Private Chartered Car to Bali Temples With Besakih Temple

Discover Bali’s Spiritual Heart with Your Own Private Driver

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Bali’s most iconic temples and scenic spots without the hassle of group tours or rigid schedules, this private chartered car experience is a solid choice. For around $58 per group (up to 5 people), you’ll get a full-day journey that takes you from the sacred Mother Temple, Besakih, to the historic Goa Gajah, Tirta Empul, and even a glimpse of Mount Batur. The tour lasts roughly 8 to 10 hours, making it a leisurely way to absorb Bali’s spiritual and natural splendors at your own pace.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized approach. Your dedicated driver, Gutsi (or similar), is not just a driver but also a source of local knowledge, giving you interesting insights into Bali’s daily life and culture. Plus, the onboard amenities—like Wi-Fi and bottled water—make the long day feel more comfortable and connected. Another highlight is the flexibility to customize your stops, which means you can spend more time at the temples or enjoy spontaneous photo opportunities—something often appreciated by seasoned travelers.

A key consideration is that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to pay those separately on the day. This can be a slight inconvenience but also allows you to choose which sites to visit or skip based on your interests and budget. Also, it’s a transport-only tour, so if you’re hoping for guided explanations at each site, be prepared to hire local guides at the temples.

This tour works best for travelers craving a personalized, hassle-free day of temple-hopping and scenic views. It’s ideal if you want to avoid large groups, enjoy a flexible schedule, and value having a knowledgeable driver at your side.

Key Points

• Private, flexible itinerary allows you to customize your day in Bali’s temples and scenic spots.
• Cost-effective at $58 for up to 5 people, including private transport, Wi-Fi, and bottled water.
• Visit iconic sites like Besakih, Tirta Empul, Goa Gajah, and Mount Batur for a well-rounded cultural experience.
• Not included in price are entrance and activity fees, so budget accordingly.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly, English-speaking driver.
• Good for independent-minded travelers who want a relaxed, authentic day without a large tour group.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Flexibility and Personalization

One of the most appealing features of this private tour is the ability to design your own day. Unlike conventional group excursions, which often follow a tight schedule, this experience offers the chance to spend more or less time at each stop. Several reviews highlight how the driver, Gutsi, was both flexible and attentive, often customizing the itinerary based on what the travelers wanted to see. As one reviewer mentions, “He was willing to accommodate our wishes and change the itinerary for us,” emphasizing the value of a personalized approach.

This flexibility makes the tour particularly suitable for those with specific interests—maybe you’re more into the spiritual ceremonies at Tirta Empul, or you want to linger longer at Mount Batur for photos. The ability to craft your own experience ensures you’re not just ticking boxes but truly engaging with Bali’s cultural sights.

Visiting Bali’s Historic Temples

The core of this tour is the cultural and spiritual exposure offered by Bali’s famous temples. Starting with Puseh Batuan Temple, a village temple noted for its authentic local vibe, you get a glimpse of Bali’s everyday religious life. The 30-minute stop allows for some quick photos or a short walk around the grounds.

Next comes Tirta Empul, a site renowned for its holy spring water used in purification rituals. Visitors often take part in or observe the sacred bathing ceremonies—an unforgettable, visceral experience. The one-hour visit is enough to witness the ritual and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. As a visitor put it, “The temple and the ceremonies there are worth it,” reinforcing its importance on the itinerary.

Besakih Temple, also known as the Mother Temple, is Bali’s largest and most revered complex, perched on the slopes of Mount Agung. Built in the 8th century, it’s a sprawling site with multiple shrines, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors often find this visit the highlight, thanks to its grandeur and spiritual significance. One review states, “Besakih really is worth it,” emphasizing its importance.

Scenic Views and Additional Stops

Beyond temples, the tour includes stops at Mount Batur for a panoramic view of the volcano and Lake Batur. Here, you’ll have about an hour to enjoy the scenery—an ideal spot for photos or just soaking in the tranquility of Bali’s volcanic landscape.

