Pura Tanah Lot (meaning "Land in the Sea") is an iconic ancient Hindu pilgrimage shrine perched dramatically atop a huge offshore rock formation shaped by centuries of crashing ocean tides.
Founded by the 16th-century sage Dang Hyang Nirartha, Tanah Lot is steeped in Balinese mythology, said to be protected by venomous sea snakes residing at the base of the rock. At low tide, pilgrims can walk across the wet sand to receive holy water blessings from temple priests. At dusk, the temple silhouette against the crimson sunset is an unforgettable spectacle.
