Goa Lawah Temple, also known as the Bat Cave Temple, is one of the most significant sacred sites in Bali. It was established in the 11th century by Mpu Kuturan, a renowned Balinese priest who played a key role in the development of Hinduism on the island.

Entry to the temple is only allowed with a guide who leads visiting groups. The fees are rather symbolic – for three adults, we paid around 5 GBP, and children were admitted for free. The ticket price includes a sarong, and the guide is paid at the end of the visit. Ours suggested around 3 GBP, but it’s worth giving more. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about the temple and the rituals performed there, and he spoke excellent English.

     Photo: At the entrance to Goa Lawah Temple

Goa Lawah Temple was built from black volcanic rock. In 2023, a comprehensive renovation was completed to restore the temple to its former glory and preserve its historical and spiritual heritage. The restoration was part of a broader project aimed at protecting and preserving Bali’s sacred sites.

Photo: Goa Lawah Temple

The temple is famous for its cave, which is home to an estimated one million bats. Every evening, they fly out of the cave to the nearby forests to find food. The bats that return last in the morning and can’t find space deeper in the cave have to spend the day in daylight. I’m unsure if that’s good or bad for them, but they may have their own reasons to prefer staying by the cave entrance – boa constrictors live deep in the tunnels and only come out to eat bats, their main food source.

Photo: Bats at Goa Lawah Temple

Goa Lawah is one of the nine directional temples known as Kahyangan Jagat, which are positioned in deliberate locations around the island. This temple is considered the guardian of the sea and was strategically placed to protect the island from evil spirits. All these temples serve protective, spiritual, and symbolic roles, helping to maintain a spiritual balance and harmonious relationship between humans and nature. They include:

• Pura Besakih (Mother Temple): Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, it is the most important temple in Bali and is considered the “mother” of all Balinese temples. It represents the east and is the spiritual centre of the island.
• Pura Lempuyang: Situated on the eastern hills of Bali, also known as the “Gate of Heaven.” It represents the east (Timur) and is one of the oldest and holiest sites on the island.
• Pura Goa Lawah (Bat Cave Temple): Located near the coast, east of Kusamba. It represents the southeast (Tenggara) and is known for its bat-filled cave.
• Pura Uluwatu: Perched on a cliff in southwest Bali, it offers spectacular ocean views. It represents the southwest (Barat Daya).
• Pura Tanah Lot: A sea temple on a rock off Bali’s western coast. It represents the west (Barat) and is one of the most visited spots on the island.
• Pura Batukaru: Located on the western slopes of Mount Batukaru. It represents the west (Barat) and is surrounded by dense forests.
• Pura Ulun Danu Beratan: Situated on Lake Beratan in central Bali. It represents the northwest (Barat Laut) and is known for its scenic views and importance in water ceremonies.
• Pura Masceti: Located on the east coast, near Gianyar. It represents the northeast (Tenggara).
• Pura Pusering Jagat: Located in Pejeng, in central Bali. Considered the “navel of the world,” it represents the centre (Pusat).

Goa Lawah features four meru (pagodas), one of which has eleven levels, symbolizing the highest level of spiritual development. This number indicates exceptional sanctity and power, and eleven-level merus are typically found in the most important temples.

Photo: Meru with 11-tiered roofs

During our visit, a Ngangang ceremony was taking place, related to a period of mourning and remembrance of the deceased. This ritual aims to restore peace and harmony to the souls of the departed and seek blessings from the deities. The ceremony helps souls transition to their next reincarnation and cleanses the deceased’s family from negative influences. The family and local community typically participate in this ceremony, offering emotional support to the grieving family and celebrating the life of the deceased.

Photo: Ceremony during our visit to Goa Lawah

At the exit, we had time to shop for souvenirs. We bought handmade calendars and other gifts for the children. It’s worth practicing your bargaining skills before shopping – as Marianna admitted later, “You get better at it the longer you stay in Bali.” Just look at the expression on the face of the man in the red cap in the photo below; we were charmed by him!

Photo: Shopping for souvenirs near Goa Lawah

After spending about two hours at the temple and shopping, we headed to the nearby sea with our remaining money to relax and cool down with fresh coconuts. They were so delicious, I had two!

Photo: Drinking coconuts by the sea next to Goa Lawah Temple