TANAH LOT TEMPLE

TANAH LOT TEMPLE IS BALINESE HINDU SEA TEMPLE OR KNOWN AS FLOATING TEMPLE WHICH IS BUILT ON THE ROCK 3 ACRE SIZE IN THE SEA

Tanah Lot Temple is located on the rural coast of Beraban, Kediri District, Tabanan Regency. It is about 30 km west of Denpasar city and 11 km south of Tabanan city. Tanah Lot Temple is built on a 3-hectare rock and can be reached in just a few minutes on foot from the beachfront, as it is only 20 meters away. The temple is known as a famous tourist destination in Bali, especially for watching the spectacular sunset. Around Tanah Lot Temple, there are coral reefs that beautify the natural scenery. This natural beauty makes Tanah Lot Temple one of Tabanan places of interest on Bali Island. It is always crowded with tourists, both foreign and domestic, every day. Many tourists are very enthusiastic to see the uniqueness and beauty of Tanah Lot Temple, which is so phenomenal that it is famous in foreign countries.

If you visit Tanah Lot Temple, here’s what you need to know :

• Location of Tanah Lot Temple
• Tanah Lot Temple Popular Tourim Site
• Meaning Word Tanah Lot
• Tanah Lot Temple History
• The Uniqueness of Tanah Lot Temple
• Holy Snakes at Tanah Lot Temple
• Holy Water at Tanah Lot Temple
• Function Tanah Lot Temple
• Batu Bolong Temple at Tanah Lot
• Why is it called Batu Bolong
• The Uniqueness of Batu Bolong Temple
• Tanah Lot Temple Dress Code
• Facilities at Tanah Lot Temple
• Best Time to Visit Tanah Lot Temple

Location of Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot Temple Popular Tourim Site

Bali Island is well-known as an extraordinary vacation destination, with many interesting attractions that provide a special experience for tourists. Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most popular tourist destinations, both for foreign and domestic tourists. The beautiful scenery always leaves a deep impression on visitors, making Tanah Lot Temple a major tourist destination on the island of Bali, in addition to Uluwatu Temple, which is also very popular on this island. Tanah Lot Temple, which stands majestically on a rock by the beach, is the main attraction. At high tide, the temple looks like it is floating in the ocean, providing a unique experience for visitors. This feature is the main reason why this place is so popular with tourists. In addition, the sunset process at Tanah Lot Temple is also a very interesting attraction, often the highlight of the visit for tourists who want to admire the spectacular natural beauty. So, when you are on Bali Island, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Tanah Lot Temple and enjoy the uniqueness and beauty of the sunset.

Meaning Word Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot contains the meaning of two words: “Tanah” which refers to a reef that resembles a gili or small island, and “Lot” or “Lod” which means sea. So, Tanah Lot literally means a small island floating in the sea. The place now known as Tanah Lot has been considered sacred since the Megalithic era, as evidenced by the presence of menhirs there. In keeping with its surroundings, Tanah Lot Temple is built on an irregular coral plain, with only one flat courtyard called Jeroan. The main difference between Tanah Lot Temple and other temples on Bali Island is the courtyard, which is constructed on a coral plain with irregular corners. Within the temple complex, there are multi-level sacred structures that follow the basic complex Balinese design, with the number of levels symbolizing deep belief. There are also other formations in the area that show archaeological value in addition to high religious value. This temple on the sea holds a ritual or ceremony every 6 months, or 210 days, where Hindus from all over Bali gather to worship in peace and harmony.

Tanah Lot Temple History

According to legend, the history of Tanah Lot Temple dates back to the 15th century, when Bhagawan Dang Hyang Nirartha, also known as Dang Hyang Dwijendra, embarked on a mission to spread Hinduism from Java to Bali. At the time, the ruler of Bali was King Dalem Waturenggong, who warmly welcomed the arrival of Dang Hyang Nirartha on his mission, who then successfully spread Hinduism to remote villages on the island. One day, Dang Hyang Nirartha saw a holy light from the southern sea of Bali. He then searched for the source of the light and arrived at a beach in a village called Beraban Tabanan. The village was led by Bendesa Beraban Sakti, who opposed the Hindu teachings spread by Dang Hyang Nirartha because of their monotheism. Dang Hyang Nirartha performed tapa on a rock that resembled a parrot that was originally on land.

