Tanah Lot--the Temple on the Rocks

Tanah Lot, the beautiful temple on a barren rock island on Bali's southwestern coast, is one of the most photographed spots on the island. One of Bali's most important sea temples, the sanctuary at Tanah Lot is built on a top a huge rock surrounded by the sea. Built by one of the last priests to come to Bali from Java in the 15th century, its rituals include paying homage to the guardian spirits of the sea. Sea snakes found at the base of the rocky island are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders. There is even a cave where you can "visit" the Holy snakes. We got to the temple just in time to observe a nice sunset.