Tanah Lot, one of Bali’s most iconic temples, is not just a marvel for adult visitors but a fantastic experience for families as well. When we decided to take our children to visit Tanah Lot, I could hardly contain my excitement—or my nerves! Would they appreciate the cultural significance? Would they be bored? Would they throw tantrums? These were all thoughts racing through my mind as we prepared for our adventure to this picturesque spot.
The Journey Begins
Setting off from Ubud, the drive to Tanah Lot was filled with the sounds of our children chattering about everything and anything. It painted a lovely picture of family life, even if our youngest, a spirited five-year-old, kept asking, Are we there yet? Finally, after meandering through the rice paddies and lush Balinese countryside, we arrived amidst a flurry of activity as visitors bustled toward the temple.
First Impressions
As soon as we stepped out of the car, the sight was breathtaking. The waves crashing against the rocky shore, the temple perched on a rock, and the vibrant sunset in the distance made for a perfect backdrop. However, it was the myriad of markets and shops lining the approach to Tanah Lot that immediately caught my children’s attention.
Pro Tip: before you even get to the temple, take some time to stroll through the local market booths. This is a wonderful way to introduce children to local culture. They can see traditional crafts, textiles, and jewelry, which sets the stage for understanding the significance of the temple itself.
Engaging the Kids
As we got closer to Tanah Lot, I was pleasantly surprised to see our kids engaging enthusiastically with the surroundings. We spotted a local artist painting beautiful scenes of Tanah Lot, and it sparked curiosity in our older child, who wanted to know about the artist’s process. I encouraged them to ask questions—something that would later pay off when explaining the temple’s history and significance.
Fun Activities
One of the best parts of visiting Tanah Lot with children is the endless opportunities for fun activities. We wandered down to the beach, where the children squealed in delight as they felt the cool ocean water splash over their toes. We even saw some kids around their age building sandcastles, something that naturally drew our little one into their playful world.
Insider Tip: Bring along beach toys or a small bucket and spade. The beach near Tanah Lot is a perfect place for kids to express their creativity while you take in the beautiful surroundings.
Learning Through Experience
As the sun began to set, we made our way towards the temple area. This was where I wanted to instill in my children an appreciation for the significance of Tanah Lot. I shared the story of how the temple, believed to be a temple dedicated to the sea gods, was built in the 16th century by a Hindu priest from Java. The legend of the snake guarding the rock added a thrilling sense of adventure.
By simplifying the story and asking them what they thought about it, they became genuinely engaged. It transformed from a mundane trip into an adventurous tale where they felt a part of something larger than themselves.
Snack Time
With all the excitement, hunger struck us like a wave! Thankfully, we found a lovely cafe nearby offering traditional Balinese food. This was a great chance to introduce our kids to new flavors. We ordered Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and Mie Goreng (fried noodles) and even encouraged them to try some Gado-Gado (a delicious vegetable salad with peanut sauce).
Practical Advice: Always carry some light snacks and water with you, just in case the kids get fidgety or the local cuisine doesn’t sit well with their more finicky palettes.
Capturing the Moment
As the sun began its descent into the horizon, we all positioned ourselves to capture the moment. Watching the vibrant colors burst across the sky was magical—especially through the eyes of my children, mesmerized by nature’s beauty. I pulled out my camera and we took lots of photos, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Reflections
As we drove back, my heart was full. We talked about our favorite parts of the day, from the market to the beach, and even the magical sunset over Tanah Lot. The experience of visiting this historical site became more than just sightseeing; it was a chance to bond and learn together as a family.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Tanah Lot with children can be a delightful adventure filled with learning, laughter, and lasting memories. The beauty of the temple, the engaging local culture, and the picturesque setting make Tanah Lot a must-see family destination in Bali. So, if you’re planning a trip with your little ones, embrace the adventure and enjoy every moment—Tanah Lot has a way of captivating hearts of all ages! Remember: Keep an open mind, engage your kids in the storytelling, and don’t forget – there’s always room for fun, snacks, and a little bit of spontaneity! Safe travels!
