The Goa Gajah Cave – A Unique Elephant Cave
I recently visited the Goa Gajah Cave, also known as the Elephant Cave, just outside Ubud, and it definitely leaves an impression. This 9th-century temple is such a special place – peaceful, a bit mysterious, and full of history. You walk up to this incredible carved cave entrance that feels like it’s guarding ancient secrets. Inside, it’s quiet with some old statues that make you feel connected to something bigger.
The surrounding gardens and stone fountains are so beautiful, perfect for a moment of calm. It’s not too big or crowded, so you can really take it in. For me, it was like finding a little piece of Bali’s soul. If you’re near Ubud, you’ve got to visit. It’s a quick, affordable stop that leaves you with a sense of wonder.
Is Goa Gajah Worth Visiting?
Goa Gajah, a 9th-century temple near Ubud, is worth visiting for its nice atmosphere, & great ambiance. The temple is a beautiful spot for pictures and has a rich history. The cave’s ancient Ganesha statues and carved entrance feel spiritual, while the bathing pool and gardens are peaceful and beautiful. The inside of the Goa Gajah Cave is very small and brief, so don’t expect too much from that aspect.
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage candidate, drawing people for its history and peaceful vibe. It’s less crowded than other temples, letting you connect with Bali’s past. For a small fee, you can explore it in an hour, making it an easy stop. Pair it with nearby rice fields or Ubud markets for a great day. If you love culture or history, you’ll find Goa Gajah special and memorable.
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Goa Gajah Ubud Entrance Fee & Parking
The entrance fee for Goa Gajah, the Elephant Cave, is IDR 50,000 (~$3 USD) for adults and IDR 25,000 (~$1.50 USD) for children (5-11). This includes a sarong for the temple. Parking is IDR 5,000 for cars and IDR 2,000 for scooters. Bring cash, as there’s no ATM on-site.
Opening Hours of the Goa Gajah Cave
Goa Gajah Cave is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM as of 2025. I recommend arriving early to avoid crowds and heat.
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The Location of Goa Gajah Cave
Goa Gajah Cave, also known as the Elephant Cave, is located in Bedulu Village in Gianyar Regency. It’s about 5 km (10 minutes by car or scooter) southeast of central Ubud, easily accessible via Jalan Raya Ubud or Jalan Raya Goa Gajah. The temple sits in a green area surrounded by rice fields and jungle, close to attractions like the Ubud Monkey Forest and Yeh Pulu.
The History of Goa Gajah Cave
I recently dug into the history of Goa Gajah Temple, and it’s fascinating. This place, dates back to the 9th century, making it one of Bali’s oldest temples. It was built during the Warmadewa dynasty, a time when Hindu and Buddhist influences were blending in Bali.
The cave itself was likely a meditation spot for monks, with its dark, quiet interior housing a Ganesha statue (Hindu) and lingam-yoni symbols (both Hindu and Buddhist). That mix shows how Bali’s spiritual traditions were evolving back then.
The name “Goa Gajah” comes from the cave’s entrance, carved with a huge, scary face—some say it’s an elephant, others a demon—to ward off evil spirits. The nearby bathing pool, with its six stone women pouring water, was probably for ritual cleansing, tied to Hindu purification practices.
The temple was rediscovered in the 1920s by Dutch archaeologists after being buried by time and jungle. They found more carvings and relics, like statues of gods and mythical creatures, showing it was a sacred site for centuries.
By the 11th century, Goa Gajah was a key spiritual center, mentioned in ancient texts like the Nagarakretagama. It fell into obscurity as Islam spread in Java, but locals kept using it quietly. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage candidate, drawing people for its history and peaceful vibe. Visiting feels like stepping into Bali’s ancient past—it’s not just a temple, it’s a time capsule.
The Best Time to Visit the Elephant Cave?
The best time to visit Goa Gajah Cave is early morning, right when it opens at 8:00 AM. You’ll beat the crowds, enjoy cooler weather, and get that peaceful vibe before tour groups roll in. Aim for 8:00-10:00 AM to wander the cave and gardens with fewer people snapping photos.
