Uluwatu temple in South Bali on Bukit peninsula is a wonderful spot for those wishing to experience stunning Balinese religious architecture with epic views and nearby beaches. If you are new to Balinese culture.
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Why Visit Uluwatu Temple?
Much like Tanah Lot, Pura (Luhur) Uluwatu is a Balinese Hindu sea temple. It sits on Uluwatu cliff and the name Uluwatu literally translates to “rock at lands end”. It is dedicated to to the Rudra manifestation of Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, who is the Supreme God of Indonesian Hinduism.
Even though Hinduism is practiced in Bali, there is a recent trend towards seeing Acintya as the only supreme deity with other deities just being different manifestations of him. Therefore making him the centre and origin of everything.
Anyway, the famous temple is located on the 70 metre high Uluwatu cliff, which is believed to partly be the petrified barque of the sea goddess Dewi Danu.
The temple holds great spiritual significance and if you time your visit right, you will be able to witness a Kecak dance. It is performed outside every day at 6PM and beautiful with the sun setting over the sea.
If you are wondering how long to stay in Uluwatu at the temple, schedule in 1-2 hours. Another thing that you should know is to never plan a trip through Bali around Nyepi as the entire island shuts down then. (Here’s why.)
Are the Monkeys Tame?
There are plenty of monkeys living on Uluwatu rock and around the temple. Right upon entering you will see plenty of warning signs and hear announcements that you need to keep everything in you backpack and food away from the animals.
They will try to steal anything that is easy, such as jewellery, hats and especially glasses. I really need to wear my prescription glasses to be able to see properly so I decided to put away everything but my sunglasses and held on to them.
Still, a sneaky monkey crept up from behind and the second I let go of my sunglasses, he jumped on my backpack and ran away. There was no way coaxing the sunglasses back from the ape andI had to look for a guide.
THAT sneaky monkeyAfter over half an hour, we found my glasses in three pieces and all chomped up and scratched all over. The problem is that my eyes are so bad and sensitive that I need special prescription glasses, which cost me $300 and I therefore don’t have backup sunglasses.
Don’t make this mistake: Take the warnings about the monkeys very seriously.
The thing is that the monkeys expect to treat human valuables with food, which is why they steal them. You can see shattered and broken glasses all over the area. (which is why I definitely took mine back with me. Not gonna litter!) Don’t think it won’t happen to you.
Sneaky monkey and my glassesWhat (Not) to Pack for Uluwatu Temple?
Seriously, get travel insurance and if you wear glasses and refuse to take them off like I do, get those insured as well if you haven’t already. Who knows, you might end up needing it after the monkeys got to you.
Spray yourself with sunscreen and insect repellent to protect your skin during your visit. The Uluwatu cliff on which Pura Uluwatu is built is quite exposed to the sun. Once you venture further into the forested areas, insects might come at you.
Take off jewellery, hats, glasses etc and leave them (hidden) in your car or backpack. Make sure it can’t be easily opened either. Don’t bring any food.
As with most places in Bali, you need cash on you to pay for the entrance and for snacks and drinks outside. Credit cards won’t be helpful.
How to Get to Uluwatu Temple?
From Denpasar and Seminyak to Uluwatu Temple, it takes a little over an hour by scooter. Coming from Canggu or Ubud, it is between 90 and 110 minutes. A scooter can be rented for the day for 50-75K IDR. For a week it’s 300-400K IDR. (Don’t forget you can bargain too)
If you don’t want to drive, you can hire a go-jek ride via the free app. However, I feel like go-jek drivers sometimes aren’t the safest bet and driving a scooter isn’t the safest thing in Bali either. So it’s totally understandable if you prefer a car.
Rent a car or hire a taxi. For such a longer distance, you can opt for Bluebird taxis instead of go-jek. (I would compare prices in the apps anyway.) Have your hotel reservation call one or use the app to avoid calling a scam taxi from the road.
What to Wear at Uluwatu Temple?
The temple dress code at Uluwatu is similar to most Balinese temples. You need to cover your shoulders and upper legs. No shorts, miniskirts or strap tops are allowed.
