South Bali

South Bali may be known today for its beaches, surfs and bustle, but its temples tell a much older story—one of protection, pilgrimage, and deep spiritual grounding. Perched dramatically on sea cliffs, nestled in village compounds, or tucked into quiet groves, the temples of this region guard the island’s southern edge. With strong ties to the sea, fertility rituals, and guardian spirits, the temples of South Bali remind us that even in the island’s most developed areas, the sacred remains close—woven into daily life, offerings, and every horizon where land meets ocean.

Pura Tanah Lot

— Guarded by Legends: The Sacred Rock Temple —

Tanah Lot rises from the sea like something out of a story—and in a way, it is one. Founded by Dang Hyang Nirartha in the 15th–16th century, this sea temple was built to honor the ocean gods and protect the island’s coastline. Legend speaks of a holy man, a sea snake, and a vision that still draws pilgrims today. Waves crash, tourists click, but the rituals continue—anchoring Bali’s spiritual rhythm in salt, stone, and centuries of belief. More…

Pura Maospahit

— Where Majapahit Heritage and Balinese Spirituality Meet —

Standing in the heart of Denpasar, this 13th-century temple carries the bold geometry and red brick signature of Majapahit influence, echoing Bali’s important historical ties to Java. Its five-zone layout isn’t just design—it’s a map of the cosmos, grounding devotion in space and story. Surviving earthquakes and centuries of change, it still pulses with ritual life, festivals, and community spirit. More…

Pura Petitenget

— Mountain Temple in Tabanan —

On the slopes of Bali’s second-highest volcano, Mount Batukaru, this mountain temple it’s one of the island’s six holiest sanctuaries and one of the nine directional temples, guarding the west. Legends say it was founded by the revered sage Mpu Kuturan, who built it after a divine vision. It’s a place where history, myth, and nature meet, wrapped in mist and rainforest. More…

Pura Luhur Uluwatu

— Clifftop Gateway of Bali’s Southwest —

Like many of the oldest temples in Bali, Pura Luhur Uluwatu was also built on a breathtaking spot: 80 meters above the Indian Ocean, on a dramatic cliff. Founded in the 11th century by the legendary sage Mpu Kuturan, Pura Uluwatu is dedicated to Rudra, the powerful god of dissolution and healing. The temple is also famous as the place where the Hindu reformer Nirartha is said to have achieved liberation. Wild, windswept, and wrapped in legend, Uluwatu is a place where the spiritual and the spectacular collide. More…

Summary

We’ve got to the end of our regional tour around the oldest sacred sites of Bali. Now you are invited to have a look at our Gallery, leave any of your thoughts or comments at Contact or go to the thematic guide to the temples.