Goa Gajah, surrounded by sacred waters that hold ancient secrets

If there's a place capable of offering unique awe, it's Goa Gajah , a 9th-century temple that captivates all who visit. The atmosphere here is peaceful, yet tinged with mystery and steeped in history . To enter, you must pass through the incredible entrance to a cave carved into the rock: a demonic face carved into the stone , as if guarding ancient secrets. Inside, an almost sacred silence reigns, and the thousand-year-old statues will make you feel connected to something greater.

The surrounding gardens and stone fountains , perfectly harmonious in their design, complete the enchantment, offering the ideal setting for immersing yourself in tranquility. Anyone in Indonesia , near Ubud , should not miss this experience.

The history and mysteries of Goa Gajah

Although its origins remain partly shrouded in mystery , the temple is believed to have been built in the 9th century, during the Warmadewa dynasty , a time when Hindu and Buddhist influences were beginning to merge in Bali . Among the oldest sacred places on the island, Goa Gajah was a meditation center for monks : inside, dark and silent, are a statue of Ganesha and the symbols of the lingam-yoni, testimony to the encounter between the two spiritual traditions.

The temple's name appears to be linked to the cave entrance , carved with a huge, disturbing face: some believe it to be an elephant, others a demon, and it served to ward off evil spirits. Next to it, a basin with six stone female figures pouring water was likely used for ritual purification, a practice typical of Hindu ceremonies.

Hidden for centuries by vegetation, the site was rediscovered in the 1920s by a team of Dutch archaeologists. Among the ruins, carvings, statues of deities, and mythical creatures emerged, proving that Goa Gajah was a sacred place for generations and, for many, remains so today.

How to discover the Goa Gajah temple

Once you reach the temple, enter the cave through the carved entrance, a massive, haunting face. Inside, you'll be enveloped in a cool, dark, and silent atmosphere , with a statue of Ganesha and the ancient symbols of the lingam-yoni. It feels like a sacred refuge, perfect for immersing yourself in the vibes of the 9th century: it's easy to imagine the monks who, centuries ago, meditated within.

Exit the cave and reach the ritual bathing pool : you'll see six stone statues depicting women pouring water, used for ancient purification rites. The area is green and serene, perfect for taking photos or simply relaxing by the fountains. You can stroll through the surrounding gardens, where you'll find moss-covered stone sculptures, small shrines, and jungle trails.

Where it is and how to get there

Goa Gajah Cave, also known as Elephant Cave , is located in the village of Bedulu , Gianyar Regency. It is about 5 kilometers (10 minutes by car or scooter) southeast of central Ubud and is easily accessible via Jalan Raya Ubud or Jalan Raya Goa Gajah . The temple is located in a verdant area surrounded by rice paddies and jungle, close to attractions such as the Ubud Monkey Forest and Yeh Pulu.

Before entering, remember to wear a sarong as the temple is active and used for prayers.