If you want to enter the temple, you need to wear a special belt as well. That and a sarong you can get free of charge for your visit at the entrance.
Know that you aren’t allowed to enter the temple if you are bleeding or menstruating regardless of what you wear.
Where to Stay in Uluwatu?
Since it is such a popular area, there are plenty of places to stay in Uluwatu for any budgets. It’s Bali, so even a hotel stay is affordable.
Low Budget Places to Stay
How do you feel about a super affordable resort stay? Then I’m happy to report that My Dream Resort & Spa might be just the perfect fit for you. Solo travel ladies, you can even pick a large double bed instead of 2 single beds.
There is a restaurant onsite serving Thai food as well as a Thai bar and the mini market is just a short walk away in case you want to stock up on refreshments. Then pamper yourself at the spa and wellness centre.
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My Dream Resort & SpaU Tube Hotel & Spa is a great alternative in case you were too late in snatching a booking. Prices are similarly affordable and you will be resting in either a double or twin room with balcony. Take advantage of the swimming pool and outoor pation for that true holiday in Bali feeling.
Again, there is a wellness and spa area at the resort and you can dig into local seafood in the nearby area. If you travel with a baby or toddler, there is even the option for babysitting services.
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U Tube Hotel & SpaMid Range Uluwatu Hotels
One of the prettiest places to stay in Uluwatu is Dreamsea Bali with its modern interpretation of classic Balinese design. Whitewashed woven walls and furniture with a four poster bed surrounded by a mosquito net will make you feel like you want to move right in.
There is an upstairs lounge area which can be accessed by a small stair next to the bed. Super quaint and instagrammable! It is only 600m from Padang Padang Beach and 5 km from Dreamland Beach.
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Dreamsea BaliFancy your own bungalow with a garden view? Try Kandahill Bali. The location is only a five minute drive away from Uluwatu cliff Padang Padang Beach.
Enjoy the air conditioned room and its TV after a long day of sightseeing. You can get your car rental and airport pickups arranged at the 24 hour reception, too. In case you really want to spoil yourself, order room service made by a private chef.
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Kandahill BaliBest Luxury Hotels in Uluwatu Bali
For a real treat, Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa leaves nothing to be desired. This five star hotel in Uluwatu comes qith a giant outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and restaurant. Four sunsets a week, you should stop by for cocktails prepared by the resident mixologists.
Pandawa Beach is a mere 15 minute drive away and Dreamland Beach lies 3.4km away from the hotel. Also good to know for business travelers (or digital nomads): Each room is furnished with a desk, air conditioning and a flat screen TV.
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Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & SpaUltra sleek with dark wood finishing, the Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu excels in style. Take a dip in the pool, exercise in the fitness centre and dine on BBG, Indo cuisine and sushi. There is even the option to order dairy-free, gluten-free and vegetarian dishes.
Every room comes with a desk, TV, coffee machine, air conditioning, a hair dryer and free toiletries. There is free WiFi available throughout the property and the reception is open 24 hours. Uluwatu temple is merely 6 km away and Uluwatu Beach even less with 5km.
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Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu
What Else to Visit Near Uluwatu Temple?
- Uluwatu Beach
- Nyang Nyang Beach and shipwreck
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
- Dreamland Beach
- Pandawa Beach
Would you brave the monkeys at Uluwatu temple?
Read next:
Ultimate Guide to Visiting Tanah Lot Temple Near Canggu
How to Get to Pura Ulun Danu Bratan – The Bali Water Temple
Why I Didn‘t Join a Lovina Dolphin Tour – Lovina Beach
Why Visiting West Bali National Park Solo Was the Dumbest Idea
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Ryan K Biddulph says
Those monkeys are so cheeky LOL. Full of mischief and funny. We spent many days at Pantai Pandawa during a 6 month sit in the hills of Jimbaran. What a beach!
Annemarie says
Hi Ryan, those monkeys are devils! ;)
And yes, Pandawa is such a great beach. I loved the shipwreck in particular.