Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Bali, lies a sacred gem that has captured the hearts of travellers from around the world. The iconic Tanah Lot Temple (also known as “Pura Tanah Lot”) is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a sacred site that enchants visitors with its awe-inspiring architecture, panoramic vistas, and a palpable sense of serenity.

As you embark on this captivating odyssey, prepare to be swept away by the mystical allure of this Balinese temple, where tradition and natural beauty converge in perfect harmony. Join us as we unravel the secrets and stories of Tanah Lot, a place where legends come to life and every sunset is a masterpiece.

Where is Tanah Lot Temple?

Tanah Lot Temple is located in Bali, Indonesia. It is a popular tourist attraction and one of the most iconic temples on the island. The temple is situated on a rock formation just off the southwest coast of Bali, near the village of Beraban in the Tabanan Regency.

Tanah Lot Temple is known for its stunning seaside location and is particularly famous for its picturesque sunset views. It is also an important Hindu pilgrimage site in Bali and holds cultural and religious significance.

It’s a 25 minute drive from Canggu, or around 1 hour if you’re coming from other tourist areas like Ubud, Kuta, and Sanur.

How do I get to Tanah Lot Temple?

There are plenty of ways to get to Tanah Lot Temple in Bali, Indonesia. Depending on where you are commuting from, the distance and time may vary. Among the popular modes of transport are:-

1. Using a Ride-Sharing Service

• Make sure to download apps such as Grab and Gojek as these 2 are the most popular ride-sharing service in Bali, Indonesia.

2. By Private Transportation

• If you’re staying at a hotel or villa in Bali, you can arrange for private transportation through your accommodation. Many hotels offer shuttle services or can help you hire a private car and driver for the day.
• We’d recommend using Galih Bali car rental as they provide a great service during our trip in Bali. The duration of the car rental is for 10 – 11 hours, inclusive of petrol and an English speaking driver. By taking this option, you can customise your own itinerary without the hassle of driving to places. Prices for the private car rental starts from 650k Rupiah.

3. Joining a Tour

• Many tour operators in Bali offer day tours that include a visit to Tanah Lot Temple as part of their itinerary. This can be a convenient option if you prefer to have transportation and a guide arranged for you.
• During our trip to Bali, Indonesia, we joined a private tour by Galih Bali which handled all our transportation needs. We’d highly recommend this option, especially if you are travelling in larger groups, so that you can relax and leave all the itinerary planning to the tour operator.

4. By Renting a Scooter or Car

• Another option is to rent a scooter or car, which is cheaper option and gives you more flexibility in your schedule. However, please note that Bali traffic can be chaotic, so driving may be challenging for some travellers.

5. By Public Bus or Shuttle

• While Bali does have public transportation options, it might not be the most convenient way to reach Tanah Lot, as public transport routes are limited, and schedules can be irregular. The best way to get there is to rent a scooter or hire a private car and driver (both of these can be booked online).

History of Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot Temple, also referred to as “Pura Tanah Lot”, boasts a rich history dating back to the 16th century. According to legend, this majestic temple was constructed by Dang Hyang Nirartha, a revered figure who founded the Shaivite priesthood in Bali. Nirartha’s journey along the enchanting south coast of Bali led him to a fateful night on a picturesque sea rock. He sensed the profound spiritual significance of this location, deeming it a sacred spot to honor the Balinese sea gods. To bring his vision to life, Nirartha enlisted the assistance of local fishermen, who crafted a shrine atop the rock. This marked the inception of the iconic Tanah Lot Temple.

The name “Tanah Lot” itself carries profound meaning, translating to “Land in the Sea.“ This temple is 1 of 7 such sea temples strategically positioned along the Balinese coastline, each with its unique lore and purpose. Pura Tanah Lot is steeped in myth and legend, continuing to hold immense spiritual significance for the Hindu community, who regard it as an essential pilgrimage site.

When is the best time to visit Tanah Lot Temple?

You can visit Tanah Lot Temple all year round, depending on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and the experience you seek. Generally, the best season to visit Bali, Indonesia is during the dry season (April to October) where you can expect much more sunnier days and minimal rainfall.

Many visitors want to experience the stunning sunset views at Tanah Lot Temple. If this is a priority for your visit, check the sunset timings for the specific month you plan to visit and arrive a bit earlier to secure a good viewing spot. You will however encounter larger crowds when visiting in the evening.

To avoid the crowds, we suggest visiting on a weekday morning. During our recent trip to Tanah Lot Temple, we arrived at around 8am and had the whole place to ourselves. Ultimately, the best time to visit Tanah Lot Temple depends on your personal preferences.

Tanah Lot Temple Opening Hours

• 7am – 7pm daily. Last admission 6.30pm

How much is the entrance fees to visit Tanah Lot Temple?

