Goa Gajah

Overview

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) is a 9th-century archaeological site near Ubud featuring a carved cave entrance depicting a monstrous face, bathing pools with Hindu fountain sculptures, and ancient rock-carved reliefs.

Highlights

• Cave Entrance: The dramatic demon-face carving forming the cave mouth is unique in Balinese archaeology.
• Bathing Pools: Six female fountain statues spouting water into stone pools, discovered in 1954.
• Buddhist Ruins: A cluster of Buddhist rock carvings and niches on the ravine's opposite bank.

History

The cave dates to the 9th century during the reign of Balinese King Udayana. It was rediscovered by Dutch archaeologists in 1923, with the bathing pools unearthed in 1954.

Visitor Tips

• Steep Steps: The descent to the site involves steep stone stairs.
• Combine: Easy to pair with Tegallalang Rice Terraces, 15 minutes north.
• Duration: 45 minutes–1 hour.