Monkey Forest Tanah Lot Tour
Your excursion begins with a drive into Central Bali and small town of Mengwi. Translating as ‘beautiful garden’ Taman Ayun is considered by many to be one of island’s most attractive temples and is still used today by people from all over Bali for special ceremonies and events. Next head to Alas Kedaton Monkey Forest. This small forest is populated with giant nutmeg trees and home to hundreds of macaque monkeys (*).
Spend a while observing their characteristics and mannerisms before heading south to the island’s most famous temple complex at Tanah Lot. With its spectacular location, Tanah Lot is an integral part of Balinese mythology and one of seven sea temples that are said to form a ‘chain’ around the island. The temple is only accessible at low tide but despite its offshore location in the Indian Ocean, it features a fresh water spring at its base which is said to contain holy water. As a result the temple is extremely sacred and Balinese visit from all over the island to drink the water and splash it over their bodies in order to cleanse themselves of any bad spirits. The temple’s inner sanctum is located on top of the rocky outcrop and only accessible to Balinese Hindus. You will arrive in time for sunset when photographic opportunities abound.
Please note: The macaque monkeys here can be a considerable annoyance. Please heed the advice from your guide on the precautions you should take when visiting temples or forests inhabited by monkeys.