Bali's famous temples are the island's most recognizable landmarks. They are usually set against the most exotic backdrops, making for the ideal photograph.

Many visitors come to Bali to see the temples. They can be found in dense jungles, along the coast, or high on cliffs overlooking the sea. On your Bali vacation, explore the richly decorated architecture of Bali temples, some of which are centuries old.

 Photo by: jessiclarephoto

Here are the top five temples in Bali:

1. Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple

Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple is one of Bali's least visited temples, despite being one of the most extensive ancient temple complexes. Many travelers visit Tirta Empul Temple to participate in the purification ritual, but for a more intimate experience, I recommend visiting Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple. The temple is a short distance from Tirta Empul Temple and only a half-hour drive from Ubud.

Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple is a beautiful water temple with bathing and purification pools. There are several large garden ponds filled with lotuses and Koi fish as well as beautifully designed carvings, statues, and monuments around the temple grounds.

Not far from the temple is a collection of ancient shrines surrounded by water fountains. Aside from being an important sacred site for the locals, Candi Gunung Kawi is one of the most unique archaeological sites, with ten 7-meter funeral shrines carved into the cliff face! It's one of Bali's oldest ancient landmarks! These funeral monuments are thought to be dedicated to the Udayana dynasty King Anak Wings and his favorite queens. Make sure to check it out while you're at the temple.

Photo by: the.travelholix

2. Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple is a well-known sea temple perched 70 meters above the ocean! Allow 1-2 hours to walk through the temple grounds, enjoy the views, and watch the sunset.

It's important to note that you cannot get Go-Jek/Grab from Uluwatu Temple but you can get it to go there. 

Be careful of loose belongings such as sunglasses, phones, etc., as there are many monkeys around the temple grounds.

Photo by: herdik

3. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Ulun Danu Beratan is a water temple that is surrounded by Lake Beratan creating a unique island that appears to be floating. 

Ulun Danu Beratan is a popular tourist destination due to its breathtaking lake and mountain views, which make this temple extremely photogenic.

During the rainy season, the water surrounding the temple is at its most beautiful.

On the grounds of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, there are some lovely gardens to explore.

Photo by: iambali_driver

4. Lempuyang Temple

Lempuyang Gate Temple is also known as the "gates of heaven” and is one of the oldest and most highly regarded temples in Bali! The temple is located in the eastern part of Bali and takes around 2 hours to get there from Ubud. 

On a clear day, you will have the most incredible views of Mt Agung between these gates. The best time to visit is early in the morning (7 am) before the crowds start arriving.

The famous photo taken at Lempuyang Temple is taken by a local who balances a mirror under the lens of your smartphone camera. It costs 10,000 IDR for a photo between these gates.

Photo by: alexaolavarria

5. Tirta Empul Temple

Tirta Empul Temple is the most popular water temple in Bali. Water temples are where the locals purify themselves by means of ritual bathing. The water in the holy springs is believed to have magical powers and any who bathes in it will be purified. 

If you would like to participate in this ritual make sure to bring a change of clothes. 

Modest clothing is required at temples; however, the entrance fee for most temples includes a sarong, scarf, and sash tie rental.

Photo by: sayasyamsu

Whether you're checking out temples in search of a spiritual experience or in search of the best Instagram photo, Bali's temples offer something for everyone.

PS cover photo by mae_cms.travel