Tanah lot temple: The most sacred temple in Bali, Indonesia
The beautiful island of Bali has always been famous as a Southeast Asian tourist paradise with its pristine natural beauty and architecture imbued with the cultural characteristics of Hindus. Bali is also famous for its extremely sacred temples, which are respected by many tourists and believers around the world. Tanah Lot Temple is one of the island’s oldest and most mysterious temples. Let’s explore this majestic and ancient temple today!
Overview of Tanah Lot Temple
One of Bali’s most famous temples, Bali Tanah Lot is well-known for its profound spiritual significance and gorgeous beachfront setting.
Tanah Lot Temple
Pure Tanah Lot temple location and significance
Where is Tanah Lot temple? Pura Tanah Lot Temple Bali is situated about 20 km northwest of Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia, on a rocky outcrop off the shore of Tabanan Regency. Encircled by the Indian Ocean, it presents an amazing vista, particularly after dusk when the temple is exquisitely outlined against the skyline.
When you stand on the beach and look out, you will see a total of two temples. Both are located on top of a large rock. One temple is located under the sea, on top of a large rock, and the other temple is located on a cliff. The temple built on that rock is Tanah Lot. The temple is surrounded by seawater every time the tide comes in. To get closer to the temple, you have to wait for the tide to go out.
The sea god Dewa Baruna is honored in this historic Hindu temple, which is significant to Balinese Hindus who visit to offer prayers for protection from malevolent sea spirits. It’s one of the most photographed sites on the island and is a link in a circuit of sea temples meant to shield Bali from evil forces.
Features of the temple
Tanah Lot Temple becomes completely isolated when the tide rises, surrounded by the open sea as waves crash against the cliffs, creating a stunning scene. The contrast between the blue sea and the black cliffs makes the temple even more striking. Many visitors prefer visiting at low tide to walk along the coastline and explore the 50-meter-long stone path leading to the temple, covered in black sand that adds a mysterious touch. Though crossing the path may be challenging, the reward is witnessing the breathtaking scenery and feeling the refreshing breeze and sound of waves.
The breathtaking scenery and feeling the refreshing breeze and sound of waves
The temple’s roof is made of black leaves, typical of the archipelago. Visitors can observe locals offering prayers and making offerings at the temple. During annual festivals, the temple is lively with men dressed in white and women in colorful attire, carrying baskets of offerings. They pray for a bountiful harvest and prosperity, a key part of Balinese Hindu culture. A must-see moment is during sunset, when the red sun sets behind the temple, casting a magical glow. This spot is famed as one of the world’s best places to watch the sunset.
Meaning of the name
The name “Tanah Lot” is derived from the Balinese language, consisting of two words: “Tanah” meaning “land” and “Lot” meaning “sea”. Therefore, the Temple is understood as “the land surrounded by the ocean” or “mother earth in the ocean”.
This is the main and most influential Hindu temple on the island. Local devotees here also call it “Khayan Jagat”. Tanah Lot is considered to be the place to worship the guardian deity of the ocean.
History of Tanah Lot Temple
Situated within 20 km from Denpasar center, the temple stands as one of the island’s most stunning emblems. Pure Tanah Lot Temple Bali is a seaside temple with a rich cultural legacy that dates back many centuries. Its distinctive architecture and breathtaking surroundings surround the rocky outcrop.
During the 16th century, the temple was constructed by Danghyang Nirartha, a Hindu priest from Java. One of the seven temples erected along Bali’s coast is Tanah Lot. Regarded as one of the most significant temples on the island, it is devoted to the gods of the sea.
A Javanese Hindu priest named Danghyang Nirartha built the temple in the 16th century. Tanah Lot is one of seven temples built along the coast of Bali. The temple is dedicated to the sea gods and is considered one of the most important temples on the island.
Legend has it that the priest Danghyang Nirartha happened to stumble onto the current temple’s location while attempting to convert Bali to Hinduism. Its beauty so captivated him that he gave the order to build a temple there. Bali Tanah Lot was once an island, but erosion and tidal damage caused it to fall. Later, on a bigger rock close by, where Tanah Lot now remains, it was reconstructed.
It is devoted to the veneration of the sea gods, which is a key Hindu religious practice. There are multiple shrines within the temple complex, each with special offerings and customs. Numerous priests who are in charge of providing protection and carrying out daily rituals reside there as well.
In addition, the temple is also associated with the legend of a sacred snake that Hindus always worship. Priest Danghyang Nirartha transformed his turban into a giant snake that stays and guards day and night. To this day, people always consider snakes as the guardians of the peace of Hindus in Bali.
Pura Tanah lot temple architecture and landscape
Tanah Lot Temple gate
One of Bali’s most well-known temples, Tanah Lot, displays the traditional Hindu architecture of the Balinese people. The temple, which represents Mount Meru, the center of the cosmos in Hinduism, is constructed on a sizable offshore rock and has multitiered roofs made of black palm fiber, a traditional architectural form known as Meru. The temple is surrounded by statues of deities and elaborate stone carvings that add to its regal and hallowed ambiance. There are additional tiny shrines to Hindu gods within the compound called Pelinggih.
