Cave Temple

Wow, just wow.

I'm sorry, yesterday was amazing to see the 'insta' spots of the island, but this is a thousand times better.

I woke a little later this morning and headed for breakky. It was still earlier than anyone else and literally nothing was open except one 'western' cafe. So I got a basic omelette and bread because I'm not sure how much I trusted the rest of the food. Then hired a bike from my hostel, a definite upgrade from the one in Ubud and set off.

I had done my research like usual, so knew about this place and how few people go. And I was right. The entire cave was massive and empty of visitors. The only people inside where those there for prayer. I only took one photo inside as I did not want to disturb the proceedings and I did check was a custodian (I'm not quite sure what his role was) if I could before I did. I doubt I had too as he was very nice but I wanted to check. I felt it would be disrespectful otherwise and I didnt want to be 'that' tourist.

The cave was beyond massive. A good three stories highly and probably 100m wide in places. It could have fit a few thousand people comfortably and many more of squished. There was a secondary level but they requested no tourists there so I simply watched their procession up and could hear the prayers from within.

Inside it was pitch black beyond the occasional light bulb and candle. Alone, I am finding I am very good at getting the feelings of places and people. The mosre time I spend alone, better I am. But this place needed no skills, you could feel the power from the moment you walked in. The mix of nature and human dedication created an almost electric current within. You could feel the gods presence in the chambers, it was incredible.

My route to the temple took me along the north coast of the island and it is amazing. Crystal clear water and the sun was bright enough to allow a view all the way to Bali on the left, and Lombok on the right. Beautiful. I had to stop because I kept looking at it rather then the road!Läs mer