Tirta Empul Temple

Tirta Empul Temple, built around the sacred spring at Tampak Siring, has been a revered site for Balinese worshipers for over a thousand years. Dedicated to God Indra, its holy spring water is renowned for its curative and cleansing properties, believed to purify the body and soul from negative influences. The tradition of ritual bathing and spiritual purification continues almost unchanged today, attracting visitors seeking well-being and prosperity. As one of the most visited destinations in the Ubud area, Tirta Empul offers a unique experience where holy spring water flows into communal pools, inviting both locals and tourists to partake in cleansing rituals that promise renewed physical and spiritual vitality. The temple complex is a testament to ancient Balinese civilization, rich in mythology and history, and continues to be a vibrant center for spiritual practices.

What to Bring

• Polite attire (sarong required for temple entry and bathing, available for rent)
• Valuables (lockers are available for rent)
• An open mind and belief in the efficacy of the holy water (optional)

Notes

• The temple requires polite dress; women during their menstrual period are not permitted to enter the temple grounds to maintain its sanctity.
• A sarong is necessary for cleansing rituals in the pools and for general temple entry. Sarongs can be rented on-site.
• Lockers are available for rent to store personal belongings.
• Ceremonies at Tirta Empul Temple are performed every 210 days, based on the Balinese calendar.
• Visitors are allowed access up to the main courtyard, while the holiest spring area in the third courtyard is restricted for bathing.
• The first courtyard features a sacred tree, a rest area (Wantilan), a canteen, and a pond filled with colorful koi fish, which visitors can feed.
• The holy spring water is believed to have healing and spiritual cleansing properties; many visitors collect the holy water in bottles to take home.
• The cleansing pools are divided into three sections, each serving different ritual purposes: holy water for cremation/dead ceremonies (13 fountains), symbolic spiritual purification for the sick (8 fountains), and blessings for general well-being for outside visitors (5 fountains).
• The temple is located in Tampak Siring, Gianyar Regency, strategically positioned near Gunung Kawi Temple and on the main road leading to Kintamani Village.
• Comprehensive facilities include a large parking area, souvenir shops, food stalls, and public toilets.
• An ancient buffalo relic, believed to be the vehicle of Lord Shiva (Nandi), is housed within the temple, though its carving is badly damaged.