Tirta Empul Temple

Nestled in the lush, emerald-green landscape of Bali, Indonesia, lies the ancient and revered Tirta Empul Temple. This sacred site, located in the village of Manukaya in central Bali near the town of Tampaksiring, is renowned for its holy spring water, which is believed to have curative properties. Built in 962 A.D. during the reign of Warmadewa dynasty, Tirta Empul has been a spiritual magnet for both Balinese Hindus and tourists from around the globe.

Tirta Empul, which means "holy water spring" in Balinese, has a rich historical and mythological backdrop. The temple's origin is rooted in a legend involving the Hindu god Indra and the demon king Mayadanawa. According to the myth, Mayadanawa poisoned the waters of the nearby Petanu River, causing illness among Indra's army. In response, Indra pierced the earth to create a spring of pure water to revive his troops, giving birth to the sacred spring of Tirta Empul.

This legendary tale underscores the temple's enduring significance as a place of purification and healing, attracting devotees who seek spiritual cleansing and rejuvenation.

The centerpiece of the temple is the rectangular purification pool where devotees perform a ritual known as "melukat," or self-cleansing. This purification process involves washing away physical and spiritual impurities, providing a sense of renewal and clarity.

For visitors, participating in the melukat ceremony is a deeply spiritual experience. Before entering the pool, individuals pray and make offerings at the temple shrine, seeking blessings from the gods. Clad in traditional sarongs, they then immerse themselves in the cool, clear waters, moving from spout to spout while performing specific prayers and rituals. Each spout represents different aspects of life, such as health, prosperity, and well-being.

Location: Tirta Empul Temple is situated just 15 kilometers north of Ubud, approximately a 40-minute drive from the city center. Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dWkGLEnJ5hLyX6XQ9.

Entrance fee: The entrance fee for Tirta Empul Temple is IDR 50,000 per adult (approximately USD 3). For children aged 5-11 years, the fee is IDR 25,000, and admission is free for children under 5 years old. The price includes a sarong, a traditional Balinese cloth used to cover the lower part of the body. Please ensure you bring cash to pay for the entrance fee. Open every day from 7AM until 6PM.

Guided Tour and Melukat Ceremony Experience: For those interested in participating in the Melukat Ceremony and Temple Tour, devotees can book for the best experience through Viator. Please refer to the following link for more details and bookings.

Restrictions: Please note, women who are menstruating are respectfully asked not to enter Tirta Empul Temple or participate in the Melukat Ceremony.

Tirta Empul Temple

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