Pura Goa Lawah

#16 among destinations in Indonesia

Temple, Top attraction, Cave, Sacred and religious sites, More...

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Facts and practical information

Pura Goa Lawah, nestled on the picturesque coast of Bali, Indonesia, is a unique and sacred temple that captivates the spiritual and the curious alike. This temple, known for its distinctive feature—a cave that is home to thousands of bats—is a significant site of worship and a popular attraction for tourists.

The temple, which dates back to the 11th century, was established by Mpu Kuturan, a sage credited with introducing the Javanese priestly caste system to Bali. Pura Goa Lawah's name translates to 'Bat Cave Temple,' and it is one of Bali's key nine directional temples, protecting the island from evil spirits.

The cave's entrance is adorned with intricate Balinese carvings and guarded by a dragon sculpture, believed to keep the serenity of the sacred place. Devotees come to pray, and the temple is a stop for pilgrims who traverse the island on religious journeys.

Pura Goa Lawah holds a high ceremonial importance, especially during the piodalan anniversary celebration. During this time, the temple comes alive with vibrant rituals, offerings, and traditional dance performances.

Alternative names: Elevation: 62 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 8°33'5"S, 115°28'5"E

Location

BaliIndonesia

Contact

+62 813-3842-6781

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Day trips

Pura Goa Lawah – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Kertha Gosa Pavilion, Museum Semarajaya, Klungkung Palace, Padang Bai.

4.6 miW
Architecture, Historical place, Forts and castles
Kertha Gosa Pavilion, Klungkung
117 min walk • The Kertha Gosa Pavilion is an example of Balinese architecture located on the island of Bali, in city Klungkung, Indonesia. The Kertha Gosa Pavilion at Klungkung Palace was built in the early 18th century by Dewa Agung Gusti Sideman.
4.6 miW
History museum, Museum
Museum Semarajaya, Klungkung
117 min walk • The Semarajaya Museum is a museum located in the town of Semarapura in Klungkung Regency on Bali, Indonesia.
4.6 miW
Park
Klungkung Palace
119 min walk • The Klungkung Palace, officially Puri Agung Semarapura, is a historical building complex situated in Semarapura, the capital of the Klungkung Regency on Bali, Indonesia.
3.1 miNE
Locality
Padang Bai
80 min walk • One of the highlights of Padang Bai is the Blue Lagoon, a secluded bay with calm turquoise waters. Snorkelers can explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, while divers can venture deeper to discover underwater caves and a variety of marine species.
4.6 miW
City, Area
Semarapura, Klungkung
117 min walk • Semarapura is a town which serves as the administrative capital of the Klungkung Regency in Bali, Indonesia.
5.5 miW
8°33'7"S • 115°23'13"E
Museum Nyoman Gunarsa, Klungkung
141 min walk • Museum
4.1 miW
Area
Gelgel, Klungkung
104 min walk • Gelgel is a village in the regency of Klungkung, on Bali, Indonesia. The village, near the coast four kilometers south of the regency capital Semarapura, contains a number of structures of cultural interest, and is known for its pottery and handwoven ceremonial songket cloth.