What is Gunung Kawi?

Pura Gunung Kawi is one of the most awe-inspiring archeological sites we have ever visited. This Balinese temple is built into a steep valley overlooking the Pakserian River. Just up the road, this river also snakes its way past the sacred Pura Tirta Empul.

More than 100 steps will lead you through the temple where you will find dozens of ancient shrines and alters dating back to the 11th century.

The lush landscape is made even more spectacular by the green rice paddies and moss covered statues that dominate this temple complex.

Where is Gunung Kawi in Bali?

Gunung Kawi is located in the heart of the village of Tampak Siring about 1 KM away from Tirta Empul. Roughly 15 KM from Ubud.

The main street of the village is usually quite busy with traffic during the day from tour groups coming to visit the temple.

From the parking area, you will be directed into the temple complex by friendly locals from the village.

There are lots of local shops selling handicrafts and warungs to stop for lunch before or after you explore Gunung Kawi.

How to Get to Gunung Kawi From Ubud?

Hire a Driver

Hiring a driver for the day will probably be the most convenient way to visit Gunung Kawi.

We recommend contacting our friend Wayan (Remy) who actually lives in Tampak Siring and can give you a truly local experience.

He’s fluent in English, an excellent tour guide, and a wonderful friend.

We stayed with Remy and his family for 5 days on our last visit to Bali and had some of the most memorable local experiences of our lives.

Hail a Grab

For those of you not familiar, Grab is like Uber in SE Asia.

It will probably be your cheapest option for getting to Tampak Siring, but you may want to arrange for the same driver to wait and take you back to Ubud if that is your plan.

Or, if no Grabs are available you can always hire a normal Taxi for the ride back.

Arrange a Visit Through a Tour Agency

If you have already been to Ubud, then I’m sure you know how many tour agencies there are.

Shop around and you will be able to find a good price for your group to make an entire day of visiting the temples in Tampak Siring.

Gunung Kawi is not the only major temple site in Tampak Siring.

For those who really want to spend a day exploring some of Bali’s most sacred and awe inspiring temple sites be sure to take a short trip up the road to Pura Mengening and Pura Tirta Empul.

Don’t take our word for it though see for yourself below 😉

Heading To Bali? Then You Will Definitely Want To Check Out These Posts Too!

• Best Places to Visit in Bali: The Ultimate Bali Itinerary
• Bali On A Budget: Top Things To See And Do
• Cost Of Living In Bali For Couples
• 8 Ways To Save Money In Bali

Safety Is A Big Concern When It Comes To Riding Motorbikes But Here Is Another Factor You Might Not Have Considered…

• Learning To Ride A Scooter In Bali: One Mistake You Should Not Make

Ubud Is A Magical Place Just Be Ready For Some Crowds

• How to Spend Four Days in Ubud, Bali

Looking For A Homestay?

• Remy Homestay: Experiencing Life With A Balinese Family

Temples To Explore

• Bali Temple Guide: Pura Tirta Empul
• Bali Temple Guide: Pura Gunung Kawi
• Bali Temple Guide: Pura Mengening

Nearby Islands To Explore

• Exploration Guide: Pursuit of Paradise – Gili Islands & Lombok

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