A holy temple on a rock in the waves, one of the most photographed sunset spots in Bali.
A Temple on the Sea
A famous temple on a rock in the sea.
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About Tanah Lot Temple, Bali
Tanah Lot, meaning Land in the Sea, is a small Hindu temple built on a rocky outcrop just off the coast of western Bali, linked to a 16th-century holy man with later additions. At high tide the waves surround it, and at low tide visitors can walk across the sand to the base of the rock, making it one of the most important sea temples on the island.
The main temple stands on a rock reachable at low tide, but non-Hindus cannot enter the inner shrine and can only go to the base. A cave beside the rock is said to be home to sea snakes, treated as sacred. On the headland a path winds past gardens, viewpoints and more small shrines, and the site is busiest at sunset, when the sky turns orange and the temple stands as a dark silhouette against the water.
Why Visit Tanah Lot Temple, Bali?
Local story
Good to Know
The temple suits families, couples, groups and photographers for a visit of 1 to 2 hours. Access to the rock base depends on the tide, so it's worth checking tide times before you go, and a sarong and sash are required for the temple areas (usually lent at the entrance).
Foreign visitors to Bali pay a one-time tourist levy, and traffic can be heavy after sunset, so arranging return transport in advance is wise.
How to Reach Tanah Lot Temple, Bali
- 01
Pakistan to Bali
Fly from Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi to Indonesia, usually with one connection through a Gulf, Malaysian or Singaporean hub. Check current routes and book early.
- 02
Airport to Your Bali Base
Take a taxi, ride-hailing car or hotel transfer from Ngurah Rai Airport to your hotel.
- 03
Hotel to Tanah Lot
Drive about 45 minutes to 1 hour from Canggu or Seminyak to the car park.
- 04
Explore
Walk to the viewpoints, visit the base at low tide and stay for sunset.
Things to Do in Tanah Lot Temple, Bali
Best Time to Visit Tanah Lot Temple, Bali
Excellent
Peak Dry Season
July to September
Dry and sunny, with the best views but the biggest crowds.
Recommended season
Excellent
Early Dry Season
April to June
Clear skies and calm sea. Good for sunset.
Recommended season
Good
Late Dry Season
October
Warm and mostly dry. Fewer crowds.
Good time to visit
Good
Wet Season
November to March
Rainy with higher waves. Sunsets can be cloudy, though the sea is dramatic.
Good time to visit
Travel smart
Travel Tips for Tanah Lot Temple, Bali
A few useful things to know before you go there.
Arrive Early for Sunset
Good viewpoints and parking fill up well before sunset.
Check the Tide
Access to the rock base depends on low tide.
Wear a Sarong
Cover your legs and wear a sash for the temple areas.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path to the rock can be wet and slippery.
Respect the Temple
Non-Hindus cannot enter the inner shrine, so do not try.
Plan Your Return
Traffic can be heavy after sunset, so arrange transport.
Check Halal Food
Pork is common in Bali, so choose halal-labelled restaurants.
Pay the Tourist Levy
Foreign visitors to Bali pay a one-time fee.
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Location
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Tanah Lot Temple, Bali
Indonesia
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a Hindu temple on a rock in the sea in western Bali.
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