The Best Temples to Visit in Bali
Bali is a fascinating island thriving with hundreds of engaging sites, whether it is the elaborate temples, fire dances, beaches, or rituals unique to the island. This Indonesian island, part of the world’s largest archipelago that boasts incredible marine life, is also known for its ancient temples. Among the most famous temples worth visiting, Ulun Danu Beratan, Uluwatu, and Tanah Lot top my list. These temples are best visited early in the morning or late afternoon. While you’re here, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
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Ulun Danu Beratan Floating Temple
The beautiful Balinese Temple of Ulun Danu Beratan is in Lake Beratan. This floating temple engulfed in fog and surrounded by surreal natural beauty has a mystical quality to it. Ulun Danu Beratan is a Hindu Shiva temple built in the 16th century near the Bedugul Mountains. Here, one can pray to Dewi Danu, the River Goddess, and Lake Beratan. This is one of Bali’s nine Kahyangan Jagat Temples, with five shrines dedicated to Hindu gods.
Batu Bolong Temple
I happened to stop by Batu Bolong Temple on my way to see the famous Tanah Lot Temple. Even though Pura Batu Bolong Temple is a small Hindu shrine, the breathtaking sunset views from here are unreal. This sacred site is devoted to Ida Batara Segara, a God who brings peace and harmony to the world. Batu Bolong is perched atop a perforated rock overlooking the Indian Ocean, one Balinese location where you can experience both the power of divinity and the phenomenal beauty of nature. While you’re here, take a stroll through the traditional village of Canggu.
Uluwatu Sea Temple
Uluwatu Temple is a Balinese Hindu sea temple located in Badung’s South Kuta district. This 10th-century hilltop temple is more famous for its spectacular location than for its devotion to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa or Rudra. It’s one of Bali’s six important temples, perched atop a cliff. It is, in other words, one of Bali’s spiritual pillars, and it is located on the island’s southern coast. The traditional-designed gateways, ancient sculptures, and location on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean are what make Uluwatu Temple so special.
Tanah Lot Temple
The Tanah Lot Temple in Bali is a rock formation that is said to be the site of an ancient Hindu pilgrimage. Tabanan, Denpasar, is home to this spiritual and cultural icon of Bali. Because the temple is perched on a large rock shaped by the tides over the years, its name translates to Land in the Sea. According to legend, this temple was built in the sixteenth century by Dang Hyang Nirartha. He had erected a shrine on the cliff to worship the Balinese Sea Gods, and fishermen began to bring offerings soon after.
Nirartha, in addition to Dewa Baruna, the sea god, is said to be worshipped at this temple. The Tanah Lot Temple is believed to be guarded, by deadly sea snakes, who they say, protect from evil spirits.
