Historical Sites in Bali: A Complete Guide to Temples, Palaces & Cultural Landmarks

The historical sites in Bali offer a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage. From ancient temples and sacred palaces to historic monuments and archaeological landmarks, allows visitors to understand the island beyond its stunning beaches. This guide highlights the top sites in Bali that will help you to understand the island’s historic legacy. 

Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung): Royal Heritage of Ubud

The Ubud Palace is one of the historical places in Bali, which was built in the 1800s. The palace was the official residence of the royal family of Ubud, and it remains a central landmark in the town. When the royal family invited Western artists to stay, its legacy changed forever in the 1930s, transforming Ubud from a normal village to Bali’s global capital of art and tourism. This royal palace showcases stunning stone carvings and exquisite traditional architecture.

• Entry fee: Free , Legong Dance show (7:30 PM): IDR 100,000 (~₹540).
• Best time to visit: Evening for performances

Tirta Empul Temple: Sacred Holy Water Temple in Bali

The Tirta Empul Temple, founded in 926 AD during the Warmadewa Dynasty, this temple is tied to the legend of God Indra creating a spring to heal his poisoned army. It is one of the most significant Hindu temples and is built around a natural spring in the village of Tampaksiring. Visitors can participate in the ritual bathing process in its sacred spring. If you wish to participate, you must rent a specific “Melukat sarong” (approx. IDR 25,000 / ~₹240) at the rental counter inside.

• Entry fee: IDR 75,000 (~₹410) for adults & IDR 50,000 (~₹270) for children.
• Best time to visit: Early morning

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): Ancient Archaeological Site Near Ubud

Goa Gajah is an archaeological site located near Ubud. The cave is a captivating blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences, the site features both 9th-century Hindu carvings and 11th-century Buddhist relics in its lower garden area. It serves as a destination for meditation and spiritual practices. Intricate carvings, often depicting an elephant or protective demonic creatures, adorn the entrance of the cave.  The complex includes a bathing pool, a statue of Lord Shiva and a serene garden. 

• Entry fee: IDR 50,000 (~₹270).
• Best time to visit: Morning

Besakih Temple: The Mother Temple of Bali

The Besakih Temple dates back to prehistoric times, it is perched on the slopes of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest volcano. Besakih famously survived the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung, with lava flows stopping just meters from its gates. Also known as the ‘Mother Temple’ of Bali, this complex consists of 86 separate temples, which makes it the largest temple complex. The temple is a marvel of Balinese architecture, with tiered pagodas, ornate stone carvings and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

• Entry fee: IDR 150,000 (~₹815) which includes a mandatory local guide, a sarong rental and a one-time electric shuttle bus to the main entrance.
• Best time to visit: Early morning (before 9:00 AM) for the best view of Mount Agung.

Taman Ayun Temple (Pura Taman Ayun): UNESCO World Heritage Site

Taman Ayun Temple is an architectural masterpiece, built in 1634 by the King of Mengwi, this is an architectural map of the Hindu cosmos, featuring multiple courtyards, intricately designed shrines and beautiful gardens. Several ponds with lotus flowers surround the temple complex.  The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it served as the spiritual centre for the Mengwi Kingdom.

• Entry fee: IDR 30,000 (~₹165) which includes sarong rental.
• Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon

Uluwatu Temple: Cliffside Sea Temple with Kecak Dance

Although it began as a small shrine in the 11th century, the famous Javanese sage Dang Hyang Nirartha expanded Uluwatu Temple, one of Bali’s most dramatic sea temples. There exists a strong belief that he reached Moksha (spiritual liberation) at this very spot, making it one of the six key temples that protect Bali from evil sea spirits. It is famous for its 70-meter high cliff setting and sunset views. The spot sits perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, offering a popular view for sunset watchers. In the evenings, the temple hosts traditional Balinese dance that illustrates the story of the Ramayana through intricate movements and chanting. This beautiful combination of stunning sunset and cultural performance makes it one of the best places to experience Bali’s cultural heritage.

• Entry fee: IDR 50,000 (~₹275) for the temple; IDR 150,000 (~₹815) for the Kecak Dance performance which is at 6.00 PM, but arrive earlier by 4:30 PM to secure a ticket, as they frequently sell out.
• Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon

Tanah Lot Temple: Iconic Sea Temple of Bali

The Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most iconic sea temples that is set on a rock, founded in the 16th century by the priest Dang Hyang Nirartha, it is believed that he chose this rock after seeing its beauty and used his sash to create poisonous sea snakes to protect the base. It remains to be a cornerstone of the seven sea temples that ring the Balinese coast. Its dramatic offshore setting and breathtaking sunset views make it renowned.  As of 2026, new walkways are ready to manage the high volume of sunset visitors. The Tanah Lot Temple perfectly blends natural beauty with cultural heritage and spiritual significance, making it a must-visit destination for travellers exploring Bali.

• Entry fee: IDR 75,000 (~₹410) for adults.
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon. Check the tide schedule low tide allows you to walk to the base of the rock.

