Canggu is Bali’s most popular destination and yet, it’s not famous for its temples and that’s because, the majority of temples in Bali are not in Canggu.
However, that doesn’t mean that you have to abandon the idea of enjoying Bali’s most exciting cultural attractions if you come to Canggu, far from it, in fact, we’ve put together a list of 12 temples that are all within a fairly short drive from the heart of Canggu.
Some, like Tanah Lot Temple are world famous religious sites and tourist attractions that bring in millions of visitors each year, others like Pura Maospahit are much less well-known but are still very much worth visiting.
So, if you want to feel like Indiana Jones and explore some exciting tropical temples, check out these temples just outside of Canggu.
Our Favourite 12 Temples Near Canggu
Tanah Lot Temple
Without a doubt, the most famous temple on our list, Tanah Lot sits on a small island just off the coast of Bali and at low tide, it’s possible to walk from the beach out to the island and back.
It’s a spectacular sight in the sunset light and it draws big crowds at that time of day. You should be aware that only local Hindus are allowed to enter the temple itself, but visitors can still enjoy the spectacle of the place.
Tanah Lot is also associated with the infamous “Tanah Lot Curse” or sometimes, “Bali Curse”, where unmarried couples who witness the temple are doomed to break up. We don’t think it’s true, but you should know about it before you visit.
Where Is It? Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121
Online: Tanah Lot
Batu Bolong Temple
This striking temple sits atop a rock outcrop over the ocean, a “njung” in local terms. The rock has a break that runs through it and allows water to flow back and forth under an effective land bridge.
As it’s not too far from Tanah Lot, many people opt to visit this temple on the same day as they head out to the more famous temple.
This place is very attractive in Instagram photos and unlike Tanah Lot, it is open to foreign visitors, you will need to make a 50,000 IDR donation per person to enter which includes sarong and shawl rental.
Where Is It? Tabanan, Beraban, Kec. Kediri, Kabupaten Tabanan, Bali 82121
Online: N/A
Pura Gede Luhur Batu Ngaus
If the crowds at Tanah Lot don’t appeal to you then this temple which located on a promontory running out from Cemagi Beach is a great choice.
It’s a very attractive place and at sunset, it can be quite spectacular as the light breaks over the ocean.
Like Tanah Lot, the temple is not accessible to tourists, but that’s OK, it’s quite a small place and would be overrun by too many visitors, it’s best to get some nice photos and then enjoy a stroll down the beach afterwards.
Where Is It? 936X+4W4, Cemagi, Mengwi, Badung Regency, Bali
Online: N/A
Pura Batu Mejan (Kahyangan Jagat)
As with many of the temples in Bali, this temple is on a short rock outcrop stretching into the ocean and it’s right next to the beach.
It’s a calm and relaxed place that doesn’t see many visitors, despite its close proximity to Canggu.
You may enter this temple as long as you are dressed appropriately and the gates are open to allow you inside.
Where Is It? 84VG+R7G, Jl. Batu Mejan Canggu, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Online: N/A
Pura Luhur Bhujangga Waisnawa, Batu Bolong
This is a small local temple on the busiest street in Canggu, Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong, you should be aware that tourists are not allowed to enter this temple.
However, if you’re in the area, it’s worth seeing thanks to the ornate decorations and if there’s a festival on then there may be floral displays, offerings, etc. too.
Where Is It? Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.117, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali
Online: N/A
Masceti Temple
Masceti Temple was one of the 9 guiding temples of Bali and it is part of the Petitenget Temple Complex in Seminyak.
You are welcome to explore the grounds, but please be respectfully dressed and mindful that it is still viewed as a sacred place.
It is used to pray for good harvests in the rice fields and for protection against the elements and other various threats to the islanders.
Where Is It? 8592+7X4, Jl. Petitenget, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali
Online: N/A
Samuan Tiga Temple
The Ubud area is full of amazing temples and it’s worth spending a day or two in that town exploring the riches of its cultural heritage.
However, the closest temple in this part of Bali to Canggu is Samuan Tiga in the Bedulu Village and it has a rich history.
This is also one of the best temples for foreign visitors to learn more about the island’s religious heritage and the purpose of temples in general. Tourists are actively welcomed at Samuan Tiga.
Where Is It? Jl. Pura Samuan Tiga, Bedulu, Kec. Blahbatuh, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 50581
Online: N/A
Agung Jagatnatha Temple
This stunning temple is in the capital city of Denpasar, right next door to the Bali Museum (which is very much worth visiting in its own right).
You will need to hire sarongs and shawls for a small donation at the door if you want to explore the courtyard, it’s worth the investment.
There’s a very Angkorian appeal to the architecture and styling of this temple and it’s a very popular place with the locals as a site of worship too.
Where Is It? 86V9+FFJ, Jl. Surapati, Dangin Puri, Kec. Denpasar Tim., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80232
Online: N/A
Dharmayana Temple
While the vast majority of temples on the Island of Gods are Hindu temples, there are plenty of places of worship scattered around Bali for practitioners of Indonesia’s other official religions.
