Place to see · Uluwatu
Pura Luhur Uluwatu: the cliff temple, monkeys included
Pura Luhur Uluwatu stands at the south-western tip of the Bukit, on a cliff about 70 m above the ocean. You follow the edge on a paved path, guard your sunglasses against the macaques, and usually end at the kecak, the dance performed at sunset.
- Updated on
- 3 min read
- By Kylian Dev
In short
Facts as of · sourced figures
A paved path runs along the cliff on either side of the temple, with viewpoints over the ocean and waves crashing into the rock. The sanctuary is seen from outside, perched on the point. At sunset, the kecak amphitheatre fills up facing the sea.
Contents
Key points
- The inner sanctuary is for worshippers only; you visit the grounds and the cliffs.
- Macaques snatch glasses, hats and phones: put everything away before going in.
- The kecak is performed at sunset; tickets are sold on site, so arrive early.
- Entrance and kecak prices are posted at the desk; allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
Uluwatu is one of Bali’s great sea temples. It is said to have been enlarged in the 11th century by Empu Kuturan, then embellished in the 16th century by the priest Dang Hyang Nirartha, who according to tradition attained final liberation here.
Dress rules are covered in Balinese temples and culture; for kecak and other dances, see Balinese music and dance.
What you see at Uluwatu
A paved path runs along the cliff on either side of the temple, with viewpoints over the ocean and waves crashing into the rock. The sanctuary is seen from outside, perched on the point. At sunset, the kecak amphitheatre fills up facing the sea.
- The cliff path on the south side, with the classic view of the temple.
- The path on the north side, often quieter, with other viewpoints.
- The temple gate, seen from outside: the interior is for worship.
- The kecak amphitheatre, on the cliff, facing the setting sun.
Getting there from Uluwatu
The temple is at the end of the road that crosses the Bukit peninsula to the south-west. By scooter or with a driver, the ride from Uluwatu accommodation is short, but the car park fills before the kecak. From the car park, a paved path leads to the temple and the cliffs.
- Arrive at least an hour before sunset if you want the kecak.
- Pay the entrance, tie the sarong you are lent and put away glasses and phone.
- Walk the cliff path first, then buy the kecak ticket.
- On the way out, let the stream of cars clear before leaving.
When to go
Late afternoon, for the cliffs in low light then the kecak at sunset. The temple is open by day, from morning until sunset, subject to ceremonies. Mornings are calmer and cooler, but there is no performance. In the dry season the sky is more often clear.
| Moment | For | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Quiet cliffs | No kecak, less heat |
| Late afternoon | Cliffs and kecak | Crowds, full car park |
| Ceremony day | A living temple | Reduced access, check on site |
What to pair it with
Suluban and Padang Padang are a few minutes away by road: a beach in the afternoon, then the temple at sunset, is the classic Bukit day. Save some energy for the evening: both beaches are reached by steep steps cut into the rock.
- Suluban: the beach in the crevice, below the warungs.
- Padang Padang: the white-sand cove below the road.
Frequently asked questions
Can you go inside Uluwatu Temple?
No, the interior is reserved for worshippers. Visitors walk the cliff paths around it.
Is the kecak worth it?
Yes for the setting, at sunset on the cliff. It is also very busy: arrive early for a seat.
How do I protect my things from the monkeys?
Glasses, hat and jewellery in a closed bag, phone held firmly or put away. Show no food.
How much time should I allow?
Allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours with the kecak. Crowds, the wait at the car park and walking both sides of the cliff add time.
Sources
Figures and rules checked on October 27, 2026 against the sources below. Entry rules and fees change: always check them on the official websites before you leave.
