Standing on top of a massive cliff, about 70m above the Indian Ocean, the Uluwatu Temple offers scenic and breathtaking views that are likely unmatched anywhere else in the Badung Regency. The cliff and the wide blue ocean combine effortlessly to create an amazing experience.  Moreover, the place is also integral to Bali’s spiritual and cultural history, offering visitors insights into traditional ceremonies.  It’s no wonder it’s often one of the first places to come up on travel sites when planning a Bali trip. 

Here’s another interesting tidbit about the place: Uluwatu is derived from the words “ulu” and “watu,” meaning top and “rock,” respectively. The name, of course, signifies the temple’s location on the limestone cliff.

If you’re planning a couples' trip, adding Uluwatu Temple to your itinerary is a no-brainer. The cliffs and ocean are ideal for those seeking a romantic spot during sunset. The temple itself is picturesque, leaving you with plenty of opportunities to capture lifelong memories. 

If this sounds like your preferred experience, check out the guide below. It will take you on a deep dive into all things Uluwatu Temple. 

30 Sundays Honest Review Process

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 online reviews, on-ground visits, and validation by our Operations team. In other words, we bring you the best and most helpful reviews to help you plan your bookings.

Table of Contents:

• Tripadvisor Ratings & Reviews of Uluwatu Temple  
• What Did Visitors Like About Uluwatu Temple?
• What Did Visitors Not Like About Uluwatu Temple?
• Pro-tips to Keep in Mind While Visiting Uluwatu Temple  
• Deep-Dive into finer aspects of Uluwatu Temple  
• Other Things to Do Near Uluwatu Temple  
• The Basic Things to Know About Uluwatu Temple  
• Hotels Near Uluwatu Temple  
• Restaurants Close to Uluwatu Temple  
• The Final Verdict
• FAQ

Tripadvisor Rating of Uluwatu Temple

Tripadvisor Rating: 4 (10,303 reviews)

• Excellent: 4,555
• Very Good: 3,814
• Average: 1,355
• Poor: 359
• Terrible: 221

Uluwatu Temple is famous. And its mammoth 10,000+ reviews prove this beyond doubt. And for a place that’s so popular, it’s unsurprisingly well-loved, too. Its Kecak Dance is a highlight, for example, and is praised by most visitors here. Taking place in the evening and continuing into the night, it’s a traditional group dance that gives a glimpse of the traditional Hindu culture of Bali. Did we tell you it also involves a fire performance as well?    

The temple is also beautiful, with traditional carvings and structures giving you a taste of traditional Bali. Its location, almost 70m above the ocean on a cliff, adds to its mesmerizing charm—you’re in for some breathtaking views, particularly at sunset. To visit, you need to be in proper clothing (remember, it’s a temple); alternatively, you can also grab a Sarong from the outside. 

Of course, not everyone appreciated everything about Uluwatu temple. Some people were annoyed by the monkeys—there were tons of them! Another repeated complaint about the place was its massive crowds, making it impossible to enjoy anything; this was particularly true for the Kecak Dance show.

On the whole, though, it’s a place that cannot be missed. The minor inconveniences, such as monkeys and crowds, can be easily avoided by tweaking your timings and approach to the place. So, at 30 Sundays, we can’t help but recommend you add the place to your Bali trip.  

What Did Visitors Like About Uluwatu Temple?

Different visitors loved different things about the place. Here are the top things that were praised the most by the people:

• Stunning Location and Views: Visitors consistently rave about the temple's picturesque setting. The combination of ancient architecture perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the vast Indian Ocean creates a truly awe-inspiring sight that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

• Spiritual Significance: Many visitors appreciate the temple's profound spiritual importance in Balinese culture. The temple's rich history and its role as a place of worship add a profound dimension to the experience, allowing visitors to connect with the local traditions and beliefs.

• Mesmerizing Kecak Dance Performance: The traditional Kecak fire dance performance, held during sunset, is a highlight for many visitors. This unique cultural spectacle combines rhythmic chanting, intricate costumes, and captivating storytelling, providing an unforgettable insight into Balinese arts and traditions.

• Helpful and Knowledgeable Staff: Many visitors commend the staff for their assistance and wealth of information. Their insights and guidance enhance the overall experience, helping visitors better understand the temple's history and significance.

