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Every year, over a million people visit Bali’s sacred sites. But only a few places let you step into history like Tirta Empul Temple has done for over 1.000 years. Whether you get wet under the spouts or sit by the pools, Pura Tirta Empul is rewarding. Come for the holy spring and ritual, stay for the peaceful moments between the bells and the breeze. This is Bali at its most enduring.
About Tirta Empul Temple
Tirta Empul Temple (Pura Tirta Empul) is one of Bali’s most important water temples, dating back to 926 AD during the Warmadewa dynasty. The name “Tirta Empul” translates to “holy spring water,” referring to the natural spring that feeds the purification pools at the heart of the temple.
According to Balinese Hindu legend, the spring was created by the god Indra. During a battle against an evil king named Mayadenawa, Indra struck the earth with his staff to create life-giving water for his poisoned troops. That spring still flows today, and it’s what feeds the bathing pools you see in every iconic photo of Tirta Empul Temple.
Location
The Tirta Empul temple is located in Tampaksiring, Gianyar, surrounded by rice terraces and jungle folds. From Ubud, it takes about 30–40 minutes by scooter, while from Seminyak, Canggu, Sanur, or Nusa Dua, you should plan on roughly 1.5 hours. Hiring a private driver is helpful, especially if you’re pairing the visit with nearby attractions such as the Tampaksiring Presidential Palace, commissioned by President Sukarno.
Information about Pura Tirta Empul is clear regarding accessibility, the roads are paved, parking is easy, and the path inside is mostly flat with just a few steps. Early mornings are misty and calm, and you can hear the springs before you see them.
Opening Hours
The opening hours of Tirta Empul are from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, including public holidays and ceremony days. During your visit, the outer courtyards, purification pools, and the spring source all follow these hours. Some inner sanctums may close for rituals.
Arrive around 8:00 AM to enjoy the soft morning light and fewer crowds; later in the day, tour buses begin to arrive. Remember proper Bali temple etiquette: move clockwise, keep your voice low, and give space to worshippers at the spouts.
Entrance Fee
The Tirta Empul ticket price is IDR 75.000 for adults and IDR 50.000 for children, with free parking. Your entry includes a sarong and sash for temple grounds, no need to bring your own. If you join melukat, budget extra for a bathing sarong rental and a locker near the changing area.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit Tirta Empul is early, between 8:00–9:30 AM. This time offers cooler air, soft light for photos, and fewer crowds. The paths are quiet, and the pools are calm.
Late afternoon is also great, after 4:00 PM. The sun sets, the water glows, and the courtyards calm down. If you’re planning a cleanse, lines are shorter than in sthe middle of the day. To avoid crowds, skip visiting between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
Lunar nights are special. Purnama Tilem Bali ceremonies attract hundreds of worshippers. It’s powerful to see, but be patient. On full moon or new moon days, expect longer waits and crowded courtyards.
How to Get to Pura Tirta Empul
Getting to Tirta Empul is easy. From Ubud, it’s a 30–40 minute drive on paved roads. If you’re coming from Seminyak, Canggu, Sanur, or Nusa Dua, it’s about 1.5 hours each way. Traffic is better when schools are closed and markets are not busy.
For a hassle-free trip, consider a private driver in Bali. It’s perfect if you’re visiting other places like Gunung Kawi or the Tegalalang rice terraces. Local drivers know the best routes and parking spots, making your visit smooth.
If you prefer to ride, renting a scooter in Ubud is a great option. But, be careful in Bali’s traffic. The roads near Tampaksiring can be slippery in the rain. Always carry an international driving permit and a light rain jacket.
Dress Code When Visit Tirta Empul Temple
Like all sacred sites in Bali, Tirta Empul Temple has a strict dress code that visitors must follow out of respect for local customs and beliefs.
The basic dress code requirements include:
- All visitors must wear a sarong and sash (provided free with your entrance ticket)
- Shoulders must be covered (no tank tops or sleeveless shirts)
- Clothing should be modest and respectful
- If participating in the melukat ritual, you’ll need to rent a special ceremonial sarong inside
Women who are menstruating are traditionally asked not to enter temple areas or participate in the purification ritual, as this is considered respectful according to Balinese Hindu beliefs.
