Explore Bali: The precious gem of the Indonesian island
Bali, a beautiful island in Indonesia, captivates visitors with its diverse beauty and unique experiences. Whether it’s a quiet appearance or a vibrant charm, the island of Bali always exudes an irresistible appeal. Every corner of the island offers something new and exciting, making it a dream destination for travelers looking for unforgettable memories.
Bathing in sacred water at Tirta Empul Temple
Tirta Empul means “sacred spring” in Indonesian and is one of the country’s most sacred spiritual heritage sites. Located in Tampaksiring, just a short drive from Ubud, the temple is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu god of water. People here believe that the sacred stream at this temple has the ability to heal and purify the soul. This is also a place to worship and perform traditional local rituals. That is why the temple always attracts a large number of tourists.
Before entering the temple, visitors must pay a small entrance fee (about 1 USD) and wear a sarong before entering the temple. Visitors can buy sarongs at the nearby Ubud market or rent them right at the entrance. When walking around the spacious temple grounds, the centuries-old architecture shaded by ancient trees will bring a peaceful atmosphere to the place. Elaborate offerings are placed on the prayer altar, further highlighting the deep spiritual meaning of Tirta Empul.
To participate in the cleansing ritual, visitors can rent a sarong and bathe in the clear spring water. In addition to sacred streams, Tirta Empul also has dazzling temples and picturesque koi ponds, perfect for a moment of reflection or taking a memorable photo.
Check in “heaven’s gate” at Pura Lempuyang
One of the oldest and most revered temples in Bali, Pura Lempuyang is famous for its iconic “heaven’s gate”. Located on the eastern slopes of Mount Lempuyang in Banjar Purwa Ayu, this temple offers breathtaking views of Bali’s highest peak, Mount Agung, on clear days.
The “Heaven’s Gate” is meticulously decorated with typical motifs of Hinduism and indigenous culture. The gate splits in half in the sky, creating a boundary separating the temple from the outside world. The image of a towering gate amidst mountains and clouds blends together. That’s why there are so many tourists here that if you want to take pictures with the “heaven’s gate”, you have to queue for more than 2 hours to get your turn.
When visiting Pura Lempuyang, visitors need to wear a sarong discreetly. If wearing an off-the-shoulder shirt, visitors must use a scarf to cover it. There are also strict rules about inappropriate posing, such as kissing, doing yoga or dancing when taking photos in the shrine area. With limited photo shoot time, local photographers often offer their services for a small fee.
The majestic Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Located in Ababi Village, East Bali, Tirta Gangga Water Palace is a spectacular royal retreat owned by the Karangasem royal family. Known as the “Fish Temple”, the water palace includes many lakes and fountains that are elaborately and magnificently designed. From stone statues, steps down to the lake bed, or fountains from large to small, all are uniquely and meticulously carved to highlight the solemnity.
The koi pond, home to thousands of colorful fish, is the focal point of the palace, probably why it is called the Fish Temple. Visitors can purchase fish food for IDR 5,000 and watch the koi fish swim towards the edge of the pool, creating a lively and picturesque scene. For a more immersive experience, visitors can walk on the stone steps across the pool and take unique photos amid the majestic scenery surrounding the palace.
Explore the green paradise of Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida, one of Indonesia’s most famous islands, is located southeast of Bali and a district of Klungkung, with blue sea and white sand or majestic “dinosaur spine”, which is why this is an impossible place to visit. miss. When it comes to Nusa Penida, no words can fully describe the beauty of this island. You will “fall in love” with Nusa Penida at first sight because of its fine white sand beaches, clear jade blue sea water that is both poetic, majestic and still wild.
Just a 30-minute boat ride from Bali’s Kuta city, Nusa Penida offers a fun-filled day of exploration. Renting a motorbike or car is a popular way to navigate the island’s rugged terrain.
The island’s most famous spot, Kelingking Beach, has dramatic cliffs that resemble the spine of a giant dinosaur, leading out into the turquoise ocean. Visitors can choose to see the panoramic view from above or if you are adventurous and have enough energy, try walking along the “back” trail down to Kelingking beach, but this path is quite steep, and a simple protective fence, so please pay attention to safety.
Bali is like a pearl in the middle of a land of thousands of islands, that pearl is the crystallization of creation, miraculous nature, people and national-religious cultural identity.
