth, intrepid explorer, and uncover the hidden temples of Bali. Trust me, it’s a journey you won’t soon forget.
