Offerings

Bali, the Island of Gods, practices the culture to carry out armations of one’s beliefs with offerings and presence at the temples. It is without a doubt worthwhile to visit at least one temple to experience a prominent Balinese tradition. The sense of community is reinforced in each village by rituals of chanting, traditional dance, and the practice of offerings. The purpose of each varies from celebrations to warding off evil spirits.

Bali: An Island of Mystery and Discovery.

Besakih Temple

Bird's-eye view of a plot of rice paddies

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Offerings to the Gods

Acres of rice paddies

Ulun Danu Beratan

Should you wish to make a trip to witness the beauty in Balinese traditions, here are some locations and temples we recommend for your visit.

*Do remember to cover your legs and arms when visiting inside the temples. Sarongs (long length wrap skirts) are available for purchase outside the temple if needed.

Mysteries to Discover

Pura Besakih

Besakih temple is the biggest Hindu temple situated on the slopes of Agung volcano. It is composed of 22 temples, and considered the most sacred temple fort he Hindus of Bali. This temple is dedicated to the three Hindu divinities: Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

Tanah Lot

The temple of Tanah Lot was built in the 16th century and is the most important édifice dedicated to the sea. It was constructed in homage to the gods of the sea. This temple is known for being one of the most beautiful locations to admire a sunset in Bali.

Gunung Kawi

Gunung Kawi was built during the 10th century, located close to Ubud. Sectioned in two parts by the Pakrisan river, it is one of the most ancient sites in Bali. After descending 230 steps surrounded by beautiful rice fields, you will discover the temple, composed of 10 sanctuaries, dug into the rock in a cliff of 7 meters high.

Tirta Empul

Situated close to Tampaksiring, the temple Tirta Empul is venerated by the Balinesef or the water sources, which are considered sacred and are coveted for their purification and medical virtues.

Luhur (Uluwatu)

The temple of Uluwatu was constructed around the 11th century and is located at the top of a cliff. Like the temple of Tanah Lot, the temple of Uluwatu is dedicated to the gods of the sea. You will enjoy the serenity of the temple while watching an amazing sunset, and admire a dance show that is sometimes performed in the evening. Beware of the monkeys!

Luhur Batukaru

Built around the 11th century, the temple Luhur Batukaru is located in Tabanan on the slopes of Mount Batukaru (West of Bali). It is one of the temples designed to protect the island of Bali from evil spirits. The temple is the garden of the West region of Bali, a sanctuary dedicated to Mahadewa, the god Batukaru who represents the West in the compass rose.

Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah (elephant cave) is one of the oldest Balinese sanctuaries as it was built around the 11th century, close to the city of Ubud. It was founded Buddhist and then transformed into a Hindu sanctuary. By entering the cave through the mouth of the monster (a representation to ward off evil spirits), you will admire different structures of Buddhist and Hindu influence in the form of statues and basins. The name of the temple remains a mystery as there never were elephants on the island of Bali.

Ulun Danu Batur

Ulun Danu Batur is situated in the Bratan lake, dedicated to the goddess of the lakes and rivers - Dewi Batari. It is the second biggest temple of Bali that includes nine temples comprising more than 250 sanctuaries and pavilions.

Pura Taman Ayun

This temple is one of the most majestic temples of Bali. It is the witness of the past power of the sovereign kingdom of Mengwi, dedicated to mountain and forest divinities. You will admire magnificent meru towers, from three to eleven stages. The highest is dedicated to Mount Agung.

Art Market at Tanah Lot Temple

The artistic side of Bali can be found on the handicrafts, textiles, and sculptures in Balinese markets. Here at Art Market, one will find an assortment of traditional motif batiks, carvings and artwork, and knick knacks that are traditionally Balinese.

Gaya Ceramics

If you fancy a refined aesthetic in ceramics, we recommend to visit Gaya Ceramic for their selection of homeware and accessories. With every piece handmade and refined with a Balinese touch, one can find some really special pieces in this small but curated shop. A private tour of the workshop is possible depending on their availability.

Tanah Lot Beach

Located at the Tanah Lot Temple area, Tanah Lot Beach is a surfer’s delight. The fun and powerful waves found on these waters are suitable for intermediate to experienced surfers. These eccentric waters are hugged by a rocky beach with glistening black sand to enjoy as the sun sets on the horizon.

Echo Beach (Canggu)

This black-sand beauty is a joy for leisure strollers and surfers alike. Its landscape offers wide, blissful horizon as far as the eyes can feast on, as well as centuries old temple and cafes neighbouring the nearby cliff. A friendly environment, perfect for lounging under a parasol, people-watching, and dining with an ambient sunset.

Mysteries To Discover

Tirta Empul

Situated close to Tampaksiring, the temple Tirta Empul is venerated by the Balinese for the water sources, which are considered sacred and are coveted for their purification and medical virtues.