The Sacred Trail of Bali

Leaving beaches and going for a temple tour may not sound like an exciting endeavour, but once you saunter inside the Balinese temples, you will surely change your mind.

With over 2,000 temples on this Indonesian island, these iconic structures are a sight to behold as they give one a glimpse of the country’s exuberant culture, legendary stories and astounding architecture.

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Known as ‘Pura’ in the local language, the temples in Bali offer spellbinding views of the paddy fields and magnificent sunsets with some perched-on cliffs on the Indian ocean. To help you pick the best, we have compiled a list of five temples with the most impressive locations.

Tanah Lot Temple

Rising from the sea and embracing the tides is the Tanah Lot temple standing on a rock for over centuries.

The temple was supposedly built by the priest Nirartha in the 15th century to honour the sea god, Baruna. It is regarded as Bali’s most remarkable temples and an evening here will surely offer you a sunset that will leave you inspired and wonderstruck.

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Pura Besakih

This artistic temple is a unique world in itself. Terraced up the slope with six levels and a sprawling complex of 23 separate temples, dating back to the 10th century, it is one of the holiest Hindu temples in Bali.

Nestled within a scenic mountain range, flanked by streams and fields, Pura Besakih’s beauty is even more enhanced during the spring season as the blossoms take over the temple complex.

Pura Luhur

This one will snatch your breath away. It is one of Bali’s most important religious places and part of the six major temples which are considered to be the spiritual pillars of Bali.

The showstopper of this temple is a 7-tiered Meru (a wooden pagoda-like structure) which is dedicated to Lord Mahadeva. Take the 1,700 steps to the top of the temple and let the beauty of the mountains and the azure coastline take over your senses.

Expert tip: You must watch the splendid dance show called the Kecak Dance (a traditional Hindu Balinese dance dating back to the 1930s) that is performed daily in the evening from 6pm to 7pm.

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Goa Gajah

Situated in a historical cave this temple is a sheer architectural delight. A stunning blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences, the striking feature of the temple is the wide-eyed demon mouth carved in stone right at the entrance of the temple to ward off evil spirits.

It is also known as the ‘Elephant Cave’, because of its close proximity to the Elephant river. An important ancient archaeological site, once you step inside the temple, you will be welcomed by courtyards and pathways leading to serene ancient pools.

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Pura Taman Saraswati

Referred to as the “Water Palace,” this temple is dedicated to Saraswati the Hindu Goddess of knowledge, literature and arts.

Surrounded by Lotus ponds on either side, it was constructed in 1952 and designed by the notable stone sculptor and architect Gusti Nyoman Lempad. This is surely one of the most tranquil temples on the island.

The stunning Balinese temples are your gateway to know more about the rich heritage, culture and history of this sensational island.

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