If you have seen an absolutely stunning picture of a Balinese Temple in a postcard or a magazine, it probably is the Pura Tanah Lot. It is the most visited temple in Bali and boasts spectacular scenic appeal; this is especially true at the time of sunset when its multi tiered Pagodas perched on giant rocks outcropping from the sea, is perfectly silhouetted amidst the breathtaking hues of orange and purple. The Pura Tanah Lot being one of the six cardinal temples is entwined with deep rooted history and interesting legends.
The story of the Tanah Lot goes back to the 16th century when it was first founded by the Javanese priest Danghyang Nirartha. According to legend one night he slept on the site and the very next day he suggested that a temple be built on it. The Balinese believe that the very site of the temple is etched with sacred powers and hence it is the most venerated of all the sea temples. During the creation of the Sea Temples it was required for each temple to be within sight of the other in order to form a chain along the city’s south-western coast. On a clear day you can still see Pura Uluwatu – another renowned sea temple- on to your South.
Pura Uluwatu is translated to ‘the temple of the sea and the earth’ and it is perched atop rocks at a fair distance from the shoreline. There is a footpath that leads up to the site which only appears at low tide. Inside there are 2 shrines, 2 pavilions and a 3 tiered meru and another 7 tiered meru. There are several myths shrouding this attraction and it is believed by locals that small poisonous black and white snakes protect this site. Visit the spot at around sunset to catch some remarkable photographs of the location.
If you are looking for a Bali resort from which to set out on your adventures to such attractions, consider InterContinetnal Bali which lies tucked away along the coast.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.
