Goa Lawah Temple is one of the more fascinating temples — not just for its spiritual importance, but because it’s built around a cave filled with thousands of bats.
Located on the island’s quieter southeast coast, it’s often overlooked by tourists heading straight to more famous spots. But if you’re exploring East Bali, it’s an easy and worthwhile stop.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before visiting Goa Lawah: how to get there, what to expect, the temple’s role in Balinese Hinduism, and whether it’s worth adding to your Bali itinerary.
Quick Overview of Goa Lawah Temple
Goa Lawah is one of Bali’s more authentic temples — still very much focused on actual worship rather than catering to tourists.
It’s not as big or famous as places like Besakih Temple or Tanah Lot Temple, which means fewer crowds and a more peaceful vibe.
If you happen to visit during a ceremony, you’re still welcome to enter — just walk around the back. The locals are friendly and will usually point you in the right direction.
The bat cave itself can’t be entered, but you can get extremely close to the entrance from the side of the temple. Yes, there are thousands of bats. Some hang still. Others flap and fly around inside. For the full effect, come around sunset when they start flying out in waves.
You’ll pass a few souvenir sellers on your way in — expect a couple of people to push sarongs on you, but just smile and keep walking if you’re not interested.
Take your time, grab heaps of photos, and enjoy the fact that this is one of the few temples in Bali that still feels real.
Summary
📍 Location: Pesinggahan Village, Klungkung
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
💸 Entrance Fee (Adult): IDR 30,000
💸 Entrance Fee (Child): IDR 25,000
🚗 Car Parking: IDR 5,000
🛵 Scooter Parking: IDR 2,000
🥻 Dress Code: Sarong and sash required (provided)
🚻 Facilities: Toilets at the entrance
⏳ Recommended Visit: 45 minutes
What is Goa Lawah Temple?
Goa Lawah Temple (or Pura Goa Lawah) is one of Bali’s nine directional temples, built to protect the island from evil spirits. Its name translates to “Bat Cave Temple,” and that’s not just poetic — the inner cave is home to thousands of fruit bats, clinging to the ceiling in plain sight.
Located on the southeast coast of Bali near Klungkung, Goa Lawah is both a place of worship and a sacred natural wonder.
The temple dates back to the 11th century and is believed to be connected to Mount Agung through a hidden underground tunnel (though no one’s proven it).
In Balinese Hinduism, Goa Lawah is especially important during Ngaben (cremation ceremonies), as the temple is often used as a spiritual stop between life and the afterlife.
It’s also an active temple, so chances are high you’ll witness locals making offerings, praying, or participating in a ceremony when you visit.
Whether you’re into history, spirituality, or just curious about a temple with real bats hanging overhead — Goa Lawah offers a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else on the island.
Where is Goa Lawah Temple Located?
Goa Lawah Temple is located in the village of Pesinggahan, in Klungkung Regency on Bali’s southeast coast.
It sits right along the main coastal highway that connects Sanur, Candidasa, and Amed — making it an easy stop if you’re traveling to or from East Bali.
The temple is about:
It’s also directly across from the beach, giving Goa Lawah that rare combo of sea breeze and sacred silence. You can often hear the ocean waves crashing in the background during temple ceremonies.
Despite being right off the main road, the temple still feels serene — and its location makes it perfect for a quick visit en route to nearby attractions like Sidemen or Tirta Gangga.
Goa Lawah Temple Entrance Fee
Entrance fees can be paid just after the parking area. This is a small ticket booth where you’ll be provided your sarong and sash. Keep in mind, entrance fees can only be paid in cash.
- Foreign adults: IDR 25,000
- Foreign children: IDR 15,000
- Sarong rental: IDR 5,000
- Scooter parking: IDR 2,000
- Car parking: IDR 5,000
In summary, the entrance fee to Goa Lawah is IDR 30,000 (IDR 25k for entry and 5k for the sarong rental).
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Goa Lawah Temple Opening Hours
Despite what Google Maps says (24 hours) Goa Lawah Temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM for foreign visitors. You can visit any time during these hours, though ceremonies may limit access to certain areas temporarily.
Some staff will still remain after closing and will likely let you in if you’re there to see the bats fly out of the cave. If you visited earlier, you can hang onto your ticket and visit again later during your drive back.
Best Time to Visit Goa Lawah Temple
Mornings are ideal — it’s cooler, quieter, and you’ll avoid the midday heat. Goa Lawah Temple doesn’t get overly crowded, so you don’t need to overthink timing.
If you want to see the bats flying out of the cave, aim to arrive just before sunset.
And if you’re lucky enough to visit during a local ceremony, don’t skip it. You can still explore the temple — just follow the staff’s directions, and be respectful of the rituals taking place.
How to Get to Goa Lawah Temple?