The Melukat (Holy Purification Ritual)
The melukat purification ritual is the highlight of visiting Tirta Empul Temple and offers a unique opportunity to participate in an authentic Balinese Hindu tradition. This spiritual cleansing uses holy water (tirta) to wash away negative energy, bad thoughts, and impurities. Participating in the traditional Melukat in Bali allows visitors to experience the island’s deep spiritual culture while connecting with its centuries-old purification practices.
How the Melukat Ritual Works
If you’d like to participate in the melukat ritual at Tirta Empul, here’s what to expect:
- Prepare yourself – Rent a special green ceremonial sarong (different from the entrance sarong) for 10.000 IDR and a locker for 15.000 IDR. Wear swimwear underneath.
- Make an offering – Your guide will help you prepare a small offering (canang sari) with flowers and incense. Add a small donation (10.000-20.000 IDR) to the offering.
- Enter the purification pools – The main pool contains a row of 13 water spouts, each with symbolic meaning. You’ll move from left to right, stopping at each fountain.
- At each fountain – Place your hands together in prayer, make a wish, splash water on your face three times, rinse your mouth three times (without swallowing), and finally let the water flow over your head.
Important: Two fountains near the end are reserved for funeral ceremonies and should be skipped. Follow what others are doing or ask your guide which ones to skip.
While you don’t need to be Hindu to participate, it’s essential to approach the ritual with respect and sincerity. This isn’t just a photo opportunity but a meaningful spiritual practice for the Balinese people.
Where to Stay Near Tirta Empul
Staying near Tirta Empul allows you to visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Here are three excellent accommodation options within a short drive of the temple:
Nyuh Bali Villas
If you’re looking for a peaceful villa in Ubud not far from Tirta Empul, Nyuh Bali Villas is a wonderful choice. Each villa features a private pool surrounded by tropical gardens, creating a quiet haven to relax after your temple visit.
The property beautifully blends modern luxury with traditional Balinese design, offering an atmosphere that feels both elegant and homely. Guests can also indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, yoga sessions, and nourishing local cuisine, all curated to reflect Ubud’s holistic lifestyle.
Natasya Villa
This villa is set in lush greenery and offers good value. It has airy bedrooms, thoughtful layouts, and quiet for resetting. It’s close to the temple but far enough to be peaceful.
It’s perfect for a focused temple day. The staff is warm, and the mornings are bright. It’s great for travelers who want calm in Tampaksiring accommodation without breaking the bank.
Jungle Joglo
For a unique experience, Jungle Joglo offers authentic Javanese wooden houses transported to Bali and rebuilt in a tropical jungle setting. Located 20 minutes from Tirta Empul, these traditional structures have been modernized with contemporary comforts while maintaining their historic charm.
What to Do After Visiting Tirta Empul
After experiencing the spiritual atmosphere of Tirta Empul Temple, you might want to continue your journey with these complementary activities nearby:
Retreat with Couple
Make the day even more meaningful by spending quality time with your partner in a peaceful and natural setting. Many resorts and villas near Tirta Empul offer exclusive packages for couples that include relaxing massages, private yoga sessions, and guided meditation classes. The lush surroundings and calming ambiance make it easy to slow down and reconnect with one another after exploring the temple’s sacred waters.
The experience of a couple retreat in Bali with someone you love can deepen emotional closeness and bring a sense of inner peace. You can find this kind of service at several villas such as Nyuh Bali Villas, which offers spa treatments, yoga sessions, and romantic private dining in a tropical Ubud atmosphere. This experience make your visit to Tirta Empul even more memorable and meaningful.
Reiki Healing
The serene energy that surrounds Tirta Empul extends beyond the temple, making it an ideal place to explore healing practices like Reiki. This ancient Japanese technique involves channeling energy through gentle touch to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and restore emotional balance. Many wellness centers near Tirta Empul specialize in Reiki sessions, often held in tranquil environments surrounded by nature.
Participating in Reiki after your temple purification can deepen your sense of spiritual renewal. The practice complements the cleansing experience of Tirta Empul by helping harmonize the body, mind, and spirit.
Final Thoughts
Tirta Empul Temple consistently ranks as one of the most meaningful experiences for visitors to Bali. While it has certainly become more popular in recent years, the temple maintains its spiritual significance and authentic atmosphere, especially if you visit at the right time.