If you’ve ever typed “Where Are the Best Temples in Bali Located” into Google, you’re probably like most travelers — curious, half-daydreaming about those moss-covered shrines, and wondering which temples are truly worth your time. And honestly? I get it. I’ve been there, hopping between the coastlines and mountains of Bali with a sarong in my backpack, trying to figure out which temples were tourist traps and which ones still had that raw, soul-stirring energy people talk about.
Bali isn’t just dotted with temples; it breathes them. Locals say there are over 20,000 across the island — no exaggeration. Every village has at least three: one for creation, one for life, and one for death. It’s wild how deeply spiritual the rhythm of daily life is here. You’ll hear the faint sound of gamelan music drifting through the air, smell the incense curling from tiny offerings left on the ground, and you’ll realize that these temples aren’t just for tourists — they’re for everyone, part of the island’s heartbeat.
Now, when people ask me which temple to visit first, I usually respond with another question: What kind of energy are you looking for? Because each temple has its own personality. Some cling dramatically to cliffsides, like Uluwatu Temple in the south, where you can watch the sun melt into the Indian Ocean while monkeys steal your sunglasses. Others are tucked deep in the mountains, like Pura Ulun Danu Bratan up in Bedugul, half-floating on a misty lake that looks straight out of a dream.
If you’re planning your first trip to the Island of the Gods, you might be wondering where is Bali located and how to get there.
According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, these temples aren’t just architectural masterpieces — they’re “living cultural spaces” that play a vital role in preserving Balinese Hindu traditions. And you can really feel that when you’re there. It’s not some museum experience; it’s life unfolding in real time. You’ll often see locals dressed in ceremonial attire, carrying woven baskets filled with flowers and fruit for offerings, their movements calm and purposeful.
What most travelers don’t realize is that the “best” temple really depends on what you want from your trip. Are you chasing Instagram-worthy sunsets? Spiritual quiet? A peek into local rituals that tourists rarely see? The island has all of that and more. From cliffside ocean shrines to jungle-hidden sanctuaries, each spot has its own story — and some of the most breathtaking views you’ll find anywhere on Earth.
Stick with me, because we’re about to explore each region — from the lush heart of central Bali to the quiet shores of the north and the dramatic cliffs of the south. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, knowing where these temples are (and what makes them special) will save you time, stress, and a few unnecessary long drives across winding mountain roads.
Central Bali — Temples Surrounded by Rice Fields and Lush Jungles
If you’re wondering where are the best temples in Bali located that truly capture the island’s spiritual soul, you have to start in Central Bali. This region, especially around Ubud, is where the island’s cultural heartbeat feels the strongest. It’s green, humid, and peaceful in that earthy, grounding kind of way. The roads twist through endless rice terraces, tiny villages, and sudden bursts of jungle — and right in the middle of it all, temples appear like they’ve just grown straight out of the moss-covered ground.
I still remember my first morning visiting Pura Tirta Empul, a sacred water temple near Tampaksiring. The air smelled faintly of wet stone and incense, and there was a line of locals in traditional sarongs waiting their turn to step into the holy spring. You can actually bathe there too — the water is said to have purifying powers. I didn’t plan on it that day, but one of the temple caretakers gently encouraged me to try. Next thing I knew, I was waist-deep in cool water, following a ritual that Balinese people have practiced for over a thousand years. It’s one of those experiences that’s hard to describe — part tourist curiosity, part something deeper. And yes, the water really does leave you feeling… lighter somehow.
If you’re planning your trip and want peace of mind while exploring, check out my post on Where to Find the Safest Areas in Bali for Tourists.
Pura Tirta Empul: The Temple of Holy Water
Pura Tirta Empul is probably one of the most photographed temples in Bali, but don’t let that stop you. It’s still very much a working temple, not a theme park. The main attraction is its holy spring that feeds a series of stone fountains. Locals come from all over the island for cleansing rituals, known as melukat. Visitors are welcome to join in — just make sure to rent a sarong and sash at the entrance, and follow the local etiquette.
