GUNUNG KAWI

Gunung Kawi, an ancient temple complex in Bali, boasts majestic rock-cut shrines dating back to the 11th century. Nestled amidst lush greenery and rice terraces, it offers a serene atmosphere for spiritual reflection. Visitors can marvel at the impressive sculptures and soak in the tranquility of this sacred site. Located near Tampaksiring, it's a must-visit destination for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

When you are travelling with our Bali tour package, you will find a lot of attractions which showcase the spiritual and cultural importance of the whole region. One such place which signifies the beauty of this region is the Gunung Kawi. Gunung Kawi Temple complex is privately referred to as Pura Gunung Kawi, is one of Bali's most extraordinary archeological destinations, containing a gathering of antiquated place of worship reliefs cut into the substance of a stone precipice.

The fundamental site disregards the hallowed Pakerisan River, which additionally streams by the Tirta Empul Temple a kilometer up north. Over the waterway from the antiquated reliefs is a temple yard highlighting old Hindu sanctuaries in a more contemporary engineering style, which is gone to by explorers particularly amid its "piodalan" sanctuary commemorations.

Location: The temple complex is located at Banjar Penaka, Gianyar, Tampaksiring, Bali 80552, Indonesia.

Recommended Read: Best Nightlife in Bali

Highlights

• During your visit to Gunung Kawi, you will have to start your adventure by descending 300 ancient steps. These steps are carved right into the mountain and are surrounded by verdant greenery.
• Stand in awe before the 10 towering rock-cut shrines at Gunung Kawi, carved directly into the cliff face. These 7-metre-high monuments are marvels of 11th-century engineering and devotion.
• As you reach the stone archway of the temple, you need to participate in a sacred Balinese ritual. Before entering the temple premises, you can sprinkle yourself with holy water from the earthen vases present here.
• Find inner peace by meditating in the small stone caves scattered around the complex. These spots were once used by Buddhist monks for undergoing deep contemplation.
• Enhance your visit by exploring the modern temple courtyard across the Pakerisan River. You can witness a beautiful blend of ancient traditions with contemporary Balinese Hindu practices here.

How To Reach

By Air: The nearest airport to Gunung Kawi is Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar. It is located approximately 53.7 kilometres away. The journey from the airport to Gunung Kawi takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. You can hire a taxi, rent a car, or avail of the shuttle service directly to Gunung Kawi from the airport. 

By Road: Gunung Kawi is most commonly accessed by road. From Denpasar city centre, the distance is around 41.1 kilometres. It takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Gunung Kawi from Denpasar. 

Alternatively, you can also take the Jalan Raya Ubud and Jalan Raya Tampaksiring routes to the temple. Private taxis, car rentals, and motorbike rentals are readily available on these routes. Bemos (local microbuses) and public buses are also available from Ubud for those preferring public transportation. You can cover the 13.7-kilometre journey from Ubud to Gunung Kawi in 30 minutes. 

The main entry point to Gunung Kawi is located a few hundred meters east of Jalan Raya Tampaksiring. From here, you will have to walk down a paved walkway amidst art shops and local warungs, leading to a series of 300 steps. These steps take you through paddy terraces and verdant valleys. Eventually, you will come across a stone archway signifying the entrance to the temple complex.

Best Time To Visit

Gunung Kawi is an excellent spot to visit any time of the year. Plan your visit from February to April during the post-rainy season, when the region is vibrant and the weather is comfortably sunny. This period sees fewer tourists so you can experience the best of this attraction and Weekdays are ideal for exploring Gunung Kawi in peace. This is when the temple and its surrounding areas are less crowded, offering a more calming visit. Aim to arrive early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The late afternoon hours also offer a serene experience of the temple's beauty.

Other Essential Information

• Wear a sarong and sash to respect local customs. They are available for rent near the entrance.
• Wear comfortable shoes to easily climb up and down the hundreds of steps to and from the temple.
• Carry water to stay hydrated during your visit, which is especially important given Bali's climate.
• Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid heavy crowds and the intense midday heat.
• Maintain silence and respect the serene environment of Gunung Kawi which is a sacred site for the locals.
• Be mindful of photography restrictions in certain areas to respect the holy nature of the temple.
• Consider visiting on weekdays to enjoy a more peaceful experience and to avoid weekend crowds.
• Have local currency ready for small entrance and parking fees.
• Stick to designated paths to ensure your safety as you make your way to the temple.