The Tirta Empul Temple in Bali is a beautiful and historic water temple known for its holy spring water cisterns. Located in the village of Tampaksiring in Bali. Built in 962 AD, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is believed that this divine waterfall of the temple has healing powers, people come to cleanse and heal themselves by bathing in its holy water. The serene ambience of the temple and the traditional Balinese architecture makes Tirta Empul even more beautiful. The carvings on the walls of the temple are very beautiful and attractive. This spiritual place is one of the most revered and visited temples of Bali.
History Of Tirta Empul Temple
Bali's Tirta Empul Temple is an ancient and sacred site, with a history dating back more than 1,000 years. It was built in 962 AD during the time of the Warmadewa dynasty and is associated with Balinese mythology and Hindu beliefs. According to a legend, the holy waterfall here was created by Lord Indra. It is said that Indra built this waterfall by piercing the ground with his power to save his soldiers from the poison of an evil king. The water of this waterfall is believed to have the power of purification and healing, and people who come here bathe in the ponds to purify themselves.
The architecture of the temple reflects the traditional style of Bali, with beautiful stone carvings and courtyards. This temple is an important cultural and spiritual site in Bali, where people come to experience its peace and purity.
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Tirta Empul Temple Timings
Bali's Tirta Empul Temple is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, allowing people to visit it comfortably. Morning time is considered good to go here, because at this time the crowd is less and the atmosphere is peaceful. Many people come here during the day, who purify themselves by bathing in the holy spring. To go to the temple it is necessary to wear respectable dress, such as sarang and sash, which are also found at the entrance.
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Entry Fees
The entry fee for Tirta Empul Temple is approximately IDR 50,000 ($3.30) for adults and IDR 25,000 ($1.70) for children. Prices can vary slightly, so it’s a good idea to check for any updates or changes at the entrance.
Amazing Facts
- The ancient history : The Tirta Empul Temple was built in 962 AD, and is an important spiritual site in Bali, with an age of more than a thousand years.
- Water for treatment : The water of the natural spring of the temple is considered to have the power of purification and healing. People here perform traditional purification rituals to bathe in this holy water.
- Dedication to Lord Vishnu : Most Balinese temples are dedicated to various deities, but Tirta Empul is particularly known for its worship of Vishnu, the god of water.
- Meaningful name : "Tirta Empul" means "spring of holy water," signifying the importance of sanctity and purification of the temple.
- The historical sites : Near the temple there is also an old presidential palace, built by the first president of Indonesia, Sukarno, which also gives historical significance to this place.
Things To Do
- Participate in rituals : Participate in purification ceremonies with local people in the ponds of the holy spring. It is a good spiritual experience.
- Visit the temple : Walk around the temple and see the beautiful architecture and lush green gardens of Bali.
- Take a photos : You can Take pictures of the beautiful places and special things of the temple. It's an easy way to relive memories.
- Inspect And Take Bath on Every holy waterfalls : There are 13 purification springs in the temple, each waterfall has its own Importance.
- Experience the local culture : Interact with vendors selling traditional snacks and souvenirs. You will get to experience the culture of Bali.
Rituals And Festivals
Melastatic function : This purification ritual takes place before the Nyepi day. On this day, people gather at the temple to purify themselves and their things in the water of the holy spring. Usually occurs 2-3 days before Nyepi Day, which falls in March.
Nyepi Day : On this day, the people of Bali observe silence and meditation. People come to the Tirta Empul to pray and seek blessings for the New Year. It is celebrated once a year, usually in March. The date changes every year.
Galungan and Kuningan : These are important Hindu festivals celebrated every 210 days. On these festivals, people visit the temple to offer prasad and pay respect to their ancestors.Usually celebrated in April and November, Kuningan is celebrated 10 days after Galungan.
Full Moon Ceremony : On the night of the full moon, the people of Bali gather at the temple for special prayers and rituals. They feel that the moon's energy strengthens their spiritual connection. It occurs on the full moon day of every month.
How To Reach
By Air : The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar. From the airport, you can reach the temple by hiring a taxi or a private car, which is about 40 km away.
By bus : Local buses run from major cities such as Ubud and Denpasar to Tampaksiring, where the temple is located. While riding the bus, you can see the beautiful countryside of Bali.
By taxi or ride-sharing : You can easily book a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Grab. This option is especially convenient for groups or families.
By train : There is no direct train service to Tirta Empul Temple, but the nearest railway station is in Gilimanuk. You can take the train to Gilimanuk and then use a taxi or bus to reach the temple, which is about 70 km away.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Tirta Empul Temple is the dry season, which is from April to September. The weather during this time is usually sunny and pleasant, allowing you to enjoy the temple and its beautiful surroundings. Morning is the best time, because at that time the crowd in the temple is less and you can experience peace.
If you want to experience local festivals, consider visiting at the time of festivals such as Galungan or Nyepi. These festivals attract a lot of people and make the atmosphere lively. Overall, travelling in the dry season will help you enjoy this holy site to the fullest.
Exact Location
Tirta Empul Temple is in the village of Tampaksiring, about 40 kilometers northeast of Denpasar, the capital of Bali. As soon as you reach near the temple, you will get to see the view of beautiful rice fields and hills.
The nearest Popular city is Ubud, which is about 20 kilometers away From Temple, many people come to visit the temple from here. Visitors can enjoy the nature and culture beauty of Bali.
Guidelines For Tourists
- Dress of Honour : Wear appropriate clothing, such as sarongs and sashes. If you don't have one, usually meet at the entrance.
- Follow the rules : Respect local customs during purification rituals. If you are participating, follow the instructions of the priests and the local people.
- Maintain cleanliness : Don't litter. Properly Dump the garbage in the dustbin.
- Respect the Holy Areas : Do not go into forbidden places and do not touch sacred objects unless you are invited.
- Take note of the photography : Ask for permission before taking pictures of people, especially at the time of rituals. Photography is prohibited in some areas.
- Be calm and respectful : Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor during prayers and ceremonies.
- Avoid loud noises : Take care of the quiet atmosphere of the temple and keep the noise low.
FAQ About Tirta Empul Temple
Q. What is the significance of Tirta Empul Temple?
Ans. Tirta Empul Temple is a sacred site in Bali, known for its purifying spring, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and rich cultural heritage.
Q. How much time to spend in Tirta Empul Temple?
Ans. Plan to spend 1 to 2 hours at Tirta Empul Temple to explore, participate in rituals, and enjoy the surroundings.
Q. What is the dress code for Tirta Empul?
Ans. Visitors must wear a sarong and sash, covering shoulders and knees, to respect the temple.
Q. How much is the entrance fee to Tirta Empul Temple in 2024?
Ans. approximately IDR 50,000 ($3.30) for adults and IDR 25,000 ($1.70) for children