Bendesa Beraban tried to evict Dang Hyang Nirartha from his meditation place in various ways. However, Dang Hyang Nirartha moved the rock where he meditated to the center of the beach with spiritual power so that he would not be disturbed by Bendesa Beraban. This rock became known as Tanah Lot, which means a rock in the middle of the ocean. This incident made Bendesa Beraban Sakti recognize the supernatural power of Dang Hyang Nirartha and embrace Hinduism along with the local people. Tanah Lot Temple was then built and guarded by a temple guard made from Dang Hyang Nirartha’s poleng shawl, which turned into a sea horse or lipi poleng (black-and-white snake). Before leaving Beraban Village, Dang Hyang Nirartha gave a kris to the village head of Beraban, who has the power to cure plant diseases. The kris is kept at Puri Kediri, and religious ceremonies are held at Tanah Lot Temple every six months. This routine improves the welfare of the people with abundant agricultural produce and a life full of mutual respect in Beraban village.

We can still see the snakes that turn into real snakes, which are believed to be the guardians of Tanah Lot Temple, protecting it from evil and damage. It is said that if there is a disaster or natural disaster, this snake will give a sign through the appearance of the king or queen of the red sea snake. In addition, under the temple there is also a fresh water spring that is said to have a youthful effect. You can ask for the water in the western part of Tanah Lot Temple. The last myth says that if unmarried couples visit this temple, their relationship will not last long. That is why many unmarried couples are afraid to visit this temple and believe the myth.

The Uniqueness of Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot Temple not only offers natural beauty, such as sunsets, but also has a uniqueness that is only owned by this temple. One such uniqueness is its unique location, where Tanah Lot Temple stands on a rock. When the sea water is rising, the temple looks as if it is floating in the ocean, creating an incredible view. This uniqueness can be enjoyed at certain times, especially when the sea water rises before the full moon (Purnama). In addition to its physical beauty by the beach, Tanah Lot Temple also has a mystical aura that is highly respected by the local residents. In front of the temple, there is a sacred snake that is believed to have spiritual powers, and there is also holy water stored under a rock.

Holy Snakes at Tanah Lot Temple

One of the unique attractions around Tanah Lot Temple is the presence of several caves across the road where several black and white sea snakes live. Although this snake is commonly found in coastal areas, it has a unique characteristic where its abdomen has no scales and only small skin. Although these sea snakes are considered dangerous, bites are rare due to their passive nature. They are considered benign and are revered as guardians that protect the entire surrounding area from unseen negative forces. According to the stories of the local guardians, these sacred snakes have an important role in guarding Tanah Lot Temple from negative influences, so they are highly respected by the local community as the spiritual guardians of the temple area.

Holy Water at Tanah Lot Temple

The Holy Water just below the Tanah Lot Temple is a unique attraction, located on top of a rock in a small cave that holds a source of fresh water that continues to flow. Despite being on the beach, this freshwater spring is special and respected by the local community. This holy water is believed to have the ability to cleanse negativity from the body and provide deep inner peace. A splash of this holy water is also believed to bring sustenance to those who drink it. This holy water spot is well guarded by Tanah Lot priests to ensure its sanctity. When the water is large enough, visitors can visit this place to experience its uniqueness and efficacy. Asking for holy water to drink or sprinkle on the head is believed to give a sense of comfort and calmness and cleanse oneself from negativity.

Function Tanah Lot Temple

The main function of this temple is reflected in the function of the main temple building located in the main area of the temple. Here, the main temple is used to worship Lord Baruna, or Bhatara Segara, who is the ruler of the sea. The worship of this deity is done through the 5-story temple building, while the 3-story temple building in the northern part of this area is dedicated to worshiping Dang Hyang Nirartha.

The status of Tanah Lot Temple can be understood through the history of the temple, its function, and the presence of devotees who visit the temple to pray during ceremonies. This can be explained as follows:

• Tanah Lot Temple is considered one of the dang Kahyangan (large sacred temples in Bali) because it was founded by Penyiwi (people who take care of the temple) who came from the local community and the surrounding area, according to its history.
• Tanah Lot Temple is classified as a Segara Temple because its purpose is to be a sacred place to honor Bhatara Segara, the God who is considered the Lord of the Ocean.

