Sea Temples on Bali

Last month I talked about the directional temples on the island of Bali, their importance and their significance to the Balinese. The numerous facets of Balinese culture are truly amazing. These temples are worth visiting even if it’s just for the experience; even better if there is a temple celebration going on.

Besides the directional temples, Bali also has a set of sea temples. These magnificent structures were built in the 16th century by a Hindu monk from Java named Nirartha. These sea temples are predominately found on the western coast of Bali. As with the directional temples, the sea temples are worth visiting even if only for their spectacular location on the coast.

On the southern coast you will find the sea temples of Pura Gede Perancak, Pura Tanah Lot, Pura Rambut Siwi and Pura Sakenan on Serangan Island close to Sanur. Other sea temples can be found on the Bukit Peninsula and these are Pura Luhur Uluwatu and Pura Masuka. On the north coast of west Bali near Pemuteran you will find Pura Pulaki.