Uluwatu Temple, also called Pura Luhur Uluwatu, is one of Bali’s six key temples. The name means divine origin. This Uluwatu guide explains why the site is worth a visit and what makes it special.
The temple is best known for its cliff-top setting. It stands on a steep cliff about 70 metres above the sea. At sunset, the view is one of the best in Bali.
A nightly Balinese Kecak dance and fire show runs at a nearby arena. About 75 male dancers take part. They move with outstretched arms, shake their hands, and chant a chak chorus.
This landmark has a long history. Inscriptions say Mpu Kuturan, a Majapahit monk, founded the temple. He is also linked to several other key temples in Bali.
The site may have started as a small shrine. It later grew into a larger complex. It was expanded in the 11th century by the Javanese sage Empu Kuturan.
Later, Dang Hyang Nirartha added the Padmasana shrines and more of the temple you see today.
Balinese Hindus believe the powers of Brahma, Vishnu, and Siva meet here. For that reason, Uluwatu Temple is seen as a place of worship for Siva Rudra, the Balinese Hindu deity of the elements and of life.
There is plenty of parking near the outer edge of the temple. A private driver or pre-booked car is the best choice, since there is no official public transport to or from the site.
Getting back to your hotel can be hard if you do not arrange a ride. This is especially true at sunset.
Enter the forest and you will see many native monkeys. In local culture, people believe they guard the temple from bad luck. In real life, they often grab small items, so keep valuables in a closed bag or pocket.
The winding path opens at the cliff edge and leads to a scenic walk beside the ocean. Concrete walls line the cliff side. The walk takes about an hour, and the views make the time pass quickly.
You will also pass the nearby arena for the Kecak dance. The show becomes more dramatic as the sun sets and the sky gets dark. The Ramayana story ends in a fire-filled finale.
There are two main entrances to Uluwatu Temple. One is on the south side, and the other is on the north side.
Look for the elephant-headed guards at the gate. The outer sides of the gates have flower carvings.
Inside, you will find inner courtyards and hanging trees that give shade.
Behind the main shrine, facing the ocean, stands a Brahmin statue thought to represent Dhang Hyang Dwijendra. The 16th-century Pura Dalem Jurit temple is also here.
You will also see three more statues, including one of Brahma.
The best time to visit Uluwatu Temple is in the evening, when the sun sets and lights the sky in soft colours.
As this is an active place of worship, respect the local customs. Men and women should wear a sarong and a sash tied at the waist. These are free to borrow inside the grounds.
Do not take photos directly in front of worshippers. Also, do not step on offerings. These are often small woven palm-leaf boxes filled with flower petals, herbs, money, or food.
Question: Why is Uluwatu Temple considered a must-visit in Bali?
Short answer: It is one of Bali’s six key temples and stands high on a 70-metre cliff above the sea. The sunset view is hard to beat.
It also gives you a rich slice of Balinese culture, with the nightly Kecak dance nearby and deep meaning in Balinese Hindu belief.
Question: What is the temple’s history and spiritual significance?
Short answer: Inscriptions credit Mpu Kuturan, a Majapahit monk, with founding the temple. It was later expanded by the Javanese sage Empu Kuturan in the 11th century.
Dang Hyang Nirartha later added the Padmasana shrines and more of the temple seen today. Balinese Hindus believe the powers of Brahma, Vishnu, and Siva meet here, which makes it a place of worship for Siva Rudra, the deity of all elements and life.
Question: How do I get there, and do I need to arrange transport?
Short answer: There is plenty of parking on the edge of the site, but there is no official public transport to or from the temple. A private car or pre-booked ride is the best option, especially if you stay for sunset.
Without a plan, getting back can be difficult.
Question: What will I see during my visit, and how long does the walk take?
Short answer: You will pass through forested areas with native monkeys, so keep valuables safe. Then you follow a scenic cliff path with wide ocean views and good photo stops.
You will also find a nearby arena for the Kecak dance, two grand entrances guarded by elephant-headed figures, inner courtyards with hanging trees, a Brahmin statue facing the ocean, and the 16th-century Pura Dalem Jurit with three statues, including Brahma. Sunset is the best time for the full view.
Question: What are the dress code, etiquette, hours, showtime, and fees?
Short answer: Men and women must wear a sarong and a sash tied around the waist, and these are provided free for visitors inside the grounds.
Be respectful: do not photograph directly in front of worshippers. Avoid stepping on offerings made from woven palm leaves, petals, herbs, money, or food.
Opening hours are 08.00 AM to 07.00 PM. The Kecak dance runs daily at 06.00 PM. The best time to visit is just before sunset.
Entrance fees are Rp 30,000 for adults and Rp 15,000 for children. A guide is not required, but an Uluwatu guide can help you learn more. Avoid loose jewellery or other valuables. Suggested duration is 1 to 2 hours.
