Uluwatu: clifftop temple, Kecak at sunset and the Bukit's surf beaches

At the southwestern tip of Bali, the limestone cliffs of the Bukit peninsula drop straight into the Indian Ocean. On the edge stands Pura Luhur Uluwatu, one of the Sad Kahyangan Jagat — the six temples believed to protect the island.

Pura Luhur Uluwatu

The temple's history goes back around a thousand years; it was expanded in the 16th century by the priest Dang Hyang Nirartha, who, according to Balinese tradition, achieved moksa (spiritual liberation) here. The main shrines are for worshippers only, but the clifftop paths and viewpoints are open to visitors and the views are breathtaking.

The monkeys

Long-tailed macaques live in the forest around the temple and are famous for snatching sunglasses, hats, phones and flip-flops — then "trading" them back for food. Tuck everything away, don't carry plastic bags, and stay calm. Temple staff can help if something is taken.

Kecak at sunset

Every evening a circle of dozens of men performs the Kecak dance in the clifftop amphitheatre, telling the Ramayana story while the sun sets behind them. The show lasts about an hour and ends with the fiery Hanuman scene.

• Tickets are sold at the official counter near the amphitheatre; in high season they can sell out — arrive about an hour early.
• Sit on the upper rows facing the sea for the best sunset backdrop.
• Our Uluwatu Kecak sunset tour handles timing and parking; add grilled seafood on the beach with the Uluwatu, Kecak & Jimbaran dinner tour.

Beaches below the cliffs

• Suluban (Blue Point) — reached through a cave in the cliffs; the entry point for the famous Uluwatu surf break.
• Padang Padang — a small, beautiful cove reached by stairs through a rock gap; strong waves on the reef in the dry season.
• Bingin — cliffside bungalows and a long reef; best at low-to-mid tide.
• Dreamland and Balangan — wider sandy beaches, easier for families.
• Melasti, Green Bowl, Nyang Nyang — further east; see our guide to south Bali beaches.

Surfing

The Bukit's reef breaks work best in the dry season (April–October) with southwest swells. They are for experienced surfers; beginners should learn first at Kuta or ask a surf school for the right spot and tide.

Tips

• Wear a sarong and sash at the temple (provided at the entrance).
• Bring water and sunscreen — the cliffs are exposed.
• Roads on the Bukit are narrow and busy at sunset; a private driver saves parking stress.
• Combine with GWK cultural park in the afternoon — see our GWK & Nusa Dua tour.