Discover the Spiritual Serenity of Goa Gajah
Explore Goa Gajah, Bali's enchanting Elephant Cave, a sacred Hindu temple rich in history and surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Goa Gajah, known as the Elephant Cave, is a remarkable Hindu temple located in the scenic region of Gianyar, Bali. This historical site is believed to date back to the 11th century and is noted for its intricate carvings and serene atmosphere. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a stunning facade featuring a grotesque face carved into the rock, which is said to serve as a guardian of the cave. Inside, the cave reveals a small shrine where offerings are made, creating a peaceful ambiance that resonates with spirituality and history. The site also features several sacred bathing pools, which are an integral part of the temple's rituals, believed to purify the soul. Surrounded by lush greenery, the tranquil environment of Goa Gajah invites visitors to meditate and reflect while enjoying the natural beauty of Bali. The temple is a perfect blend of art, culture, and nature, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the rich Balinese heritage. It is advisable to dress modestly as a sign of respect while exploring this sacred site. As you wander through the temple grounds, take a moment to appreciate the intricate stone carvings and the lush landscape that enhances the site's spiritual allure. The temple can get busy, so early morning visits are recommended to enjoy a more serene experience.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Dress modestly to respect the sacred nature of the temple.
- Don't forget to explore the beautiful surrounding gardens for a complete experience.
A brief summary to Goa Gajah
- Gianyar Regency, Bedulu, Blahbatuh, Bali, ID
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Bicycle
If you're in Ubud, you can rent a bicycle from one of the many rental shops. Head to Jalan Raya Ubud and follow it south until you reach the intersection with Jalan Raya Campuhan. Turn left and continue straight until you reach the village of Bedulu. Follow the signs to Goa Gajah, which will be on your right.
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Walking
From Ubud, you can take a walking route to Goa Gajah. Start at the Ubud Palace and walk down Jalan Raya Ubud. Continue straight until you reach Jalan Raya Bedulu. Turn left onto Jalan Raya Bedulu and keep walking straight until you see signs for Goa Gajah. It's about a 45-minute walk.
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Public Transport (Bemo)
You can catch a Bemo (shared minibus) from Ubud to Gianyar. Head to the Ubud Terminal located on Jalan Raya Ubud. Look for a Bemo heading to Gianyar and tell the driver you want to go to Goa Gajah. The ride should take around 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Gianyar, it's a short walk to the entrance of Goa Gajah.
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Taxi (Ojek)
You can use a local ride-hailing app like Gojek or Grab to book a motorcycle taxi (Ojek). Open the app, set your location in Ubud, and search for Goa Gajah as your destination. The ride will take approximately 25 minutes depending on traffic.
