- Location : Indonesia, Bali Island
- Admission: 08: 00-18: 00
One of the main attractions of the Indonesian island of Bali is the Elephant Cave, or Goa Gajah (Goa Gaja). This archaeological monument is located near the small town of Ubud , near the village of Bedulu. This place has long been surrounded by a special aura of mystery.
How did Elephant Cave originate?
Experts believe that the Goa Gaja cave was formed in the 10th-11th century, and was discovered in 1923 by Dutch archaeologists. And since that time no one can unravel the riddles related to this place:
- It's unclear why the cave is called the elephant, because there were never any animals in Bali. Those elephants that drive tourists to the zoo, were brought from Java . Some archaeologists suggest that the Goa Gaja was formed naturally between two rivers, one of which is called Elephants. Hence the name of the cave.
- Another version of the name of the Elephant cave Goa Gajah is the statue of the ancient Hindu god Ganesha with the head of an elephant.
- Perhaps, the cave of Goa Gaja was named so because of the sanctuary located at the Elephant River. It is mentioned in ancient chronicles. To this place, which is in solitude, the believers made pilgrimages, and in the cave they meditated and prayed. This is evidenced by artifacts found in these places. However, these objects of worship could belong to both Hinduism and Buddhism, therefore it is assumed that believers of both religions came to the cave.
The Elephant Cave
Outside, the hard rock of the Elephant Cave near Ubud is decorated with elaborate drawings with images of elephants and other animals. The entrance is 1x2 m in size and has the form of a head of a formidable demon with a wide open mouth. This is the image of the god of the earth (according to one of the beliefs) or the witch-widow (according to another) takes all the doubts of visitors to the Elephant Cave and their evil thoughts.
Near the entrance to Goa Gaja is an altar dedicated to the Buddhist keeper of Harity's children. She is portrayed as a poor woman surrounded by children.
The interior is made in the form of the letter T. There are 15 different sized grottoes in which you can see curious ancient monuments. So, on the right side of the entrance there are 3 phallic symbols of the god Siva, revered in Hinduism. To the statue of the god of wisdom Ganesha, located to the left of the entrance, many tourists come. There is a belief that you must bring an offering to him, and the all-powerful God will fulfill your request.
Deep niches for meditation in the walls of the cave today, like many years ago, are used by local residents for their intended purpose. In the Elephant Cave there is also a large stone bath that served for the prayers of the worshipers. The bathhouse is surrounded by six stone statues of women who hold jugs with water pouring from them.
How to get to the Elephant Cave in Bali?
The attraction is 2 km from the city of Ubud, so you can get there from here to the shrine by taking a taxi or renting a car . Interesting will be a trip to the cave on a bike, which can also be rented. Orienting on the road signs, you will easily get to this archaeological site.
Visit Elephant Cave is available daily from 08:00 to 18:00.