Buddhism and Hinduism temples can be found all over Bali. Of all the Tirta Empul temples, Tirta Empul temple is said to have the most captivating sights and spiritual sites on the island. It is famous for its holy spring where both visitors and locals engage in cleansing activities, this makes it a must visit site for everyone in the region. With its rich history dating through centuries and nature’s tranquillity surrounding it, Tirta Empul sheds some light on Bali's spiritual endpoints.
Importance and Historical Significances of Tirta Empul
Worshippers say that Tirta Empul temples were built over a holy spring during the reign of the Warmadewa dynasty, in 926AD. Balinese legends claim that the sacred spring was made by god Indra, to save his men for a King who evil- poisoned them. This temple is still considered one of the most important water temples in Bali. It still attracts Hindus looking to purify themselves, as well as tourism there to explore other parts of Balinese culture.
The Iconic Sacred Healing Ceremony
One of the most impressive features of Tirta Empul Temple is its numerous purification pools. Water pours out of a spout unique to this temple and people, both the faithful and visitors, bathe in the water during a ceremony called melukat.
Each fountain is believed to have specific spiritual purposes such as protecting the person from evil energies, enhancing overall health, and inviting prosperity. Guests are asked to put on a traditional sarong, which may be borrowed from the shop directly in front of the temple, before stepping into the water.
Discovering the Temple Grounds
Beyond the purification pools, Tirta Empul features thorough and deep carved stone pavements, courtyards and shrines which are effortlessly intricate and showcase of balm spiritualism. The temple compound is split into three parts: Jaba Pura (outer courtyard), Jaba Tengah (centre section with the purification pools) and Jeroan (inner sanctuary). Visitors can also see the Capitol Palace at Tampaksiring which was built in the 50s for Sukarno, Indonesia’s first President.
Important Things to Know When Visiting Tirta Empul
In order to explore all corners of this incredible area and avoid overlapping crowds, the best time to visit is in the morning. The temple is an active place for worship, hence requires very modest dress, as well as being respectful of the locals, and the rules of the washing ritual. There's an ease of blending a visit to Tirta Empul with nearby highlights like Tegallalang Rice terraces, or Gunung Kawi Temple; it is best for perfect cultural visits in Bali.
Not only is Tirta Empul a tourist attraction, on the contrary, it is a heritage site that grants tourists the opportunity to learn about the Balinese culture and its diverse astonishing beliefs.