Nature · Ubud
Gunung Kawi
Busy 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM Found on Google Maps 3 Oct 2026
Pura Gunung Kawi is an extraordinary 11th-century archaeological and funerary temple complex located along the sacred Pakerisan River in Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency. The historic site features ten monumental rock-cut shrines, known as candi, carved directly into towering seven-meter-high vertical cliff faces within deep stone niches. Believed to serve as memorial sanctuaries for King Udayana and the Warmadewa royal dynasty, the shrines are accompanied by rock-hewn hermitage caves where ancient monks once meditated. Reached by a stone stairway descending through emerald river valleys and terraced rice paddies, the complex exudes an enchanting, sacred aura of ancient Balinese heritage.
Insider tips
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01
Pace Yourself on the Stairs. The descent into the Pakerisan river canyon involves more than 300 stone steps; take your time on the return climb and rest at local souvenir warungs along the stairway for fresh coconut water.
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02
Cross the River Footbridge. Cross the stone bridge over the rushing Pakerisan River to inspect both cliff faces—the main eastern bank features five royal candi, while the western bank contains four queen shrines.
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03
Discover the Hidden 10th Shrine. Take the small dirt path heading south through the rice paddies past the main complex to discover the secluded tenth shrine and ancient rock-hewn hermit meditation cells away from all tour groups.
Good to know
- Hours & Admission
- Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM; entrance tickets cost Rp 50,000 for foreign adults and Rp 30,000 for children, with parking charging Rp 5,000.
- Dress Code & Sarong Rental
- As an active sacred Hindu temple, proper modesty is required; all visitors must wear a traditional sarong and waist sash, which can be borrowed or rented at the ticket booth.
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