Batool fayaz
The Honest Review of Top Places to Visit in Gili Islands, Bali
The Gili Islands are an archipelago of three small islands or Gili island triplets. Check out the top places to visit there.
Read More
Shant Minhas
19/12/2024
In the evenings, the Kecak Fire Dance takes place right next to the grand Uluwatu Temple. When exploring the southern part of Bali, the majestic Kecak Dance has to be enjoyed—no matter what. You can grab the tickets from the booth outside (remember, the prices can change depending on the season and time) and enjoy the show in the evening. The sunset, along with the open beach view during the show, is a delight for many visitors. As one legend goes, in fact, the rocks around the temple area (near the place where the dance will be performed) were formed by the mythical serpent Basuki, whose petrified body is said to protect the spiritual powers of the area.
It wouldn’t be wrong to say it’s the highlight of a Bali trip for many couples. So if you’re looking for a stunning cultural immersion in the spiritual side of Bali, all the while enjoying your time, in a beautiful location in Bali, this place is really it.
Sounds fun, right? If you want a detailed analysis of the place, then jump into the below section and read up on the only honest and complete guide on Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple.
At 30 Sundays, we are committed to making every couple's holiday special.
Every sightseeing/activity goes through a rigorous review process including analysis of the online reviews, on-ground visits, and validation by our Operations team. In other words, we bring you the best and the most helpful reviews to help you plan your bookings.
Tripadvisor Rating: 4 (1,252 reviews)
Most visitors found the show entertaining and fun, while the surroundings of the temple in the background, along with the ocean view, added to the beauty of the place. The whole show lasts for around 80 minutes and can be pre-booked online to avoid any long lines and hassles (something that many people appreciate). People also enjoyed the energy of the performers, particularly the singers.
Several things ticked people off though. For one, the place was jam-packed with people in a small amphitheater, making the seating very uncomfortable. Another repeated complaint was a lack of good food choices. Long queues for offline bookings put some people off as well.
In summary, though, most visitors largely receive the activity positively. Don’t take our word for it: Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple gets a 4-star rating on Tripadvisor.
Visitors to the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple have raved about several aspects of this unique cultural experience. Let's dive into what makes this performance so unique:
1. Efficient and helpful drivers: Many visitors praised their drivers for their exceptional service. These local experts efficiently purchased tickets, provided helpful advice to avoid traffic, and were often highly recommended for their excellent service. Having a knowledgeable driver can truly enhance your experience, ensuring you arrive on time and stress-free.
2. Perfect for couples: If you're traveling with your significant other, you're in for a treat! The Kecak Dance is highly recommended for couples visiting Uluwatu Temple. Imagine watching the mesmerizing performance as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean—it's a romantic experience you won't forget.
Some couples even get to participate in the dance, adding an interactive element to the evening.
3. Family-friendly entertainment: Don't worry if you're traveling with kids – the Kecak Fire Dance is suitable for the whole family! Children especially enjoy the character of Hanuman, the monkey god, who adds a playful element to the performance.
It's a great way to introduce your little ones to Balinese culture and traditional dance.
4. Cultural immersion: For those interested in delving deeper into Balinese culture and history, the Kecak Dance offers a perfect opportunity. The performance tells the story of the Ramayana, an ancient Hindu epic, through dance, chanting, and elaborate costumes.
5. Stunning setting: The backdrop of Uluwatu Temple perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean adds an extra layer of magic to the performance. Many visitors found the combination of the dance and the breathtaking views truly unforgettable.
While the Kecak Dance is generally well-received, there are some aspects that visitors found less than ideal. It's important to be aware of these potential drawbacks:
1. Pricing concerns: Some visitors felt that the experience was pricier than expected. The entrance fee, combined with the additional cost of the show, was considered expensive by some. The price of 150,000 IDR per person was mentioned as being on the higher side.