A small tip: get there early. The tour buses usually roll in by 10 a.m., and once they do, the magic fades a little. Early mornings, when the mist still hangs low over the temple courtyards and you hear nothing but the sound of running water, that’s when you really feel it.
And by the way, according to the Balinese Cultural Heritage Agency, Tirta Empul was founded in 962 A.D. during the Warmadewa Dynasty — making it one of the oldest functioning temples in Bali. So when you’re standing there, dripping wet and shivering slightly, you’re literally taking part in a tradition that’s been alive for over a millennium. That’s wild when you think about it.
Pura Gunung Kawi: The Valley of Kings
Just down the road from Tirta Empul sits another jaw-dropping spot — Pura Gunung Kawi, often called the “Valley of Kings.” To reach it, you walk down hundreds of stone steps, passing small warungs selling coconuts and sarongs, until the path opens into a green river valley surrounded by towering cliffs. Carved right into those cliffs are ten enormous stone shrines, called candi, believed to honor ancient Balinese royalty.
There’s a tiny spot beside the river where you can sit and just listen. I sat there once after the rain, with no one else around, and thought about how these temples weren’t built for tourists or even beauty — they were built as bridges between humans and gods. That’s the kind of connection you feel in central Bali; it’s spiritual, not staged.
Pura Saraswati: The Lotus Temple in Ubud
Right in the center of Ubud, just off the main street where everyone’s sipping coffee and buying souvenirs, you’ll find Pura Taman Saraswati, a temple dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and arts. It’s small, but stunning — surrounded by blooming lotus ponds that make it feel almost dreamlike.
Here’s a funny thing: a lot of people accidentally discover it while looking for the Starbucks next door. But if you step past the crowd and linger for a while, you’ll notice the intricate stone carvings, the golden gates, and the calm of the inner courtyard. It’s a reminder that spirituality in Bali isn’t hidden away — it’s woven right into everyday life.
If you can, come in the evening. They often hold traditional Balinese dance performances here, especially the Legong dance. The temple backdrop lit by oil lamps makes it feel like something out of a painting. Tickets are cheap, and it’s one of the easiest cultural experiences to catch without needing to drive halfway across the island.
Pura Luhur Batukaru: The Jungle Temple
Now, if you want a temple that’s completely off the tourist trail, head west of Ubud to Pura Luhur Batukaru, tucked on the slopes of Mount Batukaru — Bali’s second-highest volcano. The drive there is half the experience. You’ll pass narrow, winding roads through rice paddies, small villages, and patches of dense jungle.
This temple is one of Bali’s sad kahyangan jagat — the six holiest temples believed to protect the island. Unlike the open-air coastal temples, Batukaru is hidden under towering rainforest trees, shrouded in mist most mornings. You’ll hear birds, maybe a few frogs, and that’s it. Hardly any tourists make it here, which is part of the charm.
There’s something grounding about this place. You’ll see moss growing on every stone, little streams running through the courtyards, and an energy that feels almost ancient. I once visited during a light drizzle, and honestly, it felt like the jungle was alive. You can’t help but slow down.
A local priest told me that each temple in Bali has a personality — and Batukaru, he said, is “the one that listens.” That line stuck with me.
Southern Bali — Cliffside Beauty and Oceanfront Temples
If Central Bali is the island’s spiritual soul, Southern Bali is where its drama unfolds. Seriously, if you’re standing on one of those cliffs near Uluwatu as the sun goes down, watching waves crash hundreds of feet below, you’ll get what I mean. It’s the kind of view that makes you stop talking mid-sentence.
When people ask where are the best temples in Bali located for those mind-blowing ocean views and iconic sunsets, I tell them — hands down, Southern Bali. This region is stacked with some of the most famous (and photogenic) temples on the island, and while it’s definitely busier than the highlands, the energy is no less sacred. In fact, locals say the sea temples here form a spiritual barrier that protects the island from evil spirits drifting in from the ocean.
Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu): The Temple on the Edge of Heaven
Let’s start with the big one — Pura Luhur Uluwatu. Perched 70 meters above the Indian Ocean on a jagged limestone cliff, it’s one of Bali’s six sad kahyangan jagat (the “six sanctuaries of the world”). I still remember my first visit — it was one of those blisteringly hot afternoons when the light bounces off the sea like silver. Monkeys were everywhere, snatching food and sunglasses with surgical precision.
Here’s a tip: leave anything shiny in the car. Those monkeys are sneaky little pickpockets.
The temple itself is small — you can’t actually go inside unless you’re there for a ceremony — but the setting is pure magic. You walk along the cliffside path, the ocean stretching endlessly to your right, and you get this surreal mix of serenity and adrenaline. Around sunset, it turns into something else entirely. The sky goes from gold to fire-orange to deep purple, and then the Kecak dance begins.
If you’ve never seen the Kecak before, it’s mesmerizing — dozens of men sit in a circle, chanting rhythmically as dancers tell the story of the Ramayana. The performance takes place right on the cliff, with the sea breeze in your face and the smell of incense in the air. It’s touristy, sure, but there’s a reason it’s so famous. You’ll walk away completely enchanted.
According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs, Uluwatu Temple was established in the 10th century by Mpu Kuturan, one of the island’s earliest high priests, as part of Bali’s spiritual network of directional temples. Each one faces a different compass point, balancing the island’s energy. Uluwatu, of course, guards the southwest — the realm of the sea gods.
Tanah Lot: The Temple That Floats on Water
If there’s one image of Bali that ends up on every postcard, it’s Tanah Lot. Even if you’ve never been, you’ve probably seen it — that tiny rock island with a temple perched on top, surrounded by crashing waves. The name literally means “Land in the Sea,” and it lives up to it.
When the tide’s high, Tanah Lot looks completely unreachable, like it’s floating. But at low tide, you can walk across the rocks and get up close (though the inner temple is reserved for worshippers). The first time I went, I made the mistake of wearing sandals — bad idea. The rocks are slippery, and those waves? They’ll absolutely soak you if you’re not paying attention.
Still, there’s something unforgettable about standing there, watching the waves roll in beneath a centuries-old temple. Tanah Lot is more than just a photo stop; it’s deeply spiritual. Locals believe it’s guarded by holy sea snakes that live in the caves beneath the rocks. Whether you believe that or not, there’s a sacred weight to the place you can feel, especially if you go early in the morning before the souvenir stalls open.
If you want a truly serene experience, come for sunrise instead of sunset. The light hits differently — soft, pinkish, and quiet. You’ll mostly see locals performing prayers, and the whole place feels alive in a calm, steady way.
Pura Gunung Payung: The Quiet Ocean Temple Few Talk About
Not far from Nusa Dua, hidden along the cliffs of Kutuh village, there’s a place most tourists miss: Pura Gunung Payung. It’s one of those temples that doesn’t show up much in glossy travel blogs, and honestly, that’s what makes it special. The path down is a bit rough — a mix of stone steps and narrow trails that eventually lead to a small temple overlooking the sea.
I stumbled across it while on a scooter ride one afternoon, just following signs I couldn’t read. When I got there, I realized I was the only person around. No stalls, no ticket counters, no selfie sticks. Just the wind, the sea, and a few small shrines. There’s even a hidden beach below the cliff — Gunung Payung Beach — which is one of the cleanest I’ve seen in Bali.
The temple itself may not be grand, but it’s deeply peaceful. You’ll often see locals setting up small offerings in the morning. It’s said the temple is dedicated to the guardian spirits of the ocean, meant to bless fishermen and protect travelers.
