Tour Tanah Lot | Hours & Best Time to Photograph Bali’s Scenic Temple

Tanah Lot is a beautiful rock formation located off the coast of Bali and home to Pura Tanah Lot, or Tanah Lot Temple, one of the most visited temples in Bali. In addition to being a popular destination for photography-savvy visitors, the temple is a Hindu pilgrimage site and one of seven temples that line the Balinese coast. While Tahah Lot and the rock formation are the major reasons tourists stop in the area, there also are plenty of other attractions nearby. Visitors can combine sightseeing at Tahah Lot with visits to Beraban Village, Pura Batu Bolong, another beautiful sea temple, as well as many gorgeous beaches in Bali.

Visiting Tanah Lot offers more than just a photo opportunity—it’s a chance to experience a unique blend of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage. This iconic coastal temple is perched dramatically on a rock, surrounded by the sea, making it a favorite for travelers looking to connect with Bali’s cultural roots while enjoying a breathtaking setting. As the waves crash around its base and the sun dips below the horizon, Tanah Lot becomes one of the island’s most magical sights.

Whether you’re an early riser hoping to catch the soft morning light or a sunset chaser drawn to golden hour views, timing your visit can elevate the entire experience. Many visitors come to witness the serene atmosphere and watch how the scenery changes with the tides and shifting sky. The temple’s silhouette against the ocean makes it a dream location for photographers of all levels.

But even if you’re not into photography, the atmosphere here is deeply calming. Take your time to wander the surrounding paths, enjoy the sound of the ocean, and soak in the peaceful energy of the area. A tour of Tanah Lot is a memorable way to explore Bali’s spiritual side while enjoying one of the island’s most photogenic landscapes.

Best time to visit Tanah Lot

A visit to the iconic cultural landmark of Tanah Lot is on the top of many tourists’ sightseeing lists, and because the site is so popular, it is a good idea for visitors to plan ahead in order to maximize their time and enjoyment in the area.

Low season in Bali is considered to be between mid-January until the end of June and from mid-September to mid-December. During low season, travelers can expect shorter lines and fewer people at popular sites, as well as better deals on hotels and flights. However, the weather is known for being a bit rainy during some of this time, so plan ahead and take an umbrella or proper rain gear. Generally, the rain consists of midday downpours, so travelers may be able to plan around the rain. It is also recommended that visitors check the calendar for any religious or public holidays as special celebrations and pilgrimages also increase foot traffic to the temple.

While any time of the day is nice for a visit to Tanah Lot Temple, many people prefer to go an hour or so before the sun sets so that they can take in the gorgeous colors that shimmer across the water. Travelers looking to avoid crowds should go early in the morning during the week. The temple is less crowded during midday, as well, but afternoon weather can be quite hot. Weekends are generally pretty busy, and visitors should check tide schedules because the temple is not accessible during high tides.

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What to wear

As with many important holy sites, visitors should dress modestly in clothing that covers the shoulders and the knees when visiting Tanah Lot Temple. The temple has a strict dress code for men and women; however, foreign tourists are not allowed inside the temple proper, as only Balinese nationals are allowed inside. When visiting the rock formation, there is no formal dress code. Dressing modestly in the area, however, is recommended.

Hours and admission price to Tanah Lot

Entrance Fee: Foreigners pay a premium fee to visit Tanah Lot. The cost for adult foreign nationals is 60,000 IDR and the cost for foreign children is 30,000 IDR. For Indonesian nationals, the cost for adults is 20,000 IDR, and the cost for children is 15,000 IDR.

Hours of Operation: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily

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How to Get to Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot is located on the coast in South Bali and many visitors will opt for a tour to visit the area. Booking a tour with a guide can be a great way to travel to the temple, and there are smaller buses and transportation shuttles available as well.

Taking a taxi is another option. Travelers should be able to hail a taxi at the hotel where they are staying, or taxis are available from Ngurah Rai International Airport for travelers who want to head directly to Tanah Lot.

Tanah Lot is located a little more than an hour from the airport and about an hour from Denpasar, the capital city.

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Best Things to do Near Tanah Lot

Many people go to Tanah Lot to see the temple, but visitors should remember to add the other interesting sights in the area to their itineraries.

Batu Bolong Temple

Located just north of Tanah Lot is Pura Batu Bolong, a beautiful Hindu temple that also sits atop a rockcliff overlook. Pura Batu Bolong is accessible by a long walkway. Visitors who are hoping to take some beautiful photographs should time their visits for either sunrise or sunset. Sunset may be particularly busy, so tourists who are looking to avoid crowds should keep this in mind.

Entrance fees for Pura Batu Bolong are by donation, but officials may suggest a specific minimum amount for visitors. Hours are from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Canggu

About 20 minutes southeast of Tanah Lot is Canggu, a resort village known for beautiful beaches, high-end shops, and a strong surf. If travelers are looking for a base for their visit to Tanah Lot, Canggu is a great option. Between resorts and other hotels, there are plenty of places to stay and tons of delicious restaurants to eat at. The area is also a great place to experience some nightlife activities.

Batu Bolong Beach

Located near all the action in Canggu, Batu Bolong Beach is popular with tourists who congregate close to sunset as the beach is known for being a great place to take photos. It is also conveniently located near many popular restaurants and bars, plus Love Anchor, a busy market that sells everything from jewelry to clothing.

Love Anchor is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

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