Water Cleansing at Tirta Empul Temple

One of my highly memorable experiences in Bali was my visit to the Tirta Empul temple,, which was founded in 962 A.D and is considered sacred by the Balinese Hindu community.

History: Based on a manuscript called Usana Bali, the creation of Tirta Empul involves the myth of an epic battle between a powerful yet wicked king named Mayadenawa and a God, Bhatara Indra. The king did not believe in God, and forbade his subject from worshipping God. He was also dangerous. He possessed a spiritual power but was too drunk with his power and carelessly used it for black magic. Seeing the chaos, a priest named Sang Kulputih prayed to Bhatara Indra to put an end to the evil king.

The temple has several holy springs which are said to have been created by the God Indra and are believed to be blessed water that could purify those who bathe there.

Upon arriving at the temple, visitors select a sarong to wear while touring the temple grounds. Those who want a soulful cleansing can opt for a water sarong to enter the sacred water.

Once in the water, those willing, can step into each spring flow, cover themselves, and sip on the flowing water in repeated succession until reaching the end. This is said to cleanse you of sins and or negativity.

On a hot day in Bali, this not only is a beautiful cultural and spiritual experience but also very refreshing.