Pura Tirta Empul: Water Temple In Ubud, Bali

Pura Tirta Empul: A Guide to Bali’s Sacred Water Temple

Pura Tirta Empul is a Hindu Balinese water temple located near the town of Tampaksiring, Bali, Indonesia. The temple is famous for its holy spring water, which is believed to have healing properties and is used for ritual purification by Balinese Hindus. The temple complex consists of a petirtaan or bathing structure, where visitors can participate in the purification ritual.

The history of Pura Tirta Empul dates back to the Warmadewa dynasty, which ruled Bali from the 10th to the 14th century. According to local lore, the temple was founded by Mayadenawa, a Balinese king who practiced black magic and refused to worship the Hindu gods. The god Vishnu intervened and created a natural spring at the site, which Mayadenawa’s subjects used to purify themselves and break free from his evil influence. The temple was later expanded by the Javanese king Udayana in the 11th century and became an important place of pilgrimage for Balinese Hindus.

Visitors to Pura Tirta Empul are required to wear a sarong and sash, which can be rented or purchased at the entrance. The purification ritual involves dipping in the holy water pools and praying at the Hindu shrines in the inner courtyard. The temple is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, and guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history and significance of the temple. Entrance fees apply, and visitors are advised to respect the local customs and traditions.

Historical Background

According to lore, the temple was founded in 926 A.D. during the Warmadewa dynasty. The Warmadewa dynasty was a Balinese Hindu dynasty that ruled Bali from the 10th to the 14th centuries.

The temple was built around a natural spring that is said to have healing powers. The spring water is believed to have been created by the god Indra, who pierced the earth to create it. The temple complex consists of a petirtaan or bathing structure used for ritual purification.

Legend has it that the spring water was created to cure Mayadenawa, a king who practiced black magic and caused havoc in the kingdom. Mayadenawa was eventually defeated by the god Indra, who created the spring water to cure the people affected by Mayadenawa’s black magic.

Over the centuries, the temple has undergone several renovations…