Pura Geger: A Spiritual Stop Between Nusa Dua Resorts
Right on the edge of Geger Beach, where clear blue water meets soft white sand, sits Pura Geger — another small but important sea temple. It’s easy to overlook because it’s surrounded by luxury hotels and beach clubs, but it’s one of the few spots in Nusa Dua that still feels authentically local.
If you’re staying in the area, go early morning. Locals come here to pray before sunrise, and the view from the cliffs above the temple is honestly breathtaking. You can see all the way across the bay. What’s cool about Geger is that it’s still very much part of the local community. You’ll see fishermen pulling in nets nearby, children playing on the beach, and priests preparing for ceremonies.
That contrast — ancient rituals happening right next to high-end resorts — perfectly sums up southern Bali. The island has changed a lot, sure, but the spiritual side hasn’t gone anywhere.
Northern Bali — Quiet Spiritual Escapes Away from the Crowds
If you’ve already checked out the southern cliffs and central jungles, heading north feels like stepping into a different island altogether. It’s calmer, less commercial, and somehow more “real.” The roads get narrower, the air cooler, and you’ll often go miles without seeing another tourist. When people ask me where are the best temples in Bali located for peace and authentic connection, I always say: the north.
This is where you find temples that seem to exist outside of time. No crowds, no noise — just mountain air, the sound of water, and the faint smell of incense. The spiritual rhythm here is slower, deeper, more introspective. It’s like the north whispers rather than shouts, and that whisper tends to stay with you long after you’ve left.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: The Floating Temple on the Lake
You’ve probably seen photos of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, even if you didn’t know its name. It’s that dreamy temple sitting on a misty lake, half-reflected in the still water, surrounded by mountains. It’s easily one of Bali’s most iconic images — and honestly, it’s even more breathtaking in person.
The temple sits on Lake Bratan, near the town of Bedugul, and it’s dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water and fertility. According to the Indonesian Ministry of Culture, the temple was built in 1633 to honor the goddess who controls the island’s irrigation system — a vital part of Balinese life even today. The Balinese subak (rice terrace) system, which is actually recognized by UNESCO, depends on her blessings.
When you get there early in the morning — and trust me, go early — the mist rolls across the lake like slow-moving smoke. You’ll see local women carrying offerings on their heads, the air filled with the scent of frangipani. The reflection of the temple in the lake is so clear it looks unreal, like someone painted it onto glass.
I remember once standing there just before a light drizzle started, watching tiny ripples form on the water. The entire temple seemed to hover between the clouds and the lake. It’s one of those rare places that makes you quiet inside without even trying.
And for photographers — yeah, this is the one. But please, take a moment to actually look beyond the lens. You’ll get more out of it that way.
Pura Beji Sangsit: The Temple of Fertility
Head northeast toward Singaraja, and you’ll find Pura Beji Sangsit, one of the most elaborately carved temples in all of Bali. Built in the 15th century, it’s dedicated to Dewi Sri, the goddess of rice and fertility — which makes sense considering how much the local economy depends on farming.
The first thing you’ll notice is how different it looks from other temples. The carvings are everywhere — on the gates, walls, pillars, even the ceilings. Dragons, floral patterns, demons, and mythical creatures twist together in stone. What’s wild is that the carvings here are done in sandstone, not the usual volcanic rock, so they glow softly in the sun.
Hardly any tourists make it here. The day I visited, it was just me, a caretaker sweeping leaves, and a couple of curious kids peeking from behind the gate. It’s not flashy or crowded; it’s just… alive in its own quiet way. The locals believe this temple’s energy helps bring fertility to the land and harmony to families — and if you stand in the inner courtyard, surrounded by those ancient carvings, you’ll understand why. It’s got this still, nurturing energy.
