Visiting the sacred Besakih Temple during a ceremony is one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Bali. Known as the “Mother Temple,” this spiritual complex sits on the slopes of Mount Agung and becomes especially vibrant during religious events, filled with prayers, offerings, and traditional processions.
During temple ceremonies (piodalan), the atmosphere is completely different from a normal visit. You will see:
- Balinese people wearing traditional attire
- Colorful offerings (canang and gebogan)
- Sacred rituals and prayers
- Processions accompanied by gamelan music
This is when the temple feels truly alive and spiritual, offering a deeper cultural experience beyond sightseeing.
Dress Code: What You Must Wear
To enter Besakih Temple, all visitors must wear proper Balinese attire.
Required:
- Sarong (kain)
- Sash (selendang)
- Modest clothing (covered shoulders)
You can:
- Bring your own attire
- Or rent it on-site (usually included in the ticket)
Wearing proper attire is a sign of respect, especially during sacred rituals. It shows your appreciation for the local culture and helps maintain the purity and sanctity of the temple. By dressing appropriately, you also create a more meaningful and immersive experience, allowing you to connect respectfully with the spiritual atmosphere and the Balinese community.
Entrance Fee, Shuttle & Local Guide (2026 Update)
Here is the latest visitor information:
🎟 Entrance Fee
- International visitors: IDR 150,000 per person
✅ What’s Included:
- Sarong & sash rental
- Local guide (mandatory in most cases)
- Access to main temple complex
- Insurance coverage
🚐 Shuttle Service
- One-way shuttle to main temple: included
- Return shuttle: around IDR 20,000 (optional)
🧑🏫 Local Guide
- Usually included in the ticket
- Helps explain history, ceremony, and temple structure
- Tipping is optional but appreciated
During your visit to Besakih Temple, you can also combine your trip with stops at Tirta Empul Temple and Kanto Lampo Waterfall. These destinations are located along the same route from Ubud to Besakih, making it a convenient and efficient one-way journey. This combination allows you to experience a perfect blend of spiritual cleansing, cultural exploration, and natural beauty in a single day, without the need for backtracking. Here the itinerary suggestion :
08:00 – Hotel Pick-up
09:00 – Tirta Empul Temple
11:30 – Lunch with mountain view (optional)
13:30 – Besakih Temple visit & ceremony experience
15:00 – Kanto Lampo Waterfall
16:00 – Return to hotel
Always respect ongoing ceremonies by keeping a respectful distance and following your guide’s instructions at all times. Avoid interrupting people who are praying, and do not walk in front of worshippers while rituals are taking place. Please also note that, according to Balinese belief, women who are menstruating are not allowed to enter the temple. Dress modestly at all times and ensure your sarong and sash are worn properly. It is also recommended to speak softly, avoid climbing on temple structures, and ask for permission before taking photos of local people, especially during ceremonies. By showing respect and awareness, you help preserve the sacred atmosphere and create a more meaningful experience for yourself and others.
