Discover the Mystical Charm of Pura Gunung Kawi
We have been captivated by the island’s remarkable cultural heritage. Among the top attractions on our list is the breathtaking temple of Pura Gunung Kawi, nestled amidst a lush and verdant valley. Its historical significance, coupled with its alluring beauty, has entranced us time and time again.
From the moment we set foot on the immaculately kept grounds, we are immediately transported back to an age of powerful monarchies and ancient kingdoms. The site is made up of ten awe-inspiring rock-cut shrines, etched into towering cliffs that overlook a meandering river. The intricate carvings and ornate offerings adorn each shrine remind the deep veneration that the Balinese hold for this hallowed ground.
As we wander through the temple complex, we are awed by the calm and tranquility that suffuses the atmosphere. The gentle hum of the river, the heady aroma of incense that wafts through the air, and the soft murmurs of prayers offered up by worshippers all combine to create an ethereal ambiance that is truly out of this world.
Whether you’re seeking a spiritual awakening or simply yearning to indulge in Bali’s rich culture, we cannot recommend enough that you make your way to Pura Gunung Kawi. It’s a destination that is sure to leave an indelible impression on your heart and mind.
Location
Pura Gunung Kawi Temple, located in Bali’s verdant Gianyar Regency, is a genuinely unique and gorgeous landmark that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
This magnificent temple is built into a cliff face and flanked by rice terraces and lush flora, creating a beautiful and quiet atmosphere.
Aside from Pura Gunung Kawi, there are a number of other noteworthy attractions in the nearby area that are worth seeing.
The Tirta Empul Temple, for example, is a historic site with a series of pools used for ritual purification that attracts both visitors and native Balinese. The term “Sustainable” refers to the use of natural resources to create a more sustainable future. The picturesque Ubud Monkey Forest, a wildlife reserve and sanctuary for over 700 monkeys, is also nearby.
Visitors may witness the lively primates in their natural habitat while also admiring the reserve’s stunning tropical surroundings.
How To Get There
Pura Gunung Kawi is located in Tampaksiring, a remote town in central Bali about 30 kilometers from Ubud. The temple is easily accessible by vehicle or motorcycle, and a parking lot at the entrance is available to visitors who drive.
The famed Pura Tirta Empul, recognized for its holy spring water and is recognized for its holy spring water and is a popular spot for people to purify themselves in the spring, is only a short drive from the temple.
2 hours by car/motorbike from south Bali (Kuta and Denpasar), tour buses available.
Transportation
With the many transportation choices available from various locations in Bali, visiting Pura Gunung Kawi may be a seamless experience.
Renting of a motorcycle or scooter
Offered in Ubud and southern tourist destinations such as Kuta and Denpasar.
$5-7 USD each day
Taxi
A convenient alternative that is widely available in Ubud and the surrounding tourist destinations.
Cost: $20-25 USD (Ubud), $50-60 USD (Kuta/Denpasar).
The Public Bus
The low-cost alternative departs from Ubud on a regular basis.
Price: $1-2 USD
Local cultural experience and interaction with locals are provided.
It is crucial to remember that in Bali, the fare is usually negotiated before the journey begins in order to avoid any misunderstandings or surprises at the end of the ride.
Entrance Fee
Adult admission is $3.50.
$1.75 for children aged 5 to 11.
The museum is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and it is best to arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit. The admission cost includes a traditional Balinese sarong, which must be worn when visiting the temple to ensure a culturally sensitive experience.
Best Time To Visit
Visiting Pura Gunung Kawi is a fantastic experience, and the time you go can affect how much you enjoy your vacation. Considering Bali’s tropical environment, there are two main seasons to consider while arranging your trip: dry and rainy.
The Dry Season (April-September): clear skies and low humidity, less crowded, and ideal for sightseeing.
The Rainy Season (October-March): less congested, lush green terrain, with short rains on occasion.
Pura Gunung Kawi is always awe-inspiring no matter what time of year you visit. If temples are your thing, put Pura Tanah Lot Temple and Uluwatu Temple on your Bali itinerary.
History
Pura Gunung Kawi, located in the midst of Bali’s tropical scenery, is a monument to the island’s rich history and cultural legacy.
This medieval temple contains ten mysterious monuments, each intricately carved out of the cliff face and dedicated to a member of the ancient Balinese royal famil
Candi, or shrines, were built in the 11th century and are a unique tribute to the island’s rich cultural legacy.
As you wind your way through the beautiful green valley and along the mystical Pakerisan River, you’ll be urged to investigate the monuments and learn their secrets.
Architecture
Pura Gunung Kawi is home to some of Bali’s most outstanding ancient architectural accomplishments.
The ten shrines/tombs were cut out of sheer rock cliffs in the 11th century, making them very unique and breathtaking to see. These monuments were carved with incredible skill and attention to detail, with elaborate shapes and patterns engraved into the rock.
The temples are not only a tribute to the ancient Balinese people’s great building prowess, but also a reminder of the rich cultural history that still exists in Bali today.
You’ll be able to get up close and personal with these majestic structures as you walk through the temple grounds, admiring their beauty and reflecting on their rich history.
Pura Gunung Kawi is not to be missed if you are a fan of architecture or simply admire the grandeur of old monuments.
Do’s and Don’ts
When visiting the ancient temple of Pura Gunung Kawi, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and traditions.
To ensure a positive experience, be sure to follow these do’s and don’ts:
Do’s:
- Wear appropriate attire. A traditional Balinese sarong is provided with an entrance fee and must be worn while visiting the temple. It is also recommended to wear modest clothing that covers your legs and shoulders.
- Take off your shoes. Visitors must remove their shoes before entering the temple complex and walking up the steps to the shrines.
- Respect the local customs. Balinese Hinduism is still a dominant religion in the area, and visitors should show respect for religious customs and practices.
- Enjoy peace and tranquillity. Pura Gunung Kawi is a peaceful and serene place to visit, and it is advisable to take the time to immerse yourself in the atmosphere and enjoy the experience.
Don’ts:
- Litter. Keep the temple complex and surrounding area clean and litter-free.
- Take photographs of the shrines. Photography is not allowed inside the temple complex, so it is best to put your camera away and just enjoy the experience with your own two eyes.
- Touch or lean on the monuments. The monuments at Pura Gunung Kawi are thousands of years old and delicate. It is best to admire them from a distance and avoid touching or leaning on them.
- Be loud or disruptive. Respect the peaceful atmosphere of the temple complex and avoid being loud or disruptive.
By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that your visit to Pura Gunung Kawi is a positive and respectful experience. So, take a step back in time, soak in the rich history, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this ancient temple.