Tanah Lot Temple is a sacred sea temple rich in Balinese spiritual and cultural values. It stands on a coral reef in the middle of the sea, symbolizing the spread of Hinduism in Bali by Dang Hyang Nirartha, along with its stunning natural beauty and sunsets.
Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most famous Hindu temples in Bali, situated on a large coral reef in the middle of the sea in Beraban Village, Kediri District, Tabanan Regency. The name “Tanah Lot” itself comes from the Balinese language, where “tanah” means land or island and “lot” means sea, reflecting the temple’s location on the shore of a coral reef jutting out into the sea.
The history of Tanah Lot Temple begins in the 15th or 16th century with the spiritual journey of a powerful Hindu priest named Dang Hyang Nirartha (also known as Dang Hyang Dwijendra or Pedanda Sakti Wawu Rawuh), who came to Bali from Java to spread Hindu teachings. While wandering along the coast of Bali, Nirartha discovered a unique rock in Beraban Village believed to possess powerful spiritual energy. He then meditated on the rock. He then built a temple there as a place of worship for the sea god and as a center for the spread of Hinduism in Bali.
Legend has it that Bendesa Beraban Sakti, the village head who at the time led and adhered to monotheism, rejected Hindu teachings and attempted to banish Dang Hyang Nirartha, but faced extraordinary events that eventually led the village and its people to embrace Hinduism. The rock where he meditated is believed to have been moved out to sea by Nirartha to protect it from disturbances, and now stands as the Tanah Lot we know.
The temple structure consists of an outer courtyard (jabaan), which is open and considered sacred, although not everyone is allowed to enter. An inner courtyard (jeroan), which is a restricted area, contains several sacred structures and megalithic relics such as menhirs and linga fragments, symbols of reverence in Balinese spiritual traditions.
Tanah Lot Temple, besides being a place of worship, is also a renowned tourist spot, popular for watching dramatic sunsets and has become an icon of Balinese tourism. This temple is only accessible by land during low tide, adding to the uniqueness of the location.
Geographically, Tanah Lot is approximately 13 km from the center of Tabanan City and 25 km from Ngurah Rai Airport, easily accessible in about 45 minutes.
Things to do in Tanah Lot Temple
- Enjoying the Beauty of the Reefs and Temple in the Sea: You can walk during low tide to see the temple standing majestically on the coral reef, enjoying its architecture and the beautiful ocean panorama.
- Seeing Sacred Snake: There is a sacred snake believed to guard the temple. This snake is tame and can be seen up close under the supervision of a snake charmer.
- Playing in the Water and Crossing the Sea: You can play in the water around the temple area, especially when crossing to the coral island where the temple is located.
- Hunting for Photo Spots and Photography: Tanah Lot is a favorite spot for photography, including for pre-wedding shoots, thanks to its captivating views.
- Enjoying the Sunset: Tanah Lot is one of the best places to watch a spectacular sunset in Bali, with a romantic and highly photogenic atmosphere.
- Witnessing Religious Ceremonies: If you’re lucky, you might witness traditional ceremonies like the Piodalan, held every six months or on specific days according to the Balinese calendar.
- Visiting the Holy Water Cave: This cave is believed to contain a holy and healing spring. Visitors can wash their faces or drink the water as part of a spiritual experience.
- Exploring the Surrounding Art and Culinary Markets: There are art markets and culinary stalls in the surrounding area offering a variety of souvenirs and Balinese specialties.
- Enjoying Cultural Performances Like the Kecak Dance: This traditional art performance is usually held in the evening before sunset, adding to the magical atmosphere of Tanah Lot.
- Visiting Other Spots Around Tanah Lot: Such as the Tri Antaka Monument, which holds historical significance, and several other small temples in the area.
