Pura Goa Lawah, Hindu temple and bat cave in Klungkung, Indonesia.
Pura Goa Lawah is a Hindu temple complex on Bali built around a massive cave opening inhabited by thousands of bats. The site features traditional Balinese carved stone gates and shrines that frame the sacred cavern entrance.
The temple was established in the 11th century and ranks among Bali's nine directional temples, which spiritually unite the island. Its origins trace to ancient times when the cave was already used for religious purposes.
The site holds deep spiritual meaning for locals, who see the bats as sacred creatures connected to the temple's purpose. Visitors can observe daily prayers and offerings that show how actively this place remains part of community life.
Visitors should dress respectfully and may need to rent a sarong before entering the temple grounds. The surfaces can be slippery, and the cave interior is dark and cool, so sturdy shoes and a flashlight are useful.
Local legend holds that the cave tunnel extends all the way to Mount Agung, Bali's most sacred mountain, though this has never been fully explored. This belief shows how Balinese people connect different holy sites through invisible spiritual bonds.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
