Gunung Kawi Temple: Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Bali, this ancient Hindu temple complex boasts awe-inspiring rock-cut shrines and stunning rice terraces, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the island.
Gunung Kawi Temple
Similar to Bali’s own Valley of the Kings, the Pura Gunung Kawi Temple sits at the base of a river valley and showcases ancient royal tombs carved into a sheer cliff face.
In addition to offering some interesting history and culture, Gunung Kawi is an excellent place to take pictures. It’s among the most well-known tourist destinations close to Bali’s Ubud.
This travel guide will tell you all you need to know before you go, including how to get there!
Facts & History
In the eleventh century, artisans chiseled the ten shrines/tombs at Pura Gunung Kawi Temple out of the rock on the sheer cliff face.
All of the candi, or shrines, are believed to have been dedicated to various members of the once Balinese royal family, starting with King Udayana and his wives and sons.
When you first arrive, there are four memorials on the left. Five more shrines are located on the east bank, across the Pakerisan River, which the community reveres.
You can access the tenth monument via a short walking trail, hidden in the southern portion of the river valley.
Gunung Kawi Temple – What To Expect
Since Gunung Kawi is located at the base of a river valley, you will need to climb and descend almost 300 steps. In the midday heat and humidity, things can get a little difficult.
You will pass a few rice terraces, gift shops, and little cafes and restaurants with views of the rice paddies on the walk down to the temples.
Once you reach the bottom of the steps, turn left to visit Gunung Kawi’s first four shrines. Then, continue south to discover one more secret shrine. And last, head across the bridge to see five more waiting across the river.
You’ll see that the shrines’ shapes are strikingly similar to Java’s Prambanan Temple, which is not by accident given that Java is where the Hindus of Bali originally originated.
Gunung Kawi offers a fascinating look at pre-Indonesian culture, while the surrounding river and bush add to the unique environment. It seems as though you are traveling through time.
Overall, it’s among my top Bali cultural and archeological sites.
Hours & Entrance Fee
- Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM
- Entrance Fee (Adults): 50k IDR (~$3)
- Entrance Fee (Kids 5-11): 25k IDR (~$3)
As of 2021, these are the Gunung Kawi ticket prices and hours; however, due to its popularity, the admission charge seems to increase every year or two. The entrance price includes a sarong to wear within the temple.
How To Get There
In the heart of Bali, next to the well-known Tegalalang Rice Terrace, is Tampaksiring, home to the Gunung Kawi Temple.
It is roughly an hour’s drive northeast of Ubud or from south Bali’s popular tourist destinations, such as Sanur, Canggu, and Kuta.
Renting a scooter or hiring a private vehicle with a driver is the most convenient method to get there; you can reserve both of these online.
To get to the temples, you have to descend 300 steps from the parking lot.
Bali Private Driver & Motorbike Rental
Club TravelScape is the best option if you want to see Bali in a private vehicle with an English-speaking driver that is safe and comfortable. For one to five guests, they provide a full day of driving
and sightseeing in Bali for 650k Rupiah ($45 USD). That includes the cost of the driver, the entire car, and the gas! It’s rather substantial. They also provide reasonably priced airport to hotel transportation. They also have motorbikes if that’s how you’d prefer to travel. Their scooter rentals come with a helmet, raincoat,
and free delivery within the south Bali area, with prices starting at 140k Rupiah (~$9). Club TravelScape is an excellent company that we have utilized for numerous excursions and activities all around the world. Strongly advised.
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