Pura Tanah Lot

Pura Tanah Lot is one of the most popular temples in Bali.  It is located in the middle of the sea, and I heard that if you are brave enough to deal with the traffic to get there, the views at sunset are spectacular.  Going to the temple was a given, so to make the best use of my time, I planned my visit for the morning.  I know I missed the sunset views, but with or without a sunset, the temple stands beautiful no matter what time of the day. 

As you can see from this picture, people have to walk a little bit across the sea to reach the temple.  The little trek across was not easy for me because of the uneven surface and the rush of the waves.  I was worried about falling into the water, but luckily I did not!  For those who want to visit in the future, I recommend bringing a pair of water shoes.  Once across, I had the option to see the holy spring water or turn back.  At the time I visited, the temple's prayer areas were closed off.  There was a side staircase, which led to another view of the sea, but you had to be blessed by the locals who monitored the holy spring water, in order to use the staircase.  

I chose the option to see the holy spring water, and when I did, it was a little waterfall maybe three feet tall.  I let the little waterfall run through my fingers.  Afterwards, I made a donation, and the locals sprinkled me with water, put rice on my forehead, and put a flower next to my ear.  Since I was then blessed, I was able to use the side staircase to get another view of the sea.

Here, I met the holy spring water.  I washed my hands with it.  It was a personal metaphor to cleanse my soul, mind, chi, inner workings, what-have-you.  It was so soothing.

Here, I was sprinkled with holy water and rice was put on the center of my forehead.  This symbolized that I would be blessed with a fulfilling life.  I cannot explain why, but I felt so calm throughout this process.   It was a feeling I will always remember.

Here, the flower was placed by my ear and my blessing session was complete.

Thanks for stopping by!