Uluwatu Temple
Hindu temple · Badung
Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Highlights
Cliffside temple with ocean views, sunset Kecak dance
Cliffside temple with ocean views, sunset Kecak dance
"I found the iconic clifftop temples of Uluwatu to be one of Bali's most striking sunset vantage points, highlighted in the report as an example of the island's dramatic locations for golden-hour photography." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A centuries-old, petrified-coral temple perched on sheer limestone cliffs more than 200 feet above the Indian Ocean, famous for lively long-tailed macaques and the nightly kecak dance at sunset — a dramatic performance of chanting and fire that draws crowds for its atmosphere and views." - Lisa Ritchie Lisa Ritchie A dual American and British citizen, Lisa Ritchie is a writer and editor based in New York City. She has written for publications on both sides of the Atlantic, from websites and glossy magazines to national newspapers and travel guides. learn more
"Uluwatu Temple, in Bali’s extreme south in Pecatu Village, is a crucial ancient site that has protected Hindu islanders from evil spirits since 900 AD. Its location is the main draw for tourists: some 230 feet up on a precipitous cliff edge, with the powerful waves of Uluwatu Beach lapping at its base. The sunsets here are among Bali’s most sensational. As an add-on, the daily kecak dance performances (about $10), with chants, costumed performances, and rings of fire, make the setting even more enchanting. The temple itself is rather tiny, especially in comparison to the massive cliffs and sea, but the scene as a whole is glorious. The sunset kecak is special, but the amphitheater-like space is regularly packed beyond capacity; arrive 45 minutes early for the best seats. Watch out for the wild monkeys who are quick to snatch belongings from inattentive tourists." - Travis Levius
"An Indonesian island famous for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, and coral reefs."
"One of the best places to watch the sun set is from the cliffs of Pura Luhur Uluwatu, or the site of the old Uluwatu Temple on the island of Bali . The dramatic cliffs overlook the ocean, and arriving before sunset allows you to explore before dark. The temple grounds are inhabited by a large number of monkeys, which are fun to watch but can be aggressive, so avoid wearing sunglasses or jewelry and bringing food, and be careful with your camera. Expect to wear a provided sarong over your pants/skirt/shorts, which is a sign of respect at religious sites in Indonesia (true here for men and women). At one end of Uluwatu, the rhythmic Kecak dance is performed nightly at sunset, and if you plan to stay,expect acrowd. Uluwatu is easily reached by car from most places on the southern part of the island. Drivers can be hired from hotels or villas."
