Bali is an Island of the Gods for a reason. We understand why Bali has so many temples spread across the rice grasslands, cliff sides, waterfronts, and forests. You don’t need to seek spirituality here; every corner of Bali oozes the pureness of devotion. The famous temples in Bali are important places for prayers, ceremonies, and traditions that continue every day even today. 

Not to miss, Bali is one of the best budget-friendly international destinations for Indian travelers. That's providing everything at a very affordable rate, from your stays to local cafes and beautiful cultural experiences. Along with the beaches and lively nightlife of Bali, temple tours have also become an exciting way to explore the island. This blog will help you understand the 15 most iconic and undiscovered temples in Bali with all the details you need to know before you go. The leading travel agency in India, will make it easier to explore Bali’s spiritual beauty with superbly planned experiences.  

2026 Bali Update: Bali has now chosen to focus on quality tourism, and following strictness to maintain that, a dress code for the temples, fee increases at the main temples, and new rules are now in effect, so please read the full etiquette section before you go.  

List of 15 Famous Temples in Bali 

1. Pura Tanah Lot, Bali's Most Famous Sea Temple 



Location: Tanah Lot 
Timings: 7 am-7 pm 
Entry fee: ₹400 adults / ₹215 children

Pura Tanah Lot, one of the most photographed temples in Bali, as seen on your social feed. This temple is dedicated to sea guardians, which change with ocean water movement. At high tide, it appears to float, and as the waves slow down, the temple goes back to its base. 

The temple’s name itself means “land in the sea,” which perfectly describes its location. The sunsets here are beautiful, turning the sky into shades of gold, making it the best temple in Bali for sunset views. Everyone is welcome in the temple, but non-Hindus cannot enter the inner shrines.  

Pro Tip: Arrive at least 45 minutes before sunset because it starts getting crowded between 4 PM and 6 PM. The western viewpoint across the hollow gives a better background for photos.
Best for: Sunset photography, sea temple views, family visits 

2. Pura Uluwatu,  Iconic Clifftop Temple with Kecak Dance 



Location: Pecatu, South kuta
Timings: 7 am-7 pm
Entry fee: ₹270 temple + ₹810 Kecak Dance

Balanced 70 meters above the Indian Ocean on sturdy stone cliff. It is one of the six main directional temples in Bali. Additionally, it's believed to save the island from the bad sea goblins. What to say about the view? It's so mesmerizing and beautiful and feels powerful, and the view is so wide, like the oceans go endlessly.  

According to the latest 2026 update, visitors can now buy tickets via both modes —cash and digital payment. 

Additionally, there is a show known as Kecak Fire Dance, which is performed live during sunset. With more than 50 men chanting "cak-cak-cak" against the flaming background, make this performance, a must watch. 

Take care of your belongings: The resident monkeys are playful and known for grabbing sunglasses, phones, and hats, so keep your belongings secure.
Pro Tip: Book Kecak seats by 4 PM, and performances start around 6 PM and fill up fast in 2026.
Best for: Sunset Kecak dance, cliff photography, and well-known sea temples in Bali 

3. Pura Besakih, The Most Famous Temple in Bali (Mother Temple) 



Location: Besakih, Karangasem
Timings: 8 am-5 pm
Entry fee: IDR ₹810

Pura Besakih is the largest and holiest Hindu temple complex in Bali. It has more than 80 individual temples up the volcanic mountain. Climbing up will be an amazing activity that will reward you with some of the most beautiful views of the spiritual heart of Bali. 

Every day here, offerings and prayers are performed that fill the air with fragrances and chanting. Especially during the main Hindu festivals like Galungan and Kuningan, large number of devotees arrive in a white and gold dress code, and the atmosphere becomes deeply so powerful. 

