The Tanah Lot Temple in Bali is a tourist magnet. It has gone from being a place of tranquillity and spirituality to one of the most famous sights on the island.
The full name Pura Tanah Lot Temple is usually translated as Water Temple. Pura means temple and the words Tanah Lot literally mean land in the middle of the sea.
Facts
The temple complex is open daily from 7am to 7pm; after hours, barriers and gates block the entrances. On the other hand, if you plan to stay overnight, you have the opportunity to admire the temple at any time of the day. In addition, visitors staying overnight only have to pay the one-time entrance fee of IDR 60,000 (approx. 3,60€) per person to get to the hotel afterwards. Children between the ages of six and twelve, however, only have to pay half the price. Free entry is available for children under six. Local citizens only have to pay a third of the normal price.
The journey from Denpasar is about 20 kilometres, from Kuta 22 kilometres and from Ubud a whole 34 kilometres. Parking fees for a scooter are IDR 2,000 (approx. 0,12€) and for a car IDR 5,000 (approx. 0,30€). Besides, entering the site is possible without wearing a sarong, as you are not allowed to enter the temple anyway.
Tanah Lot
The sea temple is located on the southwest of Bali and is particularly revered; it’s one of the island’s national temples. Its function is to protect people from the evil demons that live in the water. At low tide, visitors can walk through the water to reach the temple. The temple complex could be reached via a few steps, but this is prohibited! You can admire the temple from the outside and have yourself blessed with holy spring water in a small cave underneath the rock.
On site, you have the opportunity to shop for souvenirs or eat in restaurants after entering the complex. In addition, if you walk along the sea, you will discover another small temple called Batu Bolong. The site of Tanah Lot is crowded with tourists, especially at sunset. At this time, however, you have the most beautiful lights to photograph the temple. Those who prefer a little more peace and quiet should set off early in the morning, as at this time of day the fewest tourists will be on site.
