Gunung Kawi Temple In Bali: An Ancient Balinese Royal Complex

The Gunung Kawi Temple in Bali is famous for its ancient collection of shrines carved into the face of a rock cliff. The main view from the temple would leave you in awe, as the beautiful and sacred Pakerisan River flows by the Tirta Empul Temple. You should definitely add this ancient relic to your Bali trip packages and explore the divine culture with all the feels. 

Across the river from the ancient relic is a temple courtyard that features the beautiful old Hindu shrines. It is one of the best temples in Bali! 

The Gunung Kawi Temple in Bali is also famous for its rich collection of archaeological sites that is a sight to witness. Also, the 300 steps further down to the river flank and the pretty green valleys will let you have that nostalgic feeling away from modernity.

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Gunung Kawi Temple History

The Gunung Kawi memorial complex tells a fascinating legend. According to ancient stories, these rock-carved memorials were created in a single night by Kebo Iwa, a powerful military commander with supernatural abilities. The site honours long-forgotten Balinese kings and carries a mystical atmosphere that connects visitors to the region’s and gunung kawi temple history.

The candis of Gunung Kawi were built in 1080 AD by King Anak Wungsu to honour his father, King Udayana. The eastern bank memorials are dedicated to King Udayana, Queen Mahendradatta, and their sons —— Airlangga, Anak Wungsu, and Marakata. While Anak Wungsu ruled Bali, Airlangga governed eastern Java and was famous as the legendary king of the Singosari kingdom near Surabaya.

The western side of the Gunung Kawi complex has four monuments.  According to one theory, these monuments are dedicated to Anak Wungsu’s chief concubines. An alternative theory suggests the entire complex honours Anak Wungsu, his wives, and concubines, with the most distant 10th candi potentially memorialising a royal minister.

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Gunung Kawi Temple In Bali: Features & Highlights

• The Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple is also really popular among people for doing meditation where Buddhists sit and do their contemplation. There is a functional temple courtyard that locals refer to as Pura Gunung Kawi for this purpose. 
• Inside, it is like any other temple courtyard with numerous shrines in the grand pavilion or “bale”. 
• You should be there with proper attire that includes a sarong cloth with a sash around the waist customary and women are restricted to enter if they are on their menstruation cycle. 
• Also, the temple has beautiful decor during its Piodalan temple anniversary every year. Such occasions allow for a more festive and exotic atmosphere for the best photography in the temple. 

What To Expect At Gunung Kawi Temple In Bali

Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple is a special place you can visit in Bali, Indonesia. When you go there, you’ll see stunning ancient stone carvings carved right into the cliffs! These carvings are big and impressive, showing off the history and culture of Bali. 

To reach the temple, you’ll walk down many steps, but don’t worry, the view is worth it! Along the way, you’ll pass through lush green rice fields and maybe even see some local farmers working. 

Once you arrive, you’ll feel a peaceful atmosphere and can explore the temple grounds, take photos, and learn about the stories behind the carvings. It’s a fantastic place to experience the beauty and spirituality of Bali!

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The Best Time To Visit Gunung Kawi Temple In Bali

It is said that you should visit the Gunung Kawi Temple during the dry season, which is from April to October. But, when you visit this tropical paradise during the months of February to April, you will find everything greener and mostly sunny. 

Also, you should visit the Gunung Kawi temple in the early morning to avoid crowds and overheated days. So, get your journey planned and know about the rules to visit this temple. 

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Gunung Kawi Temple Dress Code

Gunung Kawi Temple Dress Code: Shawl and Sarong

When visiting Gunung Kawi temple in Bali, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and legs. Follow local custom by wearing a shawl and sarong, which are traditional temple attire that show respect for the sacred space.

Gunung Kawi Temple Entrance Fee

Gunung Kawi Temple entrance fee is reasonable for everyone. 

• Gunung Kawi Temple Entrance Fee For Adults: IDR 50,000 per head
• Gunung Kawi Temple Entrance Fee For Children: IDR 25,000 per head

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Candi Gunung Kawi Temple Opening Hours

Candi Gunung Kawi Temple Opening Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM 

Candi Gunung Kawi Temple In Bali Location 

Banjar Penaka, Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80552, Indonesia

How To Reach At Gunung Kawi Temple In Bali

Learn how to reach at Gunung Kawi Temple. Candi Gunung Kawi Temple can be reached easily as it is only a few hundred metres east of the Jalan Raya Tampaksiring main route. Then, you can continue down on foot along a paved walkway which also has art shops and small local warungs. 

Also, when you reach the end of the stairs, there is a stone archway with small pillars each holding an earthen vase filled with holy water. To have a feeling of purification, you can sprinkle this water on yourself which can be really blissful. You should definitely include this as it is one of the best places to visit in Bali. 

Inside, the view opens to the main site with 107-metre-high shrines carved into the rocky hillside.  So, get ready to enjoy the most beautiful views like never before!

Tips For Visiting Gunung Kawi Temple

Consider below tips for visiting Gunung Kawi Temple for an unforgettable experience. 

• Dress Appropriately: Visiting Gunung Kawi Temple requires careful preparation to ensure a respectful and comfortable experience. Start by renting a traditional sarong and sash near the entrance, which are essential for adhering to local cultural customs. These garments not only show respect for the sacred site but also help you blend in with local traditions.

• Prepare For Steps: You need to navigate through numerous steep steps, so wear comfortable walking shoes that provide good grip and support. 

• Stay Hydrated: Bali’s tropical climate can be intense, so carry sufficient water to stay hydrated throughout your exploration.

• Time Your Visit: Plan your temple visit during early morning or late afternoon hours. These times offer cooler temperatures, softer lighting for photography, and fewer crowds. 

• Photography Rules: Be mindful of photography restrictions. Check with the temple staff before taking photos. 

• Be Polite: This temple is a sacred space for local Balinese, hence maintain silence and move respectfully. 

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