Bali is an Indonesian island that has become famous throughout the world thanks to its gorgeous beaches, excellent nightlife and breathtaking landscapes. The island has a little something to offer everyone from the thrill seeker, to the nature lover, to the tourist just looking for a change of scenery. Bali is not just a beach destination and there are plenty of other sights on the island that are worth visiting. This includes a variety of temples that can be found scattered throughout the large island.
Like most temples in Bali the Tirta Empul Temple is a Hindu temple. It is found at the centre of Bali and is renowned for its pools which are filled with holy water. Devotees bathe in these waters to purify themselves. It is also believed that these waters have a healing effect and many come here hoping to be cured of various ailments. The temple was constructed around 936 AD, when the Warmadewa Dynasty was in power, at the site of a large spring. The site remained more or less unchanged until 1969 when it underwent several major renovations. At that time a number of new, colourful shrines were built.
It was king Indrajayasinghawarmadewa who ordered the temple built and gave it the name ‘Tirta Ri Air Hampul’, which means ‘holy water’. The name was eventually shortened to Tirta Empul. The Tirta Empul Temple is situated in the village of Tampak Siring, around thirty nine kilometres east of Denpasar. After visiting the temple visitors can head over to the western side where they can see a villa which was built in 1954 for President Sukarno when he visited the area. The villa is currently used to house important guests.
As a popular vacation spot, finding accommodation and places to eat in Bali is not a difficult task. Tourists looking for a luxury hotel Bali can try Uma Bali. This Ubud hotel is found at the centre of the island. The hotel is surrounded by jungle and guests can indulge in various activities such as trekking and cycling. The rooms are tastefully decorated and offer guests all the comforts and conveniences they could wish for.
