Tanah Lot Temple
Iconic Balinese sea temple on a rocky islet, famed for its dramatic offshore setting and spectacular sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the golden hour glow
Tanah Lot Temple
Best Time
Catch the golden hour glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Balinese sea temple on a rocky islet, famed for its dramatic offshore setting and spectacular sunset views.
"A must-visit cultural and scenic landmark in Bali! Tanah Lot is absolutely breathtaking."
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
Access to the temple base is tide-dependent. Plan your visit around low tide for the best experience.
Scooter is King :motorcycle:
Many visitors find renting a scooter the easiest way to reach Tanah Lot, especially from nearby areas like Canggu.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Offshore Temple
Main temple on the rock
A breathtaking Hindu temple perched on a rocky outcrop, dramatically set against the crashing waves of the ocean.
Sunset Views
Cliffside viewpoints
Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a magical glow over the temple and sea.
Holy Snake Encounter
Near the temple entrance
For a unique cultural experience, view the sacred black and white snakes believed to guard the temple.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Low Tide Access
Sunset Spectacle & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
Access to the temple base is tide-dependent. Plan your visit around low tide for the best experience.
Scooter is King :motorcycle:
Many visitors find renting a scooter the easiest way to reach Tanah Lot, especially from nearby areas like Canggu.
Sunset is a Must :sunrise_over_mountains:
The sunset views are legendary, but expect crowds. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
Wear Sandals :sandal:
You might encounter some water, especially near the temple base. Sandals are practical for easy removal and drying.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
Access to the temple base is tide-dependent. Plan your visit around low tide for the best experience.
Scooter is King :motorcycle:
Many visitors find renting a scooter the easiest way to reach Tanah Lot, especially from nearby areas like Canggu.
Sunset is a Must :sunrise_over_mountains:
The sunset views are legendary, but expect crowds. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
Wear Sandals :sandal:
You might encounter some water, especially near the temple base. Sandals are practical for easy removal and drying.
Explore the Market :shopping_bags:
Wander through the lively market stalls near the entrance for souvenirs and local crafts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tanah Lot Temple is widely praised for its breathtaking beauty, unique offshore setting, and captivating sunset views. Visitors appreciate the spiritual atmosphere, the well-maintained grounds, and the cultural significance of the site. While crowds can be a factor, especially at sunset, the overall experience is considered well worth the modest entrance fee.
"It's a beautiful place.
The atmosphere here is truly captivating.
The grounds are large and well-maintained, with many interesting spots where you can capture a moment for a beautiful souvenir.
If the weather is nice and there aren't many tourists, you can relax and soak up the atmosphere.
The ticket price is undoubtedly good for this place.
The best way to get here is by scooter.
I also met guides who shared stories and guided tourists around."
Opinion plus minus
"Amazing temple on the rocks just slightly out in the water. Need to come when low tide to get across as the path is closed at high tide. Best to bring a pair of sandals so you can change in case the water is coming in. You get blessed the bottom by the priests and then you can go a little way up the steps but not right to the temple. Great views by the temple ND around the grounds. There are some restaurants up on the cliffs that over look the temple. There is also a market as you walk from the entrance to the temple."
mathew lawton
"The church itself is beautiful. It's worth a visit. We were there during low tide, so we could get quite close to the church and even went to a part of it. To go up, the local priests must first bless you, and then they'll let you onto the stairs. I don't think the church itself is open to tourists. It wasn't crowded, which was also a plus."
Csilla Suha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Canggu, renting a scooter is a popular and convenient option for reaching Tanah Lot, offering flexibility. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also available, though they might be more costly.
For sunset, many opt for a scooter for ease of parking and flexibility. Alternatively, pre-booking a taxi or a guided tour that includes sunset viewing can be stress-free.
Yes, there are designated parking areas for scooters and cars. Arriving a bit earlier, especially for sunset, can help secure a closer spot.
Absolutely. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Grab are readily available in most tourist areas of Bali and can take you directly to Tanah Lot.
The roads can be busy, especially closer to Tanah Lot. If you're not an experienced rider, consider a taxi or a guided tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is generally considered reasonable for the experience. You can often find promotions or purchase tickets online, sometimes even via platforms like TikTok.
Tanah Lot is typically open from early morning until late evening, allowing visitors to experience both sunrise and sunset. It's best to check current hours closer to your visit.
