So let me just start by saying—Tirta Empul Temple Bali isn’t just another stop on a Bali itinerary. It’s the kind of place that sneaks up on you. You show up expecting a “tourist temple,” but then somehow, you walk out feeling… different. Like, genuinely refreshed in a way that’s hard to explain unless you’ve done the water purification ritual yourself.
This temple’s been around since, like, the 10th century. That’s older than most countries. It’s in the village of Manukaya near Tampaksiring, which is about 30-45 minutes north of Ubud if the traffic gods are smiling. The big draw? The holy spring water bubbling up from underground right in the temple’s inner courtyard. Locals believe it’s sacred. And they don’t just visit once in a while—they go regularly to cleanse their energy, minds, and bodies.
And yeah, tourists are welcome too. But there’s a way to do it respectfully, and I’ll walk you through that too.
What Actually Happens at Tirta Empul? (It’s Not Just a Bath, Trust Me)
Alright, picture this: you’re standing in a long pool of clear spring water. Stone spouts pour water in a rhythmic flow. Locals are moving from one spout to the next, pausing to wash their face, drink, or dunk their heads under.
This isn’t just a tourist thing—it’s a Balinese Hindu purification ritual called melukat. Each of the spouts has a specific meaning. Some are for cleansing your aura. Others are for physical healing. A couple are meant for spiritual blessings. And there are a couple you’re actually not supposed to use unless someone in your family has passed away recently—more on that in a sec.
What surprised me was how quiet everyone was. Even tourists were whispering. The vibe’s respectful, not performative. There’s a real sense that you’re stepping into something way bigger than just a sightseeing trip.
Also? That water is cold. Not, like, glacier-cold, but enough to make you gasp when it first hits. You get used to it, though. I think that’s part of the deal—it shocks you into being present.
What to Wear to Tirta Empul Temple (And What NOT to Do)
Okay, let’s talk dress code because this one catches people off guard all the time. This is a working temple, not a museum. Balinese folks come here to pray, not just snap Insta pics. So, the rules? They’re not optional.
First off: you need a sarong and a sash. A sarong wraps around your waist, and the sash ties around the sarong at your hips. Doesn’t matter if you’re a guy, girl, or anything in between—everyone wears ‘em.
If you don’t have your own, no stress. They’ll give you one at the entrance, usually free with the entrance ticket. Just return it after.
If you’re planning to do the purification ritual (and you should, honestly), they’ll give you a second sarong for the water. This one goes over your swimsuit or undies. Yes, you’ll get wet. So wear something you don’t mind soaking, and maybe bring dry clothes for after.
Also: don’t point your feet at shrines. Don’t climb anything that looks sacred. And maybe don’t be that person trying to vlog with a GoPro on a stick while people are praying.
How to Do the Water Purification Ritual the Right Way
Here’s the part most blogs skip or breeze through. It’s not complicated, but it’s way more than just hopping into a pool and getting your selfie.
Step-by-Step Breakdown:
- Buy your entry ticket – It’s about 50,000 IDR (roughly $3 USD).
- Grab your sarong and locker key – Lockers are handy because you don’t wanna take your phone in there.
- Head into the changing area – Get your swimsuit on and tie that second sarong over it.
- Enter the purification pool area – You’ll see two main pools with rows of fountains/spouts.
- Start at the far left fountain – Skip the two spouts at the end (they’re for funerary rituals).
- At each spout, do this: Wash your face 3x, Take a sip (but only if you’re cool with it) then Submerge your head under the spout for a few seconds.
- Repeat at each spout, moving right – Total of 11 or so, depending on the section.
Locals usually pray or meditate a little at each stop. You don’t have to know the prayers—just go in with a quiet, humble vibe.
By the time you’re done, you’re probably gonna feel wiped in the best way. I walked out feeling floaty, like I’d done something important even though I didn’t totally understand it all. Which… might be the point.
Spiritual Vibes & History of Tirta Empul: It’s More Than Just Water
So here’s a cool fact I didn’t know until a local guide filled me in: the name Tirta Empul literally means “holy spring.” This place was built way back in 962 A.D. during the Warmadewa dynasty. The spring itself is believed to be created by the god Indra to defeat an evil king. Yeah, it’s got mythological roots.
