Uluwatu Temple is known for its location which is just right on the top of a rock that juts out to the sea, makes it a favourite place for tourists who visit Peninsula Hill at South of Bali. The visitors could witness the beauty of rocky cliffs, and as far as the eye could see, the traveller will be treated by amazing blue ocean view. Not only that, the visitors will also be able to find the presence of the surfers, “playing” with the waves not far from the temple. And the most beautiful moment to witness in this place is just before the sun sets. The traveller could watch the beautiful sunset from the edge of the cliff around the temple.
Uluwatu comes from two words. Ulu, meaning the Top, and Watu means the Stone. The given name is literally in accordance to the location itself, at an altitude of 97 meters, Uluwatu Temple has its own uniqueness. In front of the temple there is a large green forest which known as Alas Kekeran. This forest is known as a sanctuary for temple purity by Balinese people. Uluwatu is known as Pura Sad Kayangan which is considered by Hindu as a part of the nine points of winds, the elements that preserve the island. Formerly, this place was the location of worship by Empu Kuturan. This was then continued by Dang Hyang Nirartha, who finally became the ancestor in this temple.
Uluwatu Temple is in Pecatu Village which is also a part of South Kuta District, Badung Regency, Bali. The location of the Uluwatu Temple is quite crowded, so the supporting facilities there are also very complete. It is easy to find many good food, transport, and the travellers could also find various places to stay, from the budget hotels or homestay until the most expensive, you choose.
Here you will get five beautiful moments. First is the view of the sunsets at around 6:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. You will find many people trying to get a photo in this area, or even pre-wedding photos.
The second is the beauty of the sunset combined with the beauty of the panoramic views of the cliffs and the Indian Ocean, right in front of you. There are many trees and other plans around there. This makes Uluwatu Temple area are quite cool. Especially in December and January, there are many flowers from peacock trees.
The fourth is Kecak Dance performance that is carried out every day, starting at 6:00 p.m. until 19:00 a.m. on the open stage of the Uluwatu Temple area. This is probably the most important thing that you should try, because the experience is so amazing. While enjoying the Kecak Dance performance, you will be accompanied by the natural beauty of the sunset from the stage seating.
The last attraction is the life of around 300 monkeys on the pedestal of the Uluwatu Temple. The species are long-tailed. Visitors could enjoy the view of the life of monkeys. But you must take care of your luggage, and other little shiny things like glasses, necklace or even hat. Because they might often take these items. Visitors of the temple are not allowed to give food to the monkeys. Unless you are accompanied by a tour guide or management officer. Sometimes you could see the monkeys bathing in the bathing pool that the management has made.
Caution, if you want to take the photos with monkey you must be careful because sometimes they could bite you. And if it happens, you need to get the vaccine immediately.
Uluwatu Temple is an amazing place, it is worth for you to visit and it has a unique and peace atmosphere that you will not find in any other place in the world.