Bedulu, Gianyar — near Ubud
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
A 9th-century cave sanctuary with carvings, bathing pools and jungle shrines
Goa Gajah, the 'Elephant Cave', is a 9th-century archaeological site and UNESCO tentative listing carved into a cliffside just 6 km southeast of Ubud. A menacing demonic face guards the entrance to a T-shaped chamber holding a statue of Ganesha and three lingam, while below sit holy bathing pools rediscovered by a Dutch archaeologist in 1954. Blending Hindu Shaivite and Buddhist worship, it also has a jungle trail past scattered Buddhist relics among the tree roots.
Highlights
- ✓The cave sanctuary — a T-shaped chamber with a four-armed Ganesha and lingam shrines
- ✓The holy bathing pools (petirtaan) with six stone figures pouring spring water
- ✓Buddhist ruins and a jungle trail past stupa fragments and a Buddha statue
- ✓The dramatic carved demon face over the cave mouth
- ✓A lush valley setting an easy trip from Ubud
Visitor FAQ
What does it cost and when is it open?
Open daily 8am to 5pm. Entry is IDR 50,000 for adults and IDR 25,000 for children, and sarongs are provided.
When is the best time to visit?
Early (8–10am) or late afternoon (3:30–5pm) for softer light and fewer crowds. Allow 60–90 minutes.
How do I get there?
It's in Bedulu village, about 6 km southeast of central Ubud — roughly 15 minutes by car or scooter.
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