Best Time to Visit Tanah Lot (2024)
Nestled on a rocky outcrop amidst the Indian Ocean’s embrace, Tanah Lot is a testament to Bali’s spiritual and natural splendour. Whether you yearn for captivating sunsets, cultural celebrations, or serene moments by the shore, choosing the best time to visit Tanah Lot is the key to immersing yourself in the enchanting ambience of this sacred site.
I visited Bali a few years ago along with my two childhood girlfriends. It was an all-girls trip and probably one of my best trips ever. As part of that travel, my friends and I visited many temples in Bali.
Each one of them stood out and was very beautiful. But my favourite temples in Bali are Pura Ulun Danu Beratan and Tanah Lot. Tanah Lot is a rock formation and is home to the ancient Hindu temple Pura Tanah Lot. It is one of those things that must not be missed when in Bali.
For a detailed itinerary of what to do for ten days in Bali, refer to the 10-day itinerary in Bali. Bali is also famous for its scuba diving spots, and one such famous place is the wreck diving in Tulamben. For all the details on wreck diving, refer to Wreck Diving in Tulamben.
Page Contents
PIN for later reference – Best time to Visit Tanah Lot
This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here.
About Tanah Lot
Translated as ‘Land on Sea,’ Tanah Lot lives up to its name as a captivating coastal formation. Poised on a rock approximately 30 meters offshore, the temple is a spectacle surrounded by water during high tide, restricting access to its sacred grounds. However, a pathway emerges during low tide, allowing visitors to enter the temple, albeit with the likelihood of getting their clothes wet.
Believed to have been constructed in the 16th century, Tanah Lot is attributed to the visionary 15th-century Hindu priest Dang Hyang Nirartha. Beyond its architectural significance, the temple holds a profound place in Balinese mythology, enriching the spiritual tapestry of this enchanting destination.
Undoubtedly the most frequented and photographed temple in Bali, Tanah Lot attracts crowds of visitors, particularly during the evenings and sunset hours. This makes it a bustling and vibrant destination, and it is one of the most Instagram-worthy places in Bali.
Among other notable temples in Bali, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan and Pura Luhur Uluwatu stand out as a key cultural and architectural gem. Renowned for its exceptional design, this temple is a must-visit destination. Additionally, the Uluwatu area is celebrated for its beach accommodations, offering a perfect blend of cultural exploration and seaside relaxation. Explore the list of beach accommodations in Uluwatu to enhance your experience in this picturesque part of Bali.
Best Time to Visit Tanah Lot
While Tanah Lot is a delightful destination to explore at any time of the day, my personal preference is to visit during sunset for its breathtaking views. To fully experience the temple, aim for low tide, which allows access to its interior.
If you prefer a quieter and less crowded atmosphere, consider visiting in the morning to avoid the influx of tourists.
How to Get To Tanah Lot?
By Road
Situated approximately 20 kilometres from Denpasar, the Tanah Lot temple is conveniently accessible via taxi or scooter, and the trip takes around 45 minutes.
While a taxi ride may typically cost around Rp 300,000 one way, savvy negotiators might secure lower rates, with some drivers agreeing to as low as Rp 150,000. A parking area is available at the temple, and the parking fee is Rp 5,000 per vehicle. Securing a budget-friendly taxi may pose challenges due to the distance and traffic congestion on the route.
Opting for reputable taxi services like Uber and Bluebird can streamline your transportation experience and ensure a hassle-free journey to Tanah Lot.
By Public Transport
Transportation options to reach Tanah Lot are relatively limited. Despite extensive research, information on public buses serving Tanah Lot in Bali is scarce. However, one website mentions a bus service from Ubung Bus Terminal in Denpasar to Tanah Lot.
If you opt for public transport, starting your journey early is advisable, as buses may not operate after sunset. This could pose challenges when returning to Denpasar or other locations, such as Ubud. Ubud is a charming place to stay while exploring Bali. For a delightful experience, consider checking out a 4-day itinerary in Ubud.
