Often called as the island of Gods, Bali is one of the most well-known tourist destinations which offers stunning natural beauty like white-sandy beach with crystal-clear water, lush rice terrace, volcanic mountains and the most renowned of Bali is of course their rich cultural heritage that is infused into the local’s daily life.

Their traditional cultures can also be felt from their temples which spread around Bali Island. As many people know, Bali has always boasted over a thousand temples with each having their own distinctive features and unique architectural style. These temples are not just religious sites, but they also serve as social and cultural centers for the locals.

Here are some of the most famous temples around Bali that you must visit during your stay.

One of the most famous and important landmarks in Bali, which is known for its unique offshore setting and stunning sunset backdrop. In this beautiful place you will be welcomed by the magnificent temple that stands on top of an outcrop, accompanied by a constant crashing waves under, it is truly a sight to behold.

Tanah Lot itself has the meaning of Lands in the Sea, it is actually portrayed as the name says. Being surrounded by the sea you might mistake it as a castle surrounded by the crystal-clear waves and is believed to be the work of one religious figure in Bali, Dang Hyang Niratha since the 16th century.

Located in a unique location which is on top of a cliff, where visitors would be able to hear and see the crashing waves under their feet. Uluwatu Temple is another iconic temple which often become one of the most visited temple that attracts not only local, but also people from around the world

This temple is dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, who is believed to be the supreme God in Hinduism and the temple itself has a beautiful example of Balinese architecture. It houses high layered pagodas, statues of the guardian deities, and a beautiful courtyard. Besides, near this temple usually holds one of the most famous traditional dances, Kecak dance performance in the evening, where visitors can take their time and get immersed into the dance, or even participate in the dance.

Another one of the iconic temples in Bali which hold a nickname as the “Mother Temple of Bali”, which is one majestic temple located on the slopes of the sacred Mount Agung and a must-visit for those of you who want to experience more about Balinese Hinduism.

Besakih Temple holds the title as the most important temple in Balinese Hinduism which it’s considered as the spiritual center of the island as well as an holy island. The temple is spread over a massive land which houses over 22 separate temples, where each of the temples honors specific deities or aspects of Hinduism teaching.

Tirta Empul Temple which also has another nickname as the Holy Water Temple. As the name says, it houses collections of purification pools that are naturally made by the natural spring and considered to be holy by Balinese Hindus. The devotees often came to this temple to bathe in the spring water to cleanse themself spiritually and seek the blessing from God, which is known as the Purification Rituals.

The Purification ritual itself is done in this temple which believes that the spring water possesses cleansing properties and the rituals usually followed by visiting the temple to perform melukat, which is the purification ritual itself. Every devotee would pray at each of the purification pools, following a specific route and bathe in those sacred water to cleanse themself spiritually.

Even though it can't exactly be called a temple, Goa Gajah is indeed a sacred place which can be seen from the Hindu deities that is carved into the cave's wall. It is especially dedicated for meditation and spiritual practice. It also features a bathing pool and a shrine which indicate purification rituals and religious ceremonies that were held a long time ago.

No one knows the exact time Goa Gajah was first built, but archeologists estimate that it was first built around the 11th and 14th centuries. Nowadays Goa Gajah has become a tourist spot for archeologists and people who are interested more about Balinese’s culture. .

Serving as a place of worship for the Mengwi royal family, Taman Ayun temple is indeed a captivating architectural gem located in the village of Mengwi, Bali. It was first constructed around the 17th century by the King of Mengwi Kingdom during that period, and reflects the glory and the artistic heritage of the Kingdom, that can be seen from the detailed architecture, beautiful gardens, and serene atmosphere that offer a glimpse into the life of Balinese royalty.

Because it is surrounded by moats that are decorated with beautiful lotus flowers which makes a lot of people curious about this fairy tale-like place, and now, it has become one of the most popular tourist destinations that are rich in history and act as a sacred place for the devotees to do some religious ceremonies.

A captivating landmark that is located in one of the busiest areas in Bali, Ubud is known for its beautiful complex that is dedicated to Saraswati, who is the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, arts, and creativity. Different from the other temples that are located on the mountainside, Taman Saraswati Temple boasts of its unique feature which is a lotus bond that adds to its charm and artistic atmosphere.

Even though this area is considered to be smaller than the other temples, it has that natural beauty that will immerse anybody who steps inside the temple's area, where it gives out that serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Here are all the recommended temples in Bali that you might want to add into your list, where each of them has their own uniqueness and speciality. If you would like to visit Bali soon, Traveloka would gladly help you in booking the flights, hotels, and numerous tourist attractions and activities mentioned above with the best price! Traveloka often offers a combo, promotion and discount which will make your trip feel much more enjoyable and unforgettable!