Goa Garba Cave Temple is a hidden gem of Bali’s temples. This ancient archeological site is only a stone’s throw from the tourist areas, but it’s still far away from most tourists.
Here’s everything you need to know before visiting.
Where Is Goa Garba?
Goa Garba is located in Pejeng Kelod Village, about 15 minutes east of Ubud by car.
It sits on the west bank of the Pakerisan River, nestled in the forest.
Address: Pejeng Kelod, Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali
How To Get To Goa Garba
If you’re staying in Ubud, then the best way to get to Goa Garba would be via a taxi app such as Grab or Gojek.
It’s not far, so the price won’t be high, and getting a taxi home shouldn’t be difficult as it’s just outside of the town. If you meet someone at the temple, then maybe you could ride share back to Ubud.
If you’re thinking of making a day out, stopping in several different locations, then hiring a private car with a driver is a good idea, there is a lot to see around Ubud. Ask your hotel reception for a safe and reliable driver.
If you’re coming from further afield, for example, Sanur, and wish to return the same day, then a private car and driver are the only feasible option.
You may be tempted to hire a motorcycle or scooter, but we will always recommend against this. It’s unlikely that you’d be road-legal, causing potential issues with the police and voiding your insurance should you have an accident.
The roads in Bali can be testing even for the most experienced rider, don’t put yourself at risk of injury, or legal and financial issues, take a taxi instead!
When Is The Best Time To Visit Goa Garba?
The late morning or early afternoon is the best time to visit. There will be fewer people there, not that it ever really gets busy! The temperature will be cooler, and the lighting makes this the perfect time of day for photography.
If visiting in the late afternoon, then be cautious of the sun going down, there is no lighting on the temple site!
Being that this temple is in the forest and is partially ruined, the dry season from April to October is the best time of year to visit, but visiting during the wet season is still fine and the rain tends to clear pretty quickly.
Is There An Entrance Fee and What Are The Opening Times Of Goa Garba?
At the time of writing, there was no entrance fee to visit the temple site, but on our last visit, there was a donation box, so bring some small cash for this. Remember, donations help with the upkeep of the temple.
There is no official opening time, and access to the site is possible 24 hours a day, but please be respectful and only visit during reasonable hours.
About Goa Garba
The ancient cave temple of Goa Garba, which means “Womb Cave”, is estimated to have been built around the late 11th century, during the reign of King Jayapangus.
Old inscriptions carved on stone inside the cave show ancient Kadari Kuadran letters, which helped archaeologists pinpoint the time when it was built.
Lost for years, Goa Garba Cave was discovered by Dutch archaeologists in the 1920s, while other parts of the site were not discovered until later, such as the pools which were excavated in the 1950s.
Like most temples in Bali, this is a Hindu temple, although some excavated monoliths in the area point towards earlier folk religions that predate Hinduism in Bali.
It is believed that the temple was used as a healing and meditation centre by the royal family.
Legend has it that the temple was used for trials of strength and spirit, notably by the military commander Kebo Iwa before the Majapahit Kingdom entered Bali from Java.
History
King Jayapangus – King of Bali from 1178 to 1181 AD, King Jayapangus is known as a saviour of Bali after he brought religion back to the people during his reign.
Kebo Iwa – The legend of Kebo Iwa depicts him as a powerful warrior from Bali, known to singlehandedly fight off whole armies of other kingdoms. He’s said to have been killed by the king of the Majapahit Kingdom.
What To Expect At Goa Garba
After a short walk through the forest, the first thing that struck us when we reached the site was just how quiet it was!
While we did see a handful of other people during our visit, it was a far cry from the crowds of the popular and famous temples.
Through the gateway, you’re greeted by narrow stone stairs leading up to the Garba Cave, with niches carved into either side which were traditionally used for meditation.
At the top, the atmosphere is so tranquil, and the only thing that breaks the quiet is the sound of the Pakerisan River and the sounds of the jungle surrounding you.
