Tanah Lot, Hindu temple on coastal rock formation in Beraban, Indonesia
Tanah Lot is a Hindu temple on an offshore rock in Beraban, Indonesia, reachable on foot only at low tide. Its shrines stand on the rock's top: a multi-tiered tower of dark material at the left-rear and a larger open pavilion with a tall, pale thatch roof supported by pillars to the right. Stone steps lead up between them, past green trees and shrubs with pink flowers.
According to legend, the 16th-century Javanese Brahmin Dang Hyang Nirartha meditated on a rock at Beraban and moved it into the sea with spiritual power, then built a shrine on it. The local ruler Bendesa Beraban Sakti, initially his opponent, became his follower along with the villagers. The site is one of Bali's seven sea temples, dedicated to Dewa Baruna, the sea god.
The site takes its name from the Balinese words for land and sea, reflecting its position on a rock between both elements. Priests from the area conduct regular ceremonies where worshippers bring offerings of flowers and incense.
Visitors should arrive at low tide to walk along the exposed path close to the structure. The surrounding area has shaded spots with benches where you can watch the sunset over the water.
Snakes inhabit caves at the base of the rock and are considered guardians of the shrine by local people. Visitors can see these animals in the natural crevices of the rock during low water phases.
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