Tirta Empul Temple, or Pura Tirta Empul as the locals called it (Pura means Temple), is an important temple complex and holy mountain spring, located in the village of Manukaya near the town Tampaksiring, which is not too far away from central Ubud. Founded in 926 A.D. and is dedicated to Vishnu, the name Tirta Empul means ‘holy water spring’ due to a holy spring within the temple which feeds various purification baths, pools and fish ponds surrounding the outer perimeter. The water flows to the Tukad Pakerisan River, the river that rushes Gunung Kawi which is about 1km away.

The Mountain

Bali is a huge island, and it’s not possible to cover the whole island in a short holiday. After spending 3 days in Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, we decided to base ourselves in Ubud for the remaining two days two nights since it was our first time in Bali, and we are keener to immerse in the cultural side of Bali. As we had our heart set on Ubud, the next was to book our accommodation. And the best place to stay in Ubud is none other than a homestay right in the middle of picturesque ricefields.