Bali is truly a tourist destination paradise, both for domestic and foreign travelers. One of the most iconic tourist destinations in Bali is Uluwatu Temple, which is located at the southwest tip of the island. The majestic temple building that stands firmly on a coral cliff seems to blend with the crashing waves of the ocean, making it a super Instagrammable tourist attraction!

Before planning a visit to Uluwatu Temple, it’s a good idea to read our complete guide first. With careful preparation, a holiday to Uluwatu Temple will definitely be an unforgettable experience!

 

History and Attraction of Uluwatu Temple

Initially, Uluwatu Temple was built to worship Empu Kuturan in the 11th century who was a holy priest who founded many temples in Bali and passed down the teachings of Traditional Villages. Then there are also other sources which say that Uluwatu Temple was built by Dang Hyang Nirartha, a holy priest who came from East Java. Dang Hyang Nirartha is thought to have come to Bali in 1546 AD during the reign of Dalem Waturenggong to undertake a spiritual journey. Then at the end of his journey, Dang Hyang Nirartha decided to perform the “Moksa” ritual at Uluwatu Temple.

The main attraction of Uluwatu Temple is of course its enchanting natural views from the top of a 250 foot high cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. Especially if you come in the afternoon when the sun is about to set. Guaranteed to be a beautiful moment that you will never forget!

Apart from that, there is also a Kecak dance performance performed in the middle of the Uluwatu Temple stage. This Kecak dance performance is held every Thursday to Sunday at 18.00-19.00 WITA. The Kecak dance performance accompanied by the sunset as the background, is truly beautiful and soothes the body and soul!

 

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Parts of Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple is a temple that stands on a rocky cliff facing east, directly facing the vast Indian Ocean. This temple has a height of 70 meters above sea level, so you can feel the strong gusts of wind and waves accompanied by stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

The Uluwatu Temple complex itself is divided into 3 parts, namely the outer courtyard (jaba side), the middle courtyard (jaba Tengah), and the main courtyard (jeroan). To enter the Uluwatu Temple complex, you have to climb quite high stone steps. Then you will see the gate with leaf and flower patterned carvings accompanied by a statue of a human with an elephant head at the end of the stairs. This gate is a marker that you have entered the Uluwatu Temple complex.

 

Location and Route to Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple is located in Pecatu Village, Kuta District, Badung Regency, Bali, about 30 km from the center of Denpasar City or about 1 and a half hours by land. From the direction of Ngurah Rai Airport, the travel time is around 45-60 minutes by road with a distance of around 22 km.

The fastest route from Denpasar City is via the Ngurah Rai Bypass Road to Jalan Raya Uluwatu. After entering Jalan Raya Uluwatu, go straight for 16.9 km until you enter Jalan Raya Uluwatu Pecatu. From here you just need to follow the road until at the end of the road you will arrive at Uluwatu Temple.

You can enjoy a fantastic dinner at Jimbaran Bay which is located about 13 km from Uluwatu.

 

Entrance Tickets, Facilities and Operating Hours at Uluwatu Temple

The following is a list of prices to enjoy the beauty of Uluwatu Temple:

  • Adult Domestic Entry Ticket: IDR 30,000/person
  • Domestic Entry Ticket for Children: IDR 20,000/person (aged 6-12 years)
  • Adult International Entry Ticket: IDR 50,000/person
  • Children’s International Entry Ticket: IDR 30,000/person (aged 6-12 years)
  • Motorbike Parking: IDR 2,000/motorbike
  • Car Parking: IDR 5,000/car
  • Adult Kecak Dance Ticket: IDR 150,000/person
  • Children’s Kecak Dance Ticket: Rp. 75,000/person (2-9 years)

The facilities at Uluwatu Temple are also quite adequate, such as toilets, parking areas, restaurants/food stalls, disabled routes, and souvenir sellers. You can also enjoy local culinary treats such as satay lilit and Balinese mixed rice when you visit.

For operational hours, Uluwatu Temple is open every day from 07.00 – 19.00 WITA. But it should be noted that these hours can change according to existing religious ceremonies.

For those of you who want to vacation on a low budget, you can make an itinerary before starting the trip. Please contact Bali Tour Voyage to plan your itinerary during your holiday on the island of Bali.

 

Tips for visiting Uluwatu Temple

Here are some tips to make your visit to Uluwatu Temple more memorable:

  • The best time to visit is in the afternoon (before the Kecak dance performance starts). The atmosphere of sunset on a coral cliff accompanied by the roar of the wind and the sound of crashing waves is very enchanting.
  • Wear neat and polite clothes, especially for women, so that they cover the shoulder and knee areas.
  • Take care of your belongings so they don’t get stolen by the monkeys around the area
  • Respect sacred places of worship
  • Don’t forget to bring drinking water because to reach this place you will climb quite high stairs

 

You can enjoy Uluwatu Temple in a Half Day Tour with Bali Tour Voyage!