Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu — Attraction in Bali

There is a lot of temple in Bali. From small modest temple every family must have up to 3 big temples in every village not to mention other fungsional temples built in the river sides and deltas, in the sea, in the forrest, in every crossroad, etc. No wonder Bali has a nickname of the Island of Thousands Temples because temple is indeed everywhere. One of that many which is located in country side in the village of Sebatu is the temple of Gunung Kawi Sebatu name with the name of the village to different it from the temple of the same name in the other village. The speciality of this temple which is built in the 11th century is that it has sacred bathing place that used by either local people or the outside pelerinages to the place to clean their bodies and soul in the purification ceremony. This world where you live in is considered not only bring you benefit to live but also leave you dirty and poluted phisically and mentaly. After taking holy bath on the available fountains and praying in the temple, it is hoped that you will have not only clean body phisically, regain energy but also have a peaceful and healthy mental spiritually. This is done once in six month or twice a year if time and space allowed. And as of the tourists which are visiting the place, it's a beautiful and peaceful place not only to visit, provide they conform to the local rules and regulations, they are of cause allowed by the locals, if they would, to join in the sacred bathing to endevour a new fresh live...

Beautiful temple. Worth a visit if your in the area.

Entrance 30K per person. Parking 2K.

Sarong hire included in the price.

Don’t confuse this with Gunung Kawi (the kings tombs)! We typed ‘Gunung Kawi’ into Google maps and were brought to this location. Based on reviews (that are in the wrong place) I thought Gunung Kawi included both the water temple as well as the kings tombs.

There are two places called Gunung Kawi. This temple is called: Pura Tirta Dawa Gunung Kawi Sebatu shortened to Gunung Kawi Sebatu. I found the kings tombs by using ‘Pura Gunung Kawi Entrance Point’ or ‘Candi Tebing Gurang Kawi’ in Google maps.

There is a 12 minute drive between the Gunung Kawi’s, so you can easily visit both.

——-

The temple was beautiful, we are glad we visited (by accident). It is one of the nicest temples we have visited in Bali. Quiet and well kept. We visited at 8:30AM but I believe it stays quiet throughout the day. If your deciding between the temple and the kings tombs I would choose the temple!

I didn’t visit Pura Tirta Empul, so I can’t compare. (We planned to visit Pura Tirta Empul the day before, but it was extremely busy in the afternoon so decided we wouldn’t enjoy the touristy...

Visiting Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu and taking part in the sacred ritual was an incredibly profound and transformative experience.

🌿 The Place – One of the most beautiful and peaceful temples in Bali, surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear spring water. The atmosphere is filled with tranquility and spiritual energy.

💦 The Purification Ritual – Bathing in the sacred springs, prayers, and traditional Balinese ceremonies help cleanse not only the body but also the mind, bringing a sense of deep inner harmony.

🙏 Energy & Emotions – The feeling of lightness, peace, and gratitude after the ritual is beyond words. It’s like a rebirth, a release from negativity, and a renewal of energy.

💡 Recommendations – If you want to experience the ritual, it’s best to come in the morning, bring a sarong (or rent one on-site), and follow the traditions with respect for the local culture.

This ritual was one of the most powerful spiritual experiences of my life. If you’re looking for more than just a tourist attraction and want to connect deeply with Balinese traditions, Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu is a...