Bali: Besakih Great Temple & Penglipuran Village Day Tour

Travelers looking to get a meaningful taste of Bali’s spiritual and cultural landscape often find themselves overwhelmed by the crowds at the well-known temples. But this tour offers a refreshing alternative: a full day of visiting hidden gems and less touristy spots that are just as breathtaking. It’s perfect for those who want a more authentic, peaceful experience without sacrificing the beauty and richness of Bali’s spiritual sites.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are the chance to explore over six temples in a single day, including the iconic Besakih Mother Temple, and the opportunity to visit Penglipuran Village, a charming traditional community free from the typical tourist clutter. A possible drawback is the long day — expect around 10 hours of sightseeing, which can be quite a lot if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Still, for those eager to see a broad slice of Bali’s spiritual and cultural essence, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate history, architecture, and authentic village life and are comfortable with a full day of exploration. It’s especially well-suited for those who want guided insight into Bali’s temples but prefer to avoid the crowds at the more popular sites.

Key Points

• Visit over 6 temples in one day with expert guidance
• Avoid crowds by exploring lesser-known, authentic sites
• Enjoy stunning views of rice terraces and Mount Agung
• Includes hotel transfers and bottled water for convenience
• Learn from knowledgeable guides with excellent reviews
• Experience the charm of Penglipuran Village, a peaceful cultural site

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: A Deep Dive into the Tour

Starting Point and Transport

The tour begins with pickup from eight convenient locations across Bali — from Jimbaran to Ubud, Seminyak to Canggu. The small group size (limited to 10 people) ensures a more personalized experience. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, we found the ride comfortable even on Bali’s sometimes bumpy roads. The driver contacts you the evening before to confirm your pickup time, which helps set expectations.

Taman Kertha Gosa: A Glimpse of Royal Justice

Our first stop is the Taman Kertha Gosa Pavilion in Klungkung, which was once the high king’s justice court. This pavilion, with its beautifully painted ceiling and traditional architecture, offers a peek into Bali’s regal past. We loved the way our guide explained the significance of the intricate murals depicting traditional law and morality — a peaceful intro to Bali’s cultural depth. It’s a quiet, contemplative start, not a tourist trap, and offers some great photo opportunities.

Goa Lawah Temple: The Bat Cave

Next, we headed to Goa Lawah, famously known as the Bat Cave Temple. Built over a hilly outcrop, this site is home to thousands of bats and a legendary giant snake king. The temple’s natural setting makes it a standout, especially if you’re interested in the legends and natural features. We appreciated how our guide shared the story of the snake legend, adding a layer of mystique to the visit. It’s a lively spot, with a different energy from the more formal temples.

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Bukit Jambul: Rice Terraces with a View

A short drive brought us to Bukit Jambul, where panoramic views of Bali’s famous rice terraces await. It’s a perfect spot to pause, snap photos, and soak in the lush scenery that Bali is renowned for. The guide slowed the pace here so we could truly take it in, which we appreciated—this is where you realize the value of a local guide who knows the best vantage points.

Lunch Overlooking Mount Agung

By now, everyone was ready for a break, and the tour takes a thoughtful pause for lunch overlooking Mount Agung. The meal is typically simple but flavorful, giving us a chance to discuss the morning’s sights. We enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, with views that reminded us of Bali’s volcanic origins.

Besakih Temple: Bali’s Mother Temple

The highlight of the day is definitely Besakih Temple, Bali’s largest and most important Hindu temple complex. Situated on the southwestern slopes of Mount Agung, this thousand-year-old site offers a grand sense of spirituality and history. The temple’s sprawling layout, divided into three main complexes, makes it easy to imagine how vital it has been for Bali’s religious life for centuries.

Our guide explained its significance in Hindu tradition, and we loved the way they pointed out details like the divisions dedicated to the Trinity. Even in the busy day-trippers’ crowd, this temple exudes a sense of reverence and timelessness. The view of the volcano in the background is spectacular, and the site’s scale leaves a lasting impression.