While not always mandatory, buying tickets in advance, especially through online platforms or promotions, can sometimes offer discounts or a smoother entry process.
You can visit the grounds and enjoy the views from the cliffs at high tide, but you won't be able to walk across to the temple base. Access to the temple itself is only possible during low tide.
Keep an eye out for potential promotions, especially on social media platforms like TikTok, where deals might be advertised.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the temple grounds, witness the stunning sunset, visit the holy snake, and browse the local market. You can also receive a blessing from priests if you visit during low tide.
Generally, tourists cannot enter the main temple structure. However, during low tide, you can walk to the base and receive blessings from the priests.
The holy snake is a sacred creature, often black and white, kept in a small enclosure near the temple. Visitors can view it for a small fee and receive a blessing.
Tanah Lot can get very crowded, especially during sunset and peak tourist seasons. Visiting on a weekday or slightly off-peak hours can offer a less crowded experience.
Dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, as it is a religious site. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are recommended, especially if you plan to walk to the temple base.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes located on the cliffs overlooking Tanah Lot, offering various cuisines with stunning ocean views.
Many restaurants offer dinner service, allowing you to enjoy the evening ambiance and sunset while dining.
You'll find a mix of local Balinese dishes and international cuisine at the restaurants overlooking the temple.
Yes, along the path leading to the temple, you'll find numerous food stalls selling snacks, drinks, and local delicacies.
Prices can vary, but dining at the cliffside restaurants might be slightly more expensive due to the prime location and views. Stalls offer more budget-friendly options.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographs. Sunrise can also be stunning with fewer crowds.
Drone usage regulations can change and may be restricted in sensitive cultural or religious areas. It's best to check for current rules on-site or with local authorities.
Explore both sides of the temple for unique perspectives. The cliff edges offer panoramic views, and the beach area during low tide provides interesting foregrounds.
Yes, you can take photos of the holy snake, but be respectful and consider a small donation for the experience.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean and temple views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as options within the temple grounds can be limited or pricier. The walk from the parking area to the temple involves some steps and uneven terrain, so strollers might be challenging. Opting for a taxi or guided tour can simplify transportation logistics for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
For transportation, renting a scooter is the most economical option if you're comfortable riding. Alternatively, look for shared tours or negotiate taxi fares. Dining at local warungs outside the immediate temple vicinity can also be more budget-friendly than the cliffside restaurants.
💑 Couples
For a more intimate experience, try to visit on a weekday or slightly before the peak sunset rush. Exploring the grounds hand-in-hand and enjoying the sound of the waves can be incredibly peaceful. If you're visiting during low tide, the opportunity to walk to the temple base together adds a unique touch to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Tanah Lot
During low tide, visitors can approach the temple base and sometimes receive blessings from the resident priests. This ritual involves receiving holy water and a symbolic mark on the forehead, connecting them to the temple's spiritual energy. While the inner sanctum remains off-limits to tourists, the experience of being so close to this sacred site is deeply moving.
The temple's architecture is quintessentially Balinese, featuring intricate carvings and a distinctive black stone construction that stands in stark contrast to the blue ocean and green surroundings. The entire complex is a testament to the island's rich cultural heritage and enduring religious practices.
Experiencing Tanah Lot at Sunset
To make the most of your sunset visit, arrive at least an hour before the actual sunset. This gives you ample time to explore the market, find a good vantage point on the cliffs, and soak in the atmosphere. The sound of the waves crashing against the rocks adds a dramatic soundtrack to the visual feast.
While the sunset is a must-see, be prepared for crowds. If you prefer a more tranquil experience, consider visiting on a weekday or exploring the grounds before the peak sunset hour. The views are stunning at any time, but the sunset adds an unforgettable layer of magic.
Navigating Tanah Lot: Tides, Trails, and Treasures
Beyond the main temple, the surrounding area offers much to explore. A lively market lines the path from the entrance, offering a variety of souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts. Haggling is part of the experience, so don't be afraid to negotiate prices.
For those interested in unique cultural encounters, the 'holy snake' is a notable attraction. For a small fee, you can view these sacred creatures and receive a blessing. Additionally, several restaurants perched on the cliffs provide stunning panoramic views of the temple and the ocean, perfect for a meal or a refreshing drink.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit