Goa Gajah Elephant Cave
Explore ancient Balinese history at Goa Gajah, the 'Elephant Cave,' with its iconic rock-carved entrance and serene jungle sanctuary.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Goa Gajah Elephant Cave
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient Balinese history at Goa Gajah, the 'Elephant Cave,' with its iconic rock-carved entrance and serene jungle sanctuary.
"A fascinating slice of Bali’s spiritual and cultural history, Goa Gajah is a compact but powerful temple site."
Free Sarong Included
Your entrance fee includes a sarong rental. Ignore pushy vendors outside!
Comfortable Walking Shoes
The site has uneven paths and stairs, so good footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Elephant Cave Entrance
Main cave entrance
A menacing, yet fascinating, rock-carved demon face guards the entrance to this ancient meditation cave.
+1
Ancient Shrines and Ruins
Temple grounds
Explore moss-covered relics, Hindu and Buddhist imagery, and serene bathing pools scattered throughout the lush grounds.
+1
Jungle Waterfall
Near the bathing pools
Discover a tranquil waterfall cascading amidst the greenery, adding to the site's natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sarong Savvy
Footwear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Sarong Included
Your entrance fee includes a sarong rental. Ignore pushy vendors outside!
Comfortable Walking Shoes
The site has uneven paths and stairs, so good footwear is a must.
Respectful Attire
Sarongs are mandatory for temple entry. Dress modestly.
Explore Beyond the Cave
The surrounding grounds offer beautiful ruins, shrines, and nature.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Sarong Included
Your entrance fee includes a sarong rental. Ignore pushy vendors outside!
Comfortable Walking Shoes
The site has uneven paths and stairs, so good footwear is a must.
Respectful Attire
Sarongs are mandatory for temple entry. Dress modestly.
Explore Beyond the Cave
The surrounding grounds offer beautiful ruins, shrines, and nature.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Goa Gajah for its fascinating history, unique rock carvings, and serene natural setting with a waterfall and lush grounds. While the cave itself is small, the overall atmosphere and the surrounding archaeological elements make it a worthwhile cultural stop near Ubud. Some find the vendors outside to be pushy, but the experience inside the temple grounds is generally peaceful.
"It was a fantastic experience. The entire setting is beautiful. You're in nature with lovely flowers, bridges, and even a waterfall inside. It's not crowded. Make sure to wear good shoes. It's well worth a visit."
Csilla Suha
"A fascinating slice of Bali’s spiritual and cultural history. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) is a compact but powerful temple site just outside Ubud, known for its dramatic stone-carved entrance and serene jungle surroundings.
The cave itself is small but rich in atmosphere, with ancient carvings and shrines that reflect both Hindu and Buddhist influences. Outside, you’ll find peaceful bathing pools, moss-covered ruins, and a lush ravine that feels like a hidden sanctuary.
💡 Tip: Don’t be fooled by the vendors outside trying to sell sarongs—you’re given one as part of your entrance fee. Even with long pants, I was still provided a sash to wear around my waist, so no need to buy anything extra."
Bella Bella
"🛕 Goa Gajah - A Peaceful Temple Experience Beyond the Cave 🌿
We really enjoyed our visit to Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave and found it to be a peaceful and culturally rich stop in Bali. The entrance fee is 50,000 IDR, and it includes a free sarong rental, which is required to enter the temple area. No need to buy one from the many shops outside, even though some sellers may try to convince you otherwise.
While the main cave/temple isn’t overly large or spectacular on its own, the surrounding area is where the real charm lies. You can explore beautifully carved shrines, small hidden temples, and even a Buddha temple nestled in the jungle. There’s also a lovely water ceremony area that adds to the spiritual feel of the place.
We loved wandering through the tranquil paths and soaking in the calm atmosphere. Just a heads-up, the shopkeepers outside can be quite pushy, so it’s best to head straight into the temple grounds and enjoy the peace inside.
Overall, Goa Gajah is definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in Bali’s cultural and spiritual heritage, and it offers much more than just the famous cave."
Mike Rbeck
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Goa Gajah is conveniently located about 15 minutes from Ubud center. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing apps like Grab or Gojek, or by hiring a private driver for the day. Many tours also include Goa Gajah as part of an Ubud itinerary.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Goa Gajah directly. Hiring a private driver or using ride-sharing services is generally the most practical way to get there from Ubud or other parts of Bali.
