When in Bali, don’t miss out on the chance to visit one of its most impressive and important temples, Pura Tanah Lot, or Tanah Lot Temple, an icon of Bali.
Located in the district of Tabanan, Tanah Lot can be found just north of Canggu, approximately 17 km or 45 minutes away from The Colony Hotel Bali. It’s one of Bali’s directional temples, which are the most important, sacred and holy in Bali also known as “Sad Kayangan”. These temples are typically built in the most auspicious locations such as the sides of tall mountains or overlooking the ocean.
Due to its unique offshore setting, Tanah Lot Temple is extremely popular with tourists and is a definite must-visit. It sits right off the coast, atop a large rock formation surrounded by constant crashing waves and breathtaking views. The temple is most stunning at sunset, making it a truly spectacular sight to behold.
About Tanah Lot Temple
This ancient temple was built in the 15th century, and dedicated to sea gods and goddesses of Bali. Just like all other historically major temples on the island, it comes with its own legend. According to ancient stories, the temple was founded by Dang Hyang Nirartha, a Hindu priest who was on a mission to spread Hinduism in Bali.
The legend goes that Dang Hyang Nirartha spent many years meditating and performing ceremonies on the site on which the Tanah Lot Temple was built. He faced resistance from the local population but persisted and overcame. It is also said that the snakes – which currently live in the crevices at the base of the temple – were once Dang Hyang Nirartha’s sashes which he wore before transforming into snakes to guard the temple to this day.
Why Is Tanah Lot Famous?
Tanah Lot Temple is a stunning Bali landmark. It is unique as it sits on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea some distance away from the beach. The name itself means “Land In The Sea” in the Balinese language. Surrounded by rough waves, it is impossible to get to the temple at high tide. Visitors and worshippers would wait for low tide before crossing the sandy beach to get to the rocky island.
At the bottom of the rock formation underneath the temple, you’ll find a cave with shrines and a natural water fountain from which springs forth clear, fresh and clean spring water. This water is used as holy water in all major ceremonies and rituals at Tanah Lot Temple and all homes and temples nearby.
The main temple complex is made up of several smaller pavilions and shrines and is filled with beautiful carvings and intricate sculptures including of the majestic sea serpent Naga Basuki. Feel free to explore the areas surrounding the temple, except for the inner sanctum which is reserved for worshippers and pilgrims. Remember that Tanah Lot Temple is a holy site, and visitors should behave appropriately and dress respectfully at all times.
Things To Do In Tanah Lot
If this is your first time visiting Tanah Lot, then you’re in for a treat. There’s lots to do in addition to exploring the temple. The area surrounding the temple and its shoreline is filled with shops, art markets, restaurants and even a beautiful garden filled with colorful flowers and fragrant frangipanis. Here in this garden, you could take a walk on pathways bordering the shoreline and enjoy the view. If you follow the path, it will lead you toward Batu Bolong Temple, another beautiful Bali icon that also sits on a rocky outcrop.
When feeling hungry or thirsty, just pop into one of the restaurants in the area for an ice-cold drink or your favorite local or international dish. These restaurants were designed for tourists so the menu would be vast with a wide range of options including fresh seafood & BBQ. Enjoy your meal with breathtaking views of the sea & temple.
Entrance Fee & Best Time To Visit
The entrance fee to Tanah Lot Temple and the surrounding area is IDR 60,000 per adult or IDR 30,000 per child from the ages of 4-12. An additional fee of IR 50,000 per person is required if you wish to experience the temple purification ceremony. There is also a fee for photography for commercial purposes. The temple is open every day from 7 am to 7 pm but is subject to change on ceremonial days or other special events.
The best time to visit Tanah Lot Temple would be early morning at dawn when it is cool and quiet with no crowds. Sunset is a very popular time to visit Tanah Lot as many tourists come to witness the temple outlined against the sky’s pink, purple, orange and gold. Bear in mind that it could get very crowded at this time. There are also traditional performances that take place every night. Speak to our concierge if you’d like to know more.
Getting To Tanah Lot Temple
Getting to Tanah Lot Temple is really easy. It is a famous tourist attraction so all drivers including e-hailing and taxis would be able to take you there. If you’re driving a car or a scooter, just key in “Tanah Lot Temple” into your GPS and you’ll be there in no time.
Once you get to Tanah Lot, you’ll find a parking space and a local market area selling all the typical Bali souvenirs, t-shirts and Bali dresses, art & handicrafts and local food & drink. Walk through the market area until you come to the shoreline and you’ll find the iconic Tanah Lot Temple.
Stay At The Colony Hotel For Easy Access To Tanah Lot
The Colony Hotel is a wonderful base from which to explore all Bali’s wonderful culture & heritage and this includes the Tanah Lot Temple. If you need help making arrangements, just speak to our Concierge and we’ll be more than happy to assist.
Book your stay now with The Colony Hotel for a truly unforgettable experience with prices starting from IDR 1,500,000 per night*.