The Wombats top ten Temples in Bali

During a conversation on a roadtrip, Nick asked me what were my favourite top 10 temples were in Bali. Not an easy task right off the top of my head!.

As you know folks, there are thousands of temples [and a great deal I've seen] and so narrowing the field wasn’t easy. You will be able to find links to some of these temples in the Baliblog archives as Nick has covered them in various posts. So, here is the Wombat’s top 10 starting at my all-time favourite.

1. PURA ULU DANAU BRATAN

Without a doubt the most picturesque temple on the island. Situated on Lake Bratan, this half-Hindu, half-Bhuddist temple juts out onto the lake. An important irrigation temple dedicated to Dewi Danau, the Water Goddess. The 11 roofed meru is a spectacular sight at dawn or dusk. The nearby Botanical Gardens (Lila Graha) are a definite ‘must see”.

Getting there: By car, it is a straight run north through Mengwi. There are buses leaving the Ubung Terminal to all points north, or there are bemos (with connections). Perama Tours on Jl. Legian are great for getting around and the prices are reasonable.

2. PURA KEHEN

Located at the northern end of the town of Bangli, this three-tiered 11thC temple sits on the side of a hill and is ranked 2nd in importance to the Mother Temple, Besakih. The cool, lush surroundings emanate tranquility. Try to visit this temple mid to late afternoon when its at its best and the tourist buses have gone. The views are superb!.

Getting there: By Bus from the Terminal Kereneng, or alternatively by car taking the road through Gianyar and then north to Bangli. The roads are well sign-posted.

3. PURA TEGEH KORIPAN

Situated on the edge of Gunung Batur, this temple is reputed to be the oldest on Bali. A leg-aching 300 step climb to the top of the hill, you will find the temple, more often than not, covered in mist. The moss-laiden steps and areas in the temple are slippy so be careful. Spectacular views and a ’spooky’ place at dusk!.

Getting there: Get a bus from Terminal Kereneng to Kintamani and then by bemo to Penulisan. Or, charter a bemo with friends. Private car is by far the best because you have the opportunity to explore the region around this fascinating volcano.

4. PURA LUHUR BATAKAU

Another of the ‘garden temples’, Pura Luhur has a seven-tiered pagoda quiet similar to those found in Thailand. It’s a sacred mountain sanctuary surrounded by forests and invariably covered in mist. It lies some 700 metres above sea-level and is an important Subak temple. Great views of Bali and surrounds, and, best visited early morning or late afternoon..

Getting there: A bus from Terminal Ubung will take you directly to Batakau. From there, it’s an easy walk to the temple.

5. PURA BUKIT DHARMA DURGA

Situated in the ‘Holy Land’ 500 metres north of the town of Blahbatuh, this temple is situated in heavily-forested Banyan trees. From the lower part of the temple, climb the 80 steps up the hill to the top where you will find the statue of King Airlangga’s mother. It is a funerary statue in the shape of the six-armed goddess of death, Durga.

Getting there: By bus from the Terminal Kereneng to Blahbatuh. From there it’s a short walk to the temple. In this area there are numerous sacred temples and sites all within walking distance. Alternatively hire a Bemo or a car and explore this fascinating region they call the ‘Holy Land’.

The next 5 temples are to follow….