Tanah Lot, Hindu temple on coastal rock formation in Beraban, Indonesia
Tanah Lot is a Hindu temple on a coastal rock formation in Beraban, Indonesia, separated from the mainland by tides. The prayer hall, built from dark volcanic stone with its multi-tiered roofs, rises above the surf and becomes visible only from shore at high tide.
A religious scholar founded the site in the 16th century as part of a network of shrines distributed along the Balinese coast. The compound is among the oldest places of worship on the island still in active use today.
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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