Goa Giri Putri is a Hindu temple inside a large limestone cave in Suana village, on Nusa Penida's northeast coast. Visitors climb a flight of steps up the hillside and squeeze through a narrow opening in the rock, almost crawling, before the passage opens into a vast chamber lined with shrines. It is one of the most atmospheric sacred sites in the Nusa Islands.
The temple is dedicated to Shiva, and its shrines honor deities including Giri Putri, Vishnu and Dewi Gangga. At the far end of the cave, a shrine to Dewi Kwan Im, the Chinese Buddhist goddess of compassion, reflects a blend of traditions found in parts of Bali. The cave is used for purification ceremonies, and pilgrims from Bali come here to pray.
Inside, the air is cool and damp, and the light is soft. Priests guide visitors through the cave, and devotees in white pray at the shrines. The passage is narrow at first but opens into a high chamber, with bats roosting overhead. The experience feels very different from the island's beaches and viewpoints, and many visitors find it the most memorable stop on Nusa Penida.
Highlights
- Narrow rock entrance
- Vast cave chamber with shrines
- Shrine to Dewi Kwan Im
- Active place of worship
Good to know
- Leave large bags behind, as the entrance is a tight squeeze.
- Wear a sarong and dress modestly, as this is an active temple.
- A donation is expected, and a priest may bless you on entry.
On the map
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