Kehen Temple: A Hidden Gem

After Besakih, we visited Kehen Temple, perched on a hill and home to an enormous Banyan Tree. It requires a modest hike to reach, but the natural beauty and well-preserved structures make it worth the effort. The natural setting feels untouched, and the peaceful vibe offers an authentic glimpse into Bali’s spiritual life away from tourist-heavy sites.

Penglipuran Village: Bali’s Authentic Countryside

The final stop is Penglipuran Village, a beautifully maintained traditional Balinese village. Unlike the crowded tourist spots, Penglipuran feels like stepping back in time — with traditional houses, bamboo forests, and a sense of community. Tourists often comment on the village’s charm, though some note it can get busy with day-trippers from Java.

We loved how our guide explained the traditional architecture and communal lifestyle. The village’s well-preserved customs and absence of commercialization give it a genuine feel. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot perfect for photos and absorbing local culture.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The value for money is compelling — at $42 per person, you get a full day of guided visits, transportation, and entrance fees for key sites. Compared to private tours or multiple separate admissions, it’s a cost-effective way to see Bali’s highlights in a single day.

One of the main benefits is the quality of guides, who are praised repeatedly for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. As one visitor put it, “Mr. Guna was one of the best guides I ever had,” highlighting the importance of a good guide in making this trip memorable.

The comfort of transportation and the small group size make the long day manageable. The pace is well-paced, with breaks for photos and a leisurely lunch. The itinerary balances the must-see sites with lesser-known spots, ensuring you get both iconic views and authentic experiences.

The Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, some mention that Penglipuran Village can get crowded, especially with travelers from Java. Plus, the tour is quite packed with temples, which might feel rushed for some travelers. If you prefer slow, contemplative visits, this may not be your ideal trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience with balanced sightseeing. If you want to see Bali’s temples without the crowds and enjoy authentic village life, it’s a good fit. It’s also ideal for those with limited time who want to maximize their day — the full itinerary packs in a lot without feeling too rushed, thanks to the professional guides.

It’s especially suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, and photography enthusiasts, thanks to the scenic stops and storytelling. However, if you have mobility issues or prefer very slow-paced sightseeing, you might find the long day and walking involved a bit tiring.

Final Thoughts

This Bali tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s spiritual, cultural, and natural beauty. The combination of hidden temples, scenic rice terraces, and a traditional village provides a meaningful experience that goes beyond the typical tourist trail. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding value that makes the price well worth it.

With its emphasis on authentic sites and fewer crowds, this tour will appeal most to those eager to connect with Bali’s cultural roots. It’s a day of discovery, beautiful scenery, and engaging stories — a true taste of Bali’s soul, suited for travelers who appreciate depth and genuine experiences.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it is generally suitable for most ages, especially since the pace is well-managed and stops are not overly strenuous. However, some walking or short hikes, like at Kehen Temple, may require moderate mobility.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring cash for entrance fees (around IDR 250K for the standard small group tour), a sarong (for temple visits), and long pants for temple modesty. Bottled water is provided, but extra snacks or personal items are optional.

How long is the total duration?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, including pickups, sightseeing, lunch, and transfers. Exact timings depend on your pickup location and traffic conditions.

Are the entrance fees included?
Entrance fees are included only if you choose the private or small group tour with entrance fee options. For the standard small group tour, there’s an additional fee of around IDR 250K per person.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is included from multiple locations across Bali, including Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta, Jimbaran, Sanur, and Legian. Pickup from other locations is available at extra cost.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but is provided during the day at a location overlooking Mount Agung. The meal is usually straightforward but flavorful.

Will I have enough time at each site?
Yes, the itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with enough time to appreciate each site without feeling rushed, according to reviews.

Are the guides knowledgeable about Bali’s culture and history?
Absolutely. Many reviewers praise guides like Mr. Guna, Suru, and Bello for their extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling.

Is this tour good for photography?
Yes, the scenic views, temples, and villages provide plenty of photo opportunities, especially at rice terraces and panoramic viewpoints.

To sum it up, if you’re after a full, authentic, and well-guided day exploring Bali’s spiritual heart in a relaxed and engaging way, this tour delivers exceptional value. It’s a smart choice for culturally curious travelers who want to see the real Bali — and come away with more than just souvenirs.

You can check availability for your dates here: