Must-Try Foods In Besakih Temple (Bali) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Besakih Temple, Bali, Indonesia

Besakih Temple, known as Bali's 'Mother Temple,' is a place steeped in history and cultural significance. While not directly known for food, the history of food around the temple is intertwined with the traditions and religious practices of the Balinese people. Balinese cuisine is a complex mix of indigenous traditions, influenced by Indonesian, Chinese, and Indian culinary styles. Temple festivals and ceremonies often involve the preparation of specific dishes as offerings, which reflect the island's deep spiritual connection with food. Ingredients such as rice, spices, vegetables, and a variety of meats (excluding beef as the cow is considered sacred) dominate the local cuisine.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Besakih Temple, Bali, Indonesia

1. Babi Guling (Non-Veg) - Bali's famous suckling pig, seasoned with turmeric and other spices.
2. Lawar (Can be Veg/Non-Veg) - A traditional mix containing fine chopped meat, vegetables, coconut, and rich herbs.
3. Nasi Campur Bali (Can be Veg/Non-Veg) - Mixed rice accompanied by small portions of a variety of different dishes.
4. Sate Lilit (Non-Veg) - Minced seafood or chicken satay, mixed with grated coconut and spices.
5. Gado-Gado (Veg) - An Indonesian salad of boiled vegetables served with a peanut sauce dressing.
6. Tahu and Tempeh (Veg) - Soybean curd and fermented soy patty, often served fried or as part of other dishes.
7. Be Siap Sambal Matah (Non-Veg) - Chicken dish served with raw, spicy condiment called sambal matah.
8. Tipat Cantok (Veg) - Balinese salad made with rice cakes, vegetables, and peanut sauce.
9. Jukut Ares (Veg) - A traditional soup made from banana stem which is often a part of ceremonial meals.
10. Klepon (Veg) - Sweet rice cake balls filled with palm sugar and coated in grated coconut.

Top Famous Restaurants in Besakih Temple, Bali, Indonesia

1. Warung Baling Baling

   Address: near Besakih Temple, Bali

   Famous Food: Nasi Campur (Can be Veg/Non-Veg)

2. Resto Apung

   Address: Sidemen, Karangasem, in close proximity to Besakih Temple

   Famous Food: Sate Lilit (Non-Veg)

3. Warung Maha Neka

   Address: Besakih, Rendang, Karangasمm Regency, Bali

   Famous Food: Lawar (Can be Veg/Non-Veg)

4. D'Yoni Restaurant

   Address: Jl. Gunung Mas No.8, Besakih, Bali

   Famous Food: Tahu and Tempeh (Veg)

5. Restoran Mahagiri Panoramic Resort & Restaurant

   Address: Rendang, Karangasem Regency, near Besakih Temple, Bali

   Famous Food: Jukut Ares (Veg)

Note that while these places are known for certain dishes, they often have a range of items on their menus and can usually accommodate both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences, except for dishes that are inherently prepared with meat.