The temple site has several notable sections:
Goa Garba Cave – this cave was used for secluded meditation.
Pools – on the top are two ancient pools. The springs that feed them are believed to be holy, and the pools were used for purification rituals.
Stone Gateway And Stairs – the gateway to the temple site and stairs leading up to Goa Garba Cave.
Niches – the niches carved into the rock alongside the stairs were traditionally used for meditation. Various things of interest are located in these niches, such as worn carved stones and an ornate shrine. Some of these stones and the shrine have ancient inscriptions carved into them.
Online: Instagram
Where To Stay Near Goa Garba
The most obvious place to stay near Garba Goa would be the nearby town of Ubud, but there are some hotels located just near the temple site itself. Here are a few we checked out:
Capung Asri Eco-Luxury Resort –
This is a high-end luxury eco-resort sporting three beautiful villas and a pool.
The prices are a touch on the high side, but you get what you pay for. Located within walking distance of the Pakerisan River, it’s just 2km from Goa Garba Cave, near Badung Waterfall.
Online: Capung Asri
Where Is It? Capung Asri, Jalan Capung Asri, Pejeng Kelod, Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali
The Pala Ubud Villas
Another luxury resort nestled in the Bali jungle, this is within walking distance of the temple site!
It would make a great hotel for exploring the local area. Prices are mid to high range.
Online: Pala Ubud
Where Is It? Jl. Kelusu, Pejeng Kelod, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
Pondok Gepokan Homestay
This budget homestay is about 5 minutes north of the Goa Garba Cave site.
Clean and comfortable with a warm, friendly family feel.
Where Is It? Gepokan, Pejeng Kelod, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
What To Eat Near Goa Garba
There’s lots to eat between Garba Goa and nearby Ubud, but here are a couple of restaurants nearby that we liked:
Hura Restaurant
A small but beautiful restaurant set in serene surroundings which serves a mix of Indonesian and international dishes
Located less than a 5-minute walk from the temple site, this would be a great restaurant to visit before taking your Grab or Gojek home.
Online: Instagram
Where Is It? Jl. Kelusu, Pejeng Kelod, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
Hary’s Cafe
A friendly, family restaurant that serves Western and health food, we love it here.
Online: Instagram
Where Is It? Jalan Raya Sawagunung, Pejeng Kelod, Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali
Other Things To Do Near Goa Garba
There’s plenty to do inside the main town of Ubud, but here are a few things to see and do near Goa Garba:
Goa Gajah Temple
There is no shortage of temples in the area (FINNS Best Temples In Ubud).
Goa Gajah, which means “Elephant Cave”, is of significant interest if you’ve already been to Garba Goa.
Built in the 9th century AD, long before the reign of King Jayapangus, it is linked to Goa Garba via the legendary Kebo Iwa.
Located less than a 10-minute drive away.
Where Is It? Bedulu, Blahbatuh, Gianyar Regency
Bandung Waterfall
If you’re looking to cool down after a hot morning at the temple, Bandung Waterfall is just the place.
This waterfall, which forms part of the Pakerisan River system, has a great pool you can jump into.
It’s located only 2km from the temple.
Online: Instagram
Where Is It? Siangan, Gianyar, Gianyar Regency
FAQs
Is It Safe To Enter Garba Cave?
Yes, it’s very safe. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, and if it’s been raining be careful not to slip.
Can I Swim In The Pakerisan River?
The Pakerisan River is fast and dangerous, and it’s definitely not a good place for swimming.
Are There Other Ruins Located Nearby?
Yes, the most notable is Goa Gajah, the elephant cave, see above for more details.
Is It Ok To Carve My Name On The Cave Walls?
Most definitely not, this is not only an archaeological site but a religious one.
Although you may see names carved into some temples in Bali, please, do not follow suit.
Final Thoughts On The Ancient Ruin Of Goa Garba
Whether you’re interested in Balinese culture and history, or just like ancient ruins, this is the place to go.
The temple really takes you back in time and makes you feel like you’re exploring something rarely seen before.