If you want to avoid the heat, stick to the dry season (April to October) when it’s less humid and rainy. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. I’d skip midday when it gets hot and busy. Early visits also let you pair it with nearby spots like Ubud’s markets or rice fields for a full day.
Things to do at Goa Gajah Cave
Visiting Goa Gajah Cave, is a fantastic experience with plenty to do in a small but magical setting. Here’s what you can dive into during your visit, based on my take and what makes this place special.
First, explore the iconic cave itself. Walk through the carved entrance – a massive, eerie face that’s either a demon or elephant, depending on who you ask. Inside, it’s cool, dark, and quiet, with a Ganesha statue and ancient lingam-yoni symbols. It feels like a sacred hideout, perfect for soaking in the 9th-century vibes. Take a moment to imagine monks meditating here centuries ago.
Next, check out the bathing pool just outside. It’s got six stone statues of women pouring water, used for ancient cleansing rituals. The area is green and serpeaceful, great for photos or just chilling by the fountains. Wander around the surrounding gardens, where you’ll find mossy stone carvings, small shrines, and jungle paths. It’s peaceful and feels like a step back in time.
You can also join a guided tour if you want the full scoop on the temple’s history. Local guides, often available near the entrance, share stories about the Hindu-Buddhist roots and point out hidden details in the carvings. It’s worth the small fee for deeper context.
For a bit of adventure, follow the short trail behind the temple. It leads to rice fields and a small river, offering a glimpse of true Bali. The scenery is gorgeous, and you might spot locals working the fields. If you’re into photography, this is your spot for those classic Bali shots.
Don’t miss the chance to soak up the spiritual vibe. Goa Gajah is still active, so you might see locals praying or leaving offerings. Be respectful – wear a sarong, which you get at the entrance, and keep your shoulders covered. If you’re lucky, you could catch a small ceremony, which adds to the magic.
Finally, grab a snack or drink at nearby warungs. A fresh coconut or some nasi campur at a local stall rounds out your experience. You can explore everything in 1-2 hours, leaving time to visit nearby Ubud markets or Yeh Pulu. Goa Gajah’s mix of history, nature, and culture makes it a must-do.
Restaurants near Goa Gajah
After visiting Goa Gajah Cave, you’ve got some lovely lunch options nearby to grab a bite and soak in the local vibe. Here are a few spots worth checking out, all within a short drive or walk from the temple, offering a mix of Balinese and international flavors.
Layana Warung
Layana Warung, is just 200 meters on the left of the Goa Gajah Cave. Its a cozy local restaurant offering affordable Indonesian dishes with a stunning waterfall view. I can definitely recommend going here, as its a great place to enjoy nature.
Warung Makan Teges
A local favorite for authentic Balinese food, this warung offers classics like bebek betutu (slow-cooked duck) and sate lilit in a no-frills setting. The flavors are bold, and the vibe is laid-back with outdoor seating. Expect to spend IDR 25,000 – 50,000 ($1.5-3 USD) for a meal. It’s a short scooter ride from the temple, ideal for a delicious local lunch.
The Herb Library
If you’re into healthy eats, this vegetarian and vegan spot is a winner. They’ve got fresh salads, smoothie bowls, and plant-based versions of Indonesian dishes. The cozy, green setting feels like an extension of Goa Gajah’s vibes. Meals cost around IDR 60,000-100,000 ($4-7 USD).
Coffee to go Kecil
A cute, budget-friendly cafe with a mix of Indonesian and Western dishes like burgers, wraps, and ayam betutu. It’s got a chill, artsy vibe and is popular with both locals and tourists. Meals run IDR 40,000-75,000 ($3-5 USD). It’s a great spot to relax after your temple visit.
Goa Gajah Cave- How to get there
Getting to Goa Gajah Cave Bali, is straightforward whether you’re driving a car with a hired driver or renting a scooter.
By Car – Hire a Driver
Hiring a driver is a comfy, stress-free way to reach Goa Gajah, about 5 km southeast of central Ubud. You can book a private driver in advance and we have a great experience with our partner Klook, where you pay around $35 for the whole day throughout Bali.