Pura Pulaki: Where Temples Meet the Sea (and Monkeys Rule the Show)
Farther west, near Pemuteran, you’ll come across Pura Pulaki, one of the few temples in northern Bali that sits right on the coastline. The temple itself is beautiful — a series of courtyards leading up to ornate shrines overlooking the ocean — but it’s the setting that makes it unforgettable.
And yes, there are monkeys. Lots of them. They’re not as aggressive as the ones at Uluwatu, but still — hang onto your stuff. I had one snatch a packet of crackers straight out of my hand.
Pulaki is one of the oldest sea temples on the island, believed to be built to honor the guardian spirits of the sea. The Balinese consider it part of a spiritual chain of temples that circle the island, protecting it from negative forces. You’ll often see locals stopping to pray on their way through the area, especially fishermen before heading out to sea.
What I love about this place is how it blends elements — the ocean on one side, green hills rising steeply behind. The temple feels caught between two worlds, land and water, light and shadow. It’s said that visiting Pulaki helps “balance” your energy, grounding you in both. Whether or not you believe in that kind of thing, it’s hard to deny how calming it feels here.
Pura Meduwe Karang: The Temple of the North’s Protector
Just a bit inland from Lovina, Pura Meduwe Karang often flies under the radar, but it’s one of the most significant temples in northern Bali. It’s dedicated to the god who protects farmers and landowners — fitting, since this area is mostly agricultural.
The standout here is the carving of a Dutch cyclist from the early 20th century — yes, seriously. It’s a stone relief of a man pedaling a bicycle, surrounded by intricate Balinese motifs. No one really knows why it’s there, but locals say it represents Bali’s ability to absorb foreign influences while still keeping its core identity intact.
It’s a quiet temple, surrounded by fields, and if you’re lucky, you might see a ceremony in progress. I happened to stumble upon one once — women dressed in white and gold carrying offerings, men playing gamelan in a steady rhythm. No tourists, no photographers, just community and faith. That’s the real Bali right there.
Eastern Bali — Ancient Temples and Mystical Mountain Sanctuaries
If Bali were a storybook, Eastern Bali would be the chapter filled with legends, mountain gods, and temples that seem to scrape the sky. This is where the island’s spiritual energy feels most intense — ancient, raw, and humbling. Whenever someone asks me where are the best temples in Bali located for pure atmosphere and connection to the island’s oldest traditions, I always point them east.
The east is dominated by Mount Agung, the island’s highest and most sacred volcano. Locals believe it’s the home of the gods, especially the supreme deity Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa. The temples here aren’t just places of worship — they’re living gateways to something much bigger. And trust me, when you stand on a temple terrace looking up at Mount Agung rising through the clouds, it’s hard not to feel small in the best possible way.
Pura Lempuyang Luhur: The “Gates of Heaven”
Let’s be real — you’ve seen Pura Lempuyang Luhur all over Instagram. It’s that temple with the stunning split gate framing Mount Agung perfectly in the distance. But here’s what most people don’t know: that photo spot is just the first of seven temples along a steep, sacred mountain path that winds up over 1,700 steps.
Yeah, you read that right — 1,700.
The temple complex, often just called “Lempuyang,” is one of the island’s oldest, believed to predate most of Bali’s major Hindu temples. It’s also one of the sad kahyangan jagat, the six holiest temples protecting the island.
When I visited, I decided to skip the tourist photo line (which can take hours — not kidding) and start hiking up to the upper temples. The higher you go, the quieter it gets. The sounds of motorbikes and chatter fade, replaced by birds, wind, and the occasional rooster from a distant village. Along the way, I met a local woman carrying offerings up the steps barefoot. She laughed when she saw me struggling halfway up and said, “The gods don’t need us to hurry.” That line stuck with me.
According to the Indonesian Directorate of Cultural Heritage, Lempuyang’s temples represent stages of spiritual purification — each one closer to enlightenment. Even if you don’t make it to the top, the energy is unmistakable. You’ll leave sweaty, maybe tired, but definitely lighter somehow.