For flexibility and ease, hiring a private driver is recommended, especially if you plan to visit other sites in the area. Ride-sharing apps are also a good option for a direct trip from Ubud.
Goa Gajah is approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes drive from Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), depending on traffic conditions.
While it's possible, walking to Goa Gajah from Ubud is a significant distance (around 5-6 km) and not recommended due to traffic and heat. It's best to use transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Goa Gajah is typically around 50,000 IDR per person. This fee usually includes a sarong rental, which is mandatory for entering the temple area.
No, you do not need to buy a sarong. A sarong is provided as part of your entrance fee and is required for entry into the sacred temple grounds.
Goa Gajah is generally open daily from around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or specific holiday hours.
Yes, Goa Gajah is open every day of the week, including weekends.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site upon arrival. There isn't usually an option for online booking in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The 'cave' itself is a small meditation chamber carved into a rock face, featuring ancient carvings. While small, it's rich in atmosphere and historical significance.
Goa Gajah dates back to the 9th century and served as a spiritual sanctuary for Hindu and Buddhist monks. It features a mix of both religious imagery and ancient relics.
Absolutely! The surrounding grounds are extensive and feature beautiful bathing pools, ancient shrines, moss-covered ruins, and a lovely jungle waterfall.
Yes, families can enjoy Goa Gajah. The natural surroundings, the unique cave entrance, and the peaceful atmosphere make it an interesting cultural experience for all ages.
A visit to Goa Gajah typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the cave, shrines, bathing pools, and surrounding grounds.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic demon face entrance is a must-capture. Also, the mossy ruins, bathing pools, and the jungle setting offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed within the temple grounds, but it's always respectful to be mindful of others and avoid intrusive flash photography, especially in the meditation cave.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, which is ideal for photography. The golden hour before sunset can create a magical atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites in Bali to respect the sanctity of the location and for safety reasons. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the cave entrance and the expansive grounds. A standard zoom lens will be versatile for most shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes as there's a fair amount of walking involved, and the paths can be uneven. The site is generally not overly crowded, especially if you visit earlier in the day, making it easier to manage with children. Remember to bring water and perhaps a small snack, though there are vendors nearby.
🚶 Solo Travelers
+1Engage with the local culture by respecting the dress code (sarong required) and taking time to appreciate the intricate carvings and ancient relics. It's a great opportunity to learn about Bali's rich spiritual heritage and enjoy a moment of tranquility away from the bustling tourist spots.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visit during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting. The lush jungle surroundings and the small waterfall add to the photographic appeal. Remember to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site when taking photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystique of the Elephant Cave
+1Inside the cave, you'll find ancient carvings and a small, atmospheric space that once echoed with prayers and contemplation. The entrance, with its intricate details and imposing presence, is a testament to the skill of ancient Balinese artisans. It's a place that sparks the imagination about the spiritual lives of those who sought solace here centuries ago.
+1While the cave is the namesake attraction, the surrounding complex offers much more to explore. The grounds are dotted with ancient shrines, remnants of bathing pools, and lush vegetation, creating a serene and historically rich environment. It’s a place where history, spirituality, and nature converge beautifully.
Exploring the Sacred Grounds
+1The natural beauty of the location is also a major draw. Nestled in a lush ravine, the site features a small, picturesque waterfall that adds to the serene ambiance. The combination of historical ruins and vibrant tropical flora creates a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for quiet reflection and exploration.
It's important to note that while the cave is the main attraction, the entire complex is considered sacred. Visitors are encouraged to explore respectfully, taking in the historical and spiritual essence of the site. The well-maintained paths make it easy to navigate and appreciate the various elements of this unique archaeological park.
Navigating the Visitor Experience
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the site involves navigating uneven paths, stairs, and potentially slippery surfaces, especially after rain. The grounds are spread out, offering a pleasant walk through nature and history. Comfortable footwear will enhance your exploration and allow you to fully appreciate the site.
While the cave itself is relatively small, the overall experience of Goa Gajah lies in exploring the entire complex. Allow at least an hour to wander through the shrines, bathing pools, and enjoy the natural surroundings. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a worthwhile stop on any Ubud itinerary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit