Temple Hopping in Bali - A Spiritual Journey
Bali isn’t called the “Island of the Gods” for nothing. With thousands of temples dotting the landscape, each more beautiful than the last, exploring Bali’s spiritual side became the unexpected highlight of our trip.
The Must-Visit Temples
Tanah Lot - Temple on the Sea
Our temple journey began at Tanah Lot, perched on a rock formation surrounded by crashing waves. Arriving for sunset, we joined hundreds of others watching the sky turn orange and pink behind the ancient temple silhouette.
Best time to visit: Sunset (around 6 PM), but arrive by 5 PM to get a good spot.
Entry fee: 60,000 IDR (~$4 USD)
The temple itself is only accessible during low tide, and only Hindu worshippers can enter. But the views from the mainland are spectacular enough.
Uluwatu Temple - Clifftop Drama
Located on a 70-meter cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple offers some of the most dramatic views in Bali. We stayed for the famous Kecak fire dance performance at sunset - a mesmerizing display of chanting, dancing, and flames against the ocean backdrop.
Pro tip: Book the Kecak dance tickets in advance and arrive early. The front rows fill up fast!
Watch out for: The monkeys here are notorious for stealing sunglasses, hats, and phones. Keep your belongings secure!
Tirta Empul - Holy Water Temple
This was my favorite. Tirta Empul is a water temple where locals come for purification rituals. We joined in the experience, following the proper protocol:
- Enter from the left side
- Move through each fountain
- Dip your head under the water at each spout
- Skip the last two (reserved for funeral ceremonies)
The experience felt deeply meaningful, even as a visitor. The cool spring water, the solemn atmosphere, and the devotion of the worshippers created a powerful moment.
What to bring: Sarong and sash (available for rent, but bring your own if possible), change of clothes
Pura Lempuyang - Gates of Heaven
The famous Instagram spot! But it’s worth the hype. The journey to the top involves climbing 1,700 steps, but the view of Mount Agung framed by the split gates is absolutely worth it.
Reality check: Be prepared to wait in line for the photo. We waited about 45 minutes. The attendants will even hold a mirror under your phone to create the reflection effect (there’s no water pool - it’s all mirror magic!).
Start early: We arrived at 6 AM and beat most of the crowds.
Beyond the Main Temples
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
While not a temple, these rice terraces showcase another aspect of Bali’s culture. The subak irrigation system is a spiritual practice where water distribution is controlled by temple ceremonies.
Walking through the terraces at sunrise, watching farmers tend their crops, was incredibly peaceful.
Sekumpul Waterfall
Hidden in the northern jungle, reaching Sekumpul requires a trek through rice paddies and down slippery stone steps. But the reward - a massive multi-tiered waterfall - is worth every careful step.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging Time needed: 2-3 hours including trek Bring: Good shoes, swimsuit, waterproof bag
Cultural Etiquette
Temple Dress Code
- Sarong and sash required
- Shoulders covered
- No shorts or short skirts
- Temple guards will often have these available for rent
Respect the Rituals
- Don’t climb on temple structures
- Stay quiet during ceremonies
- Don’t use flash photography during rituals
- If there’s a ceremony, you might not be able to enter - respect this
Offerings
You’ll see daily offerings (canang sari) everywhere. These small palm leaf baskets with flowers and incense are beautiful, but:
- Don’t step on them
- Don’t touch them
- They’re offerings to the gods
Practical Information
Getting Around
We hired a driver for the week (800,000 IDR/day or ~$55 USD). Totally worth it. He knew the best times to visit each temple and took us to local warungs for authentic food.
When to Visit
- Dry season: April to September
- Best months: May, June, September (fewer tourists)
- Avoid: July and August (peak season)
Budget
- Temple entrance fees: 20,000-150,000 IDR ($1-10)
- Driver: 800,000 IDR/day
- Food: 50,000-150,000 IDR per meal
- Accommodation: Varies widely, we spent $40/night for a nice guesthouse
Unexpected Lessons
What started as “temple hopping” became something more. Each temple taught me something about devotion, community, and the Balinese philosophy of balance between humans, nature, and the divine.
The daily offerings, the elaborate ceremonies, the care given to even the smallest shrine - it all reflects a culture deeply connected to spirituality. As a visitor, witnessing this was both humbling and inspiring.
Final Thoughts
Bali’s temples are more than just beautiful photo opportunities. They’re active places of worship, central to community life, and windows into a rich spiritual tradition. Approach them with respect and curiosity, and you’ll discover the real magic of the Island of the Gods.
Would I return? Absolutely. There are thousands more temples to explore, and I’ve only scratched the surface of this incredible island.