The demonic mouth of the incense-wafting Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave; adult/child 50,000/25,000Rp) is one of Ubud’s most recognizable sights. Its origins are uncertain: myth says that legendary giant Kebo Iwa sculpted it with his fingernail. It likely dates from the 11th century in the early Majapahit era and was probably named after the nearby Petanu River, once known as Elephant River – Bali never had the pachyderms.
Inside are fragmentary remains of a lingam, the phallic symbol of the Hindu god Shiva, and its female counterpart, the yoni, as well as a statue of Shiva’s son, the elephant-headed god Ganesha. Outside, two square bathing pools have waterspouts held by six female figures.