The Dharmayana Temple is a 200 year old Buddhist temple with very distinct Chinese styling and its bright red exterior is exciting and looks great in photographs.
As with Buddhist Temples everywhere, respectful visitors are welcome to enter the temple grounds and explore to their heart’s content.
Where Is It? 75GH+F52, Jl. Blambangan, Legian, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Online: N/A
Geriya Tanah Kilap Temple
This is a small temple in the village of Pemogan and what it lacks in stature, it more than makes up for by having one of the friendliest temple priests on the island.
All visitors are welcomed inside this temple and they will take the time to explain the history of the place as well as the way that worship is conducted.
If you want a cultural experience, you won’t get one that’s much better than the one at this temple and it won’t cost you anything more than a small donation on the door.
Where Is It? Jl. Griya Anyar No.104, Pemogan, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80361
Online: N/A
Buddha Sakyamuni Monastery
This serene Buddhist temple has lovely grounds and the architecture is a blend of local Balinese and classical Buddhist motifs.
If you’re seeking a place where you can meditate among like minded souls on a spiritual journey, then this monastery is ideal for you.
You will find that the monks are generally very happy to see you and will be delighted to engage in respectful conversation around Buddhism.
Where Is It? Jl. Gn. Agung Lingkungan Padang Udayana No.3A, Padangsambian, Kec. Denpasar Bar., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80361
Online: Vihara Buddha Sakayamuni Denpasar
Pura Maospahit
This attractive terracotta temple has very unique architecture that you can’t see anywhere else in Bali.
You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn that there’s no entrance fee or donation required and that foreign visitors are welcome inside.
It’s a small site that won’t take much longer than 30 minutes to explore and it’s definitely not on the tourist trail, so you will probably have it all to yourself.
Where Is It? Jl. Sutomo No.6, Pemecutan Kaja, Kec. Denpasar Utara, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80231
Online: N/A
FAQs
Which Temple Is Worth Visiting In Bali?
All temples in Bali are worth visiting, they are a real insight into the local culture and the faith of the people of this island.
However, many temples in Bali are only to visitors from the local community in order to preserve their status as holy places.
Some of the most famous temples in Bali include Besakih Temple, Lempuyang Temple, Uluwatu Temple, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Tanah Lot Temple and Pura Tirtal Empul. They are all very much worth seeing if you have the time to do so.
Can I Wear Shorts In Bali Temples?
No, you cannot wear shorts in a temple in Bali. The dress code in temples is taken very seriously on the island and wearing shorts in a temple could get you into a lot of trouble.
It is best to wear pants, a long skirt, or something similar or a sarong as the locals do. You should opt for modesty throughout temple grounds even if a temple is no longer in use.
While, generally, speaking, the Balinese people are very welcoming to visitors, there are large numbers of Balinese who feel that their traditions are often disrespected by tourists and this is causing some societal anger.
If you are asked by a local to cover up or leave a temple’s grounds for any reason, it is best to comply, even if you feel that you are already covered enough or that you should be allowed to stay.
What Is The 1,000 Year Old Temple In Bali?
The holiest site in Bali is the 1,000 year old Pura Besakih often referred to as the “mother temple” of the island.
It is the heart of all religious activity in Bali as well as the center of the Subak system of agriculture which manifests in every rice field in Bali (though the Jatiluwih Rice Terrace is considered to be the finest example of the Subak system).
It is found on the slopes of the island’s tallest mountain, Mount Agung and consists of several temple complexes. Pura Penataran Agung is the largest and most prominent temple within the Pura Besakih umbrella and it is also the highest temple on the mountain.
This temple is a little off-the-beaten-path for most tourists in Bali, but if you get a chance to visit, we’d recommend that you do, it’s a fascinating and awe-inspiring place.
What Are The Nine Directional Temples?
The most important temples on Bali are the nine directional temples. These temples are strategically placed around the coast and the land to ensure that Bali is protected from evil spirits.
They are Pura Besakih (the mother temple), Pura Ulun Danu Batur (Batur temple), Pura Pasar Agung (Pasar Agung temple), Pura Lempuyang (the Lempuyang Temple home of the “Gates of Heaven”), Pura Goa Lawah (the bat cave temple), Pura Luhur Andakasa (Andakasa temple), Pura Luhur Uluwatu (Uluwatu temple), Pura Luhur Batukaru (Batukaru temple) and Pura Pucak Mangu (Pucak Mangu Temple).
Each of these temples is highly significant to the local people and very much worth visiting if you are in the local area.
Final Thoughts On The 12 Best Temples Near Canggu
Canggu may not have many temples of its own but you don’t have to travel too far to enjoy some incredible temples in this part of the island.
Bali’s temples are part of its reputation as the “Island of Gods” and an incredible cultural legacy of the local people. Everyone should visit, at least, one temple during their stay on the island.