On the island of Bali, there is one of the most mysterious and revered temples—Pura Goa Lawah, or the Bat Temple. Located in the village of Pesinggahan on the eastern coast of the island, this temple attracts tourists and pilgrims with its unique atmosphere, ancient history, and mystical legends.
Pura Goa Lawah was founded in the 11th century and is considered one of the nine sacred temples protecting Bali from evil spirits. Its name translates to "cave temple," which is associated with the main attraction—a cave located within the temple complex. According to legends, this cave stretches deep into the earth and reaches all the way to Bali`s most sacred mountain temple, Pura Besakih. Local residents believe that mystical creatures inhabit the cave, including a giant serpent named Naga Basuki, who guards the sanctuary.
The temple is dedicated to the god Shiva, one of the main deities in Hinduism, as well as to ancestral spirits. It plays an important role in the religious life of the Balinese, especially during major holidays and ceremonies. For example, rituals related to purification and protection from evil forces are often held here.
The architecture of Pura Goa Lawah is typical of Balinese temples: multi-tiered gates (candi bentar), stone statues of mythical creatures, and traditional pagodas (meru). The entrance to the temple is guarded by statues of demons, which, according to beliefs, ward off evil spirits.
The main attraction of the temple is, of course, the cave. Tourists can approach its entrance, but entering inside is prohibited, as it is a sacred place. In the evening, you can witness thousands of bats flying out of the cave. Local residents consider these animals sacred and believe they protect the temple from negative energy. The best time to visit is early morning or evening when the bats emerge from the cave. In the morning, there are fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Pura Goa Lawah is located approximately 50 kilometers from Denpasar, the capital of Bali. You can get here by rented transport or with a guided tour. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, but it is worth it—along the way, you can enjoy the scenic views of the eastern coast and take a swim at the black sand beach of Goa Lawah, located just 100 meters from the temple.