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By Scooter – Hire a Bike
Renting a scooter is a fun, cheap way to get to Goa Gajah if you’re confident navigating Bali’s roads. From Ubud’s center, head southeast on Jalan Raya Ubud, then follow signs to Jalan Raya Goa Gajah—it’s a 10-minute ride. We only use Bikago as they offer the best services and customer support.
Roads are mostly paved but can be narrow, so watch for traffic. Wear a helmet, carry your license, and park at the temple for IDR 2,000. It’s a great option for exploring nearby Yeh Pulu or rice fields at your own pace.
Quick Tip: Both options work well, but scooters give you more freedom, while drivers offer local insights. Aim for an early start (8 AM) to beat crowds
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Tips for Visiting Goa Gajah
Here are practical tips for visiting Goa Gajah Cave:
- Dress Respectfully: It’s a sacred site, so cover your shoulders and knees. Sarongs are required (rented free at the entrance with your IDR 50,000/$3 USD ticket), but bringing your own saves time.
- Go Early: Arrive when it opens at 8:00 AM to avoid crowds and heat. You’ll get a quieter, cooler experience, perfect for photos and soaking in the vibe.
- Bring Cash: The entry fee (IDR 50,000 adults, IDR 25,000 kids) are cash-only. Nearby warungs may not take cards either, so have small bills with you.
- Wear Comfy Shoes: The temple has uneven stone steps and paths, especially around the cave and gardens. Sneakers or sturdy sandals are best for exploring and save you any possible injuries or mis steps.
- Stay Hydrated: Bali’s heat can hit hard, so bring a water bottle. You can refill at nearby stalls or grab a fresh coconut at one of the many local warungs.
- Hire a Guide: Local guides (available near the entrance for ~IDR 50,000-100,000) share cool stories about the temple’s history and hidden details. Worth it if you’re into the backstory.
- Watch Your Time: You can see everything in 1-2 hours. Plan to pair it with nearby spots like Rice Terraces or Ubud’s Monkey Forest for a full day.
- Be Respectful: It’s an active temple, so keep noise low and don’t touch offerings or climb on carvings.
- Bring a Camera: The cave’s carved entrance, bathing pool, and jungle paths are super photogenic. Early light makes for great shots.
- Check the Weather: Dry season (April-October) is best for clear paths and comfy exploring. Rainy season can make trails slippery, so check forecasts.
Fun Facts about Goa Gajah
- No Elephants Here: Despite the name “Elephant Cave,” there are no elephants at the temple, nor have there been in the past. The name likely comes from the cave’s entrance, carved to look like an elephant’s face, or a misinterpretation of “Gajah” (elephant) linked to the nearby Petanu River, once called “Lwa Gajah.”
- Ancient Meditation Spot: Built in the 9th century, the cave was a hideout for monks to meditate in peace. The dark, cool interior with Ganesha and lingam-yoni statues still feels super spiritual.
- Hidden for Centuries: The temple was buried under jungle and forgotten until Dutch archaeologists rediscovered it in the 1920s. They basically stumbled on a time capsule!
- Hindu-Buddhist Mashup: Goa Gajah blends Hindu and Buddhist elements, with statues and carvings from both religions. This shows how Bali’s spiritual scene was a cool mix back in the day.
- Scary Entrance on Purpose: The cave’s entrance, carved as a creepy demon or monster face, was meant to scare off evil spirits. It’s like an ancient “keep out” sign.
- Bathing Pool Mystery: The six stone women pouring water in the bathing pool (found in the 1950s) were likely for ritual cleansing, but no one’s 100% sure who they represent—goddesses or mythical figures?
- UNESCO Hopeful: Goa Gajah is on the list to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its historical and cultural awesomeness.
Attractions & Activities near Goa Gajah Cave
Goa Gajah Cave is surrounded by awesome spots to explore, perfect for a day of adventure. Here’s a rundown of attractions and activities nearby, in simple language, based on what I’d recommend after visiting the area.
