The Elephant Cave or Goa Gajah is an archaeological site of some significance. It is believed to date back to between the 10th and 14th centuries but more exact dates, much like the origin of its name, remain unknown.It is certainly a very dramatic place. You enter the cave through the mouth of a Kala demon head, with its distinctive bulging eyes, typical of many of these types of sculpture. There is a narrow passageway adorned with ancient inscriptions that leads to the end of the cave. On one side is an alcove, containing a statue of Ganesh, on the other is a worship area. Here you will find two representations, one of Lingham the other of Yoni. These are symbols of Shiva and female energy respectively.Down the stairs, and into the gardens, you will find the Pirtirtaan Pond which is filled with sacred water and is still used in religious ceremonies today. There is a series of statues of Widyadara – Widyadari angels at the edge of the pond signifying that the waters here are sacred.Whilst the cave is small, it is a highly impressive place as are its surroundings. Nestled in a valley with a cascading waterfall, there are beautiful tropical gardens and another Buddhist temple nearby. There are also rice terraces close by which provide a dramatic back drop to the whole scene.Situated near Bedulu village in Blahbatu district of Gianyar regency, the Elephant Cave is some 6 kilometres from Ubud. It is open daily and a small fee is charged to enter. There are tours available or you can access the site by car. There is free parking on site. You may opt to pay a local guide to take you round the area. However, if you prefer to do your own thing, the word ‘tidak’ or ‘no’ may come in handy, as these guides can be very persistent. Women should not enter the cave with bare shoulders and both men and women should wear a sarong. Sarongs are available to purchase from several stalls near the cave’s entrance.
Goa Gajah Tours and Activities
Visit Goa Gajah
Plan a trip to see Goa Gajah
Tours & day trips
See all 757 activitiesOpens in new tabAll-Inclusive Ubud Tour
Adventure & outdoor
See all 251 activitiesOpens in new tabBali: Mount Batur Sunrise Hike and Natural Hot Spring
Water activities
See all 106 activitiesOpens in new tabBali quad bike Quad Bike Through Tunnel, Waterfall, White Water Rafting
Wildlife & nature
See all 55 activitiesOpens in new tabBest of Central Bali: Waterfall, Elephant Cave & Rice Fields
Shows & concerts
See all 22 activitiesOpens in new tabAn Evening of Bali Traditional Dance
Reviews of Goa Gajah
4/5 - Good
A little bit out of the way. The cave itself is quite underwhelming but the rest of the grounds are a little interesting. I wouldn't both unless it was on the way somewhere.
Popular places to visit
Pura Samuan Tiga
Learn about the local history of Bedahulu with a stop at Pura Samuan Tiga. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
Yeh Pulu
You can find out about the history of Ubud when you stop by Yeh Pulu. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this romantic area.
Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets
You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets in Kemenuh. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this culturally rich area.
Peliatan Palace
You can learn about the history of Peliatan with a visit to Peliatan Palace. Amble around this culturally rich area's lush forest or seek out the cycling trails.
Agung Rai Museum of Art
This cultural centre boasts a museum dedicated to Balinese culture with a luxury resort and restaurant all set in a haven of natural tranquillity.
Museum Purbakala
You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Museum Purbakala in Pejeng Kawan. Make time for the temples and cycling trails in this quaint area.
Top Goa Gajah Hotel & Accommodation Deals
- Holidays and getaways similar to Goa Gajah
- Are there hotels near Goa Gajah?
- Hotels near popular Ubud Attractions
- Expedia's Latest Trends