Goa Gajah, Bali

Goa Gajah Temple


Goa Gajah (GPS: -8.52292, 115.28793) is an ornate Balinese temple in the Gianyar regency in Central Bali. The name means "Elephant Temple" because it includes a small T-shaped chamber in the rocks that have been exuberantly carved. The doorway into the cave temple looks like the gapping mouth of a giant, looking almost like a prop from some old Hollywood movies. Filling up niches in the temple are images of Siwa and the Buddha.

Goa Gajah Cave Entrance


Outside the Goa Gajah cave is a shrine to Men Brayut, the Buddhist child protector. She is depicted as a poor woman with too many children.

The Goa Gajah temple was only known to Westerners in 1923, though it probably dates back to the 11th century. There is a large spring at the temple. Its water is used for bathing, and as a source for holy water.

Goa Gajah water spouts

Goa Gajah on Google Street View

Besakih (Feb 2015)

Goa Gajah is on the map of Bali

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