Tampaksiring Tourist Attractions
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Top Tourist Attractions in Tampaksiring
By road: from Denpasar north via Celuk.Bus: direct services from Denpasar several times daily.Bemo: not recommended (and not always available) from Denpasar; better services from Ubud.The attraction which draws tourists to the modest little market village of Tampaksiring in central Bali, 78 km (48 mi.) north-east of Denpasar, is the Pura Tirtha Empul, one of the most important source sanctuaries on the island; but it is also noted for the fine wood and bone carvings produced by the villagers, which can be bought all over Bali but are to be found at the best, and probably also their cheapest, in the village itself.Tampaksiring is a typical central Balinese village with no particularly striking features.
Pura Desa
The Pura Desa, a temple dedicated to Vishnu situated on the main road north, is worth a visit. In the first of its two courtyards are a number of pavilions with fine woodcarving and reliefs.
Surroundings
There are a number of attractions to visit within a short distance of Tampaksiring.
Pujung
Like Tampaksiring, the village of Pujung is famed for the high quality of its woodcarving. The surrounding country is of great beauty, particularly when seen in the early morning.
Gunung Kawi
The caves of Gunung Kawi are carved out of solid stone and set in a lushly forested hillside. At one time the history was unknown, but recently is has been associated with the ruler, Anak Wungsu.
Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu
The source sanctuary of Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu is best reached by turning right off the road soon after leaving Tampaksiring and following the signposts for 2.5 km (11/2 mi.). Beyond a group of three ponds is the sanctuary itself, in the form of a square pool in the center of which is a small open shrine containing a stone throne. Note particularly the pipes from which the water flows: although overgrown with moss in the course of years, they are still fine examples of Balinese stone-carving skill.To one side is the main source sanctuary, Pura Sakti Puseh, which is always closed.
Pura Tirtha Empul
Pura Tirtha Empul is a sanctuary consisting of four pools and an array of intricately carved water pipes. Visitors come to bathe in the sacred waters for religious purposes.
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