Amongst the most popular attractions in Bali, the Uluwatu Temple is a stunning sight to behold and here’s more on what awaits at this key place of interest.
Planning a Visit
To reach this site, you will have to head to Pecatu Village in the Bukit Peninsula. The temple which is perched on a cliff that’s 70 metres high, is surrounded by a small forest and the best time to visit is near sunset. Consider being based at a Bali jungle villa with a private pool in the Tanah Lot region; here, you can stay at properties like Nirjhara from where you can set off on excursions to this attraction as well as visit the famed Tanah Lot temple.
A Rich Heritage
One of Bali’s nine directional temples that are said to protect the island from evil spirits, the temple is believed to date back to about the 10th century according to archaeological remains found here. Certain inscriptions point to a Majapahit monk known as Mpu Kuturan being responsible for the site’s creation, while it is dedicated to the worship of a Balinese Hindu deity called Siva Rudra.
What to Expect
The setting atop a cliff with the ocean below provides a stunning backdrop for Uluwatu Temple which has made it a popular spot for photography too; this is especially true in the evening as travellers head to one of two vantage points at the southern or northern ends from which to catch a spellbinding sunset. You can also visit the temple itself where you will find the main shrine, statues, and traditional architecture.
Keep in Mind
Since this is a sacred site, remember to wear conservative attire covering bare shoulders and legs. One of the best things to do in Bali is to combine your visit to this temple with a viewing of a “Kecak” fire dance performance at a nearby cliff-top amphitheatre, held around 6:00pm each day. Additionally, while you will find monkeys here, don’t get too close and be mindful of your belongings around them!