Here are the present admission fees for Tanah Lot Temple as of the time this information was compiled. However, due to its high popularity among tourists, it is common for ticket prices to increase annually.

Adult – IDR 75,000 / person
Child – IDR 40,000 / person
Motorbike Parking Fee – IDR 3,000
Car Parking Fee – IDR 5,000
Drone – IDR 500,000

What to wear when visiting Tanah Lot Temple?

When visiting any local temples in Bali, Indonesia, make sure to dress modestly out of respect for the local customs and culture. Sarongs and sashes can be rented for a small fee for visitors who are not appropriately dressed.

Useful tips

• Be respectful of the Balinese culture. As a place of worship, it’s important to dress modestly. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees out of respect for the local customs.
• Obviously don’t forget your camera!
• Tanah Lot can get crowded, especially in the afternoon. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the temple with fewer tourists and better lighting for photographs.
• If you plan on watching the beautiful sunsets at Tanah Lot, be prepared for larger crowds during this time.
• Respect Temple Rules. Follow the temple rules and regulations. Show respect for the Balinese Hindu customs and do not enter areas that are off-limits to visitors.
• Bring cash as they don’t accept cards here.
• Be careful when exploring the rocky shoreline and be mindful of the strong waves. Keep a safe distance from the water.
• Carry along a hat, shades and sunscreen as it can get pretty sunny here.

What To Do In Tanah Lot, Bali?

1. Explore the Temple Complex

Take a leisurely stroll through the temple complex and admire the traditional Balinese architecture and design. While you can’t enter the main temple (as it’s reserved for worship), you can explore the surrounding areas.

If you want to get a closer view of the “floating temple”, you will have to wait until low tide before being able to walk over the slippery rocks. Against this unique backdrop, the temple truly appears as if it’s gracefully floating upon the sea. However, the accessibility of this spot depends on wave height, so it’s advisable to check the tide conditions beforehand to ensure a safe and picturesque experience.

2. Enjoy the Sunset Views

Tanah Lot is particularly famous for its breath-taking sunset views. Many visitors come here in the late afternoon to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the temple and the ocean.

3. Visit the Sea Snakes

Tanah Lot is also known for the sea snakes that inhabit the caves at the base of the temple. These snakes are considered sacred and are believed to protect the temple from evil spirits. They can be discovered within a cave that charges a modest admission fee for entry. Inside, you’ll encounter a black and white banded sea snake, scientifically known as a Banded Sea Krait. While these snakes possess potent venom, they tend to be non-aggressive and seldom engage in biting humans.

4. Check out Batu Bolong Temple

Batu Bolong Temple, an intriguing sea temple located within a brief stroll from Tanah Lot, stands perched upon a natural rock arch with commanding views of the ocean. This enchanting temple is conveniently included in the Tanah Lot entrance ticket, making it a must-visit while exploring the area.

To reach the beach and admire the temple up close, visitors will need descend a steep concrete stairway. However, please be aware that access to the beach may be restricted on occasion due to the powerful waves. The name “Batu Bolong” holds significance, as it translates to “hollow stone” in the Indonesian language, symbolizing the temple’s unique and striking location atop a rocky arch overlooking the restless sea.

5. See the unique Black Sand Beach

The beach at Tanah Lot boasts a distinctive feature—a striking expanse of black volcanic sand that adds an air of mystique to the entire setting. During low tide, an enchanting opportunity presents itself: you can leisurely stroll out to the rock formation and closely admire the Batu Bolong Temple, positioned a mere 30 meters from the shoreline.

6. Watch the Traditional Balinese Dance Performance

Traditional Balinese dance performances are sometimes held in the vicinity of Tanah Lot, especially during the sunset hours. Ensure that you check the latest schedule for cultural events and performances at Tanah Lot.

7. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

There are several restaurants and cafes near Tanah Lot where you can savour traditional Balinese dishes while enjoying ocean views. Take this opportunity to try out the local Balinese cuisine.

8. Shop for Souvenirs

You’ll find stalls selling a variety of souvenirs, including Balinese handicrafts, clothing, and artwork. Make sure to bargain with the vendors to get the best prices.

Bonus Tips

Where to shop for souvenirs in Bali?

Wrap up your day with a visit to Krisna Bali, the perfect destination for souvenir shopping without the hassle of bargaining. This shopping hub offers a wide range of items, including accessories, food, perfumes, clothing, bags, and artworks, all at affordable prices. Ideal for those who prefer fixed prices, Krisna Bali has multiple outlets across Bali, so be sure to explore them during your stay. We received a glowing recommendation for this spot from our guide, making it a must-visit for budget-conscious travellers seeking quality souvenirs without the need for negotiation.

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