TEMPLES

Bali is known as ‘the land of 1000 temples’, and I’m quite sure this is vastly understated! Each large village/ area has a major temple, and ten scattered through out you will find small local temples, and then even more private temples at places of residence, where Balinese can embrace and feel closer to their Hindu deities and ancestors.

But some major temples have become tourist attractions in their own right, and well worth a visit to experience some Hindu culture, or simply take in the splendour of the sights and architecture.

Uluwatu Temple – High atop a sheer cliff, and only a stones throw away from the world famous surfing destination, this temple offers incredible views over the ocean, and is also known for its mischievous local monkey horde. Be very careful, they can be aggressive, and will steal things from you if you drop your guard!

Sacred Monkey Forest – Deep in the heart of Bali, half way up the hills in the town of Ubud, you will find this Monkey sanctuary and temple, similarly to the Uluwatu horde, these monkeys are super cheeky, and will steal things such as water bottles straight from your hand, or sunglasses from your head! It is safe for them to climb you, but dont make any sudden movements, and let them do their thing, they will soon grow restless and move on.

Tanah Lot – The famous sunset temple, on the west coast just past Canggu, is known very well for its incredible sunsets, with the temple being set into a small rocky outcrop, its separated by the sea at high tide from the shore, but very accessible at mid to low tides.

Goa Gajah – The Elephant Cave temple near Ubud

Lempuyang Luhur – To the east of Mount Agung, its main gallery and water feature gives you an incredible view of the active volcano from its gates!

 

Ulun Danu Bratan – High in the mountains, to the west of Mount Batur, this classical Chinese style water temple makes an incredible setting for a sunrise. With its perfectly manicured gardens, and shimmering lake, aloft an inactive volcano, its certainly worth a visit! Keep in mind, with an elevation of about 1500m, it is noticeably colder at this height, so be sure to pack something slightly warmer, so you can focus on enjoying this picture perfect setting.

There are many other culturally significant temples worth checking out! Look hem up on google, or ask your local tour guide.