Beyond Bali’s beaches, temples, and rice fields lies another side of the island—one that’s mysterious, eerie, and oddly beautiful. All around Bali there are abandoned temples, hotels, and even entire airplanes. These forgotten spots have become urban legends, photo backdrops, and quiet reminders of the island’s ever-changing story.
- Taman Festival Bali
Location: Padang Galak, Sanur
Once envisioned as a Disneyland-style park, Taman Festival was abandoned in the late 1990s. Today, its crumbling theatres, moss-covered statues, and graffiti-covered walls make it a top spot for photographers and thrill-seekers.
Tip: Wear good shoes—broken glass and overgrowth are everywhere.
- Abandoned Planes
Bali is home to several abandoned aircraft, the most famous located in Pandawa Beach and another off the Ngurah Rai Bypass. Nobody knows exactly why they’re there—rumors range from failed restaurants to eccentric private projects.
Tip: Respect barriers; some planes sit on private land.
- Ghost Palace Hotel (PI Bedugul Taman Rekreasi Hotel & Resort)
Location: Bedugul
This massive luxury hotel complex was abandoned before it ever opened. Locals whisper about curses and ghosts, but the real mystery lies in its sudden halt during construction in the 1990s.
Tip: The site is monitored—visitors often slip in quietly but do so at your own risk.
- Abandoned Temples and Shrines
Bali has countless temples, and not all remain in active use. Some smaller shrines, overtaken by vines and moss, stay hidden off main roads and rice terraces.
Tip: Even if abandoned, treat them with respect—temples remain sacred.
- The Unfinished Statue of Garuda Wisnu Kencana
Before today’s towering Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue was completed, an earlier attempt left behind an unfinished version that stood neglected for years. While the new statue now dominates, echoes of the old project still linger in the area.
Tip: Pair your visit with the completed GWK Cultural Park nearby for contrast.
Safety & Respect Tips
- Watch your step: Many abandoned places have unstable floors, broken glass, or sharp metal.
- Don’t go alone: For safety and to share the adventure.
- Respect boundaries: Some sites are private property.
- Honor local beliefs: Many places have spiritual significance—don’t disturb offerings or graffiti over sacred symbols.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Bali’s abandoned places is like stepping into another world—one where grand dreams, half-built projects, and legends of the past meet the force of nature. These sites aren’t just spooky—they’re part of the island’s story, offering a very different perspective on Bali’s cultural and tourist landscape.