Tanah Lot Temple, with all the myths surrounding it since its establishment, remains one of the main tourism icons on the island of Bali. For those of you interested in a memorable religious tour, a visit while performing rituals and taking part in the Tanah Lot Spectacular themed event will make your experience on the Island of the Gods even more memorable.

Batu Bolong Temple at Tanah Lot

There is an interesting temple located very close to Tanah Lot Temple, just a 5-minute walk from Tanah Lot Temple. This temple is known as Batu Bolong Temple, which is unique in that it is on top of a cliff with a hole in the center that allows sea water to enter. The view is truly spectacular. Many tourists choose to visit Batu Bolong Temple first before Tanah Lot Temple. However, the two are still one and the same, as evidenced by the ceremonies held simultaneously at Tanah Lot and Batu Bolong, especially on Budda Wage/Cemeng Langkir day. Batu Bolong Temple was established as a place to worship the God of Purity and is often used for Melasti and Pakelem ceremonies, which aim to cleanse the world of negative energy.

Why is it called Batu Bolong

This stone hole is named after the location of the temple, which stands on a cliff about 30 meters long with a hole below that can be reached by sea water. If you are afraid of heights, it is advisable not to visit this place, as access to the temple involves a narrow path of about 3 meters with a height of about 5 meters from the bottom. From this location, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Canggu Beach with the sea stretching out, making this spot popular among tourists. Many choose to visit Batu Bolong Temple first, then walk through the park around Tanah Lot to reach Tanah Lot itself. From afar, the view of Batu Bolong is breathtaking, especially at sunset, creating an idyllic scene that is perfect for capturing in photos.

The Uniqueness of Batu Bolong Temple

The uniqueness of Batu Bolong Temple lies not only in the hole under the cliff but also in a stone inside the temple that releases fresh water called Tirta Pakuluh. This fresh water has sacred value and is often used in religious ceremonies such as Melasti, Pakelem, Purnama Kapat, and Piodalan. However, only people who want to pray and temple administrators can enter Batu Bolong Temple because the temple building is surrounded by walls to keep people from entering without permission. Tourists can only enjoy the view from the outside, but the scenery around the temple is very beautiful and worth enjoying before continuing the journey to Tanah Lot Temple. It is a memorable experience, as you can visit two unique and beautiful temples in one visit.

Tanah Lot Temple Dress Code

When visiting Tanah Lot Temple, there are no specific rules regarding clothing, but it is expected to respect the local community and pilgrims by wearing modest clothing. Avoid wearing swimwear or revealing clothing when visiting the temple, as this is considered inappropriate. If you wish to participate in prayer activities at Tanah Lot Temple, it is recommended to wear traditional Balinese clothing. Men can wear sarong, shawl, and udeng, while women can wear kebaya, sarong, and shawl. These traditional clothes are considered mandatory when worshipping in a sacred area such as Tanah Lot Temple. By wearing the appropriate attire, you can show proper respect when visiting this temple.

Facilities at Tanah Lot Temple

The facilities available at Tanah Lot are very complete to support its status as one of the most popular tourist destinations. After parking your vehicle, you can walk to Tanah Lot Temple. Along the way, there are various souvenir shops selling a wide variety of handcrafted souvenirs. You will also find restaurants along the route, should you wish to enjoy a meal. Restrooms are available for your use, and there are various attractions, such as taking pictures with yellow pythons. There are also instant photo services that offer photo shoots in Tanah Lot, perfect for capturing your moments in this beautiful place. Restaurants located on the beachfront offer direct views of Tanah Lot, perfect for enjoying a meal while taking in the beautiful panorama. The thrill of watching the sunset on Bali’s Island of the Gods will be an unforgettable experience for you.

Best Time to Visit Tanah Lot Temple

The best time to visit Tanah Lot Temple is in the late afternoon before sunset, when the temple is seen in a beautiful silhouette against the backdrop of a dazzling sunset sky. At this time, the site is the destination of many tourists who come by bus to enjoy the majestic beauty of this temple, accompanied by the lapping waves behind it. We from Bali Driver Hire offer tour packages to Tanah Lot Temple at affordable prices and excellent service. You can see our tour details at Bali Tanah Lot Tour. Besides visiting Tanah Lot Temple, you can also enjoy the beauty of Taman Ayun Temple in Mengwi Village, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and charming fish pool. In addition to tour packages, we also provide private car rental services that you can use to visit various tourist attractions on Bali Island according to your travel plans.