If you do want that famous “Gates of Heaven” photo, go early — before 7 a.m. if possible. The clouds move fast here, and by midday, Mount Agung often disappears behind mist. Early light also gives the temple this silvery glow that’s pure magic.
Besakih Temple: The Mother Temple of Bali
If Bali had a spiritual capital, it would be Pura Besakih, known as the “Mother Temple.” Sitting high on the southwestern slopes of Mount Agung, it’s the largest and most important temple complex on the island — actually a network of 23 separate temples sprawling across terraces and courtyards.
Every Balinese Hindu will visit Besakih at least once in their life. It’s considered the “center of the universe” in the island’s spiritual geography. The temple honors the Trimurti — Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer) — along with countless local deities.
I first went to Besakih during Galungan, one of Bali’s most sacred festivals. The place was packed with families in white ceremonial clothing, carrying offerings and chanting softly. The air buzzed with energy — not chaotic, but powerful. You could feel it in your bones.
The complex itself is breathtaking. Terraced stairways lead up through stone gateways carved with mythical figures. At the top, you get an unobstructed view of Mount Agung looming above — both beautiful and slightly intimidating. The mountain erupted in 1963, destroying villages below but somehow sparing the temple. Locals see that as a sign of divine protection.
Besakih isn’t just a must-see — it’s a must-feel. You’ll walk away understanding why Balinese spirituality runs so deep. And despite the occasional tourist crowds, the reverence here is real. Just remember to dress modestly and be respectful — this isn’t a photo backdrop, it’s a living sacred site.
Tirta Gangga: The Water Palace of the East
A short drive from Lempuyang and Besakih lies Tirta Gangga, a former royal water palace built in 1948 by the Karangasem kings. While technically not a temple in the traditional sense, it’s still deeply spiritual — “tirta” means “holy water,” and the palace pools are fed by sacred springs.
This place is straight-up gorgeous. The gardens are filled with stone statues, koi ponds, and fountains bubbling under the tropical sun. You can walk across the stepping stones that zigzag through the water — though fair warning, they’re slippery when wet (I found out the hard way).
What’s interesting about Tirta Gangga is how it blends Balinese and European design — elegant columns next to Hindu carvings, stone bridges beside lotus ponds. It’s peaceful in that quiet, slow-breathing way. Locals come here to collect spring water for ceremonies, and you’ll often see priests performing purification rituals near the smaller shrines.
If you’re visiting Lempuyang, make sure to stop by here after. It’s only about a 30-minute drive, and the combination of mountain views and cool spring water makes for the perfect way to unwind. Plus, the food at the little café overlooking the palace is surprisingly good — I had one of the best nasi campur plates of my trip there.
Pura Goa Lawah: The Bat Cave Temple
Now, this one’s a bit different — and a little spooky. Down along the coast near Kusamba lies Pura Goa Lawah, one of Bali’s nine directional temples. It’s literally built around a cave filled with thousands (yes, thousands) of bats.
You’ll hear them before you see them — that high-pitched chatter echoing through the temple courtyards. The cave opening is lined with shrines and offerings, and you can see the bats clustered like dark clouds on the ceiling. It’s wild.
According to local legend, the cave connects directly to Besakih Temple on Mount Agung through a secret underground tunnel — though no one’s ever proven it. The temple’s name means “Lawah Cave,” and it’s believed to be a balance point between the ocean and the mountain — two opposing forces in Balinese cosmology.
Despite the bats, it’s not creepy. It’s oddly peaceful. The priests here move calmly, as if the endless fluttering above their heads doesn’t even register. If you’re into something a little offbeat but deeply symbolic, this one’s worth a visit.
Western Bali — Underrated and Peaceful Temple Experiences
When most people ask where are the best temples in Bali located, Western Bali almost never comes up. And that’s a shame, because this part of the island might just be the most peaceful, authentic, and beautifully unpolished of them all. It’s where you find temples that still feel local, places where you’ll likely be the only foreigner for miles.
