Temples in Bali: 3 Must-Visit to Get Priceless Experiences

It’s not a secret anymore that Bali is also known as the island of Gods. It also related to the massives number of temples in Bali, both Hindus temples and Buddhist temples. Uniquely, each temple has its characteristics, attractions, values, and interesting stories. 

Therefore, the temple has become a tourism attraction in Bali many years ago and has always been on everyone’s bucket list. If you are one of them, so here are the best temples in Bali that you should at least visit. 

Photo source: Pan Species

1. Temples in Bali: Tanah Lot

Have you ever seen a big temple floating on the sea? If you haven’t seen it yet, then Tanah Lot temple is the one you need to see. A Hindu temple which typical with beautiful Balinese stone carvings floating on the crystal clear seawater. It looks majestic and stupendous! But behind its beauty, there is an interesting story to find out in-depth. 

When the seawater recedes, you will see the beauty of the clear white sea currents. At this time, you can enter the temple area. To reach the temple area, you will pass through charming sea rocks. 

Other than the magnificent temple, sunset is another attraction of Tanah Lot temple. It is one of the best spots to enjoy the sunset in Bali, especially if you are a photography enthusiast.

The Best Time to Visit Tanah Lot 

The best time to visit Tanah Lot in Bali is during the dry season, which is April to September. The weather is sunny and dry, its a perfect weather for outdoor activites and exploring the temple. Early morning or late in the afternoon is advisable if you are looking for less crowds. Although these times are popular for the beautiful sunrise and sunset views. Since the temple stands on a rock in the sea, the levels of tide affect how close you can get to the temple and some places around the temple. Visit at low tide to walk to the temple and other places or at high tide to see waves crashing against the rocks. Look for local cultural or religious events to attend at Tanah Lot, it will enrich your experience by showing you more about its cultural importance. Keep these tips in mind to enjoy what each season offers and tailor your visit to what you want to see and experience at Tanah Lot.

Location: Jalan Raya Tanah Lot, Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan, Bali 82121, Indonesia.

Opening hours: 07.00 a.m to 07.00 p.m everyday.

Entrance fee: IDR 30K for kid and IDR 60K for adult.

Photo source: Freepik

2. Lempuyang Temple

Have you ever imagined how it feels to be at the highest temple in Bali while enjoying the breathtaking views? The fresh air, green natural beauty, birds chirping, the magical and majestic mount in Bali will make your eyes wide open. Well, the Lempuyang temple is the one that will give you that experience. 

Known as the gate of heaven, the Lempuyang temple is popular among tourists. Here you will enjoy the Balinese cultural, spiritual, and natural beauty at once. Besides the stunning landscapes, making epic photos with a perfect shadow in front of you is another thing that makes this temple being interested. Want to know the secret about the epic photos? Find the answer in our article that talks about Lempuyang temple thoroughly. 

Best Time to Visit Lempuyang Temple

Like Tanah Lot, the best time to visit Lempuyang Temple weather-wise is during Bali’s dry season, which runs from April to September. The skies are clearer, providing spectacular views of Mount Agung, which is an iconic backdrop to the temple’s famous gates. To avoid large crowds and experience the temple in a more serene atmosphere, aim to visit early in the morning. This not only helps you beat the heat but also gives you a chance to capture the famous “Gateway to Heaven” without too many people around. Late afternoons are also less crowded but offer different lighting for photos and experiences. For photography enthusiasts, the early morning light can provide dramatic illumination of the temple and the surrounding landscape, including Mount Agung. The morning is also when the light is best for capturing the iconic image between the temple gates, looking towards the volcano. Lempuyang Temple often hosts religious ceremonies. Visiting during such events can be a deeply cultural experience, allowing you to observe and respect local traditions and religious practices.

Location: Jl. Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852

Opening hours: 07.00 a.m to 05.00 p.m everyday.

Entrance fee: You only will be charged with a parking fee and maybe voluntary donations.

Photo source: Nick Fewings

3. Tirtha Empul Temple

Is visiting a temple and doing self-purification something you want to do during your holiday in Bali? If yes, Tirta Empul Temple or known as Pura Tirtha Empul by locals is one of the must-visit temples in Bali. In the temple area, you will find natural spring water where you can do a self-purification. Therefore, this temple named Tirtha Empul means holy spring. 

The holy spring water is the icon of this Hindu temple which flowed from a sacred spring to a purification pool in the form of showers. Locals believe that the holy water brings serenity, sanctity, and luck. The fresh clean water, calm pool atmosphere, and lush gardens around strengthen the spiritual ambiance in this temple. Anyway, both locals and foreigners love to visit the Pura Tirtha Empul. It is also can be reached especially from Ubud. 

The Best Time to Visit Tirta Empul Temple

As with most outdoor activities in Bali, the best time to visit is during the dry season from April to September. During these months, the weather is typically sunny and warm, ideal for walking around the temple complex and participating in water rituals if you choose. Tirta Empul can get quite crowded, especially because it is a popular site for both tourists and locals who come for ritual purification. Visiting early in the morning right after opening can help you avoid the largest crowds and experience a more tranquil atmosphere. This is also when the light is beautiful for photos, and the water is at its clearest. Tirta Empul is a living cultural site where many ceremonies take place, especially during full moons and other significant Balinese Hindu dates. Visiting during these times can offer a unique insight into Balinese spiritual practices, but be prepared for larger crowds. For photographers, early morning or late afternoon provides softer light, which is ideal for capturing the beauty of the temple’s architecture and the reflective properties of the water.

Location: Jl. Tirta, Manukaya, Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80552, Indonesia.

Opening hours: 08.00 a.m to 06.00 p.m every day.

Entrance fee: IDR 15K – 30K per person.

Conclusion

If you decided to do a temple trip in Bali, don’t forget to follow some rules of entering a temple to maintain the sanctity of the temple. If you need any help to drive and guide you to the temple, don’t worry. Ubud Villas Rental by Red Lotus Property is ready to assist you if you stay in our villas in Ubud or villas in Saba.