Goa Lawah (Bat Cave)

Goa Lawah (Bat Cave) is one of the most mystical and ancient sites in Bali, steeped in legend and religious reverence.
The name translates as “Bat Cave” — and rightly so: beneath the arched ceiling of this sacred cave live countless fruit bats, creating a truly unique atmosphere, especially at sunset.
Goa Lawah is located on Bali’s southeastern coast, near the village of Klungkung. The cave is part of an 11th-century Hindu temple, one of Bali’s nine directional temples believed to protect the island from evil spirits. Locals believe the cave extends deep into the mountains and connects to other sacred sites, including the Besakih Temple on the slopes of Mount Agung.
This site is especially popular among pilgrims and travelers interested in Bali’s culture and spiritual heritage. The air is thick with the scent of incense, the sound of bells, the whispers of prayer — and the ever-present flutter of bats.
Visiting Goa Lawah is more than just a sightseeing stop — it’s an immersion into the island’s living religion and ancient mythology.