Western Bali is wilder — less touched by tourism, more raw in energy. You’ll drive through long stretches of rice paddies, coconut groves, and tiny fishing villages. The rhythm of life here moves slower, like the old Bali that people talk about missing. And the temples? They reflect that perfectly — quiet, spiritual, and deeply woven into the fabric of daily life.
Pura Rambut Siwi: The Temple of the Sacred Hair
Let’s start with Pura Rambut Siwi, near the Jembrana region. Its name literally means “Temple of the Revered Hair,” and it’s one of the most important sea temples in western Bali. The story goes that a high priest, Dang Hyang Nirartha, once passed through this area in the 16th century. He was such a powerful spiritual figure that the locals asked him to leave behind a piece of himself as a blessing. So he took a lock of his hair — “rambut siwi” — and enshrined it in the temple.
Standing here, you’ll get serious Tanah Lot vibes — the temple overlooks the ocean from a cliffside, with waves crashing far below. But unlike Tanah Lot, there are no crowds, no ticket booths, no lines. Just the sea breeze, the sound of prayer bells, and the occasional dog napping under a banyan tree.
I arrived one late afternoon when the sun was dipping low, casting this golden light across the stone shrines. A local woman was placing canang sari (daily offerings made of flowers and palm leaves) on the steps, and she waved me over to sit for a moment. We didn’t share a language, but it didn’t matter. The stillness said enough.
According to the Indonesian Cultural Heritage Department, Rambut Siwi is part of Bali’s spiritual “sea temple chain” that forms a protective circle around the island. You can really sense that protective energy here — strong but gentle, like a quiet guardian watching over the coast.
If you love ocean views but hate crowds, make this a priority. Bring water, wear a sarong, and take your time walking through the terraces. The view from the upper shrine, looking west into the sunset, is easily one of the best in Bali.
Pura Melanting: The Merchant’s Temple
Drive a bit further north, and you’ll hit Pura Melanting, tucked away in the hills near the village of Pemuteran. This one’s dedicated to Dewi Melanting, the goddess of prosperity and trade, and it’s a favorite among local business owners who come to pray for success and good fortune.
Getting there is an adventure in itself. The road winds through forests and small villages, and just when you think you’ve taken a wrong turn, the temple suddenly appears — massive, ornate, and surrounded by dense greenery. You’ll have to climb a long staircase lined with dragon sculptures to reach the main courtyard, but the view from the top is totally worth it.
What’s fascinating here is the architecture. Unlike most temples, which are made of dark volcanic stone, Melanting features bright red and gold decorations that sparkle under the sunlight. It feels grand yet welcoming.
I once visited during a weekday, and the only other people there were two women preparing offerings and a priest performing blessings. The sound of the prayer bells echoed through the forest, and honestly, it gave me chills. It’s that kind of place — quiet, powerful, almost cinematic in its beauty.
If you’re exploring northern or western Bali, combine this stop with nearby Pura Pulaki and Pura Pabean, two more coastal temples that form a spiritual trio protecting the region. Each one has a different energy — Pulaki with its monkeys, Pabean overlooking the sea, and Melanting tucked in the hills.
Pura Tamba Waras: The Temple of Healing
Hidden near Mount Batukaru in western Tabanan, Pura Tamba Waras is a bit of a detour, but if you’re into local legends, it’s worth every minute. The name means “Temple of the Restored Health,” and according to Balinese folklore, it was founded after a king from Tabanan was miraculously healed here centuries ago.
The temple sits deep in the jungle, surrounded by bamboo and streams. You’ll need to drive along narrow, winding roads to reach it, but the moment you arrive, you’ll feel that stillness that only untouched places have. The air is thick with moisture and the scent of wet earth — it’s one of those spots where nature and spirituality blur together completely.
