Tirta Empul Temple, also known as Pura Tirta Empul, is situated in the village of Manukaya, near Tampaksiring town in central Bali. It is renowned for its holy spring which is a major source of fresh water in the region as well. The Balinese Hindus consider this water to be amritha, or holy, and they visit the temple for ritual purification in order to cleanse their souls and protect themselves from evil forces.
Tirta Empul Temple, located in the village of Tampaksiring in Bali, Indonesia, This sacred temple, a major attraction included in our Bali tour from India is a place of profound spiritual significance. The temple complex dates back to the 10th century and is famous for its sacred spring water, which is believed to have healing properties. The name "Tirta Empul" translates to "holy water spring," reflecting the central role water plays in the rituals and ceremonies conducted here.
The temple is characterized by its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can witness devotees engaging in purification rituals, where they enter the crystal-clear pools and bathe under the water spouts. The process involves a series of symbolic acts, such as prayer, meditation, and submersion under the water, signifying spiritual cleansing and renewal.
Tirta Empul Temple offers a glimpse into Bali's rich cultural and religious heritage. It serves as a spiritual haven, attracting both locals and tourists seeking a connection to the divine and a moment of serenity. The temple's serene ambiance, coupled with the belief in the sacredness of its waters, creates a unique and captivating experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
Must Checkout: Popular Temples in Bali
Highlights
• Visit Tirta Empul Temple, one of the most significant places in Bali, known for its natural springs
• Admire the architectural grandeur of the beautiful temple, with classical Balinese design.
• Look at the natural springs, which are believed to have magical cleansing powers.
• Participate in the spiritual purification and cleansing ritual by taking the holy bath.
• Spend some time at the Koi pool, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and watching the fish swimming in the pool.
How To Reach
By Car: Tirta Empul is located 44.3 km from the city centre, it will take 1 hr 33 min via Jl. Raya Pejeng Tampaksiring. You can hire a cab or a car which you can drive yourself to reach the location following the route.
By Scooter: Scooters are the most convenient option for reaching Tirta Empul Temple. You can hire a scooter from anywhere in Bali and ride to the temple. You will need to follow the route map to reach the temple easily.
Best Time To Visit
Owing to Bali’s location in the tropics, the weather at Tirta Empul is warm and pleasant all year round, making it possible to visit the destination throughout the year. The best day in the week is on weekdays when there is less crowd. It is better to avoid weekends and holidays when the attraction is bustling with visitors. To enjoy the tranquil ambience of the temple, the best time of the day to visit the temple is in the early morning when there are fewer crowds. You may also plan to visit during the full moon or new moon “Tilem” to witness the special rituals performed at the temple.
Other Essential Information
- Tirta Empul Temple has a dress code where you need to cover your shoulders and knees.
- To take a dip in the holy water, you may need to wear a sarong which you can purchase at the temple.
- Do not forget to bring towels and extra clothes for changing after the holy bath.
- Inside the temple, respect other’s privacy and religious rituals and follow the temple decorum.
- Refrain from taking pictures of people praying or meditating as a show of respect to them.
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Walk through the Candi Bentar
You will need to enter the temple through its beautiful split gate, Candi Bentar. Observe the statues of Dwarapalas or the Guardians of the Gate, on both sides of the gate. Look at the stunning curving of Kala on the top of the gate with fangs sticking upwards and a pair of hands with open arms. The gate will lead you to the outer courtyard known as Jaba Sisi where you can purchase local items from stalls. At the end of the courtyard is another Candi Bentar with statues of Dwarapalas in golden colour. Look at the stunning curving of Kala on the top of the gate with fangs sticking upwards and a pair of hands with open arms. This gate will lead you to the central courtyard. The central courtyard has a large open-air pavilion on its right side.
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Visit Jaba Tengah
The Jaba Tengah is the most popular part of the Tirta Empul temple, as it contains the two purification pools. The pools have 30 water spouts feeding them, and you will be able to watch people following a purification ritual. You can also opt to take part in the ritual yourself and feel rejuvenated by the magical powers of the water.
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Take A Holy Bath
Feel a sense of peace as you watch a large pool with a holy spring in the main courtyard of the temple. Watch the spring water flow into another pool, known as the purification pool, where you can soak for self-purification. The pool has 3 sections where you can soak, depending on your purpose for the holy bath. If you are generally looking for a holy bath, you can go to the pool with 5 fountains. Those who wish to purify themselves to recover from any illness would need to go to the pool with 8 fountains. Finally, there is another pool with 13 fountains which is used for cremation or death ceremonies.
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Explore Jeroan
Jeroan is the inner courtyard of the temple, which is located behind the purification pool. This is where there are large and brightly decorated Hindu shrines. You can offer a prayer or simply spend some time, enjoying the tranquil ambience of the place.
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The Koi Pool
The temple has a large koi pool in its complex, located in the final section of the temple. You can sit there for a while and watch the koi fish swimming lazily in the pond. You can also feed the fish some food and feel delighted as you watch them eat. The Koi Pool is also a place where you can relax in a calm atmosphere.
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