Summary
Located just 10 minutes outside of Ubud in Bali, Goa Gajah is a significant Hindu archaeological site. Known as the Elephant Cave, its mysterious cave, relics, and ancient bathing pools nestled amidst green rice paddies draw tourists seeking a spiritual and cultural experience.
The entrance to Goa Gajah resembles a demonic mouth, symbolizing the entrance to an underworld, while some attribute it to the Hindu earth god Bhoma or the child-eating witch Rangda from Balinese mythology.
Goa Gajah was recognized as a tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, highlighting its importance to the cultural heritage of the region.
The History of Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah is believed to date back to the 11th century, with artifacts found nearby suggesting even earlier origins. The first documented reference to the site appeared in the 1365 Javanese poem Desawarnana.
Despite its historical significance, the last excavation took place in the 1950s, leaving many areas unexplored. A collection of relics with uncertain histories can be found in the surrounding gardens.
The prevailing theory is that Goa Gajah served as a hermitage or sanctuary for Hindu priests who excavated the cave manually. While recognized as a sacred Hindu site, the proximity of a Buddhist temple indicates its importance for early Buddhists in Bali as well.
Inside the Elephant Cave
Although it is a popular tourist destination, the Elephant Cave itself is relatively compact. Entering through the dark, narrow passage leads to an intersection.
The left passage features a niche with a statue of Ganesh, the elephant-like Hindu deity, while the right passage includes a small worship area complete with several stone lingam and yoni dedicated to Shiva.
Goa Gajah is enveloped by ancient Hindu temples that are easily reachable from major roads, enhancing the overall experience of exploring the spiritual landscape.
Visiting the Elephant Cave
- Goa Gajah is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- The entrance fee is around 15,000 rupiah, approximately $1.15.
- Visitors must dress appropriately; both men and women should cover their knees. Sarongs are available for loan at the site entrance.
- As an active worship site, visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting worshippers in the narrow cave. Refrain from photographing individuals during their prayers.
- Be prepared for minimal lighting; the cave has no artificial light sources.
- Be aware that the site lacks clear signage or English explanations. Those interested in delving deeper into Bali’s Hindu heritage should visit other significant temples in the area.
Around Goa Gajah
Beyond its religious and archaeological importance, the enchanting surroundings of Goa Gajah draw visitors in. While the cave can be explored in minutes, the lush rice paddies, gardens, and stone steps lead to stunning vistas.
Adventurous visitors often trek down the lengthy stairs into a serene valley, where a small waterfall and the remnants of a dilapidated Buddhist temple can be found. Here, ancient stones with intricate carvings are scattered throughout the river, gradually being reclaimed by nature.
Getting to Goa Gajah
The Elephant Cave is located just 10 minutes southeast of Ubud in Central Bali, Indonesia. Organized tours can take guests to Goa Gajah and other nearby temples.
Alternatively, motorbikes can be rented in Ubud for around $5 a day, providing visitors with the mobility to explore smaller tourist attractions around Ubud at their pace.
To reach the site, drive south of Ubud past the monkey sanctuary towards Bedulu, then turn left onto Jalan Raya Goa Gajah, following the signs directing you to Goa Gajah and other points of interest. A nominal fee is required for parking at the Elephant Cave.