Goa Lawah is located right on the coastal highway between Sanur and Candidasa, making it an easy stop if you’re exploring during an East Bali Day Tour. Here’s how to get there:
Private Car and Driver
The easiest and most comfortable option — especially if you’re visiting from Ubud, Seminyak, or Canggu. You’ll be in an air-conditioned SUV with one of our local drivers who know the roads, parking situation, and temple etiquette. Perfect if you want to combine Goa Lawah with other stops like Blue Lagoon, Tirta Gangga or Sidemen.
Renting a Scooter
If you’re already staying nearby — say in Candidasa, Sidemen, or Padangbai — renting a scooter is an affordable and flexible way to get there. The roads are decent, and parking at the temple is easy. Just be cautious on the main highway, as it can get busy with trucks and buses.
Grab / GoJek
You might be able to get a Grab or Gojek to Goa Lawah, especially from Denpasar or Sanur. But getting one back could be a challenge — drivers rarely hang around this area waiting for return fares. If you go this route, be prepared to wait or arrange a pickup ahead of time.
What is the dress code for Goa Lawah Temple?
Like with most temples in Bali, modest dress is expected. You don’t need to wear full Balinese ceremonial clothes, but you do need to follow basic Bali temple etiquette.
A sarong and sash are provided with your entrance ticket. You’ll need to wear both before entering the temple grounds — no exceptions. Temple staff are usually nearby to help you put them on properly if it’s your first time.
Once you’re done exploring, just return the sarong and sash at the same spot and give a polite “terima kasih” (thank you). That’s it.
No need to overthink it — just dress respectfully, follow the flow, and you’re good to go.
The Bat Cave at Goa Lawah
Yes — there really are bats. Thousands of them.
The cave at the center of Goa Lawah Temple is home to a massive colony of fruit bats. You’ll hear them squeaking and shifting around all day long. You can’t go inside the cave, but you can look straight into the entrance from the temple courtyard — and the bats are easy to spot.
Locals consider them sacred. According to Balinese belief, they help protect the temple from evil spirits. The cave itself is also wrapped in legend — many believe it connects underground to Mount Agung, although no one has ever proven that.
The smell? Sometimes noticeable, but not unbearable. If you’ve been to bat caves before, you’ll know what to expect.
It’s easily the most unique feature of the temple — and the reason Goa Lawah is often nicknamed “the bat cave temple.”
What to Do Near Goa Lawah Temple
There’s plenty to see nearby if you’re already visiting Pura Goa Lawah. From quiet beaches and rice terraces to waterfalls and historic sites, it’s easy to turn this quick temple stop into a full-day East Bali itinerary.
- Blue Lagoon Beach – A small, calm bay perfect for snorkeling and a quick swim, just a few minutes from Padang Bai.
- Gembleng Waterfall – A hidden jungle waterfall with a natural infinity pool overlooking the valley, near Sidemen.
- Kertha Gosa – Historic royal courts in Semarapura with traditional Balinese ceiling paintings and architecture.
- Virgin Beach – Also known as White Sand Beach, this quiet stretch of coastline is great for swimming and relaxing under a beach umbrella.
- Sidemen Rice Terraces – One of Bali’s most scenic rice field regions, less crowded than Tegallalang and full of lush, quiet beauty.
- Candidasa – A peaceful seaside town with a mix of resorts, local eateries, and easy coastal walks.
- Tenganan Village – One of the oldest traditional villages in Bali with it’s original culture still intact.
- Padang Bai Harbour – Gateway to the Gilis and Nusa Islands, but also worth a short visit for its beaches and seafood warungs.
- Bias Tugel Beach – A hidden gem near Padang Bai with soft white sand and clear turquoise water.
- Bali Safari & Marine Park – A family-friendly wildlife park about 30 minutes away, home to elephants, tigers, and cultural shows.
- Jagasatru Waterfall – A small and relatively unknown waterfall run by a Balinese family in the mountains.
Where to Eat Near Goa Lawah Temple
Don’t expect any fancy restaurants in this area. The restaurants around Goa Lawah cater mainly to local visitors who visit the temple. That said, this is your opportunity to try some Indonesian and Balinese food at a local warung. Here are a few top spots:
- Warung Nengah Spcial Ikan Laut – Just across the temple. I’ve been going here for years and never been disappointed. Their specialty is their fresh Sate Ikan (fish skewers).
- Warung Lesehan Sari Baruna Pasinggahan – Another popular spot for fish skewers with decent prices.
- Merta Sari Restaurant Pesinggahan – Seafood spot that locals rave about. It’s slightly north from the main road.
- Across from Goa Lawah – There are loads of small warungs by the beach where you can grab simple food for cheap.
- Warung Blue Lagoon – If you want a better view, drive another 20 mins to Blue Lagoon Beach to sit at this restaurant and enjoy a meal with calm blue waters.
