The Pura Tirta Empul in Bali is one of the busiest Hindu temples which can’t be missed on your Bali Tour . It is considered sacred by the Balinese Hindu community. The temple has many holy springs which are known to have been made by the God Indra and can purify those who bathe in them. Isn’t this magical?
Tirta Empul is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu God of Water. The name means water gushing from the earth, which is why the Pura Tirta Empul is regarded as a holy spring.
The temple also includes shrines to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, as well as one for Indra.
Lets’ explore Tirta Empul Temple opening hours, interesting tale, history, fee, dress code and more right away!
Pura Tirta Empul In Bali - Visitor Info
- Tirta Empul Temple Entrance Fee: ₹268/- per person
- Dress Code: Modest attire: Shoulders and legs should be covered. Use Sarong
- Facilities: Parking, restrooms, sarong rentals
- Opening Hours: 7 am to 5 pm
- Duration: 60 mins
- Location: Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80552, Indonesia
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Interesting Tale Of Pura Tirta Empul In Bali
Long ago, there was an evil king named Mayadenawa who ruled Bali. He had magical powers but used them for bad things and stopped people from praying to their gods. A priest asked the god Bhatara Indra to help stop this cruel king.
Bhatara Indra and his army fought Mayadenawa, forcing him to run away to a place now called Tampak Siring (meaning "tilted footprint" because the king walked on the sides of his feet to hide his tracks).
One night, Mayadenawa poisoned the water where Indra's soldiers were sleeping. When they drank it, they all died. But Indra used his magical staff to create a new spring with healing water. He sprinkled this water on his dead soldiers and brought them back to life!
This magical spring became known as Tirta Empul. Eventually, Indra killed the evil king with an arrow. When Mayadenawa died, his blood created the Petanu River.
Today, people visit this sacred temple to bathe in the holy spring water, believing it can heal and purify them. The temple celebrates the victory of good over evil, and this tradition still continues after more than 1,000 years.
Tirta Empul Temple History
The Tirta Empul is very old. It was built around the 10th century (over 1,000 years ago). According to legend, a Balinese king named Indrajaya created this temple. The story says he wanted to use the temple's clean, pure spring water to heal his sick soldiers.
The temple remains an important spiritual site where people come to experience the sacred spring waters and connect with Bali's rich cultural heritage.
Pura Tirta Empul Bali Melukat: The Famous Purification Ritual
The significance of Pura Tirta Empul in Bali centres around its amazing natural spring that creates a large, crystal-clear pool. From this main pool, water flows through 30 different spouts into two special bathing pools.
The sacred purification ceremony called “Pura Tirta Empul Bali Melukat” has been practised here for generations. People line up in the pools, which are about waist-deep, and take turns bathing under each waterspout.
They start from the left pool, moving from one spout to the next, believing each spout brings different blessings. Throughout Tirta Empul temple history, these waters have been considered holy and said to have healing properties.
Interestingly, two of these waterspouts are special. They’re only meant for ceremonies involving the deceased, so living people shouldn’t use them for their purification ritual. This shows how carefully the ancient traditions are preserved and respected at this sacred site.
Pura Tirta Empul Tour - What's Inside?
When you visit Pura Tirta Empul, plan to spend about 30-60 minutes exploring this amazing temple complex. Here's what you'll discover inside:
- Entering the Pura Tirta Empul in Bali: You'll start by walking through a massive stone gate called "candi bentar" that leads to the first courtyard named "jaba sisi." Don't forget to wear a sarong (available for rent at the entrance) as it's required to enter this sacred space.
- Sacred Water Features: The temple's main highlight is the series of holy pools fed by natural springs. These pools contain about 25+ water spouts where visitors can participate in the "melukat" purification ritual. Many believe these waters have healing powers for both body and soul.
- Beautiful Architecture: As you move deeper into the complex, you'll pass through another special gate guarded by two golden Dwarapala statues with a Kala creature carved above them.
The temple showcases traditional Balinese architecture with intricate stone carvings and is divided into three courtyards, each serving different ritual purposes.
- Spiritual Experience: This active Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu offers visitors a chance to witness local religious ceremonies, observe cultural practices, and experience authentic Balinese spirituality.
The peaceful atmosphere, including koi ponds and open pavilions, makes it perfect for both worship and reflection.
Best Time To Visit Tirta Empul Temple
Dry Season (April to October) - Perfect Time!
The dry season from April to October is the best time to visit Tirta Empul Temple. It offers sunny and warm weather, ideal for walking around the temple complex.
