Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) Bali Travel Guide 2026 – Tickets, History, Timings & Visitor Tips

Goa Gajah is traced back to the 9th century, a place where people could meditate and seek spiritual solace in early times of Hinduism and Buddhism in Bali. What the site is most recognised by is its dramatic cave entrance cut into menacing faces, which are supposed to keep away evil spirits.

However, although it is named so, the site does not have any elephants. Historians are of the opinion that the name Goa Gajah could be derived from the adjacent Elephant River or out of the Hindu god Ganesha, with an elephant-like head, the statue of which is located in the cave.

Goa Gajah is a cultural heritage site on the UNESCO list today and is still used in worship.

Fun Fact: Goa Gajah bathing pools were found in 1954, buried in hundreds of feet of soil, and the statues that were carved there were very complex, giving the site back its spiritual significance.

Seasonal Advice: Bali is at its dry season (April- October), and therefore it is best to visit Goa Gajah when it is dry and wet when it is rainy (November- March).

• Ancient cave entrance with intricate stone carvings
• Sacred bathing pools with holy spring water
• Hindu and Buddhist relics in one complex
• Jungle setting with river valleys and meditation paths
• Proximity to Ubud cultural attractions

A visit to Goa Gajah offers a peaceful, educational, and spiritually enriching experience.

Location: Bedulu Village, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
Opening Hours (2026): Daily, 08:00 AM – 06:00 PM
Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours

• Ubud Monkey Forest: 15-minute drive
• Tegallalang Rice Terraces: 30-minute drive
• Tirta Empul Temple: 25-minute drive
• Ubud Palace & Art Market: 15-minute drive

Day-Trip Tip: Combine Goa Gajah with Tirta Empul and Tegallalang for a full cultural day trip from Ubud.

Elephant Cave Sanctuary

• Narrow cave with a carved demon mouth entrance
• Inside: statues of Ganesha and lingam-yoni
• Used historically for meditation and spiritual cleansing

Cultural Insight: The cave reflects a fusion of Shaivite Hinduism and Mahayana Buddhism.

Holy Bathing Pools

• Six carved female figures holding water spouts
• Used for ritual purification and blessings
• Still considered sacred by local worshippers

Spiritual Note: Visitors may observe offerings placed daily by Balinese priests.

Meditation Gardens & Jungle Pathways

• Quiet trails leading to rivers and ancient relics
• Ideal for reflection and photography
• Less crowded compared to the main cave area

Pro Tip: Always carry cash, as card facilities may not be available at the entrance.

Opening Hours: 08:00 AM – 06:00 PM

Best Visiting Tips

• Visit early morning (08:00–10:00 AM) to avoid crowds
• Dry season (April–October) offers the best weather
• Avoid midday heat, especially during peak summer months
• Respect temple etiquette at all times

From Ubud

• Taxi/Scooter: 10–15 minutes
• Private Tour: Most convenient option

From Kuta / Seminyak

• Car: 1.5–2 hours

Guided Day Tours: Often include Goa Gajah, Ubud, and rice terraces

• Sarong and sash are mandatory (provided at entry)
• Shoulders and knees must be covered
• Remove shoes before entering sacred areas
• No loud behaviour or climbing on structures

• Carry water and wear comfortable walking shoes
• Visit after light rain for vibrant greenery
• Respect ongoing religious ceremonies
• Combine a visit with nearby Ubud attractions
• Photography allowed, but avoid flash inside the cave

Morning:

• Visit Goa Gajah early
• Explore bathing pools and meditation paths

Midday:

• Head to Ubud Palace and Art Market
• Lunch at a local Balinese restaurant

Afternoon:

• Visit Monkey Forest or Tegallalang Rice Terraces

• One of Bali’s oldest archaeological sites
• Unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist heritage
• Easily accessible from Ubud
• Peaceful alternative to crowded temples
• Affordable entrance fee with deep cultural value

1. Explore the Elephant Cave sanctuary
2. Observe rituals at the holy bathing pools
3. Walk the jungle meditation paths
4. Learn Balinese spiritual history
5. Combine with nearby cultural attractions

Goa Gajah is not only a tourist spot, but a glimpse into the ancient spirituality in Bali. The site itself, with its mystic cave, holy bathing sources and peaceful natural environment, presents a valuable cultural experience only a few minutes away from Ubud. Whether you are visiting the temples in Bali, creating an itinerary that concentrates on the heritage of the local people, or simply want to have a relaxing spiritual experience, the Goa Gajah Temple needs to be included in your Bali itinerary in 2026.

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