ULUWATU TEMPLE SUNSET TOUR

Uluwatu Temple, or Pura Luhur Uluwatu, is renowned for its magnificent location, perched on top of a steep cliff. This magnificent temple in Bali, Indonesia is approximately 70 meters above the waves. It is known also as the cliff temple of Bali. As one of the 6 key temples considered to be Bali’s ‘spiritual pillars’, Uluwatu also shares the splendid sunset backdrops as that of Tanah Lot Temple, another important sea temple that graces the island’s western coast.

Pura Luhur Uluwatu is definitely one of the top places in Bali for witnessing a delightful sunset, with direct views overlooking the beautiful waves of the Indian Ocean and daily Kecak dance performances held at an amphitheater nearby. Balinese architecture, traditionally-designed gateways, and ancient sculptures all add to Uluwatu Temple’s appeal.

Without a doubt, what makes Uluwatu Temple spectacular is its high setting at the edge of a cliff and overlooking the waves of the Indian Ocean. Ulu means the ‘top’ or the ‘tip’ and watu is ‘stone’ or ‘rock’ in Balinese. Several archaeological remains found here prove the temple dates back to around the 10th century. There are 2 entrances to Uluwatu Temple, one from the south and the other from the north.

A small forest surrounds the temple where hundreds of monkeys dwell. They are believed to be the loyal guardians of the temple. The serpentine pathway to the temple is fortified by concrete walls on the cliffside. It usually takes about an hour to get from one end to another as there are several fenced points along the way where you’re sure to take a pause. The views from the bottom of the water surging up against rocks and the ocean horizon are breathtaking.

The Balinese Hindus believe that the powers of the Hindu Trinity: Brahma, Vishnu, and Siva, merge here. That belief results in making Uluwatu Temple a place of worship of Siva Rudra, the Balinese Hindu deity of all elements and aspects of life in the universe.

Behind the main shrine in one of the courtyards of Uluwatu Temple lies a Brahmin statue facing the ocean, which is considered to be a representation of Dhang Hyang Dwijendra. The 2 entrances to the temple area are split gates with leaves and flower carvings.

One of Uluwatu’s 10th-century relics is a one-piece winged stone gate leading to the temple’s inner courtyard. Winged gates aren’t common on the island. The Pura Dalem Jurit temple was added in the 16th century. There are 3 statues inside, one of them depicting Brahma. There are 2 stone troughs in the temple area. If both of them were to be joined, they would form a sarcophagus (Megalithic coffin).

Right below the cliff is Uluwatu Beach, one of Bali’s best internationally-known surfing spots.

This sunset tour is perfect for any day out. Or even a mysterious romantic Bali honeymoon. Watch the sunset and hear the waves in the background and feast your eyes on the Bali famous Kecak Dance.

Bali Kecak and Fire Dance Performance, Not known exactly where Kecak dance originated and which was first developed, but there is some kind of agreement on the Balinese Kecak was first developed into performing arts in the village of Bona, Gianyar, as additional knowledge Kecak was originally a song or music that is resultant from a combination sounds that make up melodies that are usually used to accompany the sacred dance Sanghyang. And can only be staged in the temple. Then in the early 1930s by artists from the village of Bona, Gianyar trying to develop a Kecak dance by taking the story of Ramayana who danced as a substitute for Sanghyang Dance so this dance could eventually be displayed in public as performance art. Part of the Ramayana story in which the first is taken as Goddess Sita was abducted by King Ravana.

And after a long day, it is time to rewind and relax with a spa. It is Bali after all, who would not want a spa day? The Bali Orchid Spa is something to end your day with.

This is a stand-alone, popular spa, also thanks to its unbeatable prices. It works according to the traditional local belief that body, mind, and spirit ought to work in harmony and that health and well-being lead to happiness. The treatments at Bali Orchid Spa aim at healing, releasing the tension, and in freeing the body of toxins and improving blood circulation. The staff uses natural and herbal medicines – ginger tea, lemon, etc – as they stimulate, soothe, and revitalize the body. The setting is gorgeous. Definitely one of the best spa in Bali.

Good to know about Uluwatu Temple

Precautionary signs warn visitors of the resident macaques habitually grabbing attractive items such as sunglasses and cameras. They can be calmer when approached with peanuts or bananas, though, lending you an opportunity to retake stolen possessions.

As a visitor, you must wear a sarong and a sash, which can be hired at the temple entrance. The best time to visit is just before sunset. A Kecak dance is performed every day at the adjacent cliff-top stage from 6 pm and usually last an hour. What makes it the most favorite venue to watch a Kecak dance is the sunset background of the performance.

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ULUWATU TEMPLE SUNSET TOUR