Important: The temple may restrict tourist access during main ceremonies. Always check ahead.
Pro Tip: Get help from the guide; without them, you will not be able to understand each shrine, and in some areas you can’t go without the guide
Best for: Spiritual pilgrimage, Hindu culture, mountain photography 

4. Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, Famous Bali Temple on the Lake 



Location: Bedugul, Tabanan 
Timings: 7 am-7 pm
Entry fee: ₹215 weekdays / ₹270 weekends

In the row, we have the famous Bali temple on the lake, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan. It is on the shores of Lake Beratan; many Shirin's look like they are floating on the water during the calm mornings.  

Dedicated to the Balinese Goddess of lakes and rivers, Dewi Danu, the temple is flocked by numbers of farmers to have their crops blessed. 

Pro Tip: Visit before 8 AM when lake mist is still low—the reflection shots are magical, and there are almost no crowds.
Best for: Lake reflection photography and family visits 

5. Pura Lempuyang, The Gates of Heaven Temple 



Location: Karangasem, East Bali
Timings: 6 am-6 pm
Entry fee: ₹540 (includes sarong + shuttle)

This is the most viral location, and you might have seen it on your Instagram feed: the split gate framing Mount Agung. But know this, that Pura Lampuyang holds more value than just a background for your lovely photos. It is a holy site, including the seven temples on the hillside of Mount Lampuyang, and to reach the top, you need to climb 1700 steps, that too through the jungle.  

Only a few visitors are able to complete the climb, and most just stop by the famous Gate of Heaven for their photo. Only if you are capable of walking to the top, then only go and after the climb, the view will be worth it all. 

Pro Tip: The reflection in the pool below the gate (used in most photos) is created by temple staff holding a phone/mirror under the camera — it is not natural. The real temple atmosphere at the top is worth far more than the photo.
Best for: Photography, spiritual trekking, temples in Bali for sunrise 

6. Pura Tirta Empul, Famous Holy Water Temple in Bali 



Location: Tampaksiring, Gianyar 
Timings: 8 am-6 pm
Entry fee: ₹400

Built around a natural sacred spring that has flowed continuously for over 1,000 years, Pura Tirta Empul is one of the most spiritually active temples in Bali. Visitors can participate in the Melukat purification ritual, moving through a series of stone fountains, each with a different spiritual purpose. 

This is a genuine living tradition, not a tourist show. Balinese Hindus come here regularly for cleansing and prayer. You will share the pools with local worshippers, which makes the experience deeply authentic. 

Pro Tip: Bring a change of clothes and a waterproof bag. The ritual involves full submersion under each spout. Rent a sarong at the entrance if you do not have one.
Best for: Famous water temples in Bali, cultural immersion, spiritual travel 

7. Pura Goa Gajah, Ancient Elephant Cave Temple near Ubud 



Location: Ubud, Gianyar
Timings: 8 am-5 pm
Entry fee: ₹270

Dating back to the 9th century, Pura Goa Gajah is one of the most mysterious temples in Bali. The dramatic stone-carved entrance, a gaping demonic face, leads into a small meditation cave with a Ganesha statue and ancient lingams. Outside, restored ancient bathing pools and a garden of mossy stone figures reflect both Hindu and Buddhist influences, making it archaeologically unique. 

The cave is an excellent choice for those who want to know about Bali's history and archaeology. 

Pro Tip: Go between 8–9AM before tour groups arrive. The jungle setting around the pools is beautiful in the morning light.
Best for: Ancient temples in Bali, hidden history, temples near Ubud 

8. Pura Taman Ayun, Royal Heritage Temple near Seminyak 



Location: Mengwi, Badung
Timings: 8 am-6 pm
Entry fee: ₹160

You know what? Pura Taman Ayun is the former state temple of the Mengwi Kingdom. Its tiered meru shrines rise with perfect symmetry, reflected in the surrounding water channels. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most beautiful cultural temples in Bali. 