What’s wild is that the spring water’s still bubbling up crystal clear from the ground. You can literally see it gushing up like a mini underwater volcano in the central pool, which is off-limits to tourists. That’s the source. That’s where the magic begins.
People believe the water has healing powers—not just physical, but emotional and spiritual too. Whether or not you’re religious, there’s something about being in a place where people believe so deeply. It rubs off on you. Makes you pause. Maybe even reflect a little on your own stuff.
Oh, and don’t miss the koi fish pond near the exit. It’s not spiritual or anything, but those chubby fish are oddly soothing to watch after all that introspection.
How to Get to Tirta Empul Temple Bali (And What’s Nearby)
Getting there is fairly easy if you’re based in Ubud or even Seminyak/Canggu with an early start. Here’s the scoop:
- From Ubud: Around 40 mins by scooter or car.
- From Seminyak/Canggu: 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.
- By scooter: Make sure you’re confident on Bali roads. They’re narrow and chaotic.
- By driver: Super chill and honestly safer. You can book one for a day (about 500,000 IDR / $30ish) and hit a few nearby spots.
What’s nearby?
- Gunung Kawi Temple – Ancient tombs carved into cliffs. Kinda Indiana Jones vibes.
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces – Yes, the famous Instagram ones. They’re close!
- Coffee plantations – For those wild Luwak coffee tastings. Not for everyone but kinda fun.
- Mount Batur – If you’re feeling adventurous, you can do a sunrise trek the day before and hit Tirta Empul on the way back down.
I usually make it a combo day trip: wake up stupid early, do a volcano hike, then wind down at Tirta Empul. Something about sweating like crazy climbing a mountain and then dunking into holy water feels… full circle, y’know?
Costs, Timings & Practical Tips That’ll Save You Stress
Alright, let’s do a little real talk on logistics. Here’s the practical stuff that’ll make or break your visit:
- Entry fee: 75,000 IDR for adults. 50,000 IDR for kids.
- Locker rental: 10,000 IDR.
- Sarong deposit: Usually included but might ask for a small refundable deposit.
- Opening hours: 8 AM to 6 PM, but early morning is best to avoid the tour bus crowd.
Avoid weekends and big Balinese holidays unless you’re ready for crowds. I went once during a full moon ceremony, and while it was amazing spiritually, it was packed. Think Disneyland meets sacred ritual.
If you’re super sensitive about cold water, maybe pack a light towel and dry shirt. You’ll be damp for a while, and not every changing room is super modern, if you catch my drift.
Also? Bring some small cash for donations. There’s no hard sell, but it’s respectful to leave a little something, especially if you’re joining a ceremony.
To make your trip smoother, consider our Bali car rental with driver so you can focus on the views, not the roads.
Common Questions About Tirta Empul Temple Bali
Is Tirta Empul Temple worth visiting?
Absolutely. Even if you’re not into the whole “spiritual experience” thing, the architecture, history, and atmosphere are unreal. And the energy of the place? Hard to describe, but very real.
Can anyone do the purification ritual?
Yup. Doesn’t matter your religion or background. Just be respectful, follow the lead of the locals, and don’t treat it like a waterpark.
Can you take photos during the ritual?
Technically, yes. But honestly? It feels weird when people are snapping away mid-cleansing. Better to take a few before or after, or ask someone to discreetly shoot from a distance if you want a memory.
Are there toilets and changing rooms?
Yes, but they’re basic. Don’t expect luxury. They get the job done, though.
Do I need a guide?
Not really, but it helps. I had a local uncle who explained which spouts meant what, and that made the whole experience way more meaningful. You can hire a guide at the entrance or book one in advance if you’re into the history.
One Last Story: Why I Keep Going Back
So here’s a little personal bit. I didn’t go to Tirta Empul on my first Bali trip. Thought it was just for the spiritual crowd. Big mistake.
The second time, a Balinese friend kinda dragged me there after a rough week. I wasn’t feeling “woo-woo” or anything, just overwhelmed. But I went along.
Went through the fountains. Head under water. Prayers I didn’t understand floating around me. People quietly weeping. Others smiling like they’d dropped some invisible burden.
I don’t know what shifted, but something did. That night, I slept like a log. Woke up feeling lighter.
Now I go every time I’m back in Bali. Not out of habit, but because it feels like pressing a reset button. Something about that cold water and ancient stone brings me back to myself.
Tirta Empul Temple location:
Check also: Batuan Village