Gunung Kawi Temple: Ancient Rock-Cut Shrines in Bali

Gunung Kawi Temple is an ancient Hindu temple complex, constructed in the 11th century. The temple complex is nestled in the lush Pakerisan River valley near Tampaksiring in Bali. It features ten towering statues or ‘Candis’, which depict the royal family of the Udayana dynasty, that are carved into the face of a rock cliff. Visitors must descend more than 300 steps through scenic rice terraces to reach the temple in the river valley.

• Entry fee: IDR 75,000 (~₹410) which includes sarong/sash.
• Best time to visit: Early morning 

Klungkung Palace: Historic Royal Palace of Semarapura

Klungkung Palace(Kertha Gosa Pavilion) in Bali is a historic royal complex, once as the palace of the highest king in Bali, this palace was then the site of ritual mass suicide(Puputan) in 1908 where the royal family, instead of surrendering to Dutch, chose death. The surviving Kertha Gosa ceiling paintings serve as a 300-year-old comic strip of ancient Balinese justice and karma nestled in the heart of Semarapura. It is renowned for its traditional Balinese architecture. This palace stands as an important cultural landmark and is one of the must-visit historical places in Bali.

• Entry fee: IDR 50,000 (~₹270)
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: Scenic Water Temple on Lake Bratan

Built in 1633, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is one of the island’s most iconic water temples. The temple is located on the misty shores of Lake Bratan and honours Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes, rivers and irrigation. It is the centre for Bali’s ancient Subak irrigation system, which has managed the island’s water and rice terraces for over a thousand years. The temple complex is surrounded by misty mountains and cool alpine weather, which makes it one of the most picturesque ancient temples in Bali.

• Entry fee: IDR 75,000 (~₹410) on weekdays; IDR 100,000 (~₹560)  on weekends for foreign tourists.
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon

Tirta Gangga & Ujung Water Palace: Royal Water Gardens of Bali

Tirta Gangga and Ujung Water Palace are two of the most iconic royal water gardens in Bali. These royal water gardens were the projects of the last King of Karangasem in the early 20th century, blending Balinese, Chinese, and European styles into a modern royal landscape.These timeless royal treasures blend serene water gardens, intricate stone carvings and spiritual significance inspired by the sacred Ganges River. Tirta Gangga is renowned for its holy spring water and stepping-stone ponds, while Ujung Water Palace (Taman Ujung) features expansive pools, elegant bridges and panoramic views of Mount Agung and the Indian Ocean.

• Entry fee: IDR 90,000 (~₹485) for Tirta ganga and IDR 75,000 (~₹410) for Ujung water palace
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon

Practical Information for Visiting Historical Sites in Bali

Dress Code for Temples and Historical Places

Most temples and historical sites require modest clothing covering shoulders and knees.

Respectful Conduct

• Do not enter a temple if you have an open wound.
• Never stand higher than the priest during a ceremony.

Best Time of Year to Visit

The dry season from April to October offers the most pleasant weather for exploring historical sites. 

Photography Guidelines

Always ask permission before photographing worshippers or ceremonies. Drones require special permits at most locations.

Transportation Tips for Exploring Bali’s Historical Landmarks

Historical sites are scattered across different regions of Bali. Renting a scooter offers maximum flexibility for island exploration, although hiring a private driver provides comfort. While these scooters and private drivers are popular, ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are now widely used, but be aware that many ‘Historical sites’ have ‘No-Go’ zones for these apps. Always check before heading to the remote sites.

Read more: Bali Travel Guide

Conclusion: Why Exploring Historical Sites in Bali Is a Must?

The historical sites in Bali are living testament of the country’s ancient civilisation. From ancient temples and royal palaces to sacred monuments shaped by Hindu, Buddhist and indigenous traditions, each site reveals layers of spiritual devotion, artistic achievement, and historical resilience. Plan your visit to these historical landmarks with Pickyourtrail’s Bali Tour Packages from India with the best deals. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important historical site in Bali?

Pura Besakih, also known as the Mother Temple, holds the most significance as Bali’s largest and holiest temple complex. 

How much do historical sites in Bali cost to enter?

As of 2026, entry fees generally range from IDR 30,000 (~₹165) for smaller temples to IDR 150,000 (~₹815) for major sites like Besakih. Most iconic temples (Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, Tirta Empul) cost on average around IDR 75,000 (~₹410).

Which historical site in Bali is best for sunrise or sunset?

Tanah Lot offers spectacular sunsets over the ocean. Uluwatu Temple provides stunning sunset views combined with the evening Kecak dance performance. For sunrise, visit Pura Besakih early in the morning for peaceful exploration with mountain views.

How many days are needed to explore Bali’s historical sites?

A minimum of 4-5 days allows visiting major historical sites without rushing. 

Are Bali’s historical sites suitable for children?

Yes, though some sites require climbing many steps. 

Do I need a guide to visit historical sites in Bali?

While not mandatory, hiring a knowledgeable guide significantly enhances your experience. Private archaeological tours cost approximately Rs. 4,130-5,000 for groups of up to six people.

What should I wear when visiting temples in Bali?

Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. Temples typically provide sarongs and sashes for visitors. Avoid revealing clothing and remove shoes before entering inner temple areas.