I never expected to cry under a stream of water.
Not on a bright morning in Bali, standing barefoot in a sarong, with fragrant flowers tucked behind my ear.

But there I was—eyes closed, palms pressed, letting the icy flow from the stone spout pour over my head. All around me, there was quiet reverence. The scent of incense drifted through the air. Bells chimed softly in the distance.

And for the first time in months, I felt completely still.
Completely clean—not just on the outside, but from something deeper.

This was Melukat—Bali’s sacred purification ritual—and it changed how I understood healing.

What Is Melukat?

Melukat is not a tourist attraction.
It’s not a show.
It’s a deeply spiritual cleansing ceremony practiced by the Balinese Hindu community for centuries.

The word “melukat” comes from the ancient Javanese language:

• “Lu” means to let go.

• “Kuwat” means to become stronger.

Together, they form a ritual meant to wash away negative energy, emotional burdens, and spiritual heaviness.

Locals perform melukat when:

• They’ve experienced something traumatic or heavy.

• They’re starting a new phase of life.

• They’re preparing for religious ceremonies.

For visitors, the ritual offers something rare in today’s fast-moving world: a pause, a moment to reset.

The Steps of the Ritual

t begins simply—with an offering.
A priest dressed in white smiles as he hands me a canang sari: a small tray of flowers, rice, and incense. “This is to show your respect,” he says gently.

We kneel by the temple altar. He chants ancient Sanskrit prayers, rings a small bell, and sprinkles holy water (tirta) over our heads. I follow his lead, bowing three times.

Then, he motions toward the holy fountains.

There are 13 water spouts at Tirta Empul, the most famous water temple in Bali. Each spring represents a different blessing—cleansing, forgiveness, clarity, healing.

I move from one to the next, letting the water pour over my head, my back, my chest.

Some people cry. Some whisper wishes.
Others just stand in silence.

Where to Experience It

If you want to try Melukat, these temples are sacred places where the ritual is still very much alive:

🛕 Tirta Empul Temple – Tampaksiring

Nestled near Ubud, Tirta Empul is the heart of Bali’s spiritual purification. Built in the 10th century, it’s fed by a natural spring believed to be created by the god Indra.

• Popular with both locals and respectful tourists.

• Come early (before 9 AM) to avoid crowds.

• Hire a local guide to help you understand each spout’s meaning.

🌳 Tirta Sudamala – Bangli

Hidden in a forest by the Pakerisan River, this temple is often visited by locals for powerful cleansing. Water gushes from high stone pipes into a calm pool.

• Quiet, serene, surrounded by giant trees.

• You’ll see more Balinese families than tourists.

• A great spot for a private melukat ceremony.

🪷 Tirta Pingit Sebatu – Near Tegalalang

This lesser-known temple sits above a sacred spring and is revered as a place of deep spiritual energy.

• Not recommended for casual visits.

• It’s best to come with a Balinese priest or healer.

• Many locals believe it offers strong energetic shifts.

What You’ll Need (and What to Expect)

• Sarong and sash – usually provided at the temple

• Change of clothes – you’ll be completely soaked

• Donation or small offering – as a sign of gratitude

• Open heart – the most important thing you can bring

You don’t need to be Hindu to take part.
But you must be respectful.

Don’t treat this like a photo op. Don’t post selfies in the holy springs.
And always ask before taking photos, especially during prayer.

What I Felt Afterward

As I stepped out of the water, my body cold and dripping, I felt… lighter.

It’s hard to describe.
Not just physical—though the water had a shock that jolted my senses awake—but emotionally and spiritually.

It felt like something I didn’t even know I was carrying had been quietly washed away.

A Balinese elder later told me:

“Water holds memory. When it flows through your body, it takes what no longer serves you.”

Is It Right For You?

You don’t need to be spiritual or religious.
You don’t need to be broken or searching.

You just need to be open.

Melukat isn’t about becoming someone new—it’s about returning to yourself.

Whether you’re facing burnout, grief, confusion, or simply want to reconnect with a part of you that’s been silent for too long—this ritual offers stillness in a world that rarely gives it.

Tips for an Authentic Experience

• Go with a trusted local guide. The ritual has layers of meaning, and it helps to have someone explain the prayers and process.

• Avoid the full moon unless you’re ready for big crowds.

• Bring a towel and plastic bag for your wet clothes.

• Don’t rush. Take your time between fountains. Some people take 15 minutes, others an hour.

Final Thoughts — Let the Water Guide You

Travel is often about seeing.
But sometimes, the most meaningful journeys are the ones that ask you to feel instead.

In Bali, water isn’t just a natural element—it’s sacred. It’s alive. And it can carry away things we’ve held onto for too long.

So if you find yourself on this island, caught between beaches and jungle, temples and warungs, take a moment to step into the cool spring of an ancient temple…

And just let go.