Tanah Lot offers a stunning view of the surrounding ocean
Tanah Lot, which offers a stunning view of the surrounding ocean, is situated on Bali’s southwest coast. The temple appears to float on the ocean as the tide rises, casting an ethereal and mysterious appearance. The beautiful green cliffs, palm trees, and coastal vegetation that surround the temple create a dramatic contrast with the deep blue water. Tanah Lot is particularly well-known for being the best place to see the sunset when the setting sun’s golden orange rays give the temple’s silhouette against the expansive horizon a mystical glow.
Explore Bali Tanah lot temple.
Explore Bali’s stunning Tanah Lot Temple to experience its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
How to get to Pura Tanah Lot Temple in Bali
By bus
You can take a bus from any location in the city and go to a location where you can catch a taxi directly to the temple, but I recommend you not to choose this means of transport because the price will be the same as if you took a taxi from the beginning.
By car, motorbike
Many tourists also prefer to rent cars from tour companies in the city, for their convenience in moving around the city. There is a parking lot available here with a parking fee of 5000 IDR (about 25 INR) per car.
You can also rent cars from tour companies for your convenience. The parking fee at the temple is 5000 IDR per car. Renting a motorbike is also a reasonable option as the road from the center to the temple is very beautiful with the sea on one side and the forest on the other. Note that you need an international driving license because the traffic police can check anytime.
You can also rent a car from a travel agency for convenient travel. The parking fee at the temple is 5000 IDR per car. Renting a motorbike is also a reasonable choice as the road from the center to the temple is very beautiful with the sea on one side and the forest on the other. Note that you need an international driving license because the traffic police can check anytime.
Tanah Lot Temple opening hours – Tanah Lot Temple ticket price
Tanah Lot Temple complex is open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, the last entry is at 6:30 pm. If you do not like the noise, you should come early in the morning to experience the peaceful atmosphere at dawn. The afternoon time to watch the sunset will be packed, so you should come early to find the best position.
Tanah Lot Temple sunset
Opening hours may change due to religious ceremonies or some other special events. It is recommended that you check the main website in advance for the opening and closing times of the temple.
Starting from 2023, the Tanah lot temple entrance fee is 60,000 Rupiah (VND 110,000) for adults, and 30,000 Rupiah (VND 50,000) for children. All tickets must be purchased directly.
Shopping at Tanah Lot Temple
Shops at the Tanah Lot temple complex offer a wide range of products from traditional clothing and accessories to unique souvenirs and artworks. Many items are handcrafted by local artisans, highlighting the island’s rich cultural heritage.
The most popular item sold here is the sarong, a traditional outfit worn by both men and women in everyday life. These sarongs are made from light, breathable fabric and come in a variety of unique colors, patterns, and designs. If you come here, don’t forget to buy one to try on and as a souvenir to bring home.
Notes when traveling to Tanah Lot Temple
- The temple has a very important meaning for the Balinese people, so when coming here, tourists need to be respectful, and polite, and not destroy the architectural landscape.
- When entering the temple, visitors need to dress appropriately, not revealing, and not insulting the gods.
- The weather in Bali is hot all year round, with high temperatures and strong UV rays. Visitors should pay attention to sun protection to protect their health.
- My advice is to choose sports shoes to suit the terrain, to avoid causing foot pain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah lot temple
- What is Tanah Lot Temple known for?
Tanah Lot Temple is famous for its stunning offshore location on a large rock formation and its beautiful ocean views. It is also renowned for being a prime spot to watch the sunset.
- Where is Tanah Lot Temple located?
The temple is located on the southwest coast of Bali, Indonesia, in the Tabanan Regency, about 20 kilometers from Denpasar.
- Can visitors enter the temple?
While visitors can explore the area surrounding Tanah Lot and admire the temple from outside, access to the main temple is restricted to worshippers only, as it remains an active place of worship.
- What is the best time to visit Tanah Lot?
The best time to visit is during the late afternoon or early evening to catch the spectacular sunset. However, it’s also good to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- How much is the entrance fee to Tanah Lot?
As of the latest update, the entrance fee for Tanah Lot is approximately IDR 60,000 for adults and IDR 30,000 for children. Fees may vary, so it’s recommended to check before visiting.
Tanah Lot Temple is truly a source of pride for the Balinese people. Hindu culture has many unique things to discover. The temple complex not only brings visitors unique historical relics but also serves as a powerful symbol of faith and belief that has endured over time! At Vietnam Allure Travel, we invite you to explore this captivating site, where nature and spirituality come together in perfect harmony, offering you a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Bali.
Read more: Things to See and Do When Visiting Bali
