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Pura Tanah Lot is one of the most beautiful and famous temples in Bali. Due to its location on a huge rock in the sea, it is unique. Probably for this reason it is one of the most photographed temples on the entire island.
Pura Tanah Lot translates as Temple (Pura), Earth (Tanah) and Sea (Lot). This name is absolutely appropriate given the location. The temple is perched on a grandiose hill high above the ocean.
Pura Tanah Lot was dedicated to the god of the sea and is one of the most important temples on the Indonesian island. The place owes its foundation to the priest Danghyang Nirarta. The saint spent a night on this rock.
For this reason, the Balinese built a temple there. Originally, there is said to have been a bridge leading from the mainland to the temple, but today nothing can be seen of this bridge. It was probably destroyed by the strong tides over time.
In the temple there is also a sacred spring. From this spring flows drinkable fresh water, although the temple is surrounded by salty sea water. For foreign visitors, however, the temple is usually not accessible.
Where is the place of interest?
The Tanah Lot Sea Temple is located only 20 km from the capital. Due to heavy traffic on the roads, the trip by car takes 45 minutes. Denpasar is therefore a good starting point for a visit to the temple.
From Ubud, Tanah Lot is one hour away. Near Pura Tanah Lot is Batu Bolong Temple, one of the largest temples in the region. It is located directly on the sea and is also absolutely worth seeing.
What activities are available in Pura Tanah Lot?
The temple is a very popular photo motif. The temple looks magnificent from many perspectives. Depending on the position of the sun, the colors and mood change hourly. The temple looks most beautiful at sunrise or in the golden hour just before sunset, when the light becomes very soft.
On the mainland there is a small hill. From this vantage point you have a perfect view of the temple and the sea. Of course, at sunset there are many people on the beach, so the early morning hours are better for pictures.
The Hindu temple can be reached on foot only at low tide. Only when the water is low, you can walk to the rock. At high tide, small boats crossed to the rock. However, the crossing is definitely worth it.
Local rules of conduct
Certain rules of conduct apply in every sacred place. It is important to behave respectfully and peacefully at all times. The holy statues should never be touched, a polite distance from holy statues, stones or objects is always good. In addition, it is advisable to talk only quietly.
Clothing also plays an important role in a temple. Balinese people attach great importance to neat clothes. Women should wear long skirts and long tops. Head coverings are appreciated.
Short garments like shorts are also inappropriate for men. Basically, you should show as little skin as possible. Therefore, short tops or even bikini tops are absolutely forbidden in the temple.
Other activities in Tanah Lot
After taking a few pictures, be sure to go to the rock to admire the temple up close. However, access to the temple is allowed only to devout locals. The sacred spring is open to all visitors.
Guests can drink some of the water or sprinkle it on themselves. It is very polite to leave a small donation for it.
On the mainland there is a small cave Ular Suci, where a snake lives. You can visit this snake. A donation is also appropriate in the Ular Suci.
For whom is the visit to Tanah Lot suitable?
The temple in the sea is suitable especially for believers and culturally interested travelers. Of course, you can also take very nice photos here and admire the sunset against a great backdrop.
Info / Weblinks for further reading
Of course, the entrance fee changes every year, but it is around IDR 30,000. Most visitors stay in the place for 2 hours. You can visit the rock from 7 am to 7 pm. The access of the temple is reserved for the locals.
Tanah Lot opening hours: 7am – 7pm (if you are staying on the rock, then you can walk through the complex at any time).
Conclusion
Due to its unique location in the sea, the temple is one of the most beautiful religious sites in all of Bali. Especially in the morning hours and at sunset, the light shows on the sea are indescribably beautiful. Any traveler who wants to take some spectacular vacation photos will get their money’s worth here.
Address / Contact details
Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia
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