Indonesia is a country that is saturated with deep history and heritage, and the island province of Bali has the most unique heritage among the various provinces and districts found within the country. Indonesia is a primarily Muslim nation with a minor Hindu population, but the majority of the Hindu populace are located on the island of Bali, which contains various historical Buddhist and Hindu landmarks. Of these various landmarks, one of the most integral to both the people of Bali and her history, is the Goa Lawah Temple, meaning that it should easily be given a high-ranking position on your list of things to do in Candidasa.
Located a short distance from the luxurious Alila Manggis hotel, the Goa Lawah temple is consistently one of the first stops within tours of Bali. The temple was built in the 11th century by a priest named Mpu Kuturan, who was one of the pioneers of Hinduism during the earlier history of the nation of Indonesia. The name of the temple translates into ‘Bat Cave’, since the temple is built around a cave opening that plays home to legions of bats. According to local legend, an ancient Prince sought refuge within the cave in question and emerged from the other side, where the Besakih Temple is located. At the heart of the temple are various shrines and effigies of notable deities such as Naga Basuki, who is a mythical being resembling a Dragon that is known to keep the cosmos in balance.
An ideal time to visit the temple is said to be during the mornings since many people grace the temple to take part in a prayer ritual, creating a sight to behold, but if one would prefer a less congested time then afternoons are recommended. Just be sure to visit this wondrous place should you ever find yourself in Bali.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.