Private Chartered Car to Bali Temples With Besakih Temple

Traveling through Bali’s spiritual heart with your own private driver sounds like a dream, and this tour promises just that—a full day exploring the island’s most sacred temples, stunning vistas, and cultural highlights. While I haven’t personally done this tour, based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it offers a blend of flexibility, comfort, and authentic Bali experiences that many travelers will appreciate.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to explore Bali at your own pace with a private vehicle and guide, avoiding the rush of group tours. Second, the visits to iconic temples like Besakih, plus lesser-known sites, give a well-rounded spiritual taste of Bali. Third, the added touches like local dance performances and a scenic stop at Mount Batur make for a more enriching day.

However, a key consideration is that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget extra for tickets, which can slightly increase the overall cost. Still, for the price of around $58 per group, this is a highly flexible and value-packed way to see Bali’s culturally rich sites.

This tour suits travelers who want a personalized experience, enjoy culture, and prefer comfortable transport over crowded group excursions. It’s ideal for those with a day to spare and a curiosity to see Bali’s spiritual sites without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Flexible, private tour allowing customization of your Bali temple visits
• Visit four major temples, including the illustrious Besakih Mother Temple
• Includes scenic stops at Mount Batur and a coffee plantation
• Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with onboard Wi-Fi and bottled water
• Cost-effective for the entire group, with the attraction of personalized service
• Entrance fees not included—be prepared for additional costs

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from This Tour

This full-day Bali temple tour is designed for travelers who prefer a private, flexible experience rather than a crowded bus tour. The main attraction is the Besakih Temple, often called Bali’s “Mother Temple,” perched on the slopes of Mount Agung. Visiting this iconic site provides a sense of Bali’s spiritual depth and architectural grandeur.

Your driver (who acts as your guide) will pick you up from Kuta around 8:30 am, setting the tone for a relaxed day. The air-conditioned vehicle, equipped with Wi-Fi and bottled water, makes the journey comfortable—an important detail when you’re on the road for up to 10 hours.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Do

Stop 1: Cultural Introduction with the Barong and Keris Dance

Your day kicks off with a cultural dance performance—the sacred Barong and Keris dance. This showcase of traditional Balinese storytelling by dancers in intricate costumes offers a glimpse into local mythology and spiritual symbolism. Although the review notes that the admission ticket isn’t included and the duration is about an hour, it’s an engaging start to the culture.

Stop 2: Puseh Batuan Temple

Next, you’ll visit Batuan Temple, known for being a significant local village temple. It’s an ideal spot to observe authentic Balinese temple architecture and perhaps get a quick tour from your driver, who is known for his knowledge of local sites. With just 30 minutes planned here, it’s enough to soak in the peaceful atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Stop 3: Tirta Empul for a Sacred Purification Ritual

Tirta Empul is famous for its holy spring water, where locals and visitors alike participate in purification rituals. Expect to see people washing and purifying themselves—a profound cultural practice. The temple’s one-hour visit provides adequate time to observe, take photos, and participate if you wish, although entrance fees are paid directly on the day.

Stop 4: Mount Batur and Kintamani

A highlight for many, the scenic view of Mount Batur and Lake Batur at Kintamani is truly spectacular. The tour offers roughly an hour here, with time for lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the volcano. Reviewers mention the stunning vistas and the possibility of witnessing a local ceremony, which adds a unique touch to the experience.

Stop 5: Besakih Temple

The tour culminates at Besakih Temple, Bali’s largest and most revered spiritual site. Built on the slopes of Mount Agung in the 8th century, it’s a sprawling complex rich in history and spiritual significance. Expect around an hour here to explore, take photos, and absorb the majestic atmosphere. Be aware that entrance fees are paid on-site, and the temple’s size and beauty often leave visitors in awe.

Additional Highlights: Beyond the Main Stops

From reviews, travelers appreciate the scenic drives, views of Mount Batur, and the opportunity to customize the trip with your driver. Some even mention that their driver, Gutsi, was very friendly, helpful, and flexible, even suggesting they change the itinerary based on preferences.

You’ll also enjoy complimentary bottled water throughout the day, and the onboard Wi-Fi ensures you can share your stunning photos or stay connected. The transportation is private, meaning only your group is involved—no need to worry about strangers or timetable conflicts.

Cost and Value Analysis

At $58 per group (up to 5 people), this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the private nature of the experience. The price covers the car, driver, fuel surcharge, parking, and bottled water. The main expenses—entrance fees and activities—are paid separately, which allows flexibility in choosing which sites to visit and how much to spend on tickets.

Travelers have expressed that the tour is worth the cost, notably because of the personalized service and the ability to tailor the stops. One reviewer mentioned seeing more of Bali than on other tours, as their driver was very accommodating and knowledgeable.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Prepare for extra costs: Entrance fees are paid directly on the day, so bring cash for tickets.
• Communicate your preferences: Let your driver know if you want to focus more on certain temples or skip others.
• Wear comfortable clothing and respectful attire, especially for temple visits.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen for the outdoor stops.
• Timing is flexible—the tour runs about 8 to 10 hours, so plan accordingly.
• Book in advance to ensure your preferred pickup time and driver availability.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This full-day Bali temple tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, personalized experience without the hassle of navigating alone. It caters well to those interested in Balinese culture and spirituality and who prefer comfortable private transport over crowded group tours. It’s also ideal if you value scenic views, cultural performances, and the flexibility to customize your day.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the tour price covers only the car and driver. Entrance fees are paid directly on the day at each site.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Most drivers are flexible, and some reviews mention drivers suggesting or accommodating changes. Be sure to communicate your interests beforehand.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring cash for entrance fees, comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera for capturing stunning views and temples.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 8 to 10 hours from pickup to drop-off, depending on traffic and your pace.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but check with your driver if traveling with young children or those with mobility issues.

Will I get enough time at each site?
Yes, the scheduled durations are designed to give you a meaningful experience without feeling rushed, though you can request more time if needed.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour for up to 5 people, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

Final Thoughts

This private Bali temple tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, scenic beauty, and personalized service—all at an attractive price point. The flexibility to customize your stops, combined with the comfort of air-conditioned transportation and insightful guides, makes it an excellent choice for travelers eager to experience Bali’s spiritual side without the constraints of a larger group.

Whether you’re a culture lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing yet enriching day, this tour provides a meaningful way to connect with Bali’s sacred sites and stunning landscapes. It’s a solid option for those who want quality over quantity, with the bonus of a driver who’s as knowledgeable as he is friendly.

In essence, if you value comfort, flexibility, and genuine cultural encounters, this Bali temple tour is worth considering. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want to see Bali’s spiritual centers at their own pace, in style.