1: Ubud Monkey Forest (3 km, 10-min drive)
This jungle sanctuary is home to over 1,000 Balinese monkeys and three 14th-century temples. It’s a fun, lively spot to see wildlife and feel the spiritual vibe. Walk the shaded paths, but hold onto your stuff as monkeys can be cheeky! Entry is ~IDR 80,000 ($5 USD). Perfect for families or nature lovers.
2: Tegalalang Rice Terraces (9 km, 20-min drive)
These stunning green Ceking Rice terraces are iconic for their beauty. You can stroll through the fields, snap photos, or try the famous jungle swings for an adrenaline rush. Entry is ~IDR 10,000 ($0.70 USD), but swings cost extra (~IDR 150,000). It’s a must for Instagram fans or anyone loving nature.
Check out this complete Ceking Rice Terraces Guide
3: Tegenungan Waterfall (8 km, 20-min drive)
A gorgeous waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, great for a refreshing dip or photos from scenic viewpoints. It’s a short hike down steps to reach the base. Entry is ~IDR 20,000 ($1.50 USD). Ideal for a quick nature escape.
Check out this complete guide on the Tegenungan Waterfall
4: Saraswati Temple (5 km, 15-min drive)
This beautiful temple in Ubud’s center is dedicated to the goddess of knowledge, with a lotus pond and intricate carvings. It’s serene and photogenic, especially at sunset. Free entry, but donations are welcome. Great for a calm, cultural stop.
5: Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets (2 km, 5-min drive)
A hidden gem, this free museum showcases over 7,000 traditional masks and puppets from Indonesia and beyond. It’s quirky, quiet, and perfect for art or culture buffs. The gardens are lovely too. Donations appreciated.
6: Campuhan Ridge Walk
A great morning activity, it takes around 1 hour and you will love the route that goes through rice fields, piece of dense forest and some local villages. Read my blog here
7: Ubud Palace
Across the street from the Art Market is the Ubud Palace, a place rich in history and fun to add to your route in Ubud. Read my complete guide on the palace.
8: Ubud Art Market (5 km, 15-min drive)
Dive into Ubud’s vibrant market for handmade crafts, sarongs, and souvenirs. It’s bustling and great for picking up unique gifts. Haggling is expected, so bring cash. Open daily, best in the morning.
Tips: Rent a scooter for flexibility or hire a driver to hit multiple spots. Early mornings keep things cooler and quieter. Most sites need a sarong (often provided).
Conclusion Goa Gajah Cave
My trip to Goa Gajah Cave was unforgettable. This 9th-century treasure, with its haunting cave entrance and beautiful stone fountains, feels like a secret portal to Bali’s ancient spirit. It’s calm, never too busy, and easy to explore in 1-2 hours.
Whether you’re chasing history, a spiritual vibe, or just a beautiful spot, it’s got you covered. I loved pairing it with a stroll through nearby rice fields and a quick bite at a local warung. You’ll walk away feeling like you’ve connected with Bali’s heart in a special way.
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Goa Gajah Cave F.A.Q.
Is the elephant temple worth visiting?
Yes, the jungle surroundings are amazing to walk through and of course the entrance of the Temple is amazing for pictures and something to remember.
What is the Goa Gajah Cave entrance fee?
There is a small $3 fee for the entrance of the temple. You will get a sarong for that price as well.
Where can i buy the entrance tickets best?
You can get it at the entrance. Bring cash
What are the opening hours?
8 AM to 6 PM
What is the dress code for the Temple?
As with al religious and spiritual sites in Bali, you are required to cover knees and shoulders. If you don’t have anything, you will get a sarong at the entrance.
Can everyone enter the Elephant Cave?
Yes, its for everyone and each age.
How much time do you need at the Goa Gajah Temple?
You can easily explore the site in 1 hour.
What is the parking fee?
Parking is 5,000 IDR for cars and 2,000 IDR for Scooters.
How far away is it from the airport?
About 1.45 minute drive with the car. Scooter will be a bit faster.
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