Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) is a Balinese Hindu sea temple (pura segara) perched atop a roughly 70-meter cliff at the south-western tip of the Bukit Peninsula in Badung Regency, Bali. It is one of the island's nine directional temples (Pura Kahyangan Jagat), dedicated to the supreme god in his manifestation as Rudra, and was expanded by the sage Empu Kuturan in the 11th century and later shaped by Dang Hyang Nirartha in the 16th century. With the Indian Ocean crashing below, sunset silhouettes, and an evening Kecak fire dance, it is one of Bali's most iconic sights.
A dramatic clifftop setting about 70 meters above the Indian Ocean
Postcard sunset silhouettes of the temple — one of Bali's top sunset spots
The Kecak fire dance in a clifftop amphitheater (Ramayana story, staged around sunset)
Cliff-edge walking paths along the temple grounds with multiple viewpoints
Resident troops of long-tailed macaques (around 600) — a highlight and a hazard
Good to know
CautionThe temple's macaques are famous for snatching valuables — sunglasses, glasses, hats, phones, wallets — and holding them for a food 'ransom.' Roughly 5-10 smartphones are taken daily, and the monkeys hold higher-value items longer while waiting for food. If something is grabbed, do not chase the monkey; ask temple staff (pawang/handlers) for help.
SafetyStow anything grabbable — glasses, hats, earbuds, water bottles, plastic bags — deep in a bag before you enter. Do not feed the monkeys, avoid direct eye contact, and never bare your teeth or smile widely, as they read these as threats and may bite.
MannersThis is a living, sacred temple where locals actively worship. You must wear the sarong and sash handed out at the entrance and cover shoulders and knees; do not step on or touch the inner prayer areas or the offerings.
RulesEntrance fees, opening hours, and Kecak ticket prices and day-by-day schedules change often — always verify the latest before your visit and carry local cash (rupiah). The Kecak show is popular and seats fill fast, so arrive about 1-1.5 hours before sunset.
SafetySome cliff edges have low or no railings and winds can be strong. Don't step too close to the edge for photos, and watch your footing on the dim paths after dark.
Practical info
Sarong and sash are lent free at the entrance; the temple is generally open 07:00-19:00 with the Kecak show around sunset, but confirm current fees and times. Keep belongings in a front-worn bag and remove glasses/hats in advance. It's about 30 min to 1 hour by car from Jimbaran/Kuta in the south; arrive around 4-5 PM to catch both sunset and the Kecak dance.
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