Kehen Temple Bangli
A 13th-century royal Balinese Hindu temple with stunning architecture, unique porcelain inlays, and an ancient banyan tree.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Kehen Temple Bangli
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 13th-century royal Balinese Hindu temple with stunning architecture, unique porcelain inlays, and an ancient banyan tree.
"A breathtaking and culturally significant temple that truly captures the essence of Bali’s spiritual heritage."
🎯 Sarong is a Must! :scarf:
Always wear a sarong to show respect. They are available for rent at the entrance for a small fee.
🤫 Seek Quiet Moments
Visit during off-peak hours for a more serene and less crowded experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Banyan Tree
Temple Grounds
A majestic banyan tree seemingly growing from the temple itself, a unique natural wonder.
Intricate Carvings & Chinese Porcelain
Temple Walls
Marvel at detailed stone carvings and ancient Chinese porcelain plates embedded in the walls.
Royal Temple Architecture
Main Courtyard
Explore the grandeur of this 13th-century royal temple, a testament to Balinese architectural prowess.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity: Beat the Crowds
Cultural Etiquette & Local Insights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sarong is a Must! :scarf:
Always wear a sarong to show respect. They are available for rent at the entrance for a small fee.
🤫 Seek Quiet Moments
Visit during off-peak hours for a more serene and less crowded experience.
💰 Entry Fee Transparency
Be aware of potential unofficial ticket sellers; confirm official entry fees to avoid overpaying.
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the unique carvings and porcelain inlays for stunning photos.
Best temple to visit tomorrow in bali? Something in the city?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sarong is a Must! :scarf:
Always wear a sarong to show respect. They are available for rent at the entrance for a small fee.
🤫 Seek Quiet Moments
Visit during off-peak hours for a more serene and less crowded experience.
💰 Entry Fee Transparency
Be aware of potential unofficial ticket sellers; confirm official entry fees to avoid overpaying.
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the unique carvings and porcelain inlays for stunning photos.
🚶♂️ Explore Bangli Town
Combine your temple visit with exploring Bangli's local food scene.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kehen Temple for its breathtaking beauty, intricate architecture, and peaceful, less crowded atmosphere. The unique historical elements like Chinese porcelain and the ancient banyan tree are standout features. Some visitors note potential confusion or high pricing regarding unofficial entry fees.
"Pura Keren is a temple by the side of the road. There very few tourists when we visited thus it was not crowded. We got to stay and explore the place quietly and peacefully."
January Samson
"Pura Kehen 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Pura Kehen is a breathtaking and culturally significant temple that truly captures the essence of Bali’s spiritual heritage. 🛕✨ This sacred site is not only a stunning architectural masterpiece but also holds deep importance for the Balinese people.
The temple's intricate carvings and grand entrance are awe-inspiring, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail. 🪷 The lush surroundings and peaceful ambiance make it a perfect place for reflection and appreciation of Bali's rich culture.
Walking through the temple grounds, you can feel the spiritual energy and the strong connection the locals have with this sacred space. 🙏 It’s an amazing opportunity to learn about the traditions and religious practices of Bali.
📍Location: Located in Bangli, it’s easy to reach and well worth the trip.
💵 Entry Fee: Affordable, and it goes towards maintaining this beautiful site.
Pro Tip: Wear modest clothing and bring a sarong to show respect for the local customs. Visiting during a ceremony adds an extra layer of cultural experience.
Pura Kehen is a must-visit for anyone exploring Bali's spiritual and historical landmarks. Highly recommended for its beauty and significance! 🌴✨"
Tom Dobler
"Pura Kehen was the main temple for the Bangli kingdom. Built in the 13th century, this temple is quite unique compared to other temples in Bali. On the walls you can see Chinese porcelain plates, which shows that the Chinese already traded with the Balinese. There is also a banyan tree growing out of the temple, which is very interesting."
Jelly Tree
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kehen Temple is about a 1-hour drive north from Ubud center. You can hire a private driver or take a taxi. Scooters are also a popular option for independent travelers.
Yes, the temple is located by the side of the road in Bangli Regency, making it quite accessible.
Within Bangli, you can find local transport or continue using your hired driver or scooter. Bangli itself is known for good food and is near waterfalls.
While it's a longer drive, it's feasible as a day trip. Consider combining it with other attractions in the Bangli area to make the journey worthwhile.
Typically, there is space available for parking vehicles, especially for scooters and cars, near the temple entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there isn't officially an entrance fee, some individuals may ask for a donation or ticket fee (around 50,000 IDR per person). It's advisable to clarify if this is an official charge.
Yes, wearing a sarong is mandatory to show respect for the sacred site. Sarongs are available for rent at the entrance for a small fee.
Temples in Bali are generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience.
Visiting during a ceremony can offer a deeper cultural experience, but it's important to be respectful and observe from a distance unless invited to participate.
Advance booking is generally not required or available for Kehen Temple as it operates on a donation or informal fee basis.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful, especially in sacred areas or during ceremonies.
The ancient banyan tree, the intricate carvings on the walls, and the grand temple entrance are popular and photogenic spots.
Drone usage may be restricted or require special permits. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide beautiful, soft lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Absolutely! Look for the unique Chinese porcelain plates embedded in the walls and the detailed stone carvings depicting various motifs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically no dining facilities directly within the temple complex itself. However, you can find local eateries in Bangli town.
Bangli is known for its local cuisine. Look for traditional Balinese dishes. Ask locals for recommendations for authentic experiences.
It's generally advisable to consume food and drinks outside the temple premises to maintain the sanctity of the site.
Many Balinese dishes can be adapted to be vegetarian or vegan. Look for 'sayur' (vegetable) dishes or ask for modifications.
Ask your driver, hotel staff, or friendly locals for their favorite warungs (small local restaurants) for an authentic taste of Bangli.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making the visit interactive by turning it into a scavenger hunt for specific carvings or the porcelain plates. The peaceful atmosphere is conducive to a calm family outing. Combine the visit with a stop at a local warung in Bangli for a taste of authentic Balinese food, making it a well-rounded family adventure.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
The presence of Chinese porcelain plates on its walls is a significant archaeological detail, illustrating early international trade and cultural exchange.Take time to admire the intricate carvings and understand their symbolic meanings. The temple's architecture itself is a study in Balinese Hindu design principles. Visiting during a local ceremony, if possible, provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness living traditions and understand the spiritual significance of the site.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Don't miss the unique Chinese porcelain plates; their textures and colors add a distinct element to your photos. The grand temple entrance and the overall architectural grandeur are perfect for capturing sweeping shots. Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light to enhance the textures and colors of the temple.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Kehen Temple
Its architecture and design reflect a blend of Balinese and ancient influences, showcasing a rich past. The temple's strategic location on a wooded hill further adds to its historical narrative. It's a place where you can truly feel the echoes of Bali's royal heritage. One of the most fascinating aspects of Kehen Temple is the evidence of early trade and cultural exchange. The walls are adorned with Chinese porcelain plates, a testament to the long-standing trade relationships between Bali and China centuries ago.
The temple's construction also incorporates natural elements, most notably the ancient banyan tree that appears to grow from within the temple grounds.
Architectural Marvels and Unique Features
Beyond the porcelain, the temple's walls are covered in elaborate carvings depicting various motifs, offering a visual narrative of Balinese mythology and daily life. The overall design is imposing yet serene, inviting visitors to explore its sacred spaces. The peaceful ambiance, enhanced by the lush surroundings, makes it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and appreciation of Balinese artistry.
A truly iconic feature is the ancient banyan tree that has grown within the temple complex, its roots and branches intertwining with the ancient stones.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit