Temples of Tampaksiring

The major archaeological sites in Tampaksiring seem to stand outside and beyond the reaches of time. Traces of the old Hindu civilisation can be found in many corners of the area, During this tour you will visit the most important sites, experience the Balinese ritual of water purification and one lesser known temple.

To avoid the crowds the first stop is Pura Tirta Empul or Holy Spring Temple. In Balinese language Tirta is holy water and Empul is spring or fountain, Hindu people believe that a visit to this 11th century temple can clear chakras and bad energy via water blessing and purification.  The clearing of the mind and soul helps follow the hindu belief of creating good karma for a better life. There are many areas to this temple complex –  fish ponds, many beautiful goddess statues, areas for prayer and reflection, pavilions for special ceremonies plus the ponds where you see the spring water coming from the ground. The holy springs fill a bathing area where the water blessing ritual takes place.   There are 13 beautiful fountains in three separate pond each having a special purpose.  When following the ritual you begin cleansing your body in the pond representing past life, followed by present life and finishing with future life.

After visiting Tirta Empul we will stop at a Agro Farm with jungle view for complimentary tea and coffee tasting served with Balinese cakes.

The second temple is lesser known Pura Megening. It seems this 11th century temple has been lost in time as moss and vines have engulfed this temple areas and the pure water baths and springs. A cool breeze and serenity will greet you as you go down the steps into the temple’s courtyard.. From the courtyard, you can gaze upon the greenery that surrounds the premises, taking in the natural beauty serenaded by the harmonious sounds of water running into different pools below. The site is not so large but still has many interesting sights and ruins to see.

After finished at Megening there is time for lunch at a resto with rice field views that services delicious Indonesian plus some western food.

Lastly, we stop at the one of Bali’s most remarkable sights Gunung Kawi Temple. Walk to the temple site by following the scenic steps down to the river passing the surrounding rice terraces. Upon arrival, at the bottom of the lush green river valley you will be amazed at the ten brilliant ancient shrines that has been hand carved into the rock cliff face.  The shrines dating back to the 11th century, have aged exceptionally well due to the sheltered location.  Up to 8 metres in height they were constructed by King Anak Wungsu in honor of his father and brother. Since no bodies were found in the graves they are more memorial stones that graves. Just a few meters away from the rock temples is an old monastery with narrow passageways and narrow stone chambers carved out of the rocks. The monk’s sanctuary dates from the 9th century and is considered a testimony to Balinese early history. Visitors are only allowed to enter here barefoot.

What our guests are saying….

So glad we went, the full moon made it even more special – it’s a must when in Bali – I will always tell people you have to go and experience it.

Everything I asked for last time happened. It’s a special place. Sue, May 2024

Learn more about water purification ritual and 15 Important Tips HERE

Itinerary

• 8.00am Depart Ubud Hotel (7am from other locations)
• 8.30am Arrive Pura Tirta Empul and start Water Purification (2 Hours)
• 10.30am Finish Water Purification and site tour.
• 10.45am Tea and Coffee Break at Agro Farm. (45 minutes)
• 11.45am Arrive Pura Menengeng. (1 Hour)
• 1:00pm Lunch Break (1 Hour)
• 2.15pm Arrive Pura Gunung Kawi (1 Hour 45 min)
• 4.00pm Depart for Hotel.

Price
One Person IDR 1,200,000
Two Person or more IDR 850,000
Per Child (3 – 12 years) IDR 300,000
Luxury Car with Sunroof Extra IDR 300,000 per booking.

Includes
Private Car & English speaking Driver and Guide, Entrance Tickets, Bottle of Water & Cold Towel per person. Sarongs, Offerings, Locker, Towel for Water Purification. Tea and Coffee Tasting with Balinese Cakes, Use of Umbrella, In Car Phone Cables for iPhone & Samsung

Excludes
Food and Drinks (unless specified above)

Pack
Swimwear, change of clothes, hair tie, top that covers shoulders formples, good walking shoes, mosquito spray, sunscreen, cash money, fully charged phone

Important Notes
Females cannot visit the temple when menstruating. No animals allowed. Some areas of the temple may be closed due to ceremonies or government restrictions.