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Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring - The Mountain of Lost Kings

  • shan157
  • Apr 28
  • 2 min read

Updated: May 4

Carved into the rock cliffs on both sides of the Pakrisan River, this 11th century temple site and funerary complex is of profound historical and spiritual significance to the Balinese people. The name Gunung Kawi translates to the "Mountain of Poetry" but it is also affectionately referred to as the Valley of the Kings.


Ancient stone shrines carved into a mossy cliff, surrounded by lush greenery. Peaceful and historic atmosphere.

This unique archeological site contains 10 impressive shrines (or candi reliefs), measuring some 23 feet. They bear stylised lingam & yoni fertility symbols, an abstract representation of the Hindu deity Shiva and his goddess counterpart, Shakti.



Constructed under the reign of King Anak Wungsu during the Udayana Dynasty, these carvings were made as a form of reverence to the deceased and a means of connecting the living with the divine.


Lush jungle setting with a bridge over a stream. A small building and cave sit amidst vibrant green foliage and towering palm trees.

These sacred monuments invoke the idea of gods and ancestors watching over the land, and represent the intersection of human ambition and divine will - a place where the past is carved into stone and the spirits of kings remain forever entwined with their land.



The true story behind Gunung Kawi will likely remain shrouded in mystery but some also believe that a renowned military commander with supernatural powers named Kebolwa, chiselled them all in one night with his fingernails. Regardless of their origin, captivating legends and long lost tales lend a mystical atmosphere to one of Bali's largest and oldest river-valley compounds.


Ancient stone structures carved into a mossy cliff, surrounded by greenery. The atmosphere is serene, with overcast skies.
Small caves dot the ancient walls, providing a quiet place for monks to contemplate & meditate

Another curious feature at this site are the "Hobbit Holes", small chambers carved into the rock face and believed to have served as ancient living spaces or mediation rooms. Although largely dismissed, they add to the mystical atmosphere of the site, with some believing they were used by monks seeking solitude or enlightenment.



Location : Banjar Penaka, Tampaksiring, Gianyar 80552


How to get there : The drive to Gunung Kawi Temple takes about 30 minutes from Ubud by motorbike or car. If you don't ride your own bike, a Go-Jek will cost about 250000IDR for 4-5 hours. You can visit other attractions on your way there or back.

 

Attraction Info : Open between 08:00 AM until 06:00 PM every day (except Nyepi / Balinese New Year). Admission fees 50,000IDR for Adults and 20,000 rp for children. Depending on your mode of transport, parking will set you back between 2,000 - 10,000IDR. It must be noted, the stairs to and from Gunung Kawi are a challenge, especially in the heat! There are over 300 steep stone steps, which can be demanding on those with mobility issues. There are plenty of small shops on the way down to this temple complex, so you can take your time and get drinks if need be.


Ancient stone temple with carved shrines in lush greenery, moss-covered, set against a dense jungle backdrop, small water feature flowing.


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