If you’re looking for something closer to Western cuisine, you’re better off heading to Padang Bai. Here you’ll have more options for cafes, bars, and specialty restaurants.
History of Goa Lawah Temple
Goa Lawah Temple dates back to the 11th century and was founded by the high priest Mpu Kuturan, one of the earliest figures responsible for shaping Bali’s temple system.
It’s one of the Sad Kahyangan, the six most sacred temples in Bali that are believed to protect the island from spiritual threats. Specifically, Goa Lawah guards the southeast corner of the island, near the sea.
The temple’s location — nestled between the ocean and a bat-filled cave — makes it spiritually powerful in Balinese cosmology. It represents the meeting point of the upper world (the gods), the middle world (humans), and the lower world (spirits).
Many Balinese Hindus stop here as part of Ngaben (cremation) ceremonies, where it serves as a transitional spiritual checkpoint before the ashes are taken to the sea.
Even if you’re not religious, knowing the temple’s role in local life adds a whole new layer of meaning to your visit.
Tips for Visiting Pura Goa Lawah
A few quick pointers to make your visit smooth and respectful:
- Wear a sarong and sash at all times – Provided with your ticket; required for entry.
- Bring cash – Entrance fees are cash-only, and there’s no ATM on-site.
- During ceremonies, walk behind the worship area – Staff will usually guide you; be respectful and quiet.
- You can’t enter the bat cave – But you’ll get a clear view from just outside.
- Want to see the bats fly out? – Come back around 6:00 PM to catch the mass exit.
- Souvenir sellers may approach you – Just smile and say “no thank you” with a polite hand wave.
- No smoking or vaping inside – It’s a temple, not a rest stop.
- Take photos respectfully – Avoid flash photography and don’t interrupt any ceremonies.
In summary, you don’t need to pack anything special for your visit to Goa Lawah, unless you’re going on a day trip in East Bali. Just remember these few tips above and it’ll be a wonderful visit.
Final Thoughts: Is Goa Lawah Temple Worth Visiting?
If you’re already heading toward East Bali — Padangbai, Candidasa, or Sidemen — then yes, Goa Lawah is definitely worth a stop. It’s one of those places that’s easy to tick off your things to do in Bali list without needing much time.
But would I go out of my way just to see this temple and head straight back? Probably not. It’s a small temple, and most visitors spend 30–45 minutes here — unless there’s a ceremony happening, in which case it’s well worth staying longer to experience the culture up close.
It’s peaceful, the locals are genuinely friendly, and you’ll get to see thousands of bats up close. Not a bad deal for a quick, authentic Bali temple stop for a couple bucks.
FAQs about Goa Lawah Temple
What is the meaning of Goa Lawah?
“Goa Lawah” translates to “bat cave,” referring to the natural cave at the temple entrance that shelters thousands of fruit bats.
What is the dress code for Goa Lawah Temple?
Moderate attire is required—bring your knees and shoulders covered (shorts/t-shirts are fine). A sarong and sash are provided with your entrance ticket and must be worn inside at all times .
What can be found at Pura Goa Lawah?
Inside the temple you’ll see ornate shrines and pavilions, and just beyond them the bat cave—home to thousands of fruit bats. While you can’t enter the cave, you can observe the bats from the entrance area.
Why is Goa Lawah Temple important?
It’s one of Bali’s Sad Kahyangan (“six sanctuaries of the world”)—directional temples meant to protect the island. Goa Lawah specifically guards the southeast and plays a critical role in purification ceremonies, including cremations.
Can you enter the bat cave?
No. Entry into the cave is forbidden for spiritual reasons. Visitors can get very close to the entrance to see the bats clearly, especially during the evening flight.
When can you see the bats flying out?
Around 6 PM, just before temple closing at 6:00 PM, you can catch thousands of bats leaving the cave in mass flight—an impressive natural spectacle.
Is there an entrance fee to Goa Lawah?
Yes, there’s a small entrance fee (IDR 30k) —usually paid in cash—that includes the sarong and sash. Fees may fluctuate, so bring some extra Indonesian currency.
Are ceremonies open to the public?
Yes, temple ceremonies are public. Visitors can watch but must walk behind worship areas and remain discreet. Staff often guide you to the correct path.
Comments
Have a question about visiting Goa Lawah Temple? Ask below. Whether you’re planning your day tour, wondering what to wear, or just curious about the bats — drop your questions or tips in the comments section and I’ll get back to you.
Thank you for this. Just booked an east bali tour with you. Just wondering, are there many stairs here? We’re an older crew not keen on straining the knees too much
Hi Mary,
There’s practically no stair climbing involved at Goa Lawah. Just a few small steps in and out of the courtyards – that’s about it.
It’s a relatively small temple and mostly flat.
Enjoy your time in East Bali!