Elephant Cave? OK, our moms said no elephants here, so let’s see what is here.
Entering Goa Gajah or Elephant Cave
Walking past the shops, we are told that this was built in the 9th century and served as a sanctuary.
Path with steps down
Quite a long downward path with steps. But pretty.
Pretty foliage as we descend to cave
We love the colors of the plants. From the path, we have a good view of the area.
Looking down on complex
Stones are piled after being recovered in the area. Pavilions for meeting and prayer. We later read that these fountains were for women bathing.
Fountain of Youth
Someone told us these waters were to have fountain of youth properties, so everyone went to get some of that water. Soapy’s mom is getting water to remain youthful now. This is the entrance to the cave.
Entrance to Elephant Cave
Wow. The carvings in the stone are so elaborate and detailed. Inside the cave we looked at the alcoves for offerings.
Alcove for offering
Very nice, but we don’t know the real significance of these items.
Offering
There were about 8-10 alcoves. All was very interesting. Exiting the cave, we admired these items.
Part of religious retreat
This is a very quiet area and we were told may people come here to meditate. The pavilion provides a place for prayer.
Pavilion
We could spend more time here, wandering in this peaceful area. There are very few other tourists here now, so it is a pleasant location for meditating or thinking. However, it is time to walk back up that path with steps.
After cave shopping opportunities
And a little time for shopping. We have been fortunate in Bali. Most of the temples were not crowded during our visit. People are fine, but some quiet, peaceful time is nice on a long trip also. We are very happy in Bali.
Colorado Traveling Ducks 
What an interesting attraction
It was interesing. Large grounds were very tropical and peaceful. Nice day trip
Do you know why it’s called Elephant Cave if there are no elephants? It looks like a lovely place to visit.
Not certain about origins of name. One popular theory is the cave was named for the Hindu god, Ganesha. Ganesha usually has the head of an elephant. Others believe some of the carvings were originally elephants. Again, perhaps referring to elephant head of Ganesha?? It was a beautiful, peaceful place to wander around. Time spent there was wonderful. Tropical landscape and interesting stone carvings and statues.
Brings back memories of the time we were there. I remember we had to wrap a sarong around us before entering…is that still the case?
Yes. The sarong is still necessary if you are not adequately covered. Really was a great place to see.
You should have bottled that youth and brought it home! 😉 I would have bought a bottle!
I wish there was a fountain of youth. I would probably move just to live near it. If I could I would bring you some.