GOA LAWAH TEMPLE

Goa Lawah Temple is a unique and sacred site known for its intricate architecture and mystical atmosphere. Built around a cave filled with bats, the temple is dedicated to the Hindu god of the sea, Batara Baruna. The cave is believed to be connected to Besakih Temple through a tunnel. Visitors are drawn to the spiritual energy and the vibrant ceremonies that take place here. The temple is not only a religious site but also a captivating cultural experience, offering a glimpse into Bali's rich heritage.

One of the most prominent temples to explore with our Bali tour package is Goa Lawah which is a huge complex constructed around a cave. The cave houses hordes of bats and thus its name flourished as Bat Cave. The temple’s birth was claimed to be in the 11th century by Mpu Kuturan. He was an early priest who was the reason for Hinduism to come to the land of Indonesia, experts say. Located in the village of Pesinggahan Dawan, the temple is the major landmark to be visited on your tour of Candi Dasa or Bali.

The story of the temple says a prince from the Mengwi kingdom had chosen the place to hide away from the enemies and eventually reached at Besakih Temple on the foot of Mount Agung. The story was not proved right or wrong till date. The locals and the temple community say that the cave leads to three locations viz. Mount Agung, Talibeng and Tangkid Bangbang and various accounts declare that when Mount Agung erupted in 1963, ash came out of Goa Lawah.

Highlights: It is a large complex situated on the north side of the Jalan Raya Goa Lawah main road. Those who come to visit Bali would take a short break to visit the temple for prayers. At the entrance of the temple, you can see two large banyan trees and as you enter the temple, you will come to see a central courtyard. Three bale pavilions at the three corners of the complex. Also, there are ages-old shrines that holds nectar bats and a Shivaite shrine which was there for thousands of years. It was once a place for meditation for many sages.

Location: Jalan Raya Goa Lawah, Pesinggahan Village, Dawan District, Klungkung

Read More: Must Visit Places in Bali