Our Bali Archaeological Tour takes you beyond the tourist hotspots and deep into Bali’s ancient ruins, prehistoric sites, and royal tombs, where history, legend, and spirituality intertwine.
If you’re a fan of archaeology and exploring ancient sites and ruins, this tour is for you. Whether you’re a history geek or just curious about the real Bali, this tour will leave you with a deeper understand of the island’s incredible past.
Bali Archaeological Tour Overview
The Bali Archaeological Tour is a private day tour that takes you to explore some of Bali’s ancient temples, caves, and royal tombs. You’ll discover Bali’s pre-Hindu, Hindu, and early Balinese kingdoms.
- Yeh Pulu Reliefs
- Goa Gajah
- Goa Garba
- Lunch (optional – time is up to you)
- Gunung Kawi
- Tirta Empul Temple
This is more than just a history lesson – it’s an adventure through time, where you’ll discover the legends and forgotten stories that shaped Bali into the island it is today.
Costs: The Bali Archaeological Tour starts at AUD $92.50 or USD $58.20 for up to 6 people. You can choose to include or exclude entrance fees.
Yeh Pulu Reliefs
Your first stop of the Bali Archaeological Tour will be Yeh Pulu Temple, otherwise known as the Yeh Pulu Reliefs. This ancient site dates back to the 14th century.
It’s a relatively small attraction for a short visit, with the main feature being a 25-meter long carved rock. The depictions feature the daily life of Balinese people 500 years ago.
Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, is one of the more iconic ancient ruins in Bali. It’s just outside of Ubud in the village of Bedulu.
The main attraction at Goa Gajah is the menacing cave entrance with a demonic face carved into it. The mouth serves as the door through which you can enter into the small cave.
The entire complex is Goa Gajah comprises of the Elephant Cave itself, bathing pools, Balinese temples, a small Buddhist temple, waterfalls, and a river – all surrounding by lush jungle with towering trees.
Goa Garba
Located in Pejeng, Gianyar, Goa Garba is an ancient cave sanctuary believed to date back to the 12th century AD. This ancient site is carved into the cliffside overlooking the Pakerisan River and has served as a meditation ground for Balinese royalty and priests.
Goa Garba, which roughly translates to “Womb Cave,” has played a significant role as a place of rebirth, meditation, and spiritual transformation. It’s part of the Pakerisan River UNESCO Cultural Heritage Area.
Gunung Kawi
One of Bali’s most remarkable archaeological sites is Gunung Kawi. It dates back to the 11th century AD during the reign of King Anak Wungsu. This ancient site is famous for its massive rock-cut shrines carved directly into the cliffs along the river.
The shrines are believed to be royal funerary monuments dedicated to the king, his family, and high-ranking members of the court. Like Goa Gajah, this temple showcases a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences.
Tirta Empul Temple
The Bali Archaeological Tour concludes with a visit to Tirta Empul, one of Bali’s most revered holy water temple. Although it’s not an archaeological site, it’s an ancient temple that was founded in 926 AD.
Tirta Empul is popular among Balinese Hindus and foreigners for the Melukat Ceremony – a water purification ritual which is believed to wash away negative energy and bad karma.
What’s included
Included in the Bali Archaeological Tour is your own private, air-conditioned SUV driven by a friendly, English-speaking driver. Fuel, applicable taxes, and 10 hours of allocated time are all included form pick-up until drop-off in any area of Bali.
Entrance fees to the attractions above can be included if selected in the booking form below. If you want more flexibility to change your itinerary during the course of the day, feel free to exclude entrance fees. My drivers are all flexible and are able to adjust to your preferences.
In summary, here’s what’s included in the Bali Archaeological Tour:
- Private, air-conditioned SUV
- 10 hours of allocated time
- English-speaking driver
- Entrance fees to all attractions (if selected)
- Sarong rental (if required)
- Ability to change your itinerary
- Vehicle fuel
- Applicable taxes
- Child seats (if selected)
Not included:
- Lunch / Food / Beverages
- Entrance fees to other attractions
- Tickets to any events (if any)
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Make a booking
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I’m a technology entrepreneur and traveller and began Bali Holiday Secrets as a guide for friends and family who came to visit after I moved to Bali, and has grown to 400,000+ visitors a month.
Bali Archaeological Tour FAQs
If you question isn’t answered below, feel free to contact us or leave a comment below. We will get back to you within 12 hours.
How long is the Bali Archaeological Tour?
You have 10 hours to explore several archaeological sites. However, if you are tired or need to return sooner, you can simply inform your driver.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes! However, some attractions, like Goa Gajah, require a fair bit of walking and climbing stairs. If you have knee problems, I would suggest skipping this destination. Optional child seats are available for younger children.
Are entrance fees included?
You can choose to include or exclude entrance fees in the booking form above. We do not inflate the entrance fees nor do we make a profit from them – it’s simply an option for your convenience. If you choose to exclude entrance fees, please remember to bring extra IDR cash.
The Bali Archaeological Tour is a fully private booking. Whether you’re booking for 1 person or 6 people, you will not be sharing the experience with others.
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