2. Overcrowding issues: A common complaint was the overcrowding at the venue. This led to discomfort and even safety concerns for some visitors. Late arrivals and early leavers caused disruptions, and overbooking sometimes resulted in people having to sit on the floor or in the aisles.
3. Staff and management: Some visitors reported issues with the staff's organization and crowd management skills. There were instances of poor handling of emergency situations, such as unexpected rain. Miscommunication about ticket availability and inadequate parking management were also mentioned.
4. Food and drink availability: Several visitors noted difficulties in getting food or drinks once seated. Some reported that there was no food available inside the venue, and getting a drink during the performance was challenging.
To make the most of your Kecak Fire Dance experience, keep these tips in mind:
1. Arrive early: To avoid the crowds and secure good seats, aim to arrive at least an hour before the show starts.
2. Bring water: Given the difficulty in obtaining drinks during the performance, it's wise to bring your own water bottle.
3. Wear comfortable clothing: The venue can get crowded and warm, so dress in light, breathable fabrics.
4. Book through a reputable tour operator: This can help ensure you have a reliable driver and avoid issues with ticket availability.
5. Be prepared for the weather: Bring a light jacket or raincoat, as the open-air venue can get chilly or wet if it rains.
6. Respect the culture: Remember that this is a cultural performance. Dress modestly and be respectful during the show.
Now that you know some brief idea about the activity and the place, it’s time to do a deep dive into everything you need to know for a complete idea about the place.
Unfortunately, overcrowding is one of the main issues reported by visitors to the Kecak Dance. The popularity of the show often leads to the venue being packed, which can cause discomfort and even safety concerns for some attendees.
Late arrivals and early leavers can cause disruptions during the performance. In some cases, overbooking has led to people having to sit on the floor or in the aisles. The lack of proper crowd control and queue management has also been noted as a problem. To mitigate these issues, it's advisable to arrive early and be prepared for a crowded environment. If possible, try to visit during the off-peak season when crowds might be smaller.
The pricing for the Kecak Dance has been a point of contention for some visitors. Many found it to be pricier than expected. Here's what you need to know:
- The entrance fee includes an additional cost for the show
- The price mentioned in reviews is around 150,000 IDR per person
- Some visitors felt this was overpriced for the experience provided
- There were reports of tickets being oversold, which affected the perceived value for money
While the unique cultural experience and stunning setting are valuable, it's important to budget accordingly and decide if the price aligns with your expectations.
The staff at the Kecak Dance have received mixed reviews from visitors. While some praised the efficiency of drivers in obtaining tickets, others reported issues with the on-site staff and management.
Some of the problems mentioned include:
- Poor organization and crowd management
- Reactive rather than proactive approach to situations like unexpected rain
- Inadequate response to emergency situations
- Miscommunication about the availability of show tickets
- Poor management of parking and seating arrangements
It's worth noting that these issues seem to be more related to the venue management rather than the performers themselves.
The Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple is highly recommended for couples. It offers a romantic setting, especially during sunset, making it a perfect addition to any couple's Bali itinerary. The combination of traditional dance, mesmerizing chants, and the stunning backdrop of Uluwatu Temple creates a magical atmosphere that's ideal for a memorable date night.
Some couples even get the opportunity to participate in the dance, adding an interactive and fun element to the experience.
For those interested in cultural history and traditional dances—the show is a play depicting Ramayana—it's a great way to learn about Balinese culture together.
Food options at the Kecak Dance venue appear to be limited. Visitors have reported:
- Trouble getting a drink after everyone is seated.
- Lack of food inside or around the seating venue.
Given these limitations, it's advisable to eat before the show and bring your own water bottle if possible. You don't want to watch the fantastic show on an empty stomach.
If you’ve made up your mind for the highly adventurous show that is Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple, then it will massively help to get up to speed with the basics about the place.
