Humans have loved dipping in water for ages—but when it promises to cleanse your soul? That’s next-level!
This is my experience at Pura Tirta Empul, the holy spring water temple in Bali.
Bali: Where Spirituality and Partying Coexist
Bali isn’t just about sipping cocktails on sun-kissed beaches—it’s also where you can hit pause on your routined life and have a full-blown spiritual awakening (or at least attempt one).
Nestled among lush greenery and Bali’s famous rice paddies sits Pura Tirta Empul Temple, a place that offers more than just scenic beauty—it offers a chance at soul purification.
Built in the 10th century, this holy water temple is one of the busiest water temples in Bali, and for good reason.
Visiting Tirta Empul Temple wasn’t my idea—it was my friends’ Priyanka and Sapna’s plan, and I was just along for the ride.
Little did I know I would unintentionally be indulging in a purification ritual in a water temple.
I simply signed up because I trust my girls—Sapna, who mysteriously went missing somewhere in the temple (probably contemplating life), and Priyanka, who had no intention of getting wet, dutifully took on the role of my personal paparazzi.
I didn’t come here expecting to bump into my own religion in a foreign land, but surprise!
Bali is deeply rooted in Hinduism, with Balinese-style deities and myths woven into its culture.
First Impressions: A Temple That Demands Respect (And a Sarong)
The moment I entered the temple grounds, I felt an overwhelming sense of tranquility (and the undeniable urge to take a hundred photos).
The central courtyard was buzzing with people—some deep in prayer, others busy clicking selfies.
The air was thick with incense, and the constant murmur of holy spring water from the purification pools added to the mystical vibe.
Oh, and let’s talk about the mandatory sarong attire. The temple provides one at the entrance—mine was a fetching green, though I suspect it hadn’t been ironed since the 10th century. But hey, who am I to question divine dress codes?
Melukat: The Sacred Spa Experience
The main event at Pura Tirta Empul Temple is the purification ritual known as Melukat.
I stepped into the purification pools, water up to my chest, surrounded by people from across the world—each waiting their turn to wash away their sins under the holy water spouts.
There are eleven spouts in the first pool (yes, I counted), each meant for a specific cleansing ceremony. Did I make sure to visit every single one?
Ehh… I may have skipped a few (four, to be exact), but let’s be real—who wants to be too virtuous?
Life’s more fun with a little edge—I’d let karma handle the rest.
At times, it felt a bit like standing in line at a water park—though this was the spiritual version, minus the whistles, lifeguards, inflatable rings, noise, and the smell of junk food.
The atmosphere was sacred, serious, and soulful.
A Germaphobe’s Inner Battle
As I dunked my head under each water spout, I had a moment of sheer clarity—was I spiritually cleansing, or was I just marinating in a pool of other people’s sins?
The water was shockingly clear—I could see my chipped blue-painted toenails—but my inner germaphobe whispered, What if there are invisible things swimming around?
I shushed that thought. This was not the time for science or logic. It was time to trust in the spiritual significance of the natural spring water and get on with it!
The Legend Behind the Holy Springs
Bali’s mythology is as fascinating as its landscapes. Legend says God Indra created the temple after defeating the evil king Mayadenawa.
The king poisoned Bali’s water (rude), and Indra struck the earth, creating a sacred spring to cleanse and heal.
Whether you buy into the legend or not, the energy here is undeniably powerful. Plus, who doesn’t love a good god vs. evil king story?
An Unexpected Realization
As I stood there, soaked and shivering slightly, I had a sudden epiphany: I was a foreigner in a foreign temple, following a ritual from my own religion alongside people from all over the world. It felt surreal.
This was nothing like celebrating Diwali at a Hindu temple in the U.S., where I was surrounded by fellow Indians.
Here, everyone was blending in, embracing a different culture, seeking something spiritual, and—whether we admitted it or not—hoping for a little divine forgiveness.
The Big Question: Did It Work?
Did I feel spiritually transformed? Did my sins dissolve into the sacred waters?
I have no idea. But I did feel refreshed, lighter, and strangely peaceful—which, honestly, is a win in itself.
And just in case you’re wondering—Yes, I took a proper shower afterward.
Because while I love all of God’s creatures, I’d rather not take any microscopic ones home with me.
Comparing Holy Water Rituals Around the World
Purification through water isn’t exclusive to Bali. Many cultures around the world swear by the cleansing properties of sacred waters.
In India, the Ganges River is believed to be the holiest of all rivers, capable of washing away sins and granting moksha (liberation). But while Hindus rush to bathe in its waters, the government has had to launch major cleanup campaigns to restore its purity. Because, you know, centuries of faith also brought centuries of, well, pollution.
Meanwhile, in Japan, the Shinto tradition encourages purification at sacred waterfalls, where devotees stand beneath rushing waters to cleanse their bodies and spirits. It’s the ultimate natural shower—with added divine blessings.
Even in Christianity, baptism serves as a spiritual rebirth, where holy water is sprinkled (or dunked, depending on the denomination) to symbolize purification and entry into faith.
Regardless of geography, the message remains the same: Water is sacred, and dipping yourself in it makes you feel like a better human.
The Science vs. Faith Debate: Does Holy Water Actually Purify?
Alright, let’s talk science vs. faith—because while holy dips sound magical, the skeptic in me had questions.
Science would argue that water has zero supernatural powers—no chemical reaction occurs when you step into a holy spring. It’s just H₂O doing its thing.
however—faith is powerful. Ever heard of the placebo effect?
If you believe you’re being cleansed, your mind and body respond accordingly. That mental shift alone is enough to leave you feeling renewed.
True believers will tell you that spiritual cleansing isn’t about molecules—it’s about energy, intention, and surrendering to the divine.
Skeptics might roll their eyes, but those who’ve felt the transformative power of rituals swear by it.
So, does holy water actually work? Science says no, but faith says yes—and honestly, in moments like these, I’d rather go with faith.
After all, if stepping into Pura Tirta Empul’s sacred waters makes people feel better, lighter, and spiritually refreshed, isn’t that proof enough?
Travel Tips for Your Own Spiritual Dip
✔ Sarong is mandatory – The temple provides one, but bring your own if you’re picky.
✔ Go early – Fewer crowds, more peace.
✔ Be respectful – This isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s a sacred site.
✔ Women take note – Avoid visiting during menstruation, as you may offend humans on the basis of God given menstruation.
As for Gods, they are far from being offended for anything that the lord almighty themsleves have blessed with.
✔ Locker rooms available – Use them. Seriously.
And if you want to know how to book a trip check this – https://www.indonesia.travel/gb/en/destinations/bali-nusa-tenggara/bali/the-holy-springs-of-tirta-empul.html
Beyond Tirta Empul: What’s Nearby?
Once you’re done purging your sins, explore Tegallalang Rice Terraces (for those iconic Instagram shots) or visit the presidential palace nearby.
Bali’s full of spiritual and scenic spots, so make a day of it!
Final Thoughts: The Ocean Within
Kabir, the Sufi saint, once said:
Why run around sprinkling holy water? There’s an ocean inside you, and when you’re ready, you’ll drink.
As I left Pura Tirta Empul, dripping wet yet strangely content, I realized he might have been right.
Maybe the real purification isn’t just about dipping in sacred pools—it’s about embracing the journey, the experience, and the present moment.
And if all else fails? Well, at least you’ll have a great story to tell. 😉
P.S. If you take the dip, please shower afterward. Because spiritual cleansing is great, but hygiene is divine. 😆
Have you ever visited a place that changed you? Drop your experience in the comments!