Discover the Sacred Serenity of Goa Lawah Temple
Explore Goa Lawah Temple, a stunning Hindu shrine in Bali known for its bat cave and breathtaking coastal views, offering a serene escape into spirituality.
Goa Lawah Temple, also known as the Bat Cave Temple, is a significant Hindu temple located on the eastern coast of Bali. This sacred site, believed to have been established in the 11th century, is a marvel of architectural beauty, showcasing intricate stone carvings that reflect the rich tradition of Balinese craftsmanship. Upon entering the temple, visitors are greeted by the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore, creating a tranquil atmosphere perfect for reflection and prayer. The temple's unique feature is the adjacent bat cave, which houses thousands of bats that flutter overhead, adding an enchanting element to the experience. As one of the six key temples in Bali, Goa Lawah Temple plays a vital role in the island’s spiritual landscape. It is often a site for rituals and ceremonies, making it a vibrant part of the local culture. Tourists are welcome to explore the temple grounds, take in the stunning ocean views, and observe the daily rituals performed by the local priests. The surrounding area is adorned with lush gardens and traditional Balinese architecture, providing ample opportunities for photography and relaxation. Visitors can also indulge in the local culture by trying some traditional Balinese foods at nearby warungs, or small eateries. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon, when the sunlight casts a magical glow over the temple and the sea. Goa Lawah Temple offers a perfect blend of spirituality, cultural richness, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Bali.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and witness the morning rituals.
- Respect local customs by dressing appropriately; sarongs are often available for rent at the entrance.
- Don't miss the breathtaking views of the ocean from the temple grounds, perfect for photography.
- Try local snacks from nearby warungs after your visit for an authentic Balinese culinary experience.
- Keep an eye out for the bats in the cave, particularly at dusk when they are most active.
A brief summary to Goa Lawah Temple
- CFX9+9GG, Jl. Raya Goa Lawah, Klungkung Regency, Pesinggahan, Dawan, Bali, 80761, ID
- +62813-3842-6781
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Denpasar, head to the 'Gela Gela' bus terminal. Look for buses heading to Klungkung or Amlapura, as they will take you in the right direction. Ensure the bus passes through the area of Pesinggahan. The bus ride will take approximately 1-1.5 hours. Once you arrive at the Klungkung terminal, you will need to take a local bemo (shared minivan) to Goa Lawah Temple. The bemo ride will take about 20-30 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at Goa Lawah Temple (Jl. Raya Goa Lawah).
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Bicycle
From Ubud, you can rent a bicycle. Start by heading east towards the main road (Jl. Raya Ubud). Follow the road towards Gianyar, and then take the road heading towards Klungkung. The journey is about 22 kilometers and will take about 1.5-2 hours, depending on your cycling speed. Once you reach Klungkung, follow the signs towards Pesinggahan. Goa Lawah Temple is located on Jl. Raya Goa Lawah, and it will be visible from the main road.
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Motorbike Rental
If you are comfortable riding a motorbike, you can rent one in areas like Kuta or Ubud. Head towards Jl. Raya Goa Lawah via Jl. Nusa Dua and then take the bypass road towards Klungkung. The total distance is approximately 30 kilometers and will take about 1 hour. Be sure to follow the signs for Goa Lawah Temple once you reach the vicinity of Klungkung. The temple is located right off the main road.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
If you prefer a more direct route and don’t mind spending a bit more, you can book a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Grab or Gojek. Input 'Goa Lawah Temple' into the app, and the driver will take you directly there. Depending on your starting location in Bali, the journey could take anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours. This option provides convenience, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.
Attractions Nearby to Goa Lawah Temple
Landmarks nearby to Goa Lawah Temple
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Kusamba Traditional Salt Mining
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Gala-Gala Underground House
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Besakih Great Temple
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Goa Gajah
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Tirta Gangga
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Taman Ujung
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Puri Agung Peliatan
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Peliatan Palace
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Puri Agung Tampaksiring
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Kuta
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Candi Tebing Gunung Kawi
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Petulu Heron Bird Colony Watch Point
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Pura Tirta Empul
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Tirta Empul Temple
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Agung Rai Museum of Art