Tirta Empul

This important temple lays on the northern edge of Tampaksiring and was founded as early as 962 AD. It was built under the rule of Sri Candrabhaya Singha Warmadewa. In 1969 the temple was completely renovated so it is a mixture of old and new.

Like other Balinese temples it is divided into three main courtyards: the front, the middle, and the inner sanctum. Backing the outer courtyard are two rectangular bathing pools, one for men and one for women. According to tradition, each of the pool's 15 fountains has its own name and function: spiritual purification, cleansing from evil, antidote to poison.

While water has an important place in all Balinese rituals, the water in Pura Tirta Empul is especially holy, and all water used for cremations on Bali is taken from here and it is said to have magical powers for healing.

On a hilltop over Tirta Empul lays the palace of Indonesia's first president Sukarno, Istana Negara, built in 1954.

When I visited in 1996, I could only observe the holy waters from outside the walls and through the low steel gate. Lately, its gardens have been extended and a certain section is now open to the public. A small fee is charged. The water here originates from the Lake Batur through underground rivers and it is so clear, you can see fishes swimming in it.

Footnote: The entrance and exits are marked clearly. At the exit, you will have to walk through a maze of stalls, with vendors eager to make a sale.