Perched dramatically atop a 70-metre cliff overlooking the vast Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple offers one of the most spectacular sunset views in Bali. It’s also the stage for nightly Kecak and fire dance performances, where the flames grow brighter as the sun dips below the horizon, adding a dramatic touch to the ancient ritual.
Uluwatu was founded by Mpu Kuturan, a revered Majapahit monk responsible for many of Bali’s key temples, and dates back to the 10th century. Explore its grand entrances, each guarded by elephant-headed figures and adorned with intricate carvings, leading you into a serene inner courtyard with hanging trees.
Beware of the cheeky monkeys that roam the temple grounds, though - local legend says they protect the site from bad spirits, but they’ve also been known to snag a tourist’s sunglasses or two!