With the record of being the most photographed and the most photogenic temple of Bali, Tanah Lot Temple stands tall and firm on the black rocks since the 16th century. Literally translating into “Land in the sea”, Tanah Lot Temple is said to be a work of Dang Hyang Nirartha, a Hindu traveler and a religious figure in Bali. Here’s more about our visit to this piece of heaven.
History bytes
This is one of the seven sea temples around the Balinese coast dedicated to the sea gods.
The large offshore rock has been shaped by the sea waves continuously for years. Resulting this, the temple’s face rock started to wear out, posing danger to the surrounding and inside potions of Tanah Lot. The Japanese Government in 1980 helped in conservation of the temple and offered an aid of $130 million for its restoration . The exposed areas were restored and parts of the rock temple are artificial installations, unknown to the public.
Around the temple
Like all other temples, public entry is restricted inside the temple. Visitors can roam around the temple premises and the temple cave. Tanah Lot offers a magnificent view of the sunset and the surrounding enormous ocean that washes the rocky banks with full might. The holy snake housed in the cave at the foot of the temple is said to be guard Tanah Lot from evil spirits. Seeing the snake is said to bring good luck. Well, you can see and touch it by buying a ticket at 50k IDR which they term a “donation”.
We made it to the Tanah Lot around 5:30 pm, just before sunset. You need to enter through the market place, passing by the colorful souvenir shops. Suddenly the street echoed with soothing music and got crowded with people dressed in traditional attire, carrying a palanquin or paalki. We instantly felt a divine connection while witnessing the procession.
Post sunset
The gorgeous sunset, the magnificent temple and the traditional procession were visual treats.
The long-distance that we traveled and spent lavishly on refilling our scooter’s petrol was worth the pain. Post sundown, the market street started to bear a deserted look.
We made a pit stop at an eating joint to have an early dinner, since we had famished. My growling tummy gave up and I refused to budge without eating. So much for skipping lunch!
Bali is a nonvegetarian food haven. For the veg-eating mortals, noodles are the safest option. We had a wholesome meal at Naty’s with veg noodles topped with egg, crispy fries, and banana shake. A smiling courteous staff, great food, and relaxed ambiance make Naty’s a “must try” in Tanah Lot.
With beautiful memories and full appetite, we rode back to our hotel, passing through the rice fields and crowded streets.
Though wearing a sarong is practiced at the premises, we did not see anybody sport it. Neither we were asked to tie one. We assume they ask to do that during the worship/puja time.
Tips to consider while visiting Tanah Lot Temple
Be dressed in breathable comfortable clothes, since the weather is humid and hot during the day. Carry water with you and be prepared for a long ride to and fro. The roads are literally jam-packed in the evening. Be patient, do not honk or shout when stuck in traffic in the narrow lanes. It is a common sight and locals are used to this chaos. All you can do it wait for the traffic to clear.
Location
Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia (20 km from Denpasar)
Best mode of transport to Tanah Lot
Hire a bike /scooter or taxi. A scooter is highly recommended for sightseeing in Bali. Taxis would get stuck in traffic.
Best time to visit Tanah Lot Temple
The best time to reach Tanah Lot is in evening. Reach after 4:30 pm to view the sunset and the religious procession leaving from the temple.
Entry fee
60,000 IDR (includes parking fees)
Entry fees to the cave of snake
50,000 IDR
PS. Our trip to Bali was in August 2017. If you need help in planning your itinerary, drop in your comments in the comments section below or write to us at [email protected]
