Brahmavihara-Arama Monastery
Bali's largest Buddhist monastery, offering a serene escape with stunning gardens and unique architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and cool
Brahmavihara-Arama Monastery
Best Time
Peaceful and cool
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bali's largest Buddhist monastery, offering a serene escape with stunning gardens and unique architecture.
"A must-visit for anyone seeking beauty, stillness, and a genuine cultural connection."
🎯 Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders & knees. Sarongs often available for loan. :dress: :pray:
⏰ Arrive Early or Late
Avoid midday crowds and heat for a more serene experience. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Serene Gardens
Monastery Grounds
Meticulously maintained gardens offering a peaceful escape and stunning photo opportunities.
The Grand Stupa
Main Temple Area
An iconic Buddhist symbol, radiating peace and spiritual significance.
Meditation Halls
Various Locations
Quiet, cool spaces perfect for reflection and experiencing the monastery's spiritual essence.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Tranquility: Best Times to Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders & knees. Sarongs often available for loan. :dress: :pray:
⏰ Arrive Early or Late
Avoid midday crowds and heat for a more serene experience.
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Pace
Allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the tranquil grounds. :walking:
💰 Entrance Fee
Small entrance fee (around 35k IDR) often includes sarong loan. :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders & knees. Sarongs often available for loan. :dress: :pray:
⏰ Arrive Early or Late
Avoid midday crowds and heat for a more serene experience.
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Pace
Allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the tranquil grounds. :walking:
💰 Entrance Fee
Small entrance fee (around 35k IDR) often includes sarong loan. :ticket:
📸 Capture the Calm
Beautiful architecture and serene gardens offer great photo ops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Brahmavihara-Arama Monastery for its profound serenity, beautiful grounds, and unique blend of Balinese and Buddhist architecture. It's often described as a hidden gem offering a peaceful escape from the usual tourist crowds. While the tranquility is a major draw, some may find the lack of extensive tourist facilities a minor point, though most appreciate its authentic spiritual atmosphere.
"This location is an absolute gem tucked into the hills of Bali. The grounds are stunning, meticulously kept, and radiate a sense of serenity that hits you the moment you arrive. The staff were warm and welcoming, adding to the calm, inviting atmosphere. What stood out most was how peaceful it felt. There were very few tourists, and those who were there moved quietly and respectfully, making the experience feel authentic rather than crowded. The temple provided not only incredible photo opportunities but also the rare chance to slow down and truly absorb the local culture. A must-visit for anyone seeking beauty, stillness, and a genuine cultural connection."
Sean D
"You don’t have to be Buddhist to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of this place.
It's a Bali’s largest Buddhist monastery, it’s not only a spiritual site but also a place of natural beauty and calm. Perfect for anyone who wants to take a break from the noise of daily life.
We have to dress properly here because it is still an active place of worship and spiritual practice. So please respect and don't make too much noises."
Christy M
"Amazing Buddhist temple, a hidden gem close to Lovina! Definitely have a visit. There’s an entrance ticket of less than 30k and 2k parking for motorbikes."
Piero Fioretti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brahmavihara-Arama Monastery is a short and scenic ride from Lovina, typically about a 20-minute drive by motorbike or car. Many visitors rent scooters in Lovina for easy access. Taxis are also readily available.
Yes, it's generally well-signposted and a popular destination for those exploring the northern Bali region. Using a GPS app on your phone is also recommended.
Renting a motorbike offers the most flexibility and is a popular choice for exploring Bali's northern attractions. Taxis or private drivers are also convenient options.
Public transport is limited in this region of Bali. Renting a scooter or hiring a private driver are the most practical ways to reach the monastery.
The monastery is located in North Bali, a significant distance from Denpasar (the capital). The drive can take 2-3 hours depending on traffic and your mode of transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very reasonable, typically around 35,000 IDR for international visitors. This often includes the loan of a sarong if needed.
No, tickets are usually purchased upon arrival at the entrance. It's not typically necessary to book in advance.
The monastery is generally open from morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the grounds.
Yes, as it's an active place of worship, visitors must dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. Sarongs are often provided.
There is a small entrance fee for international visitors, which is quite affordable and contributes to the upkeep of the monastery.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the beautiful gardens, admire the unique Balinese-Buddhist architecture, meditate in the quiet dharma halls, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. It's a place for reflection and cultural appreciation.
It's often described as a hidden gem with fewer tourists, especially if you visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends.
Absolutely. The monastery offers quiet and cool dharma halls specifically for meditation, providing a perfect environment for spiritual practice.
Yes, the monastery's stunning architecture, serene gardens, and peaceful ambiance make it a fantastic spot for photography.
To fully appreciate the tranquility and explore the grounds, plan for at least one hour. Some visitors may wish to stay longer for quiet contemplation.
📸 📸 Photography
The main stupa, the intricately designed gates, the peaceful gardens with their statues, and the serene meditation halls all offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally permitted in most areas, but it's always respectful to be mindful of those meditating and avoid intrusive shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful soft light, ideal for capturing the serene atmosphere and architectural details without harsh shadows.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to avoid using drones at religious sites out of respect for the sanctity of the place and local regulations.
It's best to ask for permission before photographing monks. They are often busy with their spiritual practices, and respecting their privacy is paramount.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good opportunity to introduce children to different cultures and spiritual practices in a gentle way. The entrance fee is minimal, making it an accessible outing. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to keep younger ones comfortable.
🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
You can spend hours here in quiet contemplation, enjoying the peaceful gardens and the unique blend of Balinese and Buddhist influences. The monastery is not overly crowded, allowing for a truly personal and reflective experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Architecture of Brahmavihara-Arama
The monastery's design emphasizes tranquility and contemplation. The layout guides visitors through serene courtyards and lush gardens, leading to the main temple areas. The use of natural materials and the integration with the surrounding landscape further enhance the sense of peace. It’s a testament to how spiritual sites can be both aesthetically pleasing and deeply meaningful.
Visitors often remark on the inspiring combination of cultures. The architecture not only serves a religious purpose but also tells a story of cultural exchange and mutual respect. It’s a place where the spiritual and the artistic converge beautifully, offering a unique experience for all who visit.
Experiencing Serenity: Tips for a Peaceful Visit
When exploring the grounds, move mindfully and speak softly. The monastery is an active place of worship, and maintaining a respectful silence enhances the spiritual ambiance for everyone. Take time to sit in the meditation halls, breathe deeply, and absorb the calm energy of the surroundings.
Many visitors find that simply strolling through the meticulously kept gardens, observing the intricate details of the architecture, and allowing themselves to be present in the moment is a deeply rewarding experience. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with oneself.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit