Goa Lawah Temple Guide
Goa Lawah Temple: Where Bats and Spirituality Converge Guide
Goa Lawah Temple, also known as the Bat Cave Temple, is a significant Hindu temple located in the Klungkung Regency of Bali. This unique temple is renowned for the thousands of bats that inhabit its cave, creating a fascinating and somewhat eerie atmosphere. It's a must-see for those seeking a blend of natural wonder and spiritual experience. The temple's history is intertwined with Balinese mythology and religious beliefs. Legend has it that the cave extends all the way to Besakih Temple, Bali's most sacred temple, located on the slopes of Mount Agung. Goa Lawah is believed to have been founded in the 11th century by Mpu Kuturan, one of the priests who laid the foundations of Hinduism in Bali. The temple's importance is further emphasized by its role in the Nyegara Gunung ceremony, a ritual that aims to maintain the balance between the sea and the mountains. Visitors to Goa Lawah can observe the thousands of bats clinging to the cave walls, a truly remarkable sight. The temple complex itself is beautifully decorated with traditional Balinese architecture, and you can witness locals performing their daily prayers. Remember to dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting. While there aren't specific culinary traditions directly linked to the temple, you can find numerous warungs (small restaurants) nearby offering traditional Balinese cuisine like nasi goreng (fried rice), mie goreng (fried noodles), and sate lilit (minced meat satay).
Transportation
The easiest way to reach Goa Lawah Temple is by car or scooter. From Denpasar, take the main road east towards Klungkung. The temple is located on the coastal road, Jalan Raya Goa Lawah, just before reaching the town of Kusamba. Public buses are also available from Denpasar's Batubulan terminal to Klungkung, but you'll need to take a local bemo (minibus) or ojek (motorcycle taxi) from Klungkung to the temple.