Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) | Bali

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) – In Detail

Location: Bedulu Village, Blahbatuh District, Gianyar Regency, approximately 6 km southeast of Ubud, Central Bali
Altitude: Around 200 meters above sea level
Environment: Surrounded by lush rice paddies, tropical forest, and the Petanu River

Historical Background

Origin and Dating:
Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, dates back to the 9th century, though some elements may have been added as late as the 11th century during the Warmadewa Dynasty period. It served as both a sanctuary for meditation and worship for Hindu and Buddhist monks.

Name Confusion – “Elephant Cave”:
The origin of the name "Goa Gajah" (literally "Elephant Cave") is uncertain.

It does not contain any connection to elephants.

Theories suggest it might be derived from 'Gajah Mada', a powerful Javanese military leader, or the nearby Elephant River (Sungai Petanu).

Another theory relates to the cave’s Hindu deity Ganesha (the elephant-headed god), whose statue is found inside.

Architectural and Symbolic Layout

The site includes both Hindu and Buddhist elements, reflecting Bali’s unique religious syncretism.

1. Main Entrance and Courtyard

The approach is down a series of stone steps, past a ticket booth and tropical gardens, leading to a large open courtyard.

Several ancient stone carvings, fragmented stupas, and Meditation niches are scattered around.

The courtyard contains two bathing pools with six stone female figures (nymphs) holding waterspouts-representing the holy water of life and purification. These pools were only rediscovered in the 1950s after being buried under centuries of volcanic ash and mud.

2. The Cave

The cave is carved into a rock cliff face, and its entrance is shaped like a grotesque face, possibly representing Kala or Boma, protective spirits in Balinese and Javanese mythology.

The open mouth of this demon forms the doorway, symbolizing entering a sacred inner world through a spiritual gateway.

Inside:

A narrow, T-shaped passage extends into the rock, dimly lit and often smoky from incense.

On the left is a statue of Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.

On the right are three lingam-yoni (phallic and womb symbols of Shiva and Shakti), representing fertility and cosmic balance.

Walls are blackened from centuries of incense and torch soot, adding to the atmosphere.

Religious and Cultural Significance

Goa Gajah served as a meditation cave, primarily for Hindu priests and ascetics. However, the presence of Buddhist stupas, reliefs, and statues near the river hints that it was also used by Buddhist monks. This makes the temple an important example of Hindu-Buddhist coexistence in ancient Bali.

The cave and its surroundings were part of a hermitage complex, allowing spiritual seekers to purify themselves, meditate, and worship.

River and Forest Trail

Beyond the main complex:

A path leads down to the Petanu River, where moss-covered stones, meditation caves, and Buddhist carvings are visible.

One structure is known as the Buddha Carving in the Rock Cliff, though now partially eroded.

A small shrine and prayer area exist in a quiet part of the forest, ideal for private meditation or silent contemplation.

This riverside area is less visited, offering peace and natural beauty, with towering trees, birdsong, and trickling water.

Practical Information

Opening Hours:

Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though the spiritual atmosphere is best felt in the early morning

Entrance Fee:

Approximately IDR 50,000 for adults (~$3 USD), less for locals

Includes sarong rental, though donations for offerings are appreciated

Dress Code:

As with all Balinese temples, modest attire is required

Sarong and sash must be worn (provided at entrance if needed)

Visitor Tips:

Watch your step – paths can be uneven and slippery, especially near the river

Avoid touching ancient carvings or statues

Be mindful of ongoing prayer rituals; parts of the inner cave may be active with worshippers

Visit during dry season for easier access to forest trails and better photography

Best Time to Visit

Morning (8:00–10:00 AM): Cool temperature, soft light, fewest visitors

Late Afternoon (4:00–5:00 PM): Shadows accentuate the cave carvings and surrounding reliefs

Summary

Goa Gajah is not just an archaeological site-it is a spiritual sanctuary layered with symbolism and history. Its dramatic cave entrance, sacred bathing pools, and blend of Hindu-Buddhist heritage offer insight into early Balinese religion and architecture. Beyond its carvings and sculptures, the serene jungle setting, hidden river trails, and meditative spaces give the temple a tranquil, contemplative atmosphere that remains alive more than 1,000 years after its creation. A visit to Goa Gajah is a journey into Bali's spiritual heart and ancient soul.