Love and Loss: The Bali Breakup Curse Explained
The Bali breakup curse is a term that has become part of the island’s mystique, particularly among couples who visit the island for romantic getaways. According to local folklore, unmarried couples who travel to Bali together may face unexpected challenges in their relationship.
Bali, often called the “Island of the Gods,” is a paradise for many, but the so-called curse serves as a reminder that paradise might come with its challenges. The island’s breathtaking landscapes, spiritual temples, and vibrant culture are designed to enchant visitors.
Still, the intense experiences shared in such a beautiful, yet unfamiliar setting, can also test a relationship’s strength. Whether it’s the stress of travel, cultural differences, or the introspective nature that Bali inspires, the curse suggests that Bali’s magic might not always have a happy ending for couples.
Is the Bali breakup curse a superstition?
Despite the superstition surrounding the Bali breakup curse, the island remains one of the top destinations for couples and honeymooners. For those undeterred by the myth, Bali offers countless romantic experiences, from sunset dinners on the beach to exploring the lush rice terraces of Ubud.
Whether you believe in the curse or not, Bali’s beauty and charm are undeniable, and the memories made on this island are often unforgettable. If you’re visiting, make sure to explore the iconic Tanah Lot Temple, experience a traditional Balinese dance performance, and indulge in a couple’s spa day to fully immerse yourself in Bali’s enchanting atmosphere.
We didn’t know or hear about the curse despite countless times visiting Bali in the past. It was on our recent trip to Tanah Lot that our guide mentioned the curse. He cheekily said that the curse does not affect married couples.
As the island is predominantly Hindu, there is a strong belief in rituals and ceremonies with an emphasis on spiritual well-being. That being said, curses are not part of Balinese Hinduism and the Bali breakup curse is most likely an old wives tale.
Are you dreaming of watching the sunrise from the top of an active volcano? Why not join the Mount Batur sunrise hike and refresh yourself with a dip in the natural hot springs. End your trip with a taste of Kopi Luwak, a coffee only found in Bali.
Join a full-day Instagram Highlights Tour where you get to tick off Bali’s main Instagram hot spots like Pura Lempuyang, Tirta Gangga, and Tukad Cepung Waterfall. This is the perfect tour if you want to show off your beautiful Bali pictures on your Instagram feed. If you choose the lunch option, you can enjoy scenic views of Mount Agung while enjoying local Balinese cuisine.
Experience the artistic heart of Bali with a private tour of Ubud. Discover the top attractions including the Sacred Monkey Forest, Tegenungan Waterfalls, and Tegallalang rice terraces.
If you are headed to Bali to soothe your soul, we recommend this Balinese Shamanic and Cleansing Tour with one of Bali’s best shamans. The cleansing process combines yagna healing to remove negative factors with a combination of mantras. This is known as melukat and is performed at the Tirtha Empul temple grounds.
Bali is synonym with surfing. If you have never tried surfing, now is the time to improve your surfing techniques with beginner or intermediate surf lessons at Legian Beach. The surf lessons are near the Pullman Bali Legian Beach Resort. Begin with a brief session on the safety procedure and take to the waves as you learn to read the waves while controlling your surfboard.
What is the Bali breakup curse?
The Bali breakup curse is based on the legend of a princess from a Brahman caste who fell in love with a prince from the neighboring island. While watching the sunset at Tanah Lot temple, the couple became intimate.
The prince only took one flower from the princess. He left and refused to marry her. In a fit of rage, the princess cursed all unmarried couples who visited the Tanah Lot temple at sunset would break up within 6 months of visiting the temple.
As this Bali curse is based on myths and hearsay, there is no consistent version of the said curse. Some myths say the curse applies to the whole island of Bali while another legend specifically mentions the curse is from the Tanah Lot temple.
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Where is the Bali breakup curse?
The Bali breakup curse specifically affects the Tanah Lot temple while some say it affects the whole island. Interestingly, Tanah Lot is one of the major seven sea temples that protect the island.
The temple is also part of Balinese mythology for centuries. However, there are 8 temples within the Tanah Lot temple complex with the main temple being the Tanah Lot temple.
Is the Bali breakup curse real?
No, the Bali breakup curse is not real. It is a myth, superstition, and old wives’ tale based on hearsay. Also, there are no statistics or evidence to suggest that couples break up after being at the Tanah Lot temple at sunset.
How do you get to Bali?
There are two ways to get to Bali. The first is by flight. If you are coming from overseas, you will arrive at the Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar. Denpasar is a 20-minute drive to Kuta, an hour to Ubud, and 45 minutes to Nusa Dua. If you are flying domestically, Bali is very well connected with frequent flights from Jakarta, Surabaya, Yogyakarta, Labuan Bojo, and Bandung.
If you are traveling from nearby islands like Java and Lombok, ferries are available. You can also purchase fast boat tickets to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and the Gili Islands.
When should I go to Tanah Lot?
The best time to visit is an hour before sunset. The temple complex opens from 7 am to 7 pm and if you wish to avoid the busload of crowds, it is best to be there by 8 am.
There is an entrance fee of IDR 60,000 ($4) for adults and IDR 30,000 ($2) for children. If you plan on bringing your drone, you need to fork out an additional IDR 500,000 ($32) for the drone ticket.
We visited an hour before sunset and this was the photo we captured. It was already high tide when we visited. The temple was cut off from the mainland. Although we didn’t get the sunset shot we hoped for, It was still a beautiful sight.
Bali breakup curse: Truth or Myth?
The widely held belief that a visit to Bali can lead to the end of a romantic relationship is nothing more than a popular myth. In reality, Bali is a magnificent destination that boasts a plethora of attractions, including stunning natural landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and an overall romantic ambiance that can be truly magical for couples seeking to strengthen their bond.
Numerous couples have journeyed to Bali and returned with a newfound appreciation for each other and their relationship, having spent time together exploring the island’s many wonders. However, the success of a trip to Bali ultimately depends on the dynamics of each individual relationship.
While a visit to Bali can certainly be a memorable and romantic experience for some couples, it won’t magically fix a relationship that is already on the rocks. For couples who are in a good place and are willing to communicate effectively, they can plan activities that both partners will enjoy. This can be taking in the stunning natural beauty of the island, Bali can be an unforgettable experience that will bring them even closer together.
