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Temples in Indonesia reflect the country’s unique cultural tapestry, combining Hindu, Buddhist, and indigenous traditions. These are shrines, holy places, and buildings across the island that tell the story of Indonesia’s spiritual and historical evolutions. Temples such as Borobudur in Central Java and the Uluwatu set on a cliff in Bali offer insights into the past and people’s devotion to their faith. These Indonesian temples are time machines that offer ancient rituals in front of stunning landscapes; therefore, Indonesia is an invaluable stop for cultural heritage seekers.
10 Best Temples In Indonesia
Explore the temples in Indonesia, which combine history, spirituality, and breathtaking architecture, providing a meaningful view of the country’s unique cultural and religious legacy.
1. Borobudur Temple
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
Borobudur Temple, Central Java, is the biggest temple in Indonesia and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built-in the ninth century, this magnificent edifice is a complicated pyramid-like complex with nine stacked levels and a central dome. Borobudur, adorned with over 2,600 relief panels and 504 Buddha sculptures, is a masterpiece of ancient architecture and a major Buddhist pilgrimage destination. The temple’s design represents enlightenment, leading visitors through various levels, from the earthly realm to nirvana. Borobudur, surrounded by lush foliage and distant volcanoes, provides a tranquil and breathtaking experience.
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Location: Jl. Badrawati, Kw. Candi Borobudur, Borobudur, Kec. Borobudur, Kabupaten Magelang, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
2. Prambanan Temple
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Prambanan Temple, in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, is Southeast Asia’s most significant Hindu temple complex and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built-in the ninth century, this majestic temple honours the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The core complex consists of eight principal temples, with the towering 47-meter Shiva temple serving as the focal point, embellished with elaborate sculptures portraying Hindu epics such as the Ramayana. Prambanan, surrounded by beautiful gardens, is both a religious site and a cultural symbol. Its breathtaking beauty and historical significance make it a must-see for history and architectural buffs.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: Kranggan, Bokoharjo, Kec. Prambanan, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55571, Indonesia
3. Tanah Lot Temple
Photo: Maksim Shutov / Unsplash
Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most revered sea temples in Indonesia, on the island’s southwest coast. The temple, perched on a rocky outcrop surrounded by the water, is devoted to the sea gods and has profound roots in Balinese mythology. It provides stunning vistas, particularly at sunset, when the temple silhouette makes a dramatic image against the horizon. Tanah Lot, accessible only during low tide, is a renowned pilgrimage destination and a symbol of Bali’s spiritual legacy. The temple’s unusual location and cultural significance make it a must-see for visitors learning about Bali’s spiritual traditions.
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Location: Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia
4. Uluwatu Temple
Photo: Rustam Effendy / Unsplash
Uluwatu Temple, also known as Pura Luhur Uluwatu, is a breathtaking sea temple on a cliff 70 meters above the Indian Ocean in Bali, Indonesia. It was built in the tenth century and is one of the island’s most influential spiritual pillars, honouring the sea spirits. The temple has spectacular panoramic views and is well-known for its stunning sunset setting. You may also watch traditional Kecak dance performances in a nearby theatre, highlighting Balinese culture and mythology. Uluwatu Temple is more than simply a spiritual landmark; it’s a mesmerizing location that combines natural beauty with a rich cultural legacy.
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
Location: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
5. Besakih Temple
Besakih Temple, also known as Pura Besakih, is Bali’s most significant and holiest temple complex, on the slopes of Mount Agung. Both residents and visitors revere this sacred place, and it comprises over 80 temples, the most prominent of which is Pura Penataran Agung. Besakih, which dates back to the 11th century, is an important pilgrimage site for Balinese Hindus and is critical to many religious rites and celebrations. The temple’s beautiful architecture, embellished with exquisite carvings and bright offerings, makes Besakih a must-see.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Location: Besakih, Rendang, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80863, Indonesia
6. Candi Sukuh
Photo: Eugenia Clara / Unsplash
Candi Sukuh is a rare 15th-century Hindu temple in Central Java, Indonesia, notable for its peculiar architectural style and sensual sculptures. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Lawu, this temple is noteworthy for its pyramid-like form, which contrasts with conventional Javanese temple styles. Candi Sukuh contains interesting reliefs showing a variety of topics, including fertility and the afterlife, which reflect a combination of Hindu and local beliefs. The temple complex provides breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain, making it a relaxing tourist destination.
Timings: 8 AM – 5:00
Location: Tambak, Berjo, Kec. Ngargoyoso, Kabupaten Karanganyar, Jawa Tengah 57793, Indonesia
7. Pura Ulun Danu Bratan
Photo: Kharl Anthony Paica / Unsplash
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, often known as the water temple, is one of the most famous temples in Indonesia on Lake Bratan’s banks. This magnificent temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, rice, and fertility, and plays a vital role in the local irrigation system. The temple’s distinctive multi-tiered pagoda sits magnificently amid the tranquil lake, sometimes veiled in mist, providing an incredible scene. The wonderfully maintained grounds around the temple offer spectacular vistas, making it a popular destination for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Location: Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia
8. Gunung Kawi
Photo: Edmund Lowe Photography / Shutterstock
Gunung Kawi is an ancient temple complex in Bali, Indonesia, known for its magnificent rock-cut temples carved into cliffs. This sacred monument dates back to the eleventh century and comprises ten shrines, or Candi, devoted to royal family members and Hindu gods. The temple, in a verdant valley along the Pakerisan River, provides a calm ambience surrounded by rice terraces and tropical foliage. You may walk the pathways to the shrines, learning about the site’s rich history and spiritual importance. Gunung Kawi is a must-see due to its stunning natural beauty and cultural legacy.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Location: Area Hutan, Ngadirenggo/Htn, Wlingi, Blitar Regency, East Java, Indonesia
9. Candi Plaosan
Photo: Andika Nugraha / Unsplash
Candi Plaosan, in Central Java, Indonesia, is a beautiful 9th-century temple complex notable for its distinct Hindu and Buddhist architecture combination. This complex, which consists of two principal temples, Plaosan Lor and Plaosan Kidul, has beautiful stone carvings and reliefs representing deities and heavenly creatures. Stunning rice fields border the facility and have a tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for exploring. Candi Plaosan is frequently less crowded than other temples, allowing everyone to appreciate its historical significance and architectural beauty in a peaceful environment.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Location: Jl. Candi Plaosan, Plaosan Lor, Bugisan, Kec. Prambanan, Kabupaten Klaten, Jawa Tengah 57454, Indonesia
10. Tirta Empul Temple
Photo: Nick Fewings / Unsplash
Tirta Empul Temple, located in Bali, is a sacred water temple in Indonesia known for its holy spring, which is said to have cleansing effects. Built in 962 AD, the temple honours Vishnu, the Hindu god of water. Visitors travel to Tirta Empul for the ancient cleansing practice of bathing in the spring’s crystal-clear waters, which are thought to purify the mind and body. The temple’s beautiful architecture, elaborate carvings, and lush gardens provide a tranquil setting for introspection and spiritual regeneration. Tirta Empul is essential to Bali’s cultural and religious environment, drawing pilgrims and visitors.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Location:Jalan Raya Tegallalang No.5758, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561, Indonesia
Temples in Indonesia provide an unforgettable tour through the country’s rich cultural and spiritual legacy, each displaying distinct architectural and historical importance. Exploring these sacred locations connects visitors to the diverse cultures of Bali and Java. Plan your temple visits with TripXL for a smooth travel experience, where you’ll find personalized itineraries and unique bargains to help you make the most of your Indonesia vacation.
Cover Photo: Sebastian Pena Lambarri / Unsplash
