Goa Gala-Gala, Nusa Lembongan: The Underground House Dug by Hand Over 15 Years

Behind the narrow lanes and seaweed plots of Jungutbatu village on Nusa Lembongan hides a house built entirely underground. Goa Gala-Gala is not a natural cave — it was dug by hand by a local man named Mangku Byasa (also known as Made Byasa), a Hindu priest and shadow-puppet master. He worked alone for roughly 15 years, from the early 1960s to the mid-1970s, with little more than a crowbar. His inspiration came from the Mahabharata: the Pandavas hiding inside the Gala-Gala palace.

What You See Underground

• A warren of tunnels covering around 500 square metres, dug to roughly 7 metres below the surface.
• Small chambers that were genuinely lived in: a meditation room, bedroom, guest room, kitchen and a well.
• Seven entrances plus several ventilation shafts that bring in both air and shafts of natural light.
• Chisel-marked limestone walls and low ceilings — expect to duck often.

Tips Before You Go Down

• Bring a small torch or rely on your phone light; there are lamps inside, but the light is limited.
• Wear closed shoes or non-slip sandals and light clothing.
• The passages are tight and low. Not ideal if you are claustrophobic, broad-built or very tall.
• Come in the morning or late afternoon — midday air inside feels stuffy.
• Carry cash, and pack a sarong or sash just in case.

Access & How Long to Stay

• About 2.5 km from Jungutbatu pier, roughly 8–10 minutes by scooter; around 1.5 km from Mushroom Bay.
• The entrance sits just a few dozen metres off the Jungutbatu–Lembongan main road, so there is no trekking involved.
• Exploring usually takes 20–40 minutes — an easy add-on before or after Devil's Tear and Dream Beach.

Practical Info & Booking

• Location: View on Google Maps — Jungutbatu village, Nusa Lembongan, Klungkung.
• Booking: none needed. Just turn up and pay at the small gate, or visit as part of a Lembongan island tour sold by local operators.
• Opening hours: generally daily, roughly 08:00–17:00; hours can shift, so avoid arriving late in the day.
• Tickets: around Rp20,000–Rp50,000 per person, cash only. A tip for the local guide is much appreciated.
• Social: search on Instagram

If you are planning to stay on Lembongan or in Sanur to explore the three Nusa islands at a slower pace, check the AccessiaPass hotel vouchers first so more of your budget can go towards experiences as singular as this one.