Bali, often referred to as the is a haven for spiritual seekers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure lovers alike. Among its many wonders, the island is home to a stunning array of temples, each echoing tales of ancient devotion and breathtaking architecture.
Some of these temples are built in places so high and majestic, they seem to touch the sky — perched on clifftops, nestled on volcanic slopes, or standing tall above clouds. In this article, we’ll journey to three awe-inspiring temples in Bali that quite literally elevate the spiritual experience.
Let’s climb into the heavens and explore the majesty of:
Pecatu Village, South Kuta, Badung Regency
Perched dramatically on a 70-meter-high cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple, or Pura Luhur Uluwatu, is one of Bali’s six key spiritual pillars, believed to protect the island from evil sea spirits. It is perhaps the most photographed temple in Bali due to its unique location, especially during sunsets when the entire cliff bathes in gold.
Originally expanded in the 11th century by the Javanese priest Empu Kuturan, Uluwatu Temple is associated with the powerful sage Dang Hyang Nirartha. It is believed that Nirartha achieved moksha (liberation) here, dissolving into the heavens, which gives the temple its reputation for touching the divine.
Besakih Village, Rendang Subdistrict, Karangasem Regency
Standing proudly on the southwestern slope of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest volcano, Pura Besakih is often referred to as the Mother Temple. At 1,000 meters above sea level, it is the largest and holiest temple complex on the island, comprising 23 separate but related temples, with the grand Pura Penataran Agung as its center.
Dating back over 1,000 years, Besakih has survived several natural disasters, including the catastrophic 1963 eruption of Mount Agung. Miraculously, the lava flow stopped just short of the temple, which was interpreted as a sign of divine protection. This solidified its reputation as the most sacred temple in Bali.
Besakih is dedicated to the Hindu trinity: Shiva (the destroyer), Vishnu (the preserver), and Brahma (the creator). It functions not only as a place of worship but also as a cosmic axis — linking gods, humans, and the universe.
Mount Lempuyang, Karangasem Regency
Pura Lempuyang Luhur is part of a complex of temples located on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang, one of Bali’s oldest and most revered spiritual sites. The main temple sits at 1,175 meters above sea level, requiring a climb of over 1,700 steps through lush forest. However, many visitors stop at Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang, famous for its Instagram-worthy “Gate of Heaven.”
Lempuyang is considered one of the Sad Kahyangan Jagad, the six holiest places of worship in Bali. It predates most Hindu temples on the island and is believed to have been established in the 10th century. The word “Lempuyang” derives from the Balinese word “lampu” (light), symbolizing enlightenment.
The temple is dedicated to Ida Batara Hyang Pasupati, a manifestation of Lord Shiva. The journey to Lempuyang is not just physical — it’s spiritual, testing patience, intention, and humility.
Bali’s temples are often built in elevated locations not just for the dramatic views, but due to deep spiritual symbolism. In Balinese Hinduism, mountains are seen as sacred — the abode of the gods. The higher one climbs, the closer one gets to the divine.
This belief manifests in the Balinese concept of “Tri Hita Karana”, which emphasizes harmony between humans, nature, and the divine. Building temples in the skies — whether on cliffs, volcanic slopes, or misty peaks — reflects this profound cosmic balance.
While it’s tempting to chase the perfect photo at the “Gate of Heaven” or during sunset at Uluwatu, Bali’s temples offer more than just visual beauty. They are living cultural and spiritual centers. Take a moment to breathe, observe the rituals, and feel the sacred energy that flows from the ground to the skies.
Bali’s sky-kissing temples are more than just architectural marvels. They are places where myth, nature, and spirituality intertwine — where every stone tells a story, and every view reminds you of how small yet connected we are to the cosmos. Whether you’re gazing from the cliffs of Uluwatu, standing in the shadow of Mount Agung at Besakih, or ascending into the clouds at Lempuyang, these temples don’t just touch the sky — they touch your soul.
So, next time you’re in Bali, don’t just look at the temples. Climb them, feel them, and let them lift your spirit skyward.
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