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See the Beautiful Cliffside Scenery of Ulu Watu Temple
Published by Tammy Burns, Writer
Country: Indonesia 
The Experience
The temple Pura Ulu Watu sits perched on a cliff top on the Bukit peninsula of Bali, with the blue waters of the Indian Ocean crashing against the rocks far below. Peering down over the cliff drop, looking out over the endless expanse of ocean in front of you and the lush green forest behind you, it feels like you’re on the edge of the earth.
Within the grounds, ancient stone walls, archways, and statues are draped in traditional Balinese black-and-white checkered cloth. Behind one archway, an inner courtyard reveals tables covered with offerings of fresh fruit and flowers. It’s a popular tourist spot, but despite the crowds, it’s peaceful. The jaw-dropping view and sense of religious serenity that hangs over the area leaves it feeling very un-touristy.
But while Ulu Watu is a stunning sight, perhaps it is most famous for its monkey inhabitants. The entire property is filled with monkeys – all of whom love to play with tourists by stealing items like hats and sunglasses (note: don’t wear any accessories that can’t be replaced).
Ulu Watu is a directional temple, dedicated to the spirits of the sea. Its full name, Pura Luhur Uluwatu, translates to “temple” (Pura) “something of divine origin” (Luhur), “land’s end” (ulu), and “rock” (watu). Ulu Watu is one of the oldest temples in Bali, and was first founded in the 10th century by Empu Kuturan, a Javanese Hindu priest.
It is believed that in the 15th century, a pilgrim Hindu priest named Dhang Hyang Dwi Jendra (who was also the creator of the temple Tanah Lot) chose Ulu Watu as his final earthly resting spot. The site is considered the pilgrim’s holy tomb, as it’s believed that in a flash of light, Dwi Jendra achieved "moksa", or oneness with god, while meditating at the temple. A statue of a priest inside the inner temple is said to represent Dwi Jendra, with another statue representing the boat on which he travelled to Ulu Watu.
Within the grounds, ancient stone walls, archways, and statues are draped in traditional Balinese black-and-white checkered cloth. Behind one archway, an inner courtyard reveals tables covered with offerings of fresh fruit and flowers. It’s a popular tourist spot, but despite the crowds, it’s peaceful. The jaw-dropping view and sense of religious serenity that hangs over the area leaves it feeling very un-touristy.
But while Ulu Watu is a stunning sight, perhaps it is most famous for its monkey inhabitants. The entire property is filled with monkeys – all of whom love to play with tourists by stealing items like hats and sunglasses (note: don’t wear any accessories that can’t be replaced).
Ulu Watu is a directional temple, dedicated to the spirits of the sea. Its full name, Pura Luhur Uluwatu, translates to “temple” (Pura) “something of divine origin” (Luhur), “land’s end” (ulu), and “rock” (watu). Ulu Watu is one of the oldest temples in Bali, and was first founded in the 10th century by Empu Kuturan, a Javanese Hindu priest.
It is believed that in the 15th century, a pilgrim Hindu priest named Dhang Hyang Dwi Jendra (who was also the creator of the temple Tanah Lot) chose Ulu Watu as his final earthly resting spot. The site is considered the pilgrim’s holy tomb, as it’s believed that in a flash of light, Dwi Jendra achieved "moksa", or oneness with god, while meditating at the temple. A statue of a priest inside the inner temple is said to represent Dwi Jendra, with another statue representing the boat on which he travelled to Ulu Watu.
When to Go to Ulu Watu
The best time to visit Pura Ulu Watu in Bali is during the dry season from April to September. While the temperature stays warm year-round, it can get quite humid during the wet season. Note that peak tourist season generally runs from July to early September, as well as from late December to mid-January. Prices are usually much higher at these times of year, and accommodations book up fast.
The traditional Kecak dance is performed at sunset on the temple grounds a few times per week; check ahead with your hotel or tour guide to see on what nights you can see the performance.
