In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about visiting Pura Batu Bolong, from its 16th-century origins to the best way to navigate the busy streets of Canggu to get there.

What is Pura Batu Bolong?

credit: Google Maps - Pura Batu Bolong Canggu (Kahyangan Jagat) | Shot by Iyan

Pura Batu Bolong in Canggu is a historic Hindu temple perched dramatically on a rocky cliff right at the edge of Batu Bolong Beach, Badung Regency.

It serves as one of the most important cultural and religious icons in the area.

The name itself tells a story. In Balinese, Batu means stone or rock, and Bolong means hollow or hole.

This refers to the natural phenomenon of the rock formation upon which the temple sits, a massive coral outcrop with a hollow archway at its base, allowing the sea waves to crash through.

Beyond its physical beauty, Pura Batu Bolong is a place of high spiritual significance.

It was built as a site to worship Ida Batara Segara (the God of the Sea) to pray for safety, harmony, and the balance of the universe.

For the locals, it is a living sanctuary where the rhythm of the tides meets the rhythm of prayer.

Ticket Price to Pura Batu Bolong

One of the best things about visiting Pura Batu Bolong is how accessible it is.

Unlike many other major tourist attractions in Bali, there is currently no entrance fee to enter the temple area. It is free for everyone to enjoy.

However, keep in mind that you will need to pay for vehicle parking, which is managed by the local community. The rates are very affordable:

Motorscooters: Approximately IDR 5,000.
Cars: Approximately IDR 10,000.

While admission is free, it is a nice gesture to provide a voluntary donation for the maintenance of the Parahyangan (sacred area).

Also, remember that this is a place of worship. You are required to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees.

If you’re just walking along the beach, you can see the temple from the outside, but to step into the inner courtyard, a sarong and sash are mandatory.

To make sure you’re not using inappropriate attire while visiting the temple, make sure to read our guide here: Bali Temple Etiquette: A Guide for Visitors.

Location, Operational Hours, and How to Get There

Location & Operational Hours

Pura Batu Bolong is located at the very end of Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong, Canggu, North Kuta.

Because the beach area is public, the temple is technically "open" 24 hours a day for those who want to admire it from the shore.

However, for those wanting to experience the spiritual atmosphere or take photos during the best light, the typical visiting hours are from sunrise to sunset.

How to Go to Pura Batu Bolong

Canggu is notorious for its narrow roads and "creative" traffic. Depending on where you are staying, the travel time can vary significantly.

Here is a quick breakdown of the estimated distance and travel time:

From	Distance	Travel Time (Car/Motorbike)
Seminyak	±9 – 12 km	20 – 35 minutes
Denpasar	±13 km	25 – 30 minutes
Kuta	±14 km	30 – 50 minutes
Ubud	±29 km	60 – 90 minutes
Uluwatu	±30 – 35 km	60 – 90 minutes
Ngurah Rai Airport	±20 – 25 km	50 – 90 minutes

History of Pura Batu Bolong

credit: Google Maps - Pura Batu Bolong Canggu (Kahyangan Jagat) | Shot by Iyan

The history of Pura Batu Bolong in Canggu is deeply intertwined with the spiritual journey of a legendary figure in Balinese Hinduism: Dang Hyang Nirartha.

1. The Legacy of Dang Hyang Nirartha (16th Century)

In 1489 AD, a high priest named Dang Hyang Nirartha (also known as Peranda Sakti Wau Rauh) traveled from the Daha Kingdom in East Java to Bali.

His mission was to spread the teachings of Hindu Dharma. As he traveled along the southern coast of Bali, he established several Parahyangan (sacred shrines) that now form a spiritual chain around the island.

It is believed that Dang Hyang Nirartha chose the location of Pura Batu Bolong because of its powerful spiritual energy.

He used the jagged cliff jutting out into the Indian Ocean as a site for Yoga Samadhi (sacred meditation). This temple is part of a series of coastal temples that include the world-famous Pura Tanah Lot.

2. Spiritual Function and the "Hollow Rock"

The temple was built to honor Ida Batara Segara. As a Kahyangan Jagat temple, it is a public place of worship for all Hindus, not just those from a specific village.