A visit to a local coffee plantation adds a relaxing touch to the day, giving you the chance to taste Bali’s famous kopi luwak or other local brews. Many travelers appreciate this because it’s an authentic experience that combines culture with flavor.

Plus, there’s time allocated to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Kintamani, offering stunning views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur. Several reviews mention the good quality of food and the beautiful setting, making the stop not just a meal but a memorable part of the day.

Transport and Comfort

Traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially in Bali’s warm climate. The onboard Wi-Fi is a bonus, allowing you to share moments or look up information during the drive. The vehicle comfortably seats up to five, making it suitable for families or small groups seeking a relaxed, intimate experience.

The driver’s role is much more than just getting you from A to B—many reviews praise guides like Wayan for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to customize the day. The driver often shares fascinating insights into Balinese life, making the journey as enriching as the destinations.

Cost and Value

At $58 for the entire group, the price is quite reasonable considering the private nature of the tour, the vehicle, and amenities provided. However, keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll pay at each temple or site on the day. This is typical of private tours, giving you control over which sites to visit and how much to spend.

Travelers who’ve used this tour note that the value is high, especially compared to larger group tours that offer less flexibility. With the driver acting as a local guide and the ability to customize stops, you’re likely to get a richer, more personal experience.

What to Expect and What Not

While the tour emphasizes temple visits and scenic spots, it’s primarily a transport-only experience, so you won’t find detailed guided tours or in-depth histories included. Some reviews mention that the driver can switch up the itinerary, which can be positive for spontaneity but might also cause disappointment if you expect a rigid plan.

Therefore, it’s best to communicate your preferences beforehand and clarify that you want to stick to the itinerary if you have specific sites you want to prioritize. This ensures you get the experience you’re hoping for.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Bali temple trip suits travelers who prefer independent exploration with the comfort of private transport but without the hassle of planning every detail. If you value flexibility, personalized service, and the chance to skip crowded group tours, this is a great fit. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with a small group or family—up to five people at a very fair price.

Those interested in authentic cultural experiences—like participating in or observing temple ceremonies—will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want to see Bali’s natural beauty, including volcano views and lakes, alongside its spiritual sites.

Lastly, if you prefer not to worry about navigating Bali’s roads or waiting in lines, the combination of private driver and transparent pricing makes this a practical option. Just remember to set your expectations about entrance fees and optional activities.

Frequent Questions

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, the $58 fee covers only the vehicle, driver, and amenities like Wi-Fi and bottled water. Entrance fees at the temples and any activity costs are paid separately on the day.

What is the duration of this tour?
Expect about 8 to 10 hours, providing ample time to visit four main sites, enjoy scenic views, and have a relaxed lunch.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the driver is flexible and can accommodate your wishes. Be sure to communicate your preferences before or at the start of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the private vehicle and relaxed pace make it suitable for most age groups. Just consider mobility needs at sites like Mount Batur or the temples.

What amenities are provided during the trip?
The vehicle is air-conditioned, and you’ll have access to Wi-Fi and bottled water, making the long day more comfortable.

What if I want to see more sites or stay longer at some locations?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss with your driver about extending time at specific spots or adding extra stops, depending on your interests.

Final Thoughts

This private Bali temple tour offers a thoughtfully flexible way to experience some of the island’s most revered spiritual sites and stunning landscapes. For those who want to avoid large groups, enjoy personalized attention, and craft a day that suits their specific interests, this option delivers good value and comfort. The knowledgeable driver, combined with scenic stops like Mount Batur and Lake Batur, helps make this a memorable Bali experience.

While it does require some planning—especially concerning entrance fees and optional activities—the overall flexibility and private setting mean you’re in control. It’s perfect for travelers craving an authentic, relaxed, and intimate encounter with Bali’s cultural heartland.

To sum it up, this tour is best for:

Travelers who value personalized service and flexibility in exploring Bali’s temples and natural scenery. It’s an excellent choice for small groups or families looking for a cost-effective private experience. Those interested in authentic cultural encounters and scenic views will find this tour very rewarding. Just remember, the real charm lies in your ability to customize your day and enjoy Bali at your own pace.