Uluwatu & Its Magical Cultural Attractions
Uluwatu is a fantastic choice for a getaway. It’s quieter than Seminyak and Canggu, with amazing waves and hidden beaches, fantastic weather and a great variety of trendy cafes and restaurants. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy million-dollar views of the Indian Ocean from a cliff’s edge that you can’t really get anywhere else on the island.
Another great reason to visit Uluwatu is its incredible cultural highlights, the most famous being the Uluwatu Temple, a breathtaking, almost otherworldly holy site perched 70 metres above sea level right at the edge of a cliff.
Built in the 11th century, the Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s six most important directional temples also known as Pura Kayangan Jagat. But more than that, it is a Balinese icon that’s similar to the Tanah Lot Temple, another important sea temple along the western coast.
The Uluwatu Temple is located within a large compound. The temple itself is surrounded by a spacious and beautiful tropical garden which visitors can explore via a meandering pathway that leads to several look-out points right at the edge of the cliff. These are fortified by strong fortress-like walls, so you can safely take in the views without worry.
There is a small forest surrounding the temple area, home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques which are believed to be loyal guardians of the temple. Remember to never bring any fruits, food or snacks with you to avoid any one of these cheeky monkeys from jumping on you!
The Uluwatu Temple is a holy site, so all visitors must behave respectfully and accordingly. Everyone must wear a sarong and a sash, which can be hired at the temple entrance. The best time to visit is just before sunset; bring your camera and get ready to immortalize one of the most heavenly sunsets you’ll ever see!
Another wonderful cultural highlight that you mustn’t miss here in Uluwatu is the world-famous Kecak Dance. It takes place at an open arena atop a cliff, near the Uluwatu Temple. The dance takes place during sunset and the dancers in costumes, chanting and moving together in unison is a fantastic sight to behold, especially against the fiery backdrop of the Indian Ocean at sundown!
The performers sit in a ring dressed in sarongs while continuously chanting “chak-chak-chak”. In the centre of the ring is a large burning flame, around which dancers reenact the love story of the Hindu epic Ramayana.
Ready for your getaway to Uluwatu? Book your stay now at Mata Bingin for a vacation that you won’t soon forget!