Do you like exploring historically rich and aesthetically appealing places in Bali? Look no further! Behold the ever-majestic temple of Tanah Lot Temple or most commonly known as Bali Temple of the Sea. Standing on top of a solid sea rock, Tanah Lot Temple, which looks like a ship made of stone during high tide, is a tourist’s favourite especially when sunset drapes the horizon of the Indian ocean.
If this unique combination of man-made and natural beauty, as well as the breathtaking view of the sunset, hasn’t caught your attention, then here are some more facts why you should experience the staggering sight the Tanah Lot temple.
What’s more about Tanah Lot temple?
This Hindu temple from the 16th century is one of the seven temples on Bali. Legend says that a high priest named Dang Hyang Nirartha from the Majapahit Kingdom in East Java taught Hinduism in 1489, and established Tanah Lot temple in honour of the god of the sea, Baruna.
Tanah Lot, however, is only accessible during low-tide, for during this time a land bridge hand-crafted by nature reveals itself for anyone to cross. Around the Tirta Pabersihan fountain, visitors can view the rock base where the “holy” snakes dwell in crevices. No harm though, they are naturally docile according to locals. These holy snakes, according to local legends, were Dang Hyang Nirartha’s sashes transformed to guard the temple’s base in resistance to the Beraban village chief tried to banish him when he preached Hinduism.
But there’s more to Tirta Pabersihan fountain. It is a natural spout that supplies the temple with holy water. If you want to bathe with the temples holiness, priests can sprinkle the holy water over your head, or if you want something more intimate, you can cup your hand and take a sip. Now, you’re one with the temple.
During high tide when Tanah Lot temple is inaccessible, Penyawang, Tanah Lot temple’s spiritual proxy, and other small temples can be visited for pilgrims when there’s high tide in main offshore. Visitors, Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple. However, they are privileged to admire pavilions and pagodas erected. But there’s more to the temple’s proximity.
Beautiful tropical gardens and pathways lining the Tanah Lot to Batu Bolong and can be admired. Art shops with souvenirs of all sorts made by the locals are everywhere from the parking area to the temple. If you’re hungry, then you don’t have to worry about food. In fact, you’re up for a treat. A traditional treat called, Jajah Kelepon – scrumptious palm sugar-filled glutinous rice balls rolled in grated coconut is readily available from peddlers.
Be sure to throw away your wastes in the garbage bin to preserve the beauty and cleanliness of Tanah Lot, and also, it is best to bring your own water bottle and partake with RefillMyBottle’s initiative to make Bali a refillable island. All you need to do is download RefillmyBottle’s app or use their website to find the nearest refilling station on the map, get directions, then fill your bottle and make a difference.
But of course, Tanah Lot experience won’t be complete without the spectacular view of the sunset painting – the once bluish ocean with rosy colours. So, if you ever find yourself in Bali, be sure to bring your camera and indulge yourself in the breathtaking experience of the exquisite Tanah Lot temple.
Need somewhere to stay?
Bali Eco Stay
If you want to embrace yourself with peace and harmony, then Bali Eco stay is the best place to stay. Imagine dreamy walks as the misty morning caresses your skin and noontime dips in the natural swimming holes said to have healing powers by the locals, and when your famished, fresh and nutritious foods are served from on-site – free from chemicals – permaculture gardens. The interior also compliments the exteriors with bungalows highlighting natural phenomenon within the property like streams and treetop views, private waterfalls, and terraced rice fields. So, if you’re in for a meditative experience (there are yoga and meditations in the morning!) Stay with Bali Eco Stay.
Desa Seni
Do you want to surround yourself with arts about Indonesian traditions, cultures and traditions? Then Desa Seni, a resort in Bali, is the place to stop. Pamper your body, mind, and soul with traditional treatments from therapies across the western and eastern parts of the world. Also, the resort features an organic restaurant serving freshly-picked produces from the farm and an artistic gift shop. An antique wooden home that never falls short of modern comforts is what you really need.
Alassari Plantation
When a piece of heaven’s essence fell down on a sacred mountain, Alassari Plantation came into existence. A luxurious villa secluded in the Balinese mountain rainforest 750m up the southern slope of Mt. Batu Karu. Where Shinrin-yoku, given the name for the Japanese art of forest bathing, is sought after by guests of different upbringings. Overall, this place will definitely invite you to relax and let go of your woes for the moment and be one again with nature.
BGreener community is currently also running a campaign of #iaminBaliNOW in response to the situation of Mount Agung Eruption to bring the tourist back and as a mainstream media counter is related to the current situation that Bali Tourism is still Safe. To learn more about the project visit them on social media Facebook | Instagram | Twitter. And follow their photo contest to win 7 Days stay at the true luxury eco-resorts in Bali Paradise, click this for more information.
This article is contributed by Sophia Green, a career strategist and a content specialist at premium portal coolessay.net. She believes that personal development is an exciting lifelong process and a wonderful journey of self-discovery.
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