KLUNGKUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – Visitors heading to Nusa Penida are increasingly drawn to Goa Giri Putri Temple, a distinctive spiritual site known for its narrow cave entrance and expansive interior used for prayer and purification rituals.
Located in Karangsari Traditional Village, the temple sits inside a natural cave with an entrance so small that visitors must enter one by one. Inside, however, the space opens into a large chamber stretching up to 280 meters, creating a unique setting for worship and cultural exploration.
The site is not only a place of prayer but also offers a traditional melukat ritual, a Balinese purification practice believed to cleanse the body and mind from negative influences.
“If tourists visit Nusa Penida, this location is highly recommended. It is very unique, with a temple inside a cave,” said Ida Ayu Indah Yustikarini from Bali’s Tourism Office.
According to local authorities, the temple receives an average of 25 international visitors and around 15 domestic tourists per day.
Visitors are not charged an entrance fee but are expected to make a voluntary donation. As a sacred site, all visitors must wear a sarong and sash, which can be rented at the parking area.
The temple has been open to the public since 2007 and is accessible daily. However, visitors should be aware of local customs and ceremonial schedules, especially during major religious events such as Purnama Kelima, when temple activities may be more crowded.
Before entering the main prayer areas, visitors typically pass several shrines and may participate in the melukat ritual at a designated water source inside the cave.
The temple complex includes multiple shrines dedicated to various deities, reflecting a blend of Hindu and cultural influences. The main shrine, located within a cave wall chamber, is considered the spiritual center of the site.
Authorities advise visitors to respect local traditions, follow dress codes, and remain cautious when entering the narrow cave access.
The unique structure and spiritual significance of Goa Giri Putri make it one of Nusa Penida’s notable destinations, particularly for those seeking cultural and religious experiences.