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Pura Tanah Lot: the temple of temples

Pura Tanah Lot, on the west coast of Bali, is probably the most popular and photographed temple on the island. Tanah Lot stands for earth (Tanah) and sea (Lot), quite appropriate considering its spectacular setting on top of an impressive rock overlooking the sea. Tanah Lot is dedicated to the god of the sea and is one of the most important temples in Bali.

Arts & Culture

A photographers’ paradise

Photographers who wish to impress their friends and family at home will fall in love with Tanah Lot. Various locations offer stunning views of the temple, making this a very photogenic destination. Depending on the position of the sun, the light is perfect for taking beautiful photographs. Take an immediate right at the entrance of the temple area and walk through the garden to the top of the hill. From this higher vantage point you will have an even better view of the temple – huge waves crash on the rocks, creating that perfect postcard picture.

Getting wet

Easy access

Tanah Lot is only a 40-minute drive from Kuta and Ubud; both are a perfect starting point for an early morning visit to the temple. Tanah Lot is at its most mystical early in the morning. The impressive Hindu temple is best reached at low tide; visitors can walk across the beach to the temple. At high tide, Tanah Lot is only accessible by boat. Those who are not early risers may also visit the temple at sunset, but do expect more crowds.

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Water sports

Arts & Culture

Nature

Water sports

Many people have a wish to see and touch a dolphin at least once in their lives. This wish can come true in Bali. The sight of dozens of dolphins streaking through the water, making elegant somersaults and following boats as if they really would like to make contact, brings a smile to everyone’s face. Real dolphin lovers can even meet their favourite creature face to face in the south of Bali.

Arts & Culture

Elegant dances based on fascinating stories and gracious women – when you visit Bali you'll be overwhelmed by the rituals and ceremonies. Not surprisingly, the island is a refuge for artists and other creative types. Balinese beauties are an important source of inspiration for paintings, wood carvings and other types of art.

Nature

If you’re going to Bali you can’t miss the lively town of Ubud. This former artists’ colony, with its long winding streets full of yoga schools, shops, galleries and temples, will capture the imagination of any traveller. But make sure you also check out the surrounding rice fields, where the morning sun colours the terraces a bright emerald green.

Nature

Nature lovers will love Bali. The island may not be that large but it boasts an amazing range of flora and fauna. Stunning rice fields around Ubud, mangrove forests near Sanur, expansive jungle in the west of Bali, and mountains in the north – this varied landscape attracts a diverse collection of animals and especially birds. Look out for white Bali starlings, Amadina parrots, Java sparrows, Purple swamphens, jacanas, weavers and the almost extinct jalak putih.

Water sports

Coral reefs, shipwrecks and manta rays – the underwater world of Bali is one of the most beautiful in the world. Idyllic coves with white sandy beaches and crystal clear water are nestled among high cliffs. There are quiet spots with almost no currents where novice divers and snorkelers can admire the fish, turtles and coral at their leisure. More experienced divers can enjoy truly exciting forays into a real shipwreck.

Water sports

Wreck diving is one of the most popular forms of diving. Vessels stranded on the seabed conjure up images of raging seas, dramatic events and hidden treasures. It’s not for nothing that the Liberty wreck off the coast of Tulamben on the east coast of Bali attracts experienced and novice divers from around the world. The marine life around the wreck is extraordinary.

Nature

What could be better than breakfast on the edge of a volcano while enjoying a stunning sunrise? The majestic Gunung Batur is the place to be for this amazing experience. The 2-hour trip to the top is not too arduous and when you arrive you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Gunung Agung, Bali’s sacred mother mountain. The panorama is most beautiful at dawn so make sure you get an early start.

Nature

Centrally located on Bali, Ubud – the island’s cultural and spiritual Mecca – is perfect for guided or unguided bike rides. This is the ideal way to experience the real Bali. The highlights below can easily be combined with a bike tour.

Arts & Culture

The beautiful temple Ulun Danu Bratan lies on a small peninsula on the shore of Lake Bratan. This lake plays an important role in irrigating the area and the southern part of the island; that is why the temple complex is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water.

Nature

Taman Nasional Bali Barat, a multifaceted park that protects various natural environments and endangered animal species, lies in the western part of Bali. Bali Barat is accessible on foot and boasts mangroves, swamps, reefs and many plant and animal species.

Nature

Relax, explore the natural landscape or enjoy numerous water sports: the southern tip of Bali – the Bukit Badung peninsula – offers a wide range of leisure opportunities. From the hip surf destination Kuta to the mythical Padang Padang Beach and upscale beach resort Nusa Dua.