Tanah Lot is a temple that was built into a huge offshore rock formation off the coast of Bali, Indonesia. The temple was built by a Hindu priest in the 15th century and is one of seven temples devoted to the Balinese sea gods along the south-western coast. Poisonous sea snakes are said to guard the temple. The rock is three acres and with the temple is an extraordinary sight. Thousands of people visit it every day including local worshipers as well as tourists. The area is considered to have the best sunset in Bali, and tour operators offer trips just to see it. (Photo "Tanah Lot" by ira_k5)
Tanah Lot in Bali
Tanah Lot is located in southern Bali about 45 minutes by car from Kuta and other main tourist areas. The Balinese take advantage of this by lining the road to the temple with markets and shops. There are also restaurants in the area some of which are high-end and have lounges and dining rooms overlooking the temple with spectacular views of the setting sun.
In 1980, the Japanese gave a grant to the Indonesian government to restore the eroding rocks of Tanah Lot as well as some other historical monuments around Bali.
But Tanah Lot is just the beginning of all of the wonderful sights and sounds Bali has to offer.
While in Tanah Lot, there are several other temples to see including Batu Bolong Temple, Enjung Galuh Temple and Batumejan Temple; making a full trip for anyone who visits. After you have finished taking in all the Temples, it is on to the beaches and cities!
The Southern Beaches
Kuta, Seminyak and Sanur are the main beach towns with restaurants, cafes and discos along the beach. There is surfing and other water sports available along these beaches. (Photo "Bali Beach Sunset" by zanuda)
World’s Best Island
Travel and Leisure awarded Bali the Best Island award in 2010 because of the beautiful natural scenery including the mountains in the interior as well as the beaches, the many historical sites and the excellent food both local and international. It is ranked second after Greece in the list of World’s Best Islands.
Ubud
Ubud is a town in central Bali surrounded by steep ravines and rice paddies. The town is considered the cultural center of Bali mainly because many celebrities lived there and learned the Balinese arts. Charlie Chaplin, Barbara Hutton, Noel Coward and H.G. Wells were a few who helped localize the Balinese arts in Ubud. (Photo "Bali Rice Terrace" by nancynator)
The descendants of the last king of Ubud live in the palace and there are dance performances held in the courtyard. The Ubud Monkey Forest is also nearby, which is a sacred nature reserve and has a temple where about 350 crab-eating Macaque live.
In Ubud, visitors can take yoga, visit the natural surroundings and learn Balinese arts. One magnificent artefact in Ubud is the huge bronze kettle drum, which was made in 300 BC. The Elephant Cave from the 11th century is another popular tourist destination.
Whether you want to visit Bali for the scenery or the temples in Tanah Lot, a beautiful sight will be your reward. If you’re traveling from the UK, you have the option of flying through Heathrow or Gatwick Airport. If it’s the latter, take a look at official airport car parking Gatwick to get the most competitive deal and begin your Bali vacation today!
