It might sound strange but it is true. The island of Bali, which is part of the world’s largest Muslim country, Indonesia, has an underwater ‘Vishnu Temple’.
Many other he impressive ancient temples of the Hindus can be found on Java and many other Islands, but Bali has the most temples, and the most unusual temple. The “Devata Vishnu” temple is underwater – 90 feet beneath the ocean’s surface near Pemuteran Beach in North West Bali.
Research reveals that this temple is over 5,000 years old. The temple was actually constructed as part of an artificial reef creation project. Coral and other sea life can anchor onto vertical structures placed on the sea floor, creating important marine habitat.
The site temple has been named as “Taman Pura” or temple garden. This is perhaps the most interesting man-made reef to dive on in the area.
A second site at only 15 meters has been created nearby so that less experienced divers can enjoy the amazing experience of diving to view ancient-looking Hindu and Buddhist statues. The first site has around a dozen large stone statues sitting on the ocean floor and a 4 meter tall temple gateway.
In addition to Taman Pura, there are many other dive sites in the clear blue waters off the coast of Bali. Pulau Menjangan, Amed, and Padangbai all have shallow dive sites that are suitable for beginners. Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Candidasa’s dive sites are generally deeper or have more current, making them more suitable for experienced divers.
Besides diving, there are a wide range of fun activities to do in Bali that your hosts at Mavi Bali can arrange for you. In addition, adventurous guests might enjoy climbing Mount Batur or Mount Agung, whitewater rafting or mountain biking. Of course Bali is perhaps most famous for its world class waves.
Agencies
