The sacred Uluwatu Temple located on the Westernmost point of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula is a must see attraction for any trip to Bali. The temple is complete with free roaming monkeys that are considered sacred and are protected on site. The views and surrounds are stunning.
Temple
The temple itself is built at the edge of a 70m high cliff. A temple in some form or another having existed since the 11th Century. Although you can see through the gate, it is not possible to enter into the inner temple.
Uluwatu is one of the sad kahyangan or “six sanctuaries of the world”. These are the six holiest places of worship in Bali. According to Balinese belief, they are the pivotal points of the island and represent Bali’s spiritual balance. In true island style, depending on the region and although the number always adds to six, the specific temples included in this list may vary.
Uluwatu is also a sea temple. Several important sea temples were founded around the island during the 16th Century in order to honor the gods of the sea. Traditionally, each temple is visible from the next such that they form a ‘chain’ of spiritual protection around the island.
There are may types of statues in Bali and almost all of these ornaments embody elements of both Balinese philosophy and culture. Usually, statues are places on both sides of a gate. These bedogol (gate guardians) are an essential element in Balinese architecture, they mark temples and homes with personality, charm and beauty. Ordinarily, statues appear in complimentary pairs. where the more powerful of the two is placed on the right hand side of the gate.
This particular statue at the gate of Uluwatu is a form of Karang Gajah. Taking the shape of an elephant’s head complete with trunk, ivory fangs and round eyes, elephants represent strength. The strength of the elephant (gajah) is thought to strengthen the integrity of the building.
Inside the temple, you can observe various platforms for worship and offerings, as well as more statues.
Monkeys
Around the outer temple there are additional platforms and structures for worship, and ample paths and viewpoints to take in some remarkable scenery. Beware, the monkeys do not discriminate between inner and outer sanctums and are apt at snatching belongings anywhere within the greater temple grounds.
These Macaque monkeys are sacred in Balinese Hindu traditions. They act as guardians of the temple and symbols of harmony between humans and nature.
While cute from afar, the Macaque monkeys that inhabit the site are experts at usurping items from unsuspecting visitors. We saw glasses snatched off someone’s head and any unsecured belongings are fair game. Note that they can also exhibit aggressive behavior and some distance between you and them is best practice. After all, these monkeys are still wild animals, despite their being used to human presence.
Views
The views from and around the temple are truly spectacular. Both to the north and south of the temple are stunning cliffs dropping dramatically into the crystal blue waters below.
The temple, as well as the surrounding structures, and much of the stepped balustrades and pathways are in stone. This contrasts starkly with the surrounding green forest interspersed with bursts of red bougainvillea.
The views are part of the visit here and add to the sacred feeling and general awe of the site.
If you have time, along the path to the north of the temple is the Dang Hyang Nirartha Statue. To the south is the Kecak Uluwatu where every evening at 6pm a traditional Balinese dance takes place with the temple and the sunset as the backdrop.
Good To Know
It’s easiest to get to Uluwatu Temple by car or taxi. Ask at the entrance for a tour guide. There are no signs (in English) and I feel that some explanation would far enhance the experience.
Beware of the monkeys. Secure bags, glasses, hats, phones and any other loose items. I had a scarf tied over the top of all my belongings and removed my glasses for all but the most sunny/glary moments.
Tickets for the Kecak dance performance are available at the entrance to the site.
Sightseeing in Bali is best done with a guide. We toured with Toris (WhatsApp +62 859-3448-1212).
Want more? Relax on Bali’s beautiful Nusa Dua beach, try the world’s most expensive Luwak Coffee or visit the vast Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park. Read more here…
Would I Return?
No. Not for the sake of the temple itself. However, a walk along the cliffs and the dance performance seem to be a worthwhile exercise.
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