Pro Tip: The best view is from the outer northern terrace — not the entrance. Walk the full perimeter for the classic moat reflection shot.
Best for: Temples near Seminyak, royal architecture, photography 

9. Pura Gunung Kawi, Rock-Cut Shrines in a Jungle Valley 



Location: Tampaksiring, Gianyar
Timings: 7 am-5 pm
Entry fee: ₹270

Pura Gunung Kawi features amazing royal sanctums carved directly into stone cliffs, dating back to the 11th century. The journey involves descending through leafy rice sundecks, making the arrival feel like jigging into a lost world. 

Here are ten giant rock-cut memorials reserved for ancient Balinese kings. There is not much of a crowd; very few tourists visit compared to Ubud's main attractions, giving it a peaceful energy. 

Pro Tip: Combine this with nearby Tirta Empul (5 minutes away) for a full half-day of ancient temples in Bali.
Best for: Hidden temples in Bali, ancient temples, photography in jungle settings 

10. Pura Saraswati, Famous Lotus Temple in Ubud 



Location: Central Ubud, Gianyar
Timings: 8 am-6 pm
Entry fee: Free 

Right in the heart of Ubud, Pura Saraswati is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of knowledge, arts, and wisdom, fitting for Bali's creative capital. The temple sits behind a spectacular lotus pond that blooms pink every morning. The ornate stone carvings are among the finest examples of traditional Balinese craftsmanship. 

The open-air stage facing the pond hosts Legong dance performances on certain evenings, one of the most atmospheric cultural experiences in Ubud. 

Pro Tip: The lotus flowers bloom fully between 7 and 10 AM. For the best photos, come before tour groups arrive.
Best for: Famous temple in Ubud, photography, cultural performances 

11. Pura Petitenget, Sacred Temple Near Seminyak Beach 



Location: Seminyak, Badung
Timings: 7 am-6 pm
Entry fee: Free 

One of the most spiritually significant temples on Bali's west coast, Pura Petitenget, sits just steps from Seminyak's beach clubs and restaurants yet feels completely different from the tourist world. It is one of the sea temples forming a heavenly chain of protection around the island's coastline. Travelers exploring Bali through group tour packages often visit this temple to experience the island’s spiritual side beyond its nightlife and beach culture. 

Locals come here regularly for ceremonies and blessings. If you happen to visit during this time, the experience of seeing Balinese families in full ceremonial dress against an ocean backdrop is something to remember for life. 

Pro Tip: This is one of the few famous temples near Seminyak — combine it with a sunset beach walk for an easy half-afternoon itinerary.
Best for: Famous temples near Seminyak, authentic local ceremonies 

12. Pura Kehen, Ancient Cultural Temple in East Bali 



Location: Bangli, East Bali
Timings: 8 am-5 pm
Entry fee: ₹160 

What to say about this finest example of classical Balinese temple architecture? Pura Kehen overlooks the upper courtyard, and the stone walls are covered in intricate carvings from Hindu beliefs.  

It is less visited compared to other South Bali temples, which means you can explore this almost alone, which is very rare in the famous temples in Bali.  

Pro Tip: Bangli town itself is worth exploring—it is one of Bali's most traditionally preserved districts.
Best for: Cultural temples in Bali, traditional Balinese architecture 

13. Pura Luhur Batukaru, Bali's Most Sacred Hidden Temple 



Location: Wongaya Gede, Tabanan
Timings: 8 am-5 pm
Entry fee: ₹160  

Hidden HIdden deep inside of the forest, the temple, unlike other most famous temples in Bali, is situated away from the crowded areas and offers real calmness and peace. 

It is also one of Bali’s nine directional temples that has many spiritual values. Very few tourists visit this temple because of its quiet jungle location, where you can even hear the sound of flowing water. 