- Great Weather: Clear skies, little to no rain, and comfortable temperatures.
- Perfect for Water Rituals: You can enjoy the purification ceremony without worrying about rain.
- Better Photos: Sunny days give you beautiful, bright pictures of the temple.
- Easy Walking: Dry paths make it comfortable to explore the temple grounds.
- Crowd Level: Want less crowds? May-June or September-October offer a more personal experience with fewer crowds.
Wet Season (November to March) - Still Possible But Challenging
While you can still visit during wet season, there are some challenges:
- Heavy Rain: November typically sees short bursts of rain over 16 days, with rainfall increasing throughout the season to 27 days in January.
- High Humidity: The wet season brings high humidity, heavy rainfall, and chances of storms.
- Slippery Paths: Temple grounds can be wet and slippery.
- Limited Water Activities: Rain might interrupt your purification ritual.
- Crowd Level: There are likely to be fewer tourists around during this season.
Best Tip: Despite of any season, visit early in the morning, as it gets hectic with tourists by noon!
How To Reach Pura Tirta Empul Temple In Bali?
1. How To Reach Pura Tirta Empul Temple By Flight:
- Fly into Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport.
- Once you land, you'll need additional transport to reach the temple, which brings us to the ground transportation options.
- Choose renting scooter, ride hailing apps, a private driver with a car, or private tour package to reach Tirta Empul Temple.
2. How To Reach Pura Tirta Empul Temple By Opting For A Tour Package:
- Opting for a private tour package like 7 Days Adventure Bali Trip Package is one of the best options to explore Bali, especially for the first-time visitors.
- The best part? This option includes transport, accommodations, entry fee and meals sometimes.
- Cost: Starts from ₹42,999/- for 5-7 days.
3. How To Reach Pura Tirta Empul Temple By Hiring A Car With A Driver:
- If you prefer comfort and are travelling with family or in a group, hiring a private car is an excellent choice.
- What works better here is the driver picks you up from the airport/hotel.
- He shares all the interesting details about the the attractions you see on the way to Tirta Empul Temple.
- You Can also stp wherever you want and explore the best places to visit in Bali at your own pace.
- Cost: Around ₹3,200 to ₹4,000 per day.
4. How To Reach Pura Tirta Empul Temple By Renting A Scooter:
- For solo travellers or couples who are confident riders, renting a scooter is the most affordable and convenient option.
- This option gives you complete freedom to explore at your own pace.
- From Ubud, it's just a pleasant 30-minute ride through Bali's scenic countryside to reach the Tirta Empul temple location.
- Strictly carry International Driving License and be aware of Bali’s traffic and narrow streets.
- Cost: Around ₹400/- to ₹600/- per day.
5. How To Reach Pura Tirta Empul Temple By Ride Hailing Apps:
- Modern travellers often prefer the convenience of ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek.
- The cost will depend on your starting location and traffic, but it's generally a budget-friendly option for a one-way trip.
- Cost: Around ₹800/- per ride.
Essential Tips For Visiting Pura Tirta Empul Temple
The Tirta Empul temple location in Tampaksiring village attracts thousands of visitors who come to experience its spiritual significance, so knowing these essential travel tips will help make your visit smooth and respectful:
- Tirta Empul Temple opening hours are daily from 7 am to 6 pm giving you plenty of time to explore.
- Visit early morning around 7am or late afternoon around 4:30pm for the best experience.
- The Pura Tirta Empul temple dress code requires modest clothing with shoulders and legs covered. Sarong and sash rental is included in the entrance fee if you don't have your own.
- Bring waterproof bags for belongings if participating in water purification rituals.
- Getting a local guide will definitely make your visit better for understanding Tirta Empul Temple history and cultural significance.
Is Tirta Empul Temple Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Pura Tirta Empul in Bali is definitely worth visiting for both spiritual seekers and culture enthusiasts. This sacred temple offers a unique combination of ancient history, stunning architecture, and authentic spiritual experiences that you won't find elsewhere.
The opportunity to participate in traditional purification rituals while surrounded by over 1,000 years of heritage makes it truly special. Remember to follow the Pura Tirta Empul temple dress code by wearing modest clothing and a sarong to show respect for this holy site.
Whether you're seeking spiritual cleansing, cultural understanding, or simply want to witness one of Bali's most important temples, this destination provides an unforgettable experience that connects you with authentic Balinese Hindu traditions.
