Tirta Empul Tampak Siring, Gianyar - Bali

Tirta Empul is a Temple which located in Manukaya Village, Tampak Siring sub-district, Gianyar regency. The location is beside the President Palace, it is built by President Soekarno. Tirta Empul was Famous because there is Water Source until now be created Holy Water for Balinese People Melukat (Bathe) with Holy Water, not only Balinese but also the tourist want to take a bath here with Holy Water. About the name of this temple is take from Water Source’s name which located inside the Temple is Tirta Empul. Etymologically, Tirta Empul is that the water spurt out of the ground. Tirta Empul Temple is one of heritage sites in Bali especially in Gianyar regency. Now Tirta Empul temple and Melukat Place is favorite tourism object in Gianyar regency. In estimated name of Tampak Siring derived from Balinese Language, Tampak means “Telapak” (tread),   Siring means “Miring” (Oblique position). Perhaps in legend has it that the sacred spring, Created by God Indra. His force had been poisoned by Mayadanawa so pierced the earth to create a fountain of immortality to revive them. An inscription dates the founding of a temple at the site to 926 AD. Ever since for more than a thousand years the Balinese have come to bathe in the Sacred Waters for Healing and spiritual merit.

The Tirta Empul Temple Includes the traditional Balinese split gate along with shrines to Shiva, Vishnu, Braham, Mount Batur, and Indra. There is also a large open Pavilion in the main courtyard, useful, for relaxing in the shade. But the main Attraction here is a long rectangular pool carved of stone, filled with Koi  fish and feed by the sacred spring via 12 fountains. Worshippers first make an offering at the temple, then climb into the main pool to bath and pray. Many Balinese people collect the Holy Water in bottles to take home. Nearby there are two smaller pool fed by the spring. Overlooking the temple, on a hill above is surprisingly modern building The Government Palace, built on 1954. Originally a residence for Dutch officials, it was later used by former President Soekarno during his frequent trips to Bali.