Pro Tip: This mountain temple is one of Bali's least crowded, making it preferred for meditation and peaceful thinking and reflection. Carry a light jacket with you, as the mountain altitude keeps it cool even in the dry season.
Best for: Hidden temples in Bali, spiritual travel, nature-lovers 

14. Gunung Kawi Sebatu, The Hidden Water Temple Near Ubud 



Location: Tegallalang, Gianyar 
Timings: 8 am-5 pm
Entry fee: ₹110 (includes sarong + shuttle) 

This is a hidden temple in Bali, and people will not tell you much about it. Gunung Kawi Sebatu gives a purifying experience without many people compared to other water temples. Here are crystal-clear pools in the middle of the forest, and Shirin's absence of a tourist crowd makes this more beautiful and peaceful.  

Pro Tip: This is the best hidden temple in Bali for solo travelers desiring actual peace. You can also enjoy the combination with a Tegallalang rice terrace walk.
Best for: Hidden temples in Bali, water temples, photography in jungle settings 

15. Pura Jagatnatha, Famous Temple in the Heart of Denpasar 



Location: Denpasar City
Timings: 8 am-5 pm
Entry fee: Free 

This temple may not be in notice because it is in the countryside. Pura Jagatnatha is a state temple of Bali and is devoted to the Sanghyang Widi Wasa, who is the ultimate divine in Balinese religious belief. Its white coral throne rises from a representation of a turtle and a serpent, depicting heaven. 

Every full moon and new moon, the temple is filled with devotees for ceremonies. During this time, you can experience the authentic rituals as a visitor 

Pro Tip: Visit during Purnama (a full moon) evening for a free, deeply spiritual cultural experience in the city.
Best for: Bali spiritual travel, full moon ceremonies, city temple 

What to Wear to Temples in Bali 

In 2026, stricter enforcement of cultural conduct rules is in effect across Bali. Violations are no longer met with simple warnings. Follow these dress rules at every temple: 

• A sarong and sash are mandatory; they're available to rent or borrow free at most temple entrances 
• Your clothes should cover your shoulders and knees—this applies to all genders 
• Wear the sarong below the knee; it must fall to mid-calf or longer 
• Hats or sunglasses are not allowed in the prayer areas 
• No sleeveless tops without a cover-up scarf or shawl 
• Menstruating women are traditionally asked not to enter the inner sanctum at some temples 
• Many tourists have been asked to leave Pura Tanah Lot and other major temples for inappropriate dress during ceremonies. Do not risk it. 
  
  

Also read: Hidden sunset Beaches in Bali

Things to Know Before Visiting Temples in Bali  

1. Temple closures happen without notice Active ceremonies always take priority over tourism. Some temples close entirely to visitors during major rituals. 

2. Never step on offerings Small woven palm-leaf trays (canang sari) filled with flowers and incense are placed on every surface daily. They are sacred — step around them, not over or on them. 

3. Silence in prayer zones Talking loudly, using flash photography, or using your phone during active ceremonies is considered deeply disrespectful. 

4. Digital payments now accepted Many major temples, including Uluwatu, now accept digital payments — GoPay, OVO, and DANA—at ticket counters. Carry cash as backup for smaller temples. 

5. Best time to visit Early morning, between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, is best for quiet visits with fewer crowds and better light. 

6. Hire a licensed guide. Bali now requires guides to be officially certified by the provincial government. A good guide transforms a temple visit into a genuinely meaningful cultural experience. 

7. The Bali Tourist Levy applies All international visitors must pay the Bali Tourist Levy (IDR 150,000) on arrival—separate from individual temple entry fees. 

More Than Just Beaches in Bali 

The famous temples in Bali are not just places to tick off a list—they are the living heart of an island that has upheld its spiritual traditions for over a thousand years. From the sea-battered rocks of Tanah Lot to the jungle silence of Batukaru, each temple tells a story that no beach club or rice terrace can. Visit slowly, dress respectfully, and let Bali show you why it has always been called the Island of the Gods. 

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to swap ordinary holidays for magical sunsets, temple trails, and unforgettable memories with the perfect Bali tour packages from India.  

Learn More:
10 Hidden Sunset Beaches in Bali