The island not only has natural wonders, but also many architectural and cultural marvels. One of the most remarkable of these is the magnificent Tanah Lot Hindu temple. This is an extraordinarily beautiful temple complex set in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
A Hindu Temple Out at Sea
The temple is located on the beautiful island of Bali in Indonesia. Tanah Lot temple is in Tabanan, about 18 miles (30 km) away from the city of Denpasar, approximately 100 feet (300 meters) offshore, on a large rocky outcrop. The few trees found here almost enclose the shrine.
The shrine is accessed by a stone causeway that allows visitors to walk to the complex at low tide. It stands at the top of the rock and is accessed by a stone staircase. As per Hindu custom, there are three separate shrines and each one holds a number of statues representing Hindu deities.
Tanah Lot follows a traditional Hindu geometric design and pattern and is said to be aligned with more than one spiritual axis that is believed to cross the island. It was designed to express core Hindu beliefs and Balinese mythology and is a pilgrimage center of great importance. The main deity worshipped at the temple is a sea-god.