Here’s everything you need to know about Kecak Fire Dance:
The Kecak Dance takes place at Uluwatu Temple, located at the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula in Bali. Here are the approximate distances from major areas:
- Ubud: About 50 km (1.5-2 hours drive)
- Seminyak: About 30 km (1-1.5 hours drive)
- Kuta: About 25 km (1 hour drive)
- Nusa Dua: About 18 km (40 minutes drive)
- Jimbaran: About 15 km (30 minutes drive)
- Sanur: About 35 km (1-1.5 hours drive)
The best way to reach Uluwatu Temple for the Kecak Fire Dance is by car or motorbike. Here are some options:
1. Private Driver: This is the most comfortable option. Many hotels can arrange this for you.
2. Taxi: Can be arranged but might be expensive for the return journey.
3. Ride-hailing Apps: Services like Grab or GoJek are available in Bali.
4. Rent a Scooter: Only recommended for experienced riders due to the winding roads.
5. Join a Tour: Many tour operators offer packages including transportation.
Remember to account for Bali's often heavy traffic when planning your journey.
Remember, there's an entry fee to watch the show. So make sure you add that to your budget beforehand. As per our research, the average price comes around to be somewhere near 150,000 IDR per person–this will cover everything from your entry fee to your dance performance.
It's best to check the latest prices through online portals, too. It's normal for prices to fluctuate, so you'd want to pay the updated price as well.
To get the best seats and view of the whole show, make sure you're arriving at the venue before time. The show starts at around 6 PM and goes on for about an hour or so.
So, we'd recommend you to arrive at the temple at least an hour before.
While you're in the area for the Kecak Fire Dance, why not make the most out of your visit? Here are some other activities you can enjoy nearby:
1. Explore Uluwatu Temple: Explore the traditional side of Bali by checking out the extremely popular Uluwatu Temple.
2. Sunset Watching: while you're on Uluwatu cliffs, missing out on the breathtaking sunsets is out of the question.
3. Surfing: Sports fan? Then you'll love spending your time at the amazing surfing spots of Bali.
4. Visit Padang Padang Beach: Enjoy surfing and some relaxing time at the famous Padang Pandang Beach.
5. Dine at a Clifftop Restaurant: Visiting a Bali beach and enjoying delicious seafood go hand in hand. Make sure you make the best of your time at Clifftop Restaurant.
6. Visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park: The GWK Cultural Park, with its massive statue of the Hindu god Vishnu, is a testament to Bali’s spiritual and cultural heritage. It also gives a really nice panoramic view of the whole surrounding area.
Here are the top hotels to stay at after you’ve enjoyed your time at the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple:
Here are the top restaurants near Kecak and Fire Dance to pick from;
So that’s Kecak Fire Dance for you in a nutshell. Make no mistakes: few things can match the peak of Balinese culture, natural beauty, and performance art that you’ll find at the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple.
The event begins in the evening; this means you get ample time to explore the nearby Uluwatu Temple during the day. The dramatic dances and singing performances, along with the fire show, are unlike anything you’d find anywhere in Bali.
So make sure you add the Kecak Dance at Uluwatu Temple to your Bali itinerary for your next trip.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets for the Kecak Fire Dance in advance. By doing this, you can ensure a guaranteed spot for the performance and avoid any last-minute hassle.
The entrance fee for the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple is IDR 150,000 (₹800 approx.) per person. Remember that this price only covers the dance performance and it does not include general temple entry charges.
Yes, the Kecak Fire Dance is performed daily at the Uluwatu Temple. With the breathtaking sunset in the backdrop, it provides an unforgettable cultural experience.
The duration of the Kecak Fire Dance performance is usually 60 minutes. The performance includes dancing, chanting, and ornate costumes to narrate the story of the ancient Hindu epic the Ramayana.
The Kecak Fire Dance typically begins at sunset, around 6 PM. It’s a good idea to check the schedule beforehand, just in case there are any changes.
When does the Kecak Fire Dance start?
Is the Kecak Dance performed daily?
How much is the entrance fee for the Kecak Fire Dance?
Are tickets for the Kecak Fire Dance required to be purchased in advance?
What is the duration of a Kecak Fire Dance performance?