TANAH LOT TEMPLE IS BALINESE HINDU SEA TEMPLE OR KNOWN AS FLOATING TEMPLE
Tanah Lot Temple is one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks, known for its breathtaking setting on a rocky outcrop surrounded by the sea. This ancient Hindu temple is not only a significant cultural and spiritual site but also a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Tanah Lot Temple, including its location, history, unique features, and tips for visiting.
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
1. Location of Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot Temple is located on the southwestern coast of Bali, in the Tabanan Regency, about 20 kilometers northwest of Denpasar, the island’s capital. The temple is perched on a large offshore rock that has been shaped over centuries by the ocean tide. Its dramatic location makes it one of the most photographed temples in Bali, especially during sunset when the temple is silhouetted against the sky.
The temple is easily accessible by road, with well-marked routes leading from major tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud. The surrounding area is also developed with facilities for tourists, including parking, shops, and restaurants.
2. Tanah Lot Temple as a Popular Tourism Site
Tanah Lot is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bali, attracting thousands of visitors each day. The temple’s stunning oceanfront location, combined with its cultural and spiritual significance, makes it a must-visit site for travelers to Bali. The best time to visit Tanah Lot is during sunset, when the temple and the surrounding landscape are bathed in golden light, creating a magical and serene atmosphere.
In addition to its natural beauty, Tanah Lot also offers a glimpse into Balinese culture and religion. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Balinese Hindus, who come to pray and make offerings to the sea gods. Visitors can observe traditional rituals and ceremonies, particularly during temple festivals, adding to the cultural richness of the experience.
3. Meaning of the Word Tanah Lot
The word of Tanah Lot is consisted of two words that are Tanah word interpreted as a reef looking like gili or isle. Lot or Lod word has meaning the sea. So Tanah Lot is meaning the small island floating on the sea. The location is now called as Tanah Lot has been used at a Megalithic period as a place that looked into holy, proven from the existence of menhir. Pursuant to environmental condition, hence the structure of Tanah Lot Temple is built at irregular reef plain of its angle which is only consisted of one plain yard as Jeroan. Tanah Lot Temple differences with other temples on the island of Bali, Tanah Lot does not have a few pages because it is built on a plain of coral that irregular corners of his home. Inside the actual temple compound itself there are tiered shrines that follow the fundamental elements of Balinese design where the number of levels constructed are symbolic to the complexities of the faith. There are other formations within the area that indicate that the site is not only of great religious importance, but also maintains archaeological value. Temple nestled in the ocean has a ritual or ceremony which takes place every 6 months or 210 days. At that time all the Hindus from different areas in Bali will come to worship in peace and harmony to invoke.
4. Tanah Lot Temple History
Tanah Lot Temple has a long and storied history that dates back to the 16th century. According to legend, the temple was established by the Hindu priest Dang Hyang Nirartha, who traveled to Bali from the neighboring island of Java. Nirartha was a key figure in the spread of Hinduism in Bali, and during his journey, he chose the site of Tanah Lot to build a shrine to honor the sea god, Baruna.
The legend states that Nirartha meditated on the rock where the temple now stands and felt a divine presence. He instructed the local fishermen to build a shrine on the site to honor the sea gods and to protect Bali from evil spirits. Over time, the temple became an important place of worship for Balinese Hindus, particularly those living along the coast.
Despite its exposure to the elements, Tanah Lot Temple has stood the test of time, thanks in part to ongoing restoration efforts. In the 1980s, parts of the temple were reconstructed using a blend of original materials and modern techniques to preserve its historical and cultural integrity.
5. The Uniqueness of Tanah Lot Temple
One of the most striking features of Tanah Lot Temple is its location. The temple is situated on a large rock formation just off the coast, surrounded by the sea at high tide. During low tide, visitors can walk across the rocky beach to reach the temple, but at high tide, the temple is completely cut off from the mainland, giving it the appearance of floating on the water.
The temple’s architecture is also unique, reflecting traditional Balinese design with its multi-tiered shrines, known as meru, and intricately carved stone walls. The temple’s position on the rock, combined with the backdrop of the ocean, creates a stunning visual effect that has made it one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks.
6. Holy Snakes at Tanah Lot Temple
Another unique aspect of Tanah Lot Temple is the presence of the holy snakes. According to local belief, these sea snakes, which live in crevices around the base of the temple, are sacred and serve as protectors of the temple. The snakes are said to be the guardians against evil spirits and intruders.
