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So, here I am, in beautiful Bali, ready for a full day of exploration with my son, daughter-in-law, and her mom. We’d hired a driver for the day with plans for the three of them to go gift shopping while I would visit the turtle sanctuary. I had been quietly excited about meeting these turtles, imagining I’d be nose-to-nose with little shelled friends. But, as luck would have it, the sanctuary was closed. On Sundays. The day I was there.
Our driver, sensing I didn’t want to go “oleh-oleh” shopping, quickly suggested an alternative: Uluwatu Temple. Uluwatu Temple is famous for its ocean views and mischievous monkey inhabitants. (By the way, it’s customary in Indonesia to give gifts, or “oleh-oleh” when you return home after a trip.)
I’d heard about Uluwatu’s jaw-dropping views and its cheeky monkey inhabitants, so I figured, why not? Besides, my curiosity about these famed monkeys was tinged with a thrill of danger—I had heard they were expert pickpockets. And so, off we all went, leaving their shopping and my turtle dreams to another day.
As our driver navigated us toward the temple, I was struck by how beautiful the surroundings became as we neared the coast. Winding roads took us through scenic landscapes, hinting at the spectacular cliffs waiting for us at Uluwatu.
Once we arrived, the temple did not disappoint. Uluwatu’s beauty is mind blowing! From the intricate stonework of the temple buildings to the dramatic backdrop of the ocean, to the Uluwatu Temple monkeys, it’s no wonder this spot is so beloved.
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Uluwatu Temple Dress Code
Like many sacred spots in Bali, Uluwatu Temple has a dress code. You’re required to wear a sarong or sash, which they kindly provide at the entrance. Despite our mostly casual attire, we were soon fashionably wrapped in sarongs that ranged from “a bit loose” to “it’s a miracle this is staying up.” But I must say, there’s something about being draped in bright fabric that makes you feel temple-ready.
The Temple Layout and Cliffside Views
Uluwatu Temple, or Pura Luhur Uluwatu, is perched high on a cliff about 70 meters above the Indian Ocean, offering some of the most breathtaking views in Bali. It’s not a compact temple—it stretches out along the cliff’s edge, with paths that lead you through archways, gardens, and open-air spaces perfect for soaking in the scenery. The temple itself is off-limits to visitors, but there’s still plenty to see, including spectacular vistas at every turn.
One of the best parts was the walk along the cliffside wall. This pathway hugs the cliff, giving you panoramic views of the ocean as waves crash below. The height is exhilarating but also a bit intimidating! With each step along the stone wall, you feel as if you’re right on the edge of the world. If you’re a little unsure about heights, prepare for a minor adrenaline rush—the views are worth it though.
Uluwatu’s Tiny, Furry Bandits
One thing Uluwatu Temple is famous for (apart from the stunning views) is its monkey residents. Known for their cheeky behavior, the Uluwatu Temple monkeys are as charming as they are sneaky. They’re experts at spotting unsecured items, and they don’t mind making a grab for things like sunglasses, hats, or even water bottles. We watched them in action, and I have to say, they’re masters of mischief.
I’d heard tales of them taking things from visitors, so we were careful with our belongings, clutching onto hats and sunglasses like precious treasures. Sure enough, we saw a few people get “monkey-mugged,” with their hats or bags stolen right off them. The temple staff sometimes manage to retrieve items by bribing the monkeys with snacks. It’s all part of the fun, but definitely a reminder to keep an eye on your things.
Uluwatu’s Famous Sunset and Kecak Fire Dance
Uluwatu Temple is also known for its magical sunsets and evening Kecak dance, but we didn’t stay long enough to experience it here. The Kecak dance is a captivating performance based on the Ramayana story, and it takes place in an amphitheater overlooking the ocean at sunset. However, I did catch a Kecak dance a few days later in Ubud. The dance, also known as the “Monkey Dance,” was mesmerizing in its own right, and it felt even more fitting after seeing the actual monkeys at Uluwatu.
An Unexpected Day, Beautiful Memories
Our unexpected detour to Uluwatu Temple turned out to be one of my most memorable days in Bali. Though we missed the sunset show, we enjoyed the thrill of the cliffside views, the temple’s serene layout, and the wild antics of Uluwatu’s furry residents. And, of course, we left with plenty of stories about Bali’s most mischievous monkeys—who, I’m convinced, are just as much part of the temple’s charm as its incredible ocean views. If you ever find yourself in Bali, Uluwatu Temple is a must-visit, just be sure to hold on to your hat!