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A Visitor’s Guide to Pura Luhur Batukaru

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We couldn’t believe our eyes when we started the uphill drive towards Pura Luhur Batukaru. No one on the road but us, surrounded by jungle and fast approaching the foot of Mt Batukaru, where the Pura Luhur Batukaru temple lies. Bali has an extraordinary amount of temples, but this one was definitely the most serene and spiritual than the rest we’ve seen during our travels. We noticed quite fast that we were the only tourists and that we are in for a very unique treat.

How to get to Pura Luhur Batukaru

Finding this temple was a sheer coincidence. We were just finishing our morning of wandering through Jatiluwih Rice Terraces and thought about squeezing in one extra visit on our way back to Canggu. As we looked at Google maps if there’s anything nearby, we noticed this temple. Since we figured we don’t have much to lose and wow are we happy we came. The temple grounds are very tranquil and you could easily just observe the locals at their prayer. Smoke, chanting, and misty air gave this location a very special feel. You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring Pura Luhur Batukaru.

This temple is off the beaten path, so it’s not likely for it to be included in a tour. But this shouldn’t stop you from exploring on your own! Here are the easiest ways to visit the temple:

By motorcycle: from Canggu, it will take you about an hour. The ride there is lush, with plenty of locals waving hello when passing the small villages. There is a big parking in front of the temple which it’s free of charge.

With a driver: If you decide to hire a driver, then put the temple on the list together with your North Bali and Ubud adventures. The cost for drivers varies in Bali, but generally, it will be 700k IDR per day.

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How Much Does it Cost to enter the temple?

The entrance fee to Pura Luhur Batukaru is 20,000 IDR. This fee includes a sarong rental. Keep in mind that you are entering a temple, so make sure to cover your shoulders as well.

About Pura Luhur Batukaru

Pura Luhur Batukaru is a Hindu temple, originally built in the 11th Century. It is dedicated to the ancestors of the rajas of Tabanan and is one of Bali’s directional temples, which protect us from evil spirits. The most important shrine at Pura Luhur Batukaru is the 7-tiered meru. It was built in honor of the God of Gunung Batukaru, Mahadewa. Make sure to respect the rules and behave appropriately when you see signs warning you of the prayer spots.

Explore the Temple and the Grounds

The raw vibe of the grounds is what really makes this place. The branches reaching out on the staircases and the moss growing on walls makes it very eerie. And with the prayer bells ringing in the background, you’ll really feel relaxed here.

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