Locals still visit regularly to pray for health and wellbeing. There’s even a small spring nearby where you can wash your hands and face (not drinkable, but symbolically cleansing). I did it once after watching an old man do the same, and he nodded approvingly, like I’d done something right.
Few tourists know about Tamba Waras, which is exactly why I love it. It’s not curated or commercialized. It’s just there — alive, real, quietly powerful.
Pura Palasari: A Rare Blend of Cultures
One of the more unusual stops in Western Bali is Pura Palasari, located near the Palasari Catholic Church — yes, you read that right. This area is one of the few places in Bali where a predominantly Catholic community lives harmoniously alongside Hindu traditions. The temple here symbolizes that balance.
It’s small but beautifully maintained, with serene ponds, traditional Balinese carvings, and a calm atmosphere that feels different from other temples. The nearby Palasari Church, built in Balinese style, is also worth a peek — it’s like watching two faiths coexist effortlessly.
If you’re road-tripping through western Bali (and you should — the drive is incredible), stopping here gives you a real sense of the island’s diversity and harmony. It’s also near West Bali National Park, so you can combine temple visits with nature exploration — snorkeling in Menjangan Island or trekking through mangrove forests.
Why Western Bali Temples Deserve More Love
Here’s the thing — Western Bali might not have the flashy fame of Uluwatu or the Instagram buzz of Lempuyang, but that’s exactly why it’s so rewarding. The temples here aren’t trying to impress you. They exist for the locals first, and for the gods always.
You’ll find small daily ceremonies happening without any fanfare — women arranging offerings, priests ringing bells, children playing nearby. It’s spirituality lived, not staged. And that’s something you rarely see in the busier parts of the island.
Most travelers don’t realize how much of Bali’s history is rooted in this region. During the Majapahit influence centuries ago, the western ports were vital spiritual gateways. Many priests and artisans entered the island through these coastal towns, bringing ideas, rituals, and architectural styles that still influence temple design today.
If you want a slice of the “real” Bali — unhurried, humble, and deeply sacred — Western Bali’s temples are it. You won’t get perfect selfies here (cell signal’s spotty anyway), but you’ll walk away with something better: a feeling of calm, like the island just let you in on one of its quiet secrets.
Practical Tips — What to Know Before Visiting Bali’s Temples
Alright, so before you start temple-hopping across Bali, there are a few things worth knowing. These aren’t strict rules, but more like respectful ways to show you get the culture. And honestly, they’ll make your experience way smoother.
First off — dress modestly. Most temples will ask you to wear a sarong and sash, even if you’re just popping in for a quick look. Some places provide them for free, others charge a small rental fee. Shoulders and knees covered, no beachwear — simple as that. Locals appreciate it, and it helps you blend in instead of standing out.
Next, mind where you walk. Never step over offerings (those small baskets of flowers and rice you’ll see everywhere). They’re called canang sari and they’re sacred. Also, if a ceremony’s going on, hang back and observe quietly. You’re totally welcome to watch, but not to interrupt.
Timing matters too. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best. It’s cooler, the light is gorgeous for photos, and you’ll avoid the mid-day crowds at big temples like Tanah Lot or Uluwatu. Some smaller temples close early, so check local hours if you’re venturing off the main routes.
If you’re a woman, note that you shouldn’t enter temples during menstruation — it’s a traditional belief tied to spiritual purity. Most locals won’t say anything, but it’s a cultural thing to respect.
Don’t climb on shrines (even for pictures) or point your feet at statues — that’s considered rude. And if someone offers to bless you with holy water, it’s okay to say yes — just bow your head, close your eyes, and accept it quietly. It’s a beautiful moment, even if you’re not religious.
And finally — don’t rush. Bali’s temples aren’t meant to be checked off like a to-do list. Each one has a different rhythm and energy. Take your time, breathe in the incense, listen to the sounds of the gamelan from afar, and just be still for a moment. That’s when Bali really shows itself.
