When people start researching their first full day temple tour in Bali with guide, I usually hear the same questions: Which temples are worth visiting? How much time do I need at each stop? Do I need to wear sarongs everywhere? And honestly, I get it—Bali temples aren’t just photo ops, they’re living, breathing parts of the island’s culture. I’ve spent countless days wandering these sacred spots, both alone and with friends who insisted on doing it the “tour package” way, and trust me—having someone explain what you’re looking at makes a huge difference.
Now, before we dive into the nitty gritty, let’s get something straight. A “temple tour” in Bali isn’t just about standing in front of ornate gates and taking Instagram shots (though yes, you’ll probably do that too). It’s more about connecting with the rhythm of Balinese life, soaking up history, and understanding why ceremonies happen the way they do. If you’ve never been to Bali before, I’d say dedicating a full day to temples is the easiest way to get a crash course in the island’s soul.
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Why Choose a Full Day Temple Tour in Bali
So, why commit a whole day to temples instead of just hitting one or two on your own? Well, first off—distances in Bali can be deceiving. A temple that looks “nearby” on Google Maps often takes an hour to reach thanks to winding roads, traffic, and scooters zipping in every direction. Trying to squeeze in five or six temples by yourself can turn into a stressful race rather than an enjoyable experience.
Another thing—you’ll miss a lot of meaning if you just walk around without context. According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism, nearly 80% of visitors who booked guided cultural experiences reported “higher satisfaction” compared to those who explored alone. It makes sense, right? When someone explains why a priest sprinkles holy water or why a statue is wrapped in black-and-white cloth, suddenly the place feels alive instead of just being “pretty stone carvings.”
Personally, I’ve done both—solo temple visits where I got lost trying to figure out the entrance, and structured day tours where everything flowed like clockwork. Guess which one I’d recommend to first-timers?
Must-Visit Temples on a Full Day Tour
Let’s be real—there are over 20,000 temples in Bali. You can’t see them all. But on a full day temple tour in Bali with guide, most itineraries will mix the “big names” with a few smaller, more spiritual stops. Here’s a breakdown of the classics you’ll probably run into:
Pura Besakih – The Mother Temple
If Bali had a spiritual capital, this would be it. Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, Besakih is the island’s largest and most important temple. Walking through the multi-tiered shrines here feels surreal—like stepping into another era. On clear days, the volcano looms dramatically in the background, and during ceremonies, the place buzzes with energy.
One thing nobody tells you: the stairs are steep. Wear comfortable shoes, because you’ll be climbing a lot. Also, sarongs are mandatory (most tours provide them).
Tirta Empul – The Holy Water Temple
This one’s famous for its purification ritual. You’ll see locals and tourists alike stepping into cold spring water, moving from one fountain to the next, letting the flow wash over their heads. I tried it once—let me tell you, it’s both refreshing and oddly calming. Some visitors just watch, but honestly, if you’re there, join in. It’s not staged for tourists; it’s a real practice that Balinese people have been doing for centuries.
Tanah Lot – Sunset Perfection
Almost every full-day temple tour saves Tanah Lot for last, and with good reason. Perched on a rocky outcrop in the sea, this temple looks unreal when the sun dips into the horizon. The catch? It gets crowded. Like, really crowded. If you’re not into jostling with selfie sticks, ask your guide if they can take you to a quieter viewpoint nearby—there are a few secret spots along the cliff that not many people know about.
Goa Gajah – The Elephant Cave
Don’t expect elephants here—it’s more of an ancient meditation site with a creepy-cool carved entrance that looks like a demon’s mouth. Inside, the cave is small, but the surrounding gardens and bathing pools are beautiful. It’s usually a quick stop, but definitely worth including.
What a Typical Full Day Looks Like
Alright, let’s paint a realistic picture of what you’ll be doing.
Most full day tours kick off around 8 or 9 a.m., depending on where you’re staying. First stop is usually something inland like Tirta Empul or Goa Gajah. You’ll spend maybe 45 minutes to an hour at each temple—long enough to explore but not so long that you’re yawning.
By midday, there’s usually a stop for lunch. A lot of tours choose restaurants overlooking rice terraces or volcano views (Kintamani is a popular choice). Expect buffet-style Indonesian food—nasi goreng, satay, mie goreng—and yes, it’s touristy, but honestly, the scenery makes up for it.
Afternoon is when the “big ones” come in—Besakih, Ulun Danu Beratan, or sometimes Gunung Kawi if you’re feeling adventurous. By the time sunset rolls around, you’ll head to Tanah Lot. If traffic isn’t insane, you’ll be back at your hotel by 7 or 8 p.m., tired but buzzing from the day.
What to Wear and Bring Along
Okay, let’s talk practical stuff—because I’ve seen too many people regret their choices here.
- Clothing: Temples require modest dress. Shoulders and knees covered. Don’t stress if you didn’t pack anything “temple appropriate,” most tours provide sarongs.
- Footwear: Comfortable sandals or sneakers. Some temples involve stairs, and you’ll thank yourself later.
- Cash: Entry fees aren’t always included in tours. Most temples charge between IDR 30,000–60,000 (around $2–$4). Bring small bills.
- Water & Snacks: Bali is hot. Carry water, maybe some peanuts or bananas if you get peckish.