Visitors to Tanah Lot can see these snakes in a designated area near the temple, where temple priests offer blessings to those who wish to touch the snakes. The snakes are considered harmless, but it’s important to treat them with respect as they hold religious significance.
7. Holy Water at Tanah Lot Temple
In addition to the holy snakes, Tanah Lot is also known for its holy water, which is believed to have healing properties. This fresh water, which miraculously flows from a spring at the base of the rock where the temple stands, is a significant feature of the site. Despite being surrounded by seawater, this spring provides fresh, drinkable water, which is considered a blessing from the gods.
Visitors can receive a blessing from the temple priests, who sprinkle the holy water on their heads and offer a small sip of the water. The blessing is accompanied by a prayer, and it’s believed to bring good luck and protection to those who receive it.
8. Function of Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot Temple is one of seven sea temples along the Balinese coast that form a chain, each within sight of the next. These temples were built to honor the sea gods and to protect the island from evil spirits and dangerous forces from the ocean. Tanah Lot is specifically dedicated to the god Baruna, the Balinese god of the sea.
The temple plays a vital role in the spiritual life of the Balinese people, particularly those living near the coast. It is a site for regular worship, rituals, and ceremonies, especially during the temple’s anniversary, known as the Odalan, which falls close to the Balinese New Year.
9. Batu Bolong Temple at Tanah Lot
Located near Tanah Lot Temple is another significant site known as Batu Bolong Temple. This temple is situated on a rocky promontory that juts out into the sea, connected to the mainland by a natural stone bridge. The temple’s name, “Batu Bolong,” means “hollow rock” in Balinese, referring to the hole that has been naturally carved into the rock by the waves.
10. Why is it Called Batu Bolong?
Batu Bolong Temple gets its name from the unique rock formation on which it stands. The word “Batu” means “rock” and “Bolong” means “hollow,” describing the large hole that has been eroded through the rock over centuries by the relentless action of the sea. This natural archway adds to the temple’s dramatic and picturesque setting, making it a popular spot for photography, particularly at sunset.
11. The Uniqueness of Batu Bolong Temple
The Batu Bolong Temple shares many similarities with Tanah Lot, including its stunning oceanfront location and its spiritual significance as a sea temple. However, its unique rock formation and natural bridge make it distinct. The temple is less crowded than Tanah Lot, offering a more peaceful experience for visitors who wish to meditate or simply enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.
Like Tanah Lot, Batu Bolong Temple is also a site of regular religious ceremonies, and visitors may witness traditional Balinese offerings and rituals being performed during their visit.
12. Tanah Lot Temple Dress Code
As with all temples in Bali, visitors to Tanah Lot are expected to dress modestly and respectfully. This means wearing clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Sarongs and sashes are available for rent at the entrance if needed. It’s also important to remember that certain areas of the temple are restricted to worshippers only, and visitors should respect these boundaries.
13. Facilities at Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot Temple is well-equipped to handle the large number of visitors it attracts each day. Facilities include ample parking, restrooms, and a variety of shops and restaurants. There are numerous stalls selling souvenirs, traditional Balinese crafts, and snacks. Visitors can also find local food vendors offering Balinese cuisine, making it easy to spend a few hours exploring the area.
The site is also accessible to people with disabilities, with paved pathways leading to the viewing areas. However, the rocky terrain around the temple itself may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
14. Best Time to Visit Tanah Lot Temple
The best time to visit Tanah Lot Temple is during the late afternoon, just before sunset. This is when the temple is at its most beautiful, as the setting sun casts a warm glow over the rock and the surrounding sea. The sunset at Tanah Lot is one of the most iconic images of Bali, attracting photographers and tourists alike.
To avoid the crowds, it’s recommended to arrive a little earlier in the afternoon, allowing time to explore the temple grounds and the nearby Batu Bolong Temple before settling in for the sunset. Visiting during the temple’s anniversary celebration is also a unique experience, as you can witness traditional ceremonies and offerings.
Tanah Lot Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Bali. Its stunning location, rich history, and cultural significance make it one of the island’s most treasured landmarks. Whether you’re drawn by the spiritual atmosphere, the natural beauty, or the opportunity to experience Balinese culture up close, Tanah Lot offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to witness one of Bali’s most famous sunsets and explore the unique places.