Tirta Empul Temple
Bali's Sacred Holy Spring Temple for Cleansing Body and Soul
Tirta Empul Temple, nestled around a sacred spring in Tampak Siring, has drawn Balinese worshippers for over a millennium. Revered for its holy spring water, believed to have been created by the god Indra and endowed with curative properties, the temple maintains ancient traditions. For more than a thousand years, its two bathing places have been a site for seeking good health and prosperity through the spring water's purifying powers. As one of the most visited destinations near Ubud, Tirta Empul offers a unique experience where holy spring water flows into communal pools. Here, local communities engage in physical and spiritual self-cleansing, believing that immersion in these sacred waters cleanses the body and soul of negative influences, leading to rejuvenation.
Itinerary
- Flexible: Arrive at Tirta Empul Temple and proceed through the entrance.
- Flexible: Explore the first courtyard, admire the sacred tree, relax at the Wantilan, and feed the colorful koi fish.
- Flexible: Visit the second courtyard to witness or participate in the 'Melukat' cleansing ritual in the holy spring purification pools, each serving different spiritual purposes.
- Flexible: Proceed to the third, holiest courtyard to see the sacred spring source and the temple dedicated to God Indra.
- Flexible: Enjoy the natural and serene atmosphere of the temple grounds before departure.
What to Bring
- Modest attire (shoulders and knees covered)
- Towel (if participating in the cleansing ritual)
- Change of clothes (if participating in the cleansing ritual)
Notes
- Women who are menstruating are not permitted to enter the temple grounds, as it is considered a sacred place.
- Sarongs are required for entry and for participating in the cleansing ritual; they are available for rent at the temple.
- Lockers are available for rent to store personal valuables.
- The main ceremony at Tirta Empul Temple is performed every 210 days, with specific dates found in the Balinese calendar.
- While visitors can access the three courtyards, entry into the direct spring source pool in the holiest courtyard is restricted.