The sacred temples, or ‘Pura‘, are the spiritual heart of life in Ubud. To ensure your visit is a respectful and enriching experience, it’s important to understand the local customs and etiquette. This Ubud temples guide covers what to wear, how to behave, and essential safety tips for your temple tour.
The “Must-Know” Temple Etiquette Rules
Following the proper Bali temple etiquette is a sign of respect for the local culture.
The Dress Code: The Sarong and Sash
The most important rule for what to wear in a Bali temple is to cover your legs. Both men and women are required to wear a sarong around their waist, along with a temple sash (selendang). If you don’t have your own, these are almost always available for a small rental fee or donation at the temple entrance.
Respect Sacred Areas
You will see signs that say “Dilarang Masuk” (Entry Forbidden) in certain areas. These are the inner, most sacred parts of the temple reserved for prayer. Please respect these signs and do not enter.
Proper Conduct
Temples are active places of worship. Behave as you would in any sacred space: speak softly, do not point your feet at shrines or priests, and never stand higher than the priest (pemangku), especially during a ceremony.
For Women: The Menstruation Custom
Out of respect for cultural and spiritual traditions, women who are currently menstruating are kindly asked not to enter the inner grounds of the temple.
A Glimpse into 3 Famous Temples Near Ubud
While there are thousands of temples, these three offer a wonderful introduction.
Pura Tirta Empul (The Holy Water Temple)
Famous for its sacred springs and purification pools where locals and visitors alike come to perform a cleansing ritual. It’s a powerful spiritual experience. A key tip is to observe the ritual respectfully and avoid swallowing the holy water (Tirta).
Goa Gajah (The Elephant Cave)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Goa Gajah is an archeological complex with a fascinating cave entrance carved into a menacing face, beautiful bathing pools, and serene jungle surroundings.
Pura Taman Saraswati (The Lotus Temple)
Located right in the heart of Ubud, this beautiful temple is famous for its stunning lotus pond and classic Balinese architecture, making it one of the most photographed spots in town.
Safety and Awareness Within the Temple Grounds
Being respectful also means being aware of your surroundings.
Be Mindful of Offerings (Canang Sari)
You will see beautiful, small, hand-woven offerings called Canang Sari placed on the ground and on shrines throughout the temple. These are sacred, so be mindful and try your best not to step on them.
Coexisting with Temple Animals
Many temples are home to community dogs, who are often considered guardians of the sacred space. As with all local animals, the most respectful and safest approach is to give them their space and admire them from a distance. Do not try to pet or feed them. For more general advice, see our guide to Bali’s animals.
What to Do in Case of an Incident
In the very rare event that a scratch or bite from a dog or wild monkey occurs on temple grounds, it is essential to act quickly. First, wash the wound thoroughly for 15 minutes, then seek a professional medical opinion due to the risk of rabies. For incidents in the Ubud area, our Unicare Clinic in Ubud is ready to provide an urgent evaluation.
To understand the full medical context of this risk, it is critical that you read our complete guide to Rabies in Bali.
By visiting with respect and awareness, you can fully appreciate the spiritual beauty of Bali’s sacred temples.
Stay Healthy on Your Spiritual Journey
For any health needs during your time in Ubud, from minor issues to urgent care, our clinic provides professional, compassionate medical services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Visiting Ubud Temples
Do I have to wear a sarong if I’m already wearing long pants or a long skirt?
Often, yes. Even with long clothing, you are typically still required to wear the temple sash (selendang) around your waist as a sign of respect. Sarongs are usually required for everyone regardless of attire.
Can I rent a sarong at every temple?
Yes, almost all major temples that are open to tourists provide sarongs and sashes for a small rental fee or sometimes for a donation at the entrance.
Is there a dress code for children?
Yes, children who are old enough to walk are also expected to wear a sarong and sash.
How much is the entrance fee for Tirta Empul or Goa Gajah?
Entrance fees for temples can change, so it’s always best to check the latest information online. As of late 2024/early 2025, expect to pay around IDR 50,000 – 75,000 per adult.
Can non-Hindus participate in the purification ritual at Tirta Empul?
Yes, the purification ritual is open to all visitors, provided they are dressed appropriately (a special green sarong for bathing is required) and act with respect.
What should I bring for the purification ritual?
You should bring a change of dry clothes, a towel, and a small locker rental fee for your belongings.
Is it okay to take photos inside the temples?
Generally, yes, photography is allowed in the main courtyards. However, be discreet and respectful, avoid using flash, and never take photos of people while they are deep in prayer.
Are there official guides available for hire at the temples?
Yes, at major temples like Tirta Empul, you can often hire an official local guide at the entrance who can explain the history and symbolism of the temple.
What is the best way to get to these temples from Ubud center?
The easiest way is to hire a private driver for a half-day or full-day tour. Alternatively, you can use ride-sharing apps like Gojek or Grab, or rent a scooter if you are an experienced rider.
Why are there so many small offerings on the ground?
These are called Canang Sari. They are daily offerings made by the Balinese Hindus as a form of gratitude to the gods. They are a beautiful and integral part of daily life and spirituality in Bali.