If you are visiting from the Kuta beach area, the drive to Ulu Watu can be almost as fun as the temple itself. You'll experience some winding roads over some very steep hills so make sure if sharing a scooter that you have enough power. If you stay for the performance, the drive back will be very dark so be cautious. If not driving yourself, make sure to have your driver wait for you while you take in the performance.
The traditional Kecak dance is performed at sunset on the temple grounds a few times per week; check ahead with your hotel or tour guide to see on what nights you can see the performance.
If you are visiting from the Kuta beach area, the drive to Ulu Watu can be almost as fun as the temple itself. You'll experience some winding roads over some very steep hills so make sure if sharing a scooter that you have enough power. If you stay for the performance, the drive back will be very dark so be cautious. If not driving yourself, make sure to have your driver wait for you while you take in the performance.
Odds n' Ends
There are monkeys everywhere at Ulu Watu and they’re stealthy thieves. As you enter the grounds, you’ll see posted signs reminding you to remove your sunglasses, hat, jewellery, and anything else that could be easily snatched. Anything shiny, sparkly, or reflective is particularly at risk. Guard your camera closely.
You will be expected to wear a sarong and/or sash while at the temple, which can be rented at the entrance.
Remember that Tanah Lot is first and foremost a religious temple and visitors should dress and act in a way appropriate to a religious site. While anyone can roam the grounds of Ulu Watu, only Hindu worshippers are permitted within the temple itself.
Along the way to Ulu Watu you'll pass Jimbaran Bay, which is lined with beach restaurants serving fresh seafood. This is an excellent place to stop for dinner before or after your visit.
Entrance to the temple grounds is 6000 Rp or about 75 cents. You should be able to get a round trip taxi fare for less 20 USD, including the wait time. The dance performance will set you back about 50000 Rp or 6 dollars.
You will be expected to wear a sarong and/or sash while at the temple, which can be rented at the entrance.
Remember that Tanah Lot is first and foremost a religious temple and visitors should dress and act in a way appropriate to a religious site. While anyone can roam the grounds of Ulu Watu, only Hindu worshippers are permitted within the temple itself.
Along the way to Ulu Watu you'll pass Jimbaran Bay, which is lined with beach restaurants serving fresh seafood. This is an excellent place to stop for dinner before or after your visit.
Entrance to the temple grounds is 6000 Rp or about 75 cents. You should be able to get a round trip taxi fare for less 20 USD, including the wait time. The dance performance will set you back about 50000 Rp or 6 dollars.
Places to Eat
- Bumbu Bali
- It's a bit of a drive from Ulu Watu, but this restaurant in Nusa Dua is a must-eat. Offering delicious Indonesian dishes in a romantic on-the-beach setting, it's considered one of the best restaurants in Bali. It's pricier than your average Balinese meal, but still very affordable - especially considering the quality. A great place to splurge.
Recommended Places to Stay
- Ulu Watu Resort
- Cliffside hotel with stunning views.
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Books and DVDs
Elsewhere on the Web
- Uluwatu Temple
- Uluwatu Temple is a Hindu temple set on the cliff bank in south part of Bali Peninsula. It is one of Sad Kahyangan Temple in Bali (six big groups of Bali Temples), located in Pecatu Village, Sub district of South Kuta, and Badung Regency or about 25 Km southerly part of Denpasar town.
- Pura Luhur (Uluwatu) Temple
- Pura Luhur Uluwatu is one of Bali's kayangan jagat (directional temples) and guards Bali from evil spirits from the SW, in which dwell major deities, in Uluwatu's case; Bhatara Rudra, God of the elements and of cosmic force majeures.
Media References
- Running wild at Uluwatu temple (newspaper)
- “Give me your hat. I’ll put it in my bag!” was the firm instruction of a friend as we neared the temple site of Uluwatu at the south-western tip of the island of Bali.
- Pura Luhur Uluwatu - Beautiful and Sacred (magazine)
- Arguably the most spectacular Hindu temple on the island of Bali, Pura Luhur Uluwatu is perched majestically about 80 meters above sea level on the edge of a steep cliff at the southern part of Bali.
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