If you are seeking a tranquil village experience within a two-hour radius of Ubud, Munduk in Bali is a serene alternative, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle.
Entrance Fee and Timings of Tanah Lot
- Foreigners must pay an entrance fee of approximately IDR 60,000 per adult to access the Tanah Lot temple. Tickets can be conveniently purchased at the temple’s entrance.
- The temple is open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM. For an enchanting experience, the optimal time to visit is during sunset, between 6 PM and 7 PM. Witness the mesmerising and picturesque sun-setting backdrop, creating a truly unforgettable atmosphere.
Important Visitor Information
- Tanah Lot is devoid of monkeys, providing a serene atmosphere.
- To respect the local culture, it’s advisable to dress appropriately during your visit.
- Within the temple area, numerous shops offer a variety of souvenirs for purchase.
- Additionally, there are many ocean-view restaurants where you can indulge in delicious Balinese cuisine. For those seeking options, explore the vibrant vegan restaurants in Bali for a delightful culinary experience.
- While at Tanah Lot, don’t miss the chance to savour Es Kelapa Muda, a refreshing tender coconut juice—an ideal beverage to enjoy while witnessing the breathtaking sunset.
- For a hassle-free visit, consider joining day tours organized by local travel agents. The cost typically ranges between USD 40 to USD 50. You can also conveniently book these tours through the Viator website.
Where to Stay in Bali?
During my visit to Bali, I lodged at Swastika Bungalows in Sanur, and I would like to share my review of this accommodation.
Swastika Bungalows, Bali
My friends and I enjoyed staying at the picturesque Swastika Bungalows in Bali. Nestled in Sanur near Denpasar, this charming accommodation is conveniently located near restaurants and markets. The stay was exceptionally comfortable, and the staff exhibited warm hospitality. The spacious and clean rooms further added to the overall positive experience. Swastika Bungalows in Denpasar comes highly recommended for a delightful stay in Bali.
Details of the Property
- Name: Swastika Bungalows
- Address: Jl. Danau Tamblingan 128, Sanur, Denpasar 80228 Bali – Indonesia
- Cost: IDR 55,000 for twin sharing room – Updated and recent prices on their website.
Is Tanah Lot Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Bali is generally considered safe for travellers, attracting a steady stream of tourists and backpackers throughout the year. The island is trendy among Australians and offers ample facilities and amenities for travellers.
While Bali is generally safe, it’s advisable to exercise caution, especially at night and in secluded areas. Despite travelling with friends, I experienced harassment while scuba diving in Tulamben, emphasizing the importance of thorough research when exploring Bali.
To enhance safety, consider using reputable taxi agencies or opting for self-driving/riding to minimise potential inconveniences. That said, my interactions with locals in Bali were largely positive, and I encountered few issues in Denpasar or other tourist-centric locations.
Closing Notes
A visit to Tanah Lot is undeniably a must when exploring Bali. While the island is renowned for its remarkable temples, Tanah Lot is an exceptionally fascinating temple offering breathtaking ocean views. I highly recommend experiencing the allure of this unique destination.
Have you had the opportunity to visit Tanah Lot? Share your impressions! I would love to hear your feedback. Feel free to reach out to me at Solopassport@gmail.com.
How can you support me?
You know how much I love coffee, so you can buy me a coffee – Buy me Coffee!
Or you can purchase from one of the below travel resources without any extra charge to you:
Travel Resources
Book your flight on Skyscanner.com or Trip.com
Reserve your accommodation on Stay22
Reserve your stay at a hostel on HostelWorld
Use RentalCars or DiscoverCars for hiring self-driven cars
Book your tours and travels or purchase tickets on Viator or GetYourGuide
For a universal SIM card, use DrimSim
Buy comprehensive travel insurance on SafetyWing and WorldNomads
If you liked this article and if it was helpful in your planning or travelling, do share, tweet, or pin this post.
Follow me on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter | LinkedIn
Do you have a question? Do you want any suggestions and tips for travel, hikes, and scuba dives? Use the Subscription box below to sign up and get updates by email.