Goa Lava Bat Temple

Pura Goa Lawah Temple, known as the Temple of the Bat Cave, is located in eastern Bali, about 30 kilometers from Denpasar. This sanctuary is built at the entrance to a cave where thousands of bats live. Their presence creates a mystical atmosphere and makes the temple one of the unique attractions of the island.

In Indonesian, “Goa Lawah” translates to “bat cave.” The temple is also called the “temple of flying dogs” because of the species of bats called fruit bats or fruit bats. These animals are considered sacred in Bali. Fruit bats have a wingspan of up to 1.5 meters and are capable of covering up to 100 kilometers in one flight. The Balinese revere them as protectors from evil spirits, and in the evenings they bring them fruit offerings. After sunset, thousands of mice fly out to hunt at night, creating a spectacular spectacle.

The temple was founded in the 11th century by the priest Mpu Kutaran, who arrived from the island of Java. He played an important role in uniting local animist cults and spreading Hinduism to Bali. He is credited with the idea of ​​worshiping the triad of supreme gods - Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, as well as the construction of the temples of Goa Lava and Uluwatu. Initially, the temple was a simple altar at the entrance to the cave. The place was not chosen by chance: at the foot of the mountain - as a sign of respect to the gods of heaven, and not far from the sea - to honor the gods of the water element.

Later, the temple was expanded several times, as evidenced by the chronicles of the 14th–15th centuries. There is information that the temple was originally called Goa Lelawah, and received its current name from the priest Nirarta in the 15th century.

The temple is shrouded in many legends. One of them says that the cave is inhabited by giant snakes or nagas - mythical creatures with the body of a snake and the head of a man who guard treasures. There is also a legend about an underground tunnel connecting Goa Lawa with the Besakih temple at the foot of the Agung volcano. The Balinese say that a rooster that ran into a cave was later found near the volcano. At the time of the volcanic eruption in 1963, the Balinese claimed that smoke could be seen at the entrance to the temple, which increased belief in the existence of the tunnel.

The cave is also associated with darker stories: people have disappeared here, including a group of explorers in the mid-20th century. Following these incidents, the Indonesian government banned exploration of the cave. Today, tourists are only allowed to look into the central hall, where sleeping bats can be seen on the walls and ceiling. During the day, the space is filled with their squeaks, as they conquer more comfortable places to rest.

The temple is a traditional Balinese complex with carved gates, altars and offering areas. The central altar is dedicated to the triad of gods - Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The temple is protected by UNESCO and remains an important site for religious rituals such as purification ceremonies and Ngaben cremation.

Pura Goa Lava is unique due to its nature, history and atmosphere. A visit to the temple allows you to see one of the most unusual spectacles of Bali - a mass flight of bats, as well as plunge into the ancient myths and traditions of the island.

Pura Goa Lawah Temple is a unique sanctuary located just 100 meters from the beach. Its black walls made of volcanic rock stand out effectively against the background of tropical greenery, and the golden decoration gives the temple a solemn and majestic appearance. It is one of the oldest and most revered places in Bali, filled with history and myths.

Features of location and architecture

• Proximity to the sea: The temple is located almost on the shore, which emphasizes its connection with sea deities.

• Two banyan trees at the entrance: These huge trees are considered to be the personification of god Brahma. They not only decorate the area, but also create an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility. In the past, pilgrims rested and had philosophical conversations under their shade.

• Chandi Bentar: The traditional “split” gate protects the temple from evil spirits. They symbolize sacred mountains and are an important element of Balinese architecture.

Temple Courts

• First yard:

Behind the Chandi Bentar gate is the first courtyard, where the ballet pavilions are located symmetrically on the left and right. Local residents rest here, and in the center there are altars dedicated to the triad of gods: Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The area is paved with tiles alternating with strips of lawn, which creates symmetry and visual harmony.

• Second yard:

To the left of the first courtyard is the second, where additional bales and an ancient statue of a mythical dragon are located. According to legends, this dragon has been guarding the temple since its foundation, protecting the people of Bali from evil spirits.

• Third courtyard:

In the farthest courtyard is the main hall with a vault covered with bats. Hanging upside down, these creatures create a mesmerizing sight. Most of them go into the depths of the cave, but even at the entrance tourists can see many of these unusual inhabitants.

Religious life and ceremonies

The rituals in the temple are impressive in their solemnity. Brahmins recite mantras, local residents bring gifts, dressed in bright festive clothes. Against the background of the dark arches of the cave, all this looks like a scene from an ancient epic.

Current state

Despite its age of about 1000 years, the temple is in excellent condition. Well-groomed lawns, neat paths and flower vases make this place not only a religious center, but also a beautiful corner of nature. The Indonesian government annually allocates funds for the maintenance and restoration of the temple, thanks to which it retains its original appearance.

Why visit Pura Goa Lawah

• Unique natural cave with bats.

• Mystical atmosphere, enhanced by legends about the dragon and guardian spirits.

• Excellently preserved architecture and rich decoration.

• An opportunity to touch the history and spiritual culture of Bali.

The Pura Goa Lawah Temple is more than just a tourist attraction. This is a place where spirituality, nature and culture come together, creating a unique space to immerse yourself in the world of ancient Bali traditions.

Or you can visit this temple on a tour with a local guide, who will tell you more interesting facts about this amazing place
https://mos-activity.com/en/excursion-mysteries-of-the-east