Picture in your mind a temple that rests on a huge rock situated offshore, whipped into ever-changing shapes by the sea. That is what Pura Tanah Lot is. In Balinese, Tanah Lot means Land in the Sea, and this ancient Hindu shrine framed by gorgeous sunsets and crashing waves makes it an absolute must-see. While the entire rock face was actual rock once upon a time, one third of it is now reconstructed rock due to the erosions causing the structure to slowly crumble.

Ready to explore this magical island? Read this article to plan your trip without missing out on the best places to visit in Bali!

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Table of Content

1. Explore the Tanah Lot Temple
2. Observe the Piodalan Ceremony
3. See the Legendary Holy Snake
4. Catch the Beautiful Sunset
5. How to Get to Tanah Lot
6. Contact Information

Things to do at Pura Tanah Lot, Bali, Indonesia

Things to do at Pura Tanah Lot, Bali, Indonesia

Explore the Tanah Lot Temple

First on the to-do list, of course, is exploration! What is a trip to this gorgeous temple without taking a look around? Made up of three temples, the entire formation is a sight to behold. There are tracks leading up to the base of the temple, but keep in mind that the main building is only accessible during low tide as these paths are flooded during other times of the day. As visitors, take note that you are only allowed to visit the grounds, and non-Balinese will not be allowed entry into the actual temple. The gorgeous sunsets more than make up for it, though. From Pura Tanah Lot, visitors will be able to see sights of the other stunning sea temples dotted around.

Ticket price: The Tanah Lot temple entrance fee for foreigners is priced at IDR 60,000 for adults and IDR 30,000 for children.

Be amazed by the beautiful scenery at Tanah Lot, Bali

Explore the temples in Tanah Lot, Bali!

Observe the Piodalan Ceremony

Thousands of Hindus from all over Bali flock to Pura Tanah Lot during the Piodalan ceremony every year, making this one of the best times to visit. Calculated according to the Balinese calendar, this religious event is attended by devotees as a show of thanks for the blessings they have been bestowed with, while some also take the opportunity to ask for further blessings.

Rows and rows of Balinese women can be seen carrying offerings atop their heads, making their way to the temple. The ritual includes the purging of sacred objects with holy water from the source in Tanah Lot, followed by processions and religious rites. That’s not all, though - you can expect to also see plenty of performances and entertainment along the way!

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Piodalan is a sacred ceremony At Tanah Lot Temple, Bali

Observe the Piodalan Ceremony in Bali

The Balinese ceremony at Tanah Lot temple is an experience not to be missed

The religious ceremony at Tanah Lot temple is held every 210 days

Exploring Tanah Lot means observing its people and their unique rituals

Every moment at Tanah Lot is an Instagram-worthy moment

Learn about the history of Tanah Lot during your visit here

The Tanah Lot temple entrance fee is priced at IDR 60,000 for adults and IDR 30,000 for children

See the Legendary Holy Snake

To add to the thrill and excitement, there are black and white striped sea snakes (said to guard the temple from evil) hidden in the rocky crevices. Although harmless, always stay mindful of where you are and try not to annoy these little guardians! Legends tell of the giant sea serpent which still lives within Tanah Lot, one that you most definitely do not want to awaken. Fret not, however, as there are snake handlers who offer the opportunity for visitors to admire and take photos with the gorgeous reptiles up close.

Don't forget to visit the Holy Snake at Tanah Lot too!

Catch the Beautiful Sunset

How many times can one say they got to watch the sunset from a temple, with waves crashing on to the rocks below them? Shutterbug or not, it’s the kind of view that will definitely make you want to whip out your camera. Tall waves coupled with the rocky surroundings make it a surreal experience and words are not enough to do it justice. Be it the lovely carvings, the lush greenery, or the stunning atmosphere overall, it’s safe to say that the view will not disappoint no matter where you look. The sights do not just stop there, however. Take the time to look back when you are leaving and watch as the brilliant skies set a backdrop for the temple’s silhouette - it’s wallpaper material.

Every corner is a photo opportunity at Tanah Lot!

Everyone is friendly and beautiful - making the experience at Tanah Lot extra memorable

How to Get to Tanah Lot

You can arrive at Tanah Lot easily by Taxi or by renting a scooter. Many visitors opt to visit this beautiful temple as part of their guided island tour. If you are making your way here on your own, it takes approximately 30 minutes from Ubud and 45 minutes from Seminyak, Kuta and Legian.

Contact Information

Address: Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia
Contact number: +62 361 880361
Opening hours: Daily, 7am-7pm

City life is a busy one and we often forget to take a break amidst the hustle and bustle of lights and sounds. Just the thought of the hectic working life is enough to drain one’s energy, and Pura Tanah Lot offers a stark contrast from all of that. With the open seas, strong winds and beautiful scenery, we can only hope you will be able to leave this place once the trip is over!