Goa Giri Putri Nusa Penida – is one of the popular religious tourist destinations in Nusa Penida. This cave is one of the largest in Nusa Penida, housing a sacred temple within its depths. Located 150 meters above sea level and stretching approximately 310 meters in length, the name Goa Giri Putri is derived from the word “giri” meaning hill or mountain and “putri” meaning woman. In Hindu teachings, a “putri” symbolizes the strength of the gods. This sacred cave serves as a place of worship for the God Shiva, manifested in the form of a goddess characterized by her nurturing, protective, and loving nature towards humans.
1. Location and Route To Goa Giri Putri
Location
The Goa Giri Putri Temple is located in Suana Village, Nusa Penida District, Klungkung Regency, Bali. It’s a 20-minute drive east from Sampalan Nusa Penida Harbor.
Route to Goa Giri Putri
The route to Goa Giri Putri can be accessed using private vehicles, rental cars, taxis, or online motorcycle taxis. The route includes:
- Car: A roughly 30-minute drive from Nusa Penida, heading north to Jl. Buyuk Limo – then turning right onto Jl. Nusa Indah – Jl. Ped-Buyuk – Jl. Raya Batumulapan for around 4.1 km. The Goa Giri Putri Temple will be on the right.
- From Ngurah Rai Airport, visitors need to head to the pier and cross to Nusa Penida
2. Facilities of Goa Giri Putri
Situated in Nusa Penida, Goa Giri Putri not only holds spiritual significance but also offers amenities for the convenience of its visitors. Ensuring a seamless experience, the cave temple provides various facilities to cater to the needs of those who come to explore. Here’s what visitors can expect at Goa Giri Putri:
- Balinese traditional fabric (kamen)
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Food stalls and eateries outside the cave
- Souvenir shops outside the cave
- Nearby accommodations
3. Ticket Price and Operational Hours
Visiting Goa Giri Putri is not only an enlightening experience but also an affordable one. The details of the pricing and Operational Hours are as follows:
Ticket Price:
The entrance fee is IDR 10,000 per person. Parking costs IDR 5,000 for cars and IDR 2,000 for motorcycles. The ticket price includes the rental of the Balinese fabric (either a shawl or sarong).
Opeartional Hours:
The ideal time to visit Goa Giri Putri Temple is in the evening since it opens from 5 pm to 10 am. If visitors want to come in the morning, they can, but only on Mondays, opening from 6 am to 10 pm. Visitors also have to share the space with others who are praying during those times.
4. Access to the Cave
To enter the cave atop a hill, visitors need to climb about 100 steps from the parking area to reach the temple courtyard. Fortunately, shelters cover these steps, offering some relief from the sun. In the temple courtyard, locals manage a registration table where they ask visitors to sign a guestbook. Donations are welcome, and there isn’t a specific entrance fee. After resting briefly in the courtyard and enjoying the view of the coastline, visitors can buy bottled water. Before entering the cave, someone sprinkles holy water on the visitors. The entrance is narrow and only allows one adult at a time. After this tight passage, which spans about 3 meters, the cave opens up, and visitors can marvel at its enormity.
5. Meditation Space and Statue of Goddess Kwan Im
Meditation Space and Statue of Goddess Kwan Im
In addition to being a tourist and worship site, the Goa Giri Putri Temple has a designated meditation area. Right in front of the main temple inside the cave, stairs lead to an upper section where a naturally formed room is found. Only those who wish to meditate can access this area, and they must remove their footwear.
Statue of Goddess Kwan Im
The statue of Goddess Kwan Im in the cave indicates a blend of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. Many believe that Goddess Kwan Im blesses and brings prosperity, representing gratitude for harvests from the sea and land in Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. This temple stands as a symbol of the peaceful coexistence of Balinese Hindu beliefs, which is why Hindu worshippers often pray at the statue of Goddess Kwan Im.
6. Tips for Visiting the Goa Giri Putri Temple in Nusa Penida
Here are some tips for those planning to visit:
- It’s advisable to avoid visiting on major religious holidays. Prior inquiries can be made through friends, tour operators, or accommodations in Nusa Penida.
- Like all temples in Bali, menstruating women are not allowed to enter the temple premises.
- Comfortable footwear, preferably shoes, is recommended, especially when entering the cave.
If visiting with children, they might find the dimly lit cave unsettling. Holding or accompanying them closely is advised, but using strollers is not recommended inside the cave. Using carriers might be more practical.
7. Where To Stay at Nusa Penida
After experiencing the enchanting Goa Giri Putri Nusa Penida, consider a relaxing stay at Abasan Hill. Both offer supreme comfort and luxury, positioning you amidst the island’s natural splendor and additional intriguing sites. Immerse deeper into the serenity and richness of Nusa Penida!
Experience more, relax more, and discover the hidden gems of Bali’s awe-inspiring island.
Conclusion - Goa Giri Putri Nusa Penida
In conclusion, Goa Giri Putri in Nusa Penida beautifully marries natural splendor with deep spiritual significance. Accessible through a mystical narrow entrance atop a hill, the cave exemplifies the region’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing a harmonious blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. With amenities ensuring visitor comfort and its unparalleled spiritual ambiance, Goa Giri Putri stands as a must-visit destination in Bali, offering a profound experience for both the soul and senses..
Read more article about Nusa Penida Bali Indonesia:
