Summary

  • The Tanah Lot Temple is a popular attraction in Bali, known for its picturesque views and Balinese culture.
  • Although the main temple is not accessible, visitors can still explore the area, including tropical gardens and local shops.
  • It's best to visit the temple before sunset for the most stunning views, and during Odalan, a special celebration that occurs every 210 days.

Although there are plenty of under-the-radar Southeast Asian destinations that are worth visiting, Bali will always be worth visiting. The Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most popular attractions on the island, but is it worth it? Keep reading to find out if it’s worth seeing and what you need to know to avoid making the typical mistakes that rookies in Bali make when visiting the temple.

UPDATE: 2023/11/24 14:36 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Tanah Lot Temple In Bali Is Truly Magical

This article has been refreshed with new information regarding a trip to the Tanah Lot Temple in beautiful Bali, Indonesia. Timeline-wise, we suggest coming here an hour before the sunset, as fewer tourists will be around. Remember to stay respectful while around the property, and don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with the local people!

Getting To The Tanah Lot Temple In Bali

Tanah Lot, Bali
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
Tanah Lot, Bali.

One of the most surprising things about traveling to Bali is that the main temple of Tanah Lot is not accessible to tourists. But that doesn’t stop many from trekking to this famous destination just to view one of Bali’s most famous and sacred Hindu Temples.

Tanah Lot Temple is located in the Beraban village, approximately one and a half hours away from the popular suburb of Kuta. It is slightly closer to the mountainous Ubud region, which is only an hour away. Pre-organized tours often run to the temple from major hotels and resorts in Bali. You can also reach it by cab, bus, or rented car. During low tide, you can cross to the offshore rock where the main temple resides and explore the base (but not the stairs or the temple itself). However, in high tide, the temple is inaccessible.

  • Location: In the Beraban village, roughly 1.5 hours away from Kuta.

How Much Does Entry To The Tanah Lot Temple Cost?

Although entrance into the main temple is not permitted, there is still an admission fee to enter the area. Admission is 60,000 IDR for adults, while children can enter for 30,000 IDR. This is roughly about $4 and $2 USD. There will also be various costs when it comes to getting to the temple, whether you rent a car, get a bus ticket, or pay a cab fare. Walking to Tanah Lot if you stay in the nearby village is free. However, you’ll have to pay more to get to other landmarks in Bali since they tend to be located quite a distance away.

RELATED: Everything You Should Know About Going To Bali's Sacred Monkey Forest

What Is There To Do At The Tanah Lot Temple?

Group of people silhouetted on a hill near water in Tanah Lot Temple, Indonesia
Photo by Javier Allegue Barros on Unsplash
Group of people silhouetted on a hill near water in Tanah Lot Temple, Indonesia

Published on Travel Triangle, the guide for visiting the blissful place that is Tanah Lot adequately points out the real reasons for visiting this sacred temple, considering tourists aren’t permitted to go inside. The area is filled with tropical gardens and idyllic resting places to buy souvenirs, observe paintings and art sculptures on display, and sample local delicacies such as coconut-filled snacks.

Most people visit to take in the stunning view of the temple, take a few selfies in front of it, and hang out on the beach during low tide.

  • Things to do: Hike, snap photos and videos, pray, go to the beach

These are the best (and worst) beaches to check out while in Bali.

Is It Worth It To Go To The Tanah Lot Temple?

Even though you can’t go into the main temple at Tanah Lot, it’s still worth a visit if you’re interested in picturesque views and Balinese culture. The temple is historically significant, as it is said to be where a high Hindu priest established a site to honor the Sea God Varuna. Despite opposition from the village chief, he guarded the rock with the help of sea snakes and successfully meditated until he achieved enlightenment. Although you could visit many other temples in Bali instead, Tanah Lot is unique thanks to its off-shore position.

RELATED: 10 Must-See Temples In Thailand

Other Attractions Nearby The Tanah Lot Temple

People at Tanah Lot Temple in Bali, Indonesia
Photo by Eyestetix Studio on Unsplash
People at Tanah Lot Temple in Bali, Indonesia

Tanah Lot is located close to the resort village of Canggu, where travelers can discover many other sights and activities. Canggu Beach is hugely popular among surfers, as are several other beaches in the area. One of the most popular things to do in Canggu is visit the Gypsy Market at La Laguna. You can also explore the Canggu rice paddies between Jalan Pantai Pererenan to Jalan Raya Seseh.

  • Other attractions nearby: Gypsy Market, Canggu rice paddies, Jalan Pantai Pererenan, Jalan Raya Seseh

When Is The Best Time To Visit The Tanah Lot Temple In Bali?

Tanah Lot in Bali, Indonesia 
Image by DEZALB from Pixabay
Tanah Lot in Bali, Indonesia 

Although visiting the Tanah Lot Temple in Bali will be stunning year-round, there are times to prioritize coming here over others. For instance, many claim the best time to visit Tanah Lot is during Odalan, celebrated every 210 days. During this time, processions and special moments are made possible by local people trekking up to the holy site. Moreover, Tanah Lot is best seen before sunset, with most people recommending an hour before the sun falls behind the water.

Early morning can also be enjoyable here, although Tanah Lot is busier than at night in the earlier morning hours. Most visitors will come here to catch the sunrise, meaning more congestion around the area. Seasonally this temple welcomes people every time of the year, so that is up to you. Seasonal weather stays consistent in Bali, as it won't have a traditional fall or winter. Therefore, spring might bring lower temps, alongside fall and winter, with summer being hot and wet.

  • Best time to visit: Before sunset