Pura Goa Lawah

About

It’s believed that Pura Goa Lawah was created around 1007 by Mpu Kuturan - one of the priests who brought Hinduism to the island. According to legend, thousands of bats aren’t the only things living in the cave - it’s also home to the Naga King Vasuki, and a river of miraculous healing waters. Pura Goa Lawah is one of Bali’s super-sacred sanctuaries that protect the island from evil. The intricately decorated temple complex, which is even ornamented with gilded bats, culminates in a shrine positioned right at the mouth of the cave. Here, the faithful come to pray while surrounded by flitting, chirping bats. Please note: as the site is visited by pilgrims daily, access to the innermost shrine is not guaranteed.