Goa Gajah, the Elephant Cave, is an ancient sanctuary in Bedulu village just east of Ubud. Its entrance is carved into rock as a fierce face, its open mouth forming the doorway, thought to ward off evil spirits. Inside, a short passage holds a statue of Ganesha and Shiva's lingam and yoni, while Buddhist carvings lie in the ravine below.
Its origins are uncertain. The site is variously dated to the 9th or 11th century, and it shows both Hindu and Buddhist imagery side by side. Dutch archaeologists rediscovered the cave in 1923, and the bathing pools in front of it, with their fountain figures, were excavated in 1954. The name may come from the elephant-headed Ganesha inside.
From the parking area, steps lead down to a courtyard with the carved bathing pools and the cave face. The cave interior is dim, small and smoky with incense. Beyond, a path descends through tall trees to a stream and the remains of Buddhist stupa reliefs. The walk takes in shaded jungle and the sound of water, a contrast to the busy road above.
Highlights
- Demonic face carved around the cave mouth
- Ganesha statue and lingam inside
- Bathing pools excavated in 1954
- Buddhist reliefs in the ravine
Good to know
- Wear shoes with grip, as the steps down to the ravine can be slippery after rain.
- The cave is small and dark, so wait for groups to leave before entering.
- Do not touch the carvings or the lingam, and leave any offerings undisturbed.
On the map
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