Bali is Indonesia's most visited island. It is renowned worldwide for the beauty of its architecture and landscapes, as well as the energy and serene atmosphere it emanates. The Balinese people hold a profound attachment to Hindu religious traditions, which explains the existence of 10,000 temples dedicated to the veneration of their gods. Every year, thousands of travelers visit the destination simply to discover the splendor of these sacred sites and learn more about the various spiritual practices observed there. To ensure you don't miss anything during your trip to Bali, here is the list of the 5 most important temples absolutely worth discovering.

Ulun Danu Temple

Located not far from the town of Bedugul, the Ulun Danu Temple stands majestically on the shores of Lake Bratan. Considered one of the island's most iconic landmarks, it frequently appears on postcards and other visual representations of the site.

Surrounded by Lake Bratan, the charming pagoda that rises proudly before you creates the impression of standing in the water. Balinese people visit here to venerate the goddess of water and honor the spirit of Mount Agung, Bali's sacred volcano.

Although the pagoda itself is relatively modest in size, the complex features a lovely flowering garden perfect for strolling through. You also have the opportunity to rent a small boat to sail on Lake Bratan and observe Ulun Danu Temple from every angle.

Gunung Kawi Temple

This temple is located in the heart of Bali, near Ubud. Built around the 11th century, it ranks among the oldest temples on the island. It distinguishes itself from other Balinese temples through its highly singular architecture. It comprises 10 sanctuaries scattered around rice terraces and carved directly into the rock, shaped like candis standing 7 meters high.

You will need to descend nearly 200 steps to reach the complex and traverse magnificent rice paddies. The site possesses something magical, with nature and rice terraces surrounding it. Further along, you can pause at the sacred spring Tirta Empul.

Tirta Empul Temple

The Tirta Empul Temple is located a few kilometers from Gunung Kawi. You can easily explore both sites on the same day. The Tirta Empul Temple is renowned for its sacred spring water in which Hindu practitioners bathe to purify their spirit. The 3 stages of this purification ritual are as follows:

• make an offering at the main temple;
• immerse yourself in the pool;
• meditate beneath one of the 13 fountains to purify your spirit.

The site features other pools, but swimming is not permitted in them.

Besakih Temples

Located to the east, at the foot of Mount Agung, the Besakih Temples are considered Bali's mother temple. The entire complex comprises as many as 86 temples, accessible from the main gate which you reach after climbing numerous steps. Situated at a high elevation, you can enjoy an incredible panoramic view over the entire valley and contemplate the majesty of Agung volcano.

The Besakih Temple is regarded as one of the most important Hindu sites on the island, which explains its heavy daily visitation. Here, you must cover your legs and arms to enter.

Tanah Lot Temple

The final must-see temple in Bali, Tanah Lot. This temple sets itself apart because it is situated on an islet off Bali's west coast, in the Indian Ocean. It is possible to reach it on foot at low tide, but when the tide rises, a boat is provided to transport you more easily.

Tanah Lot is dedicated to the god of the sea and constitutes one of Bali's most important temples. Its uniqueness also makes it one of the most photographed temples on the island. Visit to witness the magnificent sunset that dazzles the temple each evening.