Divinity Comes Calling At These 8 Temples to Visit in Bali

Bali, Indonesia's indisputable favourite with more than 17,000 islands, lives up to all the hype as the archetypal tropical paradise. While certain regions of Bali have grown quite popular in recent years, there are still places to visit in Bali that are untouched and pristine.

Bali's culture is characterised by a distinct kind of Hinduism that can be observed in every element of Balinese life, from the temples in Bali that adorn every corner of the island to the daily offerings found in every home. Whether it's discovering the unique culture of the Balinese, scuba diving in coral reefs, climbing an old volcano, or basking on a long stretch of beach, Bali has it all.

From hopping beaches in Bali to its affordable spas and shopping, tourists love its rich culture, deep-rooted customs and, of course, its hallowed Hindu temples. Through all these years, Bali's old temples have remained clean and untainted. They are decked with colourful offerings to the Gods, fragrant with incense, and worshipped every day by Bali's lovely people. Here are the ones you should definitely visit: -

1. Pura Lempuyang

Considered one of the holiest temples in Bali, Indonesia, Pura Lempuyang is right up there among Bali's most stunning temples. Not only is it a sacred place for Balinese Hindus but it also has a breathtaking view above the clouds — more than 1500 steps high! The view from Pura Lempuyang, often known as the "Gateway to Heaven," is exquisite. You should go on a clear day since Mount Agung's beautiful summit is wonderfully framed by the temples' gates. Make a day of it because there are six additional temples to see nearby as well as waterfalls and beautiful rice terraces.

2. Besakih Temple

One of Bali's most famous temples that is dedicated to Hinduism's three primary gods, Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, the Besikah Temple is flanked by smaller structures holding temples that are dedicated to lesser gods or shrines dedicated to various Balinese castes.

The Hindu trinity is represented by three temples at Besikah Temple. Pura Penataran Agung, in the centre, portrays Shiva the destroyer with white flags while Pura Kiduling Kreteg, to the right, represents Brahma the creator with red banners. Vish is represented by the black flags of Pura Batu Madeg.

3. Monkey Temple

Ancient guardian sculptures coated in moss can be seen in Bali's monkey temples. There are relics and statues hidden behind the lush forest with limited sunshine, creating an ancient and viridescent atmosphere. This historical forest is home to three temples: Prajapati Temple, Dalem Agung Padangtegal Temple, and Holy Spring Temple. The temples are Hindu temples that were established around the 14th century. Each temple has a distinct function which makes it one of the most visited Hindu temples in Bali, Indonesia.

4. Tirta Empul Water Temple

Tirta Empul Water Temple in Bali is one of the most significant and biggest water temples and holy mountain springs in Indonesia. The Bali Water Temple is devoted to the Hindu water God Vishnu and is located in Manukaya hamlet, Gianyar Regency, in central Bali. The open courtyard is filled with rich gardens and statues that line the walks. A variety of tropical plants may also be found in the garden. On the fourth side of the courtyard, two massive built-in entrances — candi bentar, or temple gate — welcome guests into the inner courtyard.

5. Devata Vishnu - The Underwater Temple

One of the most extraordinary temples that is a delight to the human eyes on its own is the Devata Vishnu temple. It is located 90 feet beneath the ocean's surface at Pemuteran Beach in North West Bali. The underwater Balinese Hindu temple stands beneath the surface of tranquil waters, with a spectacular split gate (temple structure) and statues of legendary creatures.

6. Sarawati Temple

The Pura Taman Saraswati is a lovely water temple in the heart of Bali. The temple is an excellent place to stop on your leisure excursions in Ubud town, where you can observe the historic Balinese temple architecture and take photos. Its stunning entrance has ponds filled with pink lotuses in bloom. Most regular tourists stop at Café Lotus for a minimum dinner cover fee and the best view of the lotuses and the temple's open stage. Traditional dance performances are presented here on a regular basis in the evenings, beginning at 7.30 p.m.

7. Uluwata Temple

Uluwatu Temple in Bali, along with Pura Besakih, is recognised as one of Bali's six most significant temples. The pura sanctuary is positioned on the brink of high cliffs that tower over Bali's famed surf breaks to the south. Most visitors admire the view of this temple from two separate vantage points, both in the north and south of the region. The traditional Balinese dance known as Kecak dance, which takes place after sunset, is a must-see at Uluwatu Temple.

8. Tanah Lot

Bali's Tanah Lot temple embodies the lovely island of Bali. Tanah Lot translates to "Land in the Sea," a term that properly describes the island's distinctive offshore situation. The silhouette of Pura Tanah Lot is one of Bali's most recognisable landmarks. There are several restaurants in the area where you can enjoy a great breakfast or lunch while admiring the scenery. Experience the tranquillity of the tropical sun gently fading beyond the horizon into the vast open ocean, a wonderful sight to remember for the rest of your life.

Best Time to Visit Bali

To appreciate the tropical monsoon environment, which has two different seasons, the best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, which is from May to September, and during the rainy season, which is from October to April.

While Bali is well-known for its surf, beach, and sunlight, it also has a spiritual culture. Bali is home to hundreds of temples of all forms and sizes, ranging from enormous mountainside temples to modest sea puras. Now you know which temples to visit when in Bali.