Sacred Water: A Blessing Ceremony at a Hidden Temple

Water blessing ceremonies have become an Instagram commodity at Bali’s famous temples. This is the opposite. Made’s uncle keeps a small water temple in the hills that tourists never find, and guests come as the family’s guests — dressed correctly in sarong and sash (provided), briefed carefully on every step, and introduced to the pemangku priest before anything begins.

The melukat purification happens in the temple’s spring-fed pools, followed by a quiet offering ceremony and tea with the family. Whether it’s spiritual or simply unforgettable is up to you; either is welcome. Photography is allowed only where the family says so, which guests consistently say made it better.