- Respect: This one’s not about gear but attitude. Don’t stand directly in front of locals praying for photos. Don’t touch offerings. Basically, remember these aren’t “attractions,” they’re sacred spaces.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary wildly depending on whether you book online, through your hotel, or negotiate with a driver. A private full day tour usually runs between USD $40–$70 for the car and driver, not including entry fees or lunch. If you book through big travel sites, you’ll pay a bit more but often get extras like bottled water or insurance included.
I once joined a group tour for about $30 and, while it was cheaper, I felt rushed. Private tours give you flexibility—you can skip crowded spots or linger somewhere that really grabs you. Honestly, if you’re traveling with friends or family, splitting the cost makes private tours way more worth it.
The Little Things Nobody Tells You
Here’s where experience really comes in handy. A few things I wish I’d known the first time:
- Not every temple lets you climb the inner courtyards. Don’t be offended if you’re told “locals only.” It’s about respecting rituals.
- Some “photography spots” near temples charge a small fee. Example: the famous “gate of heaven” at Lempuyang has a donation box. Totally normal.
- You’ll see offerings (canang sari) everywhere—on the ground, on altars, even on motorbikes. Watch your step! Accidentally stepping on one isn’t the end of the world, but try to avoid it.
- Traffic between Ubud and Tanah Lot can be brutal. If sunset’s important to you, tell your driver in advance so they plan around it.
Lesser-Known Temples Worth Adding to Your Day
Most tours stick to the big-name temples, but if you’ve got the stamina (and honestly, the curiosity), there are a couple of lesser-visited spots that can really make your trip feel unique.
Gunung Kawi – Valley of Kings
This one is seriously underrated. Picture this: massive shrines carved directly into cliffs, surrounded by lush jungle and rice terraces. It feels more like an Indiana Jones set than a temple. The walk down involves hundreds of steps, so brace yourself for the climb back up, but I promise the atmosphere down in that valley is worth every drop of sweat. You don’t get the massive crowds here, which makes it feel more personal.
Ulun Danu Beratan – Floating Temple on the Lake
Up in the cooler highlands of Bedugul, this temple literally looks like it’s floating when the lake waters rise. The air feels fresher here compared to the lowlands, and it’s a nice break if you’ve been baking in Bali’s sun all morning. The gardens are manicured and colorful, which makes it perfect for wandering slowly instead of rushing through. Plus, if you’re into photography, morning visits with the mist rolling in are magical.
Lempuyang – The “Gate of Heaven”
This one has blown up on Instagram, so yeah, it’s crowded. People queue up for hours to get that shot between the stone gates with Mount Agung perfectly framed behind them. Now, here’s the thing nobody mentions: the famous “reflection photo” you see online? It’s actually a trick with a mirror held under the camera. Still, even without the photo gimmick, the place has a very spiritual vibe. If you can time it when it’s less busy (early morning), it’s worth including.
Food Stops Along the Way
A day of temple-hopping isn’t just about history—it’s also about where you eat. A lot of itineraries slot in a buffet lunch, usually at places with views. But if you’re like me and want something less “tour bus” and more authentic, you can ask your driver to recommend warungs (local eateries) instead.
One of my favorites near Tirta Empul is a tiny warung that serves babi guling (Balinese suckling pig). The skin is crispy, the meat is juicy, and it comes with rice and spicy sambal. Totally different vibe than the hotel-style buffet. In Ubud, you’ll find lots of cafes with healthy bowls and smoothies if you want something lighter before continuing the journey.
Dinner usually happens after Tanah Lot, on the drive back. Some tours stop at seaside spots in Canggu or Seminyak, where you can wind down with fresh seafood and a cold Bintang. Honestly, ending the day with grilled snapper by the beach feels like the perfect reward after trekking temples all day.
Cultural Etiquette That Actually Matters
Okay, so beyond clothing rules, there are a few little cultural notes that can make or break your experience.
For starters, Balinese people are incredibly welcoming, but they take their rituals seriously. If you see a ceremony happening, don’t just walk into the middle of it for a photo. Hang back, observe, and if you’re unsure, just ask. Most guides (and even locals) will happily explain what’s going on if you show genuine curiosity.
Another small but important thing: when sitting in temple grounds, avoid pointing your feet toward shrines. It’s considered disrespectful. Same goes for climbing onto statues or structures—treat them as sacred, not as props.
And yes, you’ll hear this everywhere but it’s worth repeating: women during their menstrual cycle are traditionally not permitted to enter certain temple areas. Some people ignore it, but out of respect, it’s better to follow the custom.
Customizing Your Full Day Temple Tour
Here’s where things get fun—you don’t have to stick to the cookie-cutter itineraries. Most drivers are super flexible if you tell them what you’re into.
For example, if you’re into photography, ask to hit temples at quieter times (early morning or late afternoon) and spend more time at scenic spots. If you’re more into history, lean toward places like Gunung Kawi or Besakih where the architecture and stories run deeper. Traveling with kids? Keep the schedule lighter and add in a rice terrace walk or a stop at a coffee plantation in between temples so they don’t get bored.
I’ve even seen some travelers swap out Tanah Lot for Uluwatu if they’re staying in the south. Uluwatu temple, perched on a cliff with ocean views, has its own charm—plus you can catch the famous Kecak dance performance at sunset. It’s a bit of a different vibe than the classic “temple-hopping,” but that’s the beauty of private tours: you call the shots.
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