Information
Landmark: Tanah LotCity: Bali
Country: Indonesia
Continent: Asia
Tanah Lot, Bali, Indonesia, Asia
Overview
Perched on Bali’s western coast, Tanah Lot ranks among the island’s most beloved temples, where waves crash against its rocky base.Perched on a rocky islet in the Indian Ocean, Tanah Lot draws visitors with its striking cliffs, deep cultural roots, and sunsets that paint the water gold.Locals see it as one of Bali’s most important spiritual landmarks, part of six directional temples guarding the island from harmful forces, like a quiet wall against the sea’s restless winds.People come to Tanah Lot for its spiritual significance, and they stay to watch the ocean crash against the rocks and to experience its rich cultural traditions.In the 16th century, the Javanese Hindu priest Dang Hyang Nirartha established Tanah Lot, its stone base rising from the sea like a quiet sentinel.Legend has it, Nirartha came upon the sacred spot while walking Bali’s sunlit shore, and he built the temple to pay tribute to the sea gods.In Balinese, Tanah Lot means “land in the sea,” a fitting name for the temple perched on a wave-battered rock.It’s devoted to the sea gods-especially Bhatara Segara, Bali’s guardian of the ocean-who’s believed to shield the island from dangerous tides.Perched on a rocky shoreline, the temple ranks among Bali’s most important sea sanctuaries, believed to shield the island from harmful spirits.Key features and attractions include:Perched on a massive rocky outcrop surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the temple stands high above the waves, its dark stone sharply outlined against the deep blue water.At high tide, it looks as if the temple stands alone in the sea, waves lapping at its base.And when the sun sinks low, Tanah Lot draws crowds for its breathtaking sunset views.As evening falls, the temple rises against a sky streaked with gold and deep violet, a view photographers and sunset lovers can’t resist.Just nearby, rock formations cradle clear pools of seawater, cool and still under the fading light.Around Tanah Lot, you’ll find striking rock formations and sweeping coastal views, perfect for an unhurried walk with the sound of waves in your ears.The main temple rises from a massive sea-worn rock, reachable only at low tide, when the water pulls back to reveal a narrow, wet path.The temple is small but deeply sacred, built in a modest Balinese style with a thatched roof and a cool stone altar where offerings rest.Around it, Tanah Lot holds several smaller shrines, each honoring the sea gods.Visitors often see Balinese Hindus lighting incense and placing bright flower offerings at these shrines.Tanah Lot also shelters a sacred sea snake, coiled in the cool shadow of a cave at the rock’s base.People say the snake guards the temple, coiled in the shadows, keeping evil spirits away.Visitors can see the snake, often hailed as a symbol of the temple’s power and sanctity, its scales catching the light.Around the Tanah Lot temple complex, traditional Balinese villages invite you to wander through lively markets, pick up hand-carved souvenirs, and discover the rhythms of local culture.These markets offer everything from hand-painted masks and woven crafts to sacred offerings and vivid Balinese textiles.You can also catch cultural performances or admire exhibitions of traditional art that open a window into the island’s spiritual roots.The temple sits along a pristine stretch of coast, perfect for a quiet walk where the salt air brushes your face and the view shifts with every step.Just nearby, Pura Batu Bolong rises on a rocky outcrop, linked to the shore by a narrow bridge.It’s a fantastic spot for photos, with the sea crashing against the rocks below, and it also holds deep cultural meaning.You’ll find Tanah Lot Temple in Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia-about 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of Kuta and 30 kilometers (18.5 miles) from Denpasar, the island’s capital.You can reach it by car in about 45 minutes to an hour from Ngurah Rai International Airport.Tanah Lot welcomes visitors daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but late afternoon is magic-when the sun dips low and the temple glows gold against the deep blue sea.If you want to catch the sunset, time your visit for late afternoon.The entrance to Tanah Lot costs about IDR 60,000 (roughly USD 4), plus a parking fee, and some events-like the rhythmic, fire-lit Kecak Dance-may have separate charges.Since it’s a sacred Hindu temple, dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered.If you’re not dressed appropriately, you can pick up a sarong or sash at the entrance.Inside the temple grounds, and during the cultural performances, remember to stay respectful.Nearby, you’ll find Batu Bolong Temple, perched on a rocky outcrop linked to the shore by a narrow bridge, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.Seseh Beach offers calm waves and pale sand, while Beraban Village invites you to wander its markets and watch artisans at work.A short drive brings you to the sweeping green steps of the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO site.Tanah Lot remains one of Bali’s most treasured landmarks, blending cultural heritage, spiritual meaning, and breathtaking scenery.Whether you come seeking spiritual peace, soaking in the sweeping ocean views, or pausing to watch the sun melt into the horizon, Tanah Lot leaves you with a memory you won’t forget.Perched above the ocean and steeped in Balinese tradition, it draws travelers from everywhere, eager to see waves crash against the cliffs and feel the island’s vibrant spirit.
