Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot Temple is one of the nine major sacred temples in Bali, protected by UNESCO. Thousands of tourists visit daily to witness this amazing place.

The temple is built on a small islet separated from the mainland by the sea during high tide. It can only be accessed when the water is low, but tourists are allowed to wander only at the base of the temple. Entry inside is permitted only for Hindu worshipers.

According to ancient legend, the Tanah Lot Temple was built by the Hindu Brahman Nirartha in the 15th century. The name can be translated as "land in the sea." Nirartha was guided to this location by a divine light emanating from a spring at the base of the rock. Initially rejected by the locals, Nirartha, during one of his meditations, moved part of the rock into the sea using the power of thought. The spring still exists and is considered sacred. Its water is believed to have healing properties, and every Hindu considers it a duty to take a few sips. According to the legend, the temple is guarded by venomous sea snakes against evil spirits and uninvited guests. The presence of these snakes might indeed be true, as the coastal waters often harbor banded sea kraits, whose venom can be deadly to humans in a matter of minutes.

Not far from the temple, along the coast, there are two viewing platforms. Take a stroll to these platforms; splendid photos will be a great reward. Additionally, you will find small temples and numerous souvenirs there.

You won't have any trouble finding souvenirs here. The souvenir stalls on the approach to Tanah Lot occupy several times more space than the temple and viewing platforms combined. The paths to the temple lead through stalls, and they are arranged in a way to ensure that you visit as many of them as possible.

It's best to visit the temple at sunset; it can be very hot during the day. You can reach the temple by scooter, taxi, or bus with an excursion group. You can purchase a tour that includes a visit to Tanah Lot from any excursion agency.

The entrance ticket to the temple complex costs 60,000 Indonesian Rupiah.