Spirituality

DESTINATION : EAT, PRAY AND LOVE.

The Balinese way of life comprises a spiritual way of life that is indeed divine – not surprisingly most of the shooting of the iconic movie Eat, Pray, Love starring Julia Roberts and Richard Jenkins was filmed here in Bali. Surprisingly, Bali is an exclusive Hinduism enclave in the predominantly Islamic country of Indonesia. Out here, you will definitely wake up to the flowers and fruits offerings and the wafting fragrance of incense smoke, everywhere you get about.

Before Bali became the go-to destination for its gorgeous beaches, nightlife, volcano treks and mad shopping, travelers from around the world used to flock in herds to this beautiful island for its deep-rooted spirituality, mystical culture and traditions and its myriad temples dedicated to the Hindu faith.

In fact, there is a popular saying that there are more shrines in Bali than homes – a fact that you will stand witness to this when you visit Bali. If you’re one of those spiritual wanderers with a twinkle in your eyes for bliss and mystics, Bali is a must visit. Out of the many marvelous temples in the clouds down to the historic temple architecture in the Bali seas, we bring you the very best.

Pura Lempuyang Temple

The Puru Lempuyang Temple located in East Bali is considered one of Bali’s most important religious and spiritual places. This temple is dedicated to Sang Hyang Widi Wasa, the Supreme God – whose abode is one of the nine directional temples known to protect the native Balinese people from evil spirits. Towering at a height of nearly 1500-steps, this temple is easily one of the loftiest in terms of altitude and spirituality – not surprisingly, it is known as the Gateway to Heaven. The iconic picture of travelers at the gates of this temple with the clouds meandering about is something you’d have definitely come across. This one is a must visit for the bliss and the absolutely magnificent view of Mount Agung from the gate of this temple.

Location : East Bali accessible via Candidasa
Time for visit : 9 AM to 6 PM
Tips : Dress appropriately, covering shoulders and legs
Hike time : Roughly 3 hours, depending on your fitness levels
Ideal visit : During the Piodalan Festival

Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot literally means Land in the Sea, and aptly is located 300 meters off shore, perched high on a rock and facing the open seas. The picture of Tanah Lot with its beautiful silhouette with the backdrop of the Balinese sundown is one of Bali’s iconic pictures. The temple dates back to the 16th century and is believed to be established by Dang Hyang Nirartha, who according to Balinese mythology is a man of supernatural powers. He is credited to creating the three temple system in the Balinese villages – northern part of the village dedicated to Lord Brahma, the middle for Lord Vishnu and the southern part for Lord Shiva. The Tanah Lot temple, being the tourists’ favorite has all the necessary infrastructure in place – from a dedicated parking area and information center down to art shops and restaurants. This temple is ideal to visit for the sundown views, though the early mornings have lesser crowds.

Location : Beraban Village, Tabanan Regency
Time for visit : 7 AM to 7 PM
Tips : Heed to warning signs since high tide waves are dangerous
Visit time : Roughly 3 hours, depending on your enthusiasm for shopping
Ideal visit : During the Piodalan Festival

Uluwatu Temple

Can you believe it’s a 1000 year old monument? We couldn’t. However, the Uluwatu temple is one of Bali’s most visited destinations – and unsurprisingly so, thanks to its jaw-dropping cliffs, sunset views to behold, the fire dances of Bali and the mischievous monkeys who hang around. This temple is believed to have been established by Empu Kuturan, a Javanese Hindu Priest in the 11th Century and then expanded by Dang Hyang Nirartha. The Pagoda is perched on a really tall cliff and is literally known as the Portal to the Heavens. As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, you will probably be witness to the mighty 75-meter waves crashing against the limestone cliffs. What could be more awe inspiring than that? Must visit, if you are planning Bali.

Location : Pecatu Village, Badung Regency
Time for visit : 9 AM to 6 PM for visitors / 24 hours for worship
Tips : Guide recommended. Beware of the monkeys.
Visit time : Roughly 3 hours to cover even the beach nearby
Ideal visit : March to September

Pura Tirta Empul

The Tirta Empul is one of the most visited water temples in Indonesia – Tirta Empul roughly translates to water gushing from the earth. Considered to be very sacred by the Balinese, this temple has several holy springs, believed to have been created by God Indra and that the waters purify those who bathe here. According to the legends in a manuscript called Usana Bali, Tirta Empul came into being after an epic battle between a powerful yet wicked king named Mayadenawa and a God, Bhatara Indra. The death of Mayadenawa is being commemorated even to this day – symbolically as the victory of good over evil, in a ceremony called Galungan.

Location : Tampaksiring, Ubud
Time for visit : 9 AM to 6 PM for visitors / 24 hours for worship
Tips : Guide recommended. Respect dress code of Sarong.
Visit time : Roughly 2-3 hours including praying time
Ideal visit : March to September