Its primary purpose is to seek safety, peace, and the fertility of the sea, which provides a livelihood for the coastal people.

The natural "hollow" in the rock is viewed as a divine sign, a gateway where the elements of earth and water meet.

3. Modern Significance

Today, Pura Batu Bolong remains a vibrant center for religious ceremonies.

You will often see locals dressed in traditional white attire performing Piodalan (anniversary ceremonies) or daily offerings.

While it has become a major tourist icon due to its stunning sunset views, its spiritual core remains untouched by the surrounding modernization of Canggu.

Pura Blanjong in Sanur: History, Highlights, Entrance Fee

Pura Luhur Uluwatu: Ticket Price, Attractions, Best Time to Visit

What to See in Pura Batu Bolong

credit: Google Maps - Pura Batu Bolong Canggu (Kahyangan Jagat) | Shot by Iyan

Visiting Pura Batu Bolong offers a unique mix of tranquil spirituality and modern beach life. Here is what you can look forward to:

1. Spectacular Sunset Views

This is the main event. Because the temple sits on a cliff facing west, it offers an unobstructed view of the horizon.

During the "golden hour" (around 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM), the silhouette of the temple against the burning orange sky is breathtaking.

2. Unique Architecture

The sight of a temple sitting on a natural bridge of rock is rare. It looks like a smaller, more intimate version of Tanah Lot.

You can photograph the Candi Bentar (traditional split gateway) with the crashing waves in the background.

3. Spiritual Atmosphere

Even with the music from nearby beach clubs drifting in the wind, the area inside the temple feels peaceful.

You can watch locals placing Canang Sari (flower offerings) and breathing in the scent of incense.

4. Surfing and Beach Life

Directly next to the temple is the famous Batu Bolong surf break. It’s a longboarder’s paradise. You can spend the afternoon watching surfers catch waves right next to this ancient site.

5. Instagrammable Spots

Every corner of Pura Batu Bolong is photogenic. It’s a favorite spot for professional photographers and even pre-wedding shoots because of its romantic, dramatic backdrop.

Best Time to Visit Pura Batu Bolong

The absolute best time to visit Pura Batu Bolong is in the late afternoon, around 5:00 PM.

This gives you enough time to explore the temple grounds, take some photos while the light is still bright, and then find a spot on the sand to watch the sunset.

However, getting to Canggu during the afternoon rush can be a bit of a headache. The roads are narrow and the traffic can be stationary for long periods. If you want to arrive on time and stress-free, the best way to travel is by motorbike.

Explore Bali with scooter

For a reliable and "hassle-free" experience, we highly recommend renting your scooter from Cinchy.

What makes Cinchy different?

Well-Maintained and Safe Scooters: Your safety is paramount. All scooters are regularly serviced and in top condition.
Competitive Prices: Whether you need a scooter for a day, a week, or a month, Cinchy offers budget-friendly rates.
- Compact (Honda Scoopy, Yamaha Fazzio, Honda Vario): Daily from IDR 95K | Weekly from IDR 80K/day | Monthly from IDR 50K/day.
- Comfort (Yamaha NMAX, Honda PCX): Daily from IDR 155K | Weekly from IDR 125K/day | Monthly from IDR 80K/day.
Quick and Easy Process: No complicated paperwork. Just provide your ID (Passport/KTP), a valid driving license, flight tickets, and hotel booking.
Free Delivery & Pickup in Airport: This is the ultimate convenience! Cinchy can deliver and pick up your scooter for free to the airport.
24/7 Support: If you ever need help, their customer service is available around the clock.

Every rental with Cinchy includes:

Helmets: Quality helmets for adults (and kids upon request!).
Hair Nets: For hygiene and comfort.
Phone Holder: Essential for navigating the way to Pura Batu Bolong using GPS.
Raincoat / Poncho: Because tropical rain can happen anytime!

Ready to witness the magic of a sunset at Pura Batu Bolong? Don't let traffic hold you back.

Rent a reliable scooter from Cinchy now and enjoy the freedom of the open road!