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The pilgrimage path only appears at low tide – Bali’s legendary “Sea Temple” you must visit

Published: 2026-09-25 👁 100 views
Last updated 2026-09-25 — Located on the central-western coast of Bali, Indonesia, the “Sea Temple” is one of the island’s six major temples and a must-visit attraction. Built on a rock formation shaped by sea waves, the temple becomes inaccessible when the tide is high, as the path leading to it gets submerged. It’s only at low tide that the pilgrimage path emerges. Additionally, local legends surrounding the Sea Temple add an air of mystery to this sacred site.


▲ Bali’s Sea Temple in Indonesia, where the path to the temple is submerged during high tide. (Video shot by reporter Lai Wen-xuan)

Reported and photographed by reporter Lai Wen-xuan / Bali, Indonesia

The “Sea Temple” (Indonesian: Pura Luhur Tanah Lot), situated on the central-western coast of Bali, Indonesia, is one of the island’s six major temples and a must-visit attraction. Built on a rock formation shaped by sea waves, the temple becomes inaccessible when the tide is high, as the path leading to it gets submerged. It’s only at low tide that the pilgrimage path emerges. Additionally, local legends surrounding the Sea Temple add an air of mystery to this sacred site.

▲ Club Med Bali offers all-inclusive holidays with organized excursions outside the resort. (Photo provided by Club Med)

Club Med Bali Resort is known for its “all-inclusive holiday” concept. In addition to enjoying the free beach, pool, and leisure facilities within the resort, visitors shouldn’t miss the chance to explore famous local attractions beyond the resort. Club Med offers “excursions outside the village,” where guests can learn about the options at the excursion service desk inside the resort. Local G.Os (Gentle Organizers) will provide detailed information about Bali’s fascinating cultural and scenic spots.

▲ Excursions outside the resort are available with advance booking, and some may even include transportation and guides.

Excursions are offered as half-day or full-day trips. Simply sign up to join, but since these outings require leaving the resort, there is an additional fee that varies depending on the activity. These excursions operate much like local tour groups, with guides and arranged minibuses. All participants are resort guests, so traveling together allows for mutual support and companionship.

▲ Scenic coastal views await during excursions, but be mindful of strong ocean currents.

Excursion options include visits to Bali’s famous Sea Temple, jungle elephant rides, 4x4 off-road adventures through jungle rice terraces, bamboo rafting and whale watching, or even climbing Mount Batur. Tours will run as long as there are enough participants. For those who prefer to plan their own itinerary, Club Med also offers customized trips, arranging guides and drivers to help you freely explore Bali.

▲ Some excursions are only available during specific tides, so check the schedule in advance. Many travelers post reviews, so it's worth taking a moment to read them.

Arriving at Bali’s renowned “Sea Temple,” you’ll hear the loud roar of waves crashing against the rocks, with beautiful sprays captivating your attention. The temple’s original name, Tanah Lot, means “land in the sea” in Balinese. Perched on a offshore rock formation, the path to the temple is submerged at high tide and only becomes accessible—and the temple visitable—during low tide. However, as the Sea Temple is a Hindu shrine, only Hindu worshippers may enter. Non-Hindu visitors should not go inside.

Legend has it that during the temple’s construction, a powerful storm struck. The priest who discovered the site, Nirartha, untied his sash and threw it into the sea, where it transformed into a giant sea serpent that protects the temple from harm. Another tale says that black-and-white sea snakes reside in the sea cave beneath the temple, guarding it against evil spirits and intruders, adding to the mystique of the Sea Temple.

Club Med Bali
Location: Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia (southern tip of Bali)
All-inclusive holiday:
5-day, 4-night package including flights, meals, accommodation, and entertainment. Early bird discount before November 30: from NT$35,100 for adults, NT$28,200 for children aged 4–11 (original prices: NT$42,000 for adults, NT$32,300 for children aged 4–11). Additional fees apply for infants aged 4–23 months and toddlers aged 2–4 years participating in the kids’ club.
Website: https://www.clubmed.com.tw/

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