Bali is an island of natural beauty, of friendly people and of tradition and spirituality. Called the “Island a Thousand Puras,” Bali is famous for its Hindu temples and sacred spaces. No visit to Bali is complete without a trip to its ancient sites.
Situated an hour’s drive from Vision Villa Resort on the slopes of Mount Agung, Besakih is the largest temple in Bali. Known for its beautiful natural surroundings and panoramic views of the ocean, the temple is a unique complex that comprises some 90 temples that together express the Balinese belief of Tri Hita Karana. This belief holds that life on Earth must be lived in balance and harmony between man and god, man and man, and man and his natural environment.
At the center of the complex, you’ll find Penataran Agung Temple, the “Great Temple State”, Bali’s main place of worship. It’s here that many colourful ceremonies and festivals are held each year. There’s a good chance you’ll see one!
A Hindu water temple located next to a bubbling spring in Tampak Siring Village, Pura Tirta Empul is only a 40-minute drive from Vision Villa Resort and perfect for a day trip. Locals use it for ritual purifications. As long as it’s not a big ceremony day, you can perform your own water cleansing there at any time.
This is also the location of a palace for the Indonesian Government and is used as a retreat home for the Indonesian president. Make sure you bring a sarong, swimming suit, a top that covers your shoulders and a change of clothes.
Pura Ulun Danu is sited by the gorgeous Lake Bratan. The scenery is superb, and when you’ve finished admiring the temple architecture and taking part in ceremonies, you can also walk down to the lake and take a jet-ski onto the water!
The temple is about a 90-minute drive and is best seen in the morning.
Tanah Lot temple in southwest Bali is dedicated to the Sea Gods. Built on a small promontory, it’s only accessible during low tide. Myths say that it is guarded by sacred sea snakes, so keep an eye out for them!
As one of the most famous and photographed temples in the world, Tanah Lot is a busy tourist site but it’s still very much worth visiting. With golden red skies framing the temple and waves crashing into its rocky base, the best time to visit is during sunset.
Uluwatu temple is also associated with the sea. The temple stands on the edge of a cliff that local legend claims is the petrified ship of the Balinese water goddess Dewi Danu. A Kecak dance performance based on the Ramayana is performed every evening around sunset.
The temple is also famous for its monkeys which are known to steal visitors’ belongings and trade them back for fruit. So watch your belongings!
