Tirta Empul is the name of a Hindu temple located in Manukaya village, Tampak Siring subdistrict, Gianyar district, Bali. The unique architecture and the presence of springs in the area inside the temple make Tirta Empul temple attract many tourist visits. Both foreign tourists and domestic tourists.
Tirta Empul Temple in Bali is a sacred site renowned for its holy spring water, where locals and tourists alike participate in purification rituals. The temple, located in Tampaksiring near Ubud, was founded in 926 AD during the Warmadewa Dynasty. It holds significant spiritual value for the Balinese people, especially as a place of prayer and purification.
The temple is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. According to legend, the sacred springs were created by the god Indra after defeating the malevolent King Mayadenawa. Indra pierced the ground with his staff, allowing the healing waters to emerge, which are now believed to purify the body and soul.
Tirta Empul is divided into three main sections: the outer courtyard (Jaba Pura), the central courtyard (Jaba Tengah) with its purification pools, and the inner courtyard (Jeroan), which is the most sacred part of the temple. Visitors can participate in the Melukat purification ritual by submerging themselves under the temple’s water spouts, which are believed to cleanse both body and spirit.
The temple has become a popular tourist destination, drawing not only worshippers but also travelers attracted by its beauty. To respect the temple’s spiritual significance, visitors must dress modestly, typically by wearing a sarong.
Participation in the purification ritual requires renting a special sarong and following specific guidelines. There are also nearby attractions, such as the Gunung Kawi Temple and the Tampaksiring Presidential Palace, which make the area a well-rounded destination.