Tanah Lot Temple Place guide

Spellbinding at sunset, this 16th century Hindu temple is built atop an outcrop of rock, a stronghold amidst crashing waves. Tanah Lot, only 20 km northwest of Kuta, is an ancient shrine to the sea; it is one of the seven sea temples all within eyesight of each other that create a chain along the Balinese southwestern coastline.

Most times, especially sunset, Tanah Lot can be overrun with tourists, but the view is well worth navigating the throngs of visitors and maze of souvenir market stalls from the parking area to the ornately sculpted temple gate. For a more culturally immersive experience, head to Tanah Lot if you’re in Bali around the time for the Tanah Lot piodalan, the anniversary ceremony. The piodalan falls on the wednesday after kuningan at the end of Galungan holiday in Bali. Local worshipers and even pilgrims from other parts of Indonesia come to pray and serve offerings at the temple, and the vibrant colors and rituals are truly a sight to behold.

Non-Balinese are not allowed to enter the temple, so soak up the sights from the rocky shore. At low tide, a sandy beach is revealed and provides passage to the temple. Otherwise, the temple sits like a lonely little island when the high tide comes washing in. The temple is a religious site, so remember to wear clothing that covers up your knees and shoulders. Entrance fees are at IDR60,000 for adults and IDR30,000 for children, while parking for cars/motorbikes are at IDR5,000/2000.

GETTING THERE

Grab a taxi or join a tour heading towards Tanah Lot, catch the Kura-Kura shuttle bus or drive your scooter to the site via the Jl Bypass Tanah Lot. If you’re willing to forgo a sunset selfie at Tanah Lot, visit in the morning or early afternoon to avoid the sunset rush hour traffic surrounding the site.