Uluwatu Temple ( Pura Uluwatu )

The Scenic Cliff Temple of Bali

Uluwatu Temple, also known as Pura Luhur Uluwatu, is known for its spectacular setting, located on a high cliff about 70 meters above the ocean. Uluwatu Temple, one of Bali's'spiritual pillars,' shares the same magnificent sunset backdrops as Tanah Lot Temple, another important sea temple on the island's western coast.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu is undoubtedly one of the best sites in Bali to watch a spectacular sunset, with direct views of the Indian Ocean's gorgeous waves and daily Kecak dance performances hosted at a nearby amphitheatre. Uluwatu Temple's beauty is enhanced by Balinese architecture, traditional gateways, and ancient statues.

Uluwatu Temple's breathtaking surroundings

Uluwatu Temple's stunning setting on the brink of a cliff, overlooking the Indian Ocean waves, is without a doubt what makes it so special. In Balinese, ulu means 'top' or 'tip,' and watu means'stone' or 'rock.' The temple was discovered with some archaeological relics that date back to the 10th century. Uluwatu Temple has two entrances, one from the south and the other from the north. Hundreds of monkeys live in a little forest that surrounds the shrine. They are thought to be the temple's devoted guardians. On the cliff side, concrete walls fortify the serpentine road to the shrine. It takes roughly an hour to get from one end to the other because there are various fenced areas along the road where you will undoubtedly stop. The views of the ocean horizon and the bottom of the water pouring up against rocks are breathtaking. The Hindu Trinity's powers, Brahma, Vishnu, and Siva, are said to merge here, according to Balinese Hindus. As a result of this belief, Siva Rudra, the Balinese Hindu deity of all elements and parts of life in the cosmos, is worshipped at Uluwatu Temple.

Uluwatu Temple’s brief history.

Mpu Kuturan, a Majapahit monk who is also attributed with the founding of numerous other important temples in Bali, is said to have instigated Uluwatu Temple, according to inscriptions. Dhang Hyang Dwijendra, a holy priest from eastern Java, chose Uluwatu Temple as the culmination of his spiritual quest. Devotees claim he was struck by lightning and vanished after reaching the pinnacle of'spiritual oneness.' Dhang Hyang Dwijendra (also known as Danghyang Nirartha) is said to have designed Uluwatu Temple and several other temples in Bali, Lombok, and Sumbawa, according to legend. Pura Uluwatu was inaccessible until 1983, and a lightning strike in 1999 burnt some elements of the temple ablaze. Since then, the temple has undergone a number of repair initiatives.

Highlights and features of Uluwatu Temple

A Brahmin figure facing the ocean, located behind the main altar in one of Uluwatu Temple's courtyards, is thought to be a portrayal of Dhang Hyang Dwijendra. Split gates with leaves and flower decorations serve as entrances to the temple area. A one-piece winged stone gate leading to the temple's inner courtyard is one of Uluwatu's 10th-century treasures. On the island, wing gates are uncommon. In the 16th century, the Pura Dalem Jurit temple was erected. Inside, there are three statues, one of which depicts Brahma. In the temple area, there are two stone troughs. They would make a sarcophagus if they were linked together (Megalithic coffin). Uluwatu Beach, one of Bali's best-known surfing destinations, is located directly beneath the cliff.

Uluwatu Temple is interesting to learn about.

Visitors should be aware that the local macaques have a penchant of stealing appealing goods like sunglasses and cameras. When addressed with peanuts or bananas, though, they become calmer, allowing you to reclaim stolen items. You must wear a sarong and a sash as a visitor, which can be rented at the temple gate. Just before sunset is the greatest time to go. Every day at 6 p.m., a Kecak dance is performed on the neighboring cliff-top stage, and it normally lasts an hour. The sunset backdrop of the performance is what makes it the most popular place to view a Kecak dance. There is no public transit to Uluwatu Temple, and getting back into town without a planned shuttle or taxi will be tough. Although a guide is not required, it can be beneficial.