• Clean Surroundings: Visitors frequently praise the well-maintained and clean environment of the temple grounds, contributing to a pleasant and respectful atmosphere.

• Affordable Entrance Fee: Many visitors find the entrance fee to be reasonable, especially considering the unique experience and stunning views offered by the temple.

What Did Visitors Dislike About Uluwatu Temple?

Even if you love a place, there are often aspects that could be improved. That’s just how it is. Uluwatu Temple is similar. Visitors did not like several elements here, such as:

• Monkey Menace: The most common complaint among visitors is the aggressive behavior of the local monkey population. Many report incidents of monkeys snatching personal belongings, causing distress and potential loss of valuables.

• Overcrowding: During peak hours, the temple can become extremely crowded, leading to an uncomfortable experience for some visitors. The massive influx of tourists can make it challenging to appreciate the temple's spiritual atmosphere fully.

• Limited Access to Temple: Some visitors express disappointment that the temple is closed to tourists, limiting their ability to explore the site fully.

• Long Queues and Ticket Availability: During busy periods, visitors often face long queues for tickets, and sometimes find that tickets for popular events like the Kecak dance are sold out.

• Maintenance Issues: A few visitors note concerns about the maintenance of certain areas of the temple complex.

• Unfriendly Staff: While many praise the staff, some visitors report encounters with unfriendly or unhelpful staff members, which can detract from the overall experience.

Pro-Tips to Keep in Mind While Visiting Uluwatu Temple

Here are the top tips you need to know to make the most out of your trip to Uluwatu Temple:

• Monkey Awareness: Be highly cautious of the monkeys at the temple. They are known to snatch belongings, so secure all personal items and avoid carrying loose objects. Also, don’t try to offer them food or make fun of them; you don’t want to spend your trip trying to deal with a band of angry monkeys.

• Timing is Key: Plan to visit in the evening, around 5 or 6 PM, to catch the spectacular Kecak fire dance performance and enjoy the stunning sunset views. You’ll get to enjoy the serene temple and then make the most of your dance performance later.

• Secure Your Belongings: Due to the presence of monkeys, it's crucial to keep all personal belongings secure. Consider leaving valuable items at your hotel. It’s not uncommon to hear about a monkey snatching a thing or two out of the hands of an average traveler every once in a while.
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• Age Considerations: Due to the aggressive monkey population, the temple may not be suitable for children under 8.

• Hire a Guide: For a more enriching experience, consider hiring a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights into the temple's history and significance. Plenty of guides are available throughout the day; just get one, and they’ll help you make the most of your trip.

• Prepare for the Journey: The road to Uluwatu Temple can be tiring, but the breathtaking views make it worthwhile. Ensure you're well-prepared for the trip. Get a pair of good, comfortable shoes, carry a water bottle, and be well-rested, and you’ll likely have an enjoyable experience.

Deep-Dive into Finer Aspects of Uluwatu Temple 

Now that you know the basics about Uluwatu Temple, it’s time to get into some details. Here are the best things to learn about Uluwatu Temple:

Is It Overcrowded at Uluwatu Temple?

As you can probably guess, overcrowding is a massive problem at Uluwatu Temple because of its popularity. Visitors have reported that the place can sometimes become jam-packed with too many people, ultimately losing its original serenity in the process. For example, finding super long queues for booking for Kecak Dance wouldn’t be surprising. Plus, it wouldn’t be surprising to see specific areas of the temple to be restricted. 

Then, add the aggressive monkeys you might encounter at specific parts of the temple, and you will have a lot of nuisance to deal with. 

For this reason, it is often recommended that you visit the place only during off-peak seasons. You’ll most likely be spared from dealing with seasonal tourists, and you can explore the place in peace. 

Is Uluwatu Temple Expensive?

As some visitors say, the cost of entering Uluwatu Temple can put a dent in your pocket. The entry fee is around 50,000 IDR per adult and may not be affordable for many.

On the other hand, others say the price is entirely justified, given the temple’s cultural significance and stunning location. You get a chance to see the beautiful statues and other temple structures, enjoy the dance show, etc., all in one place, and this fact makes the fee worth it, at least for some.

Apart from the temple, the costs of other nearby things can also be troublesome. For example, taxi fares around the place can be deadly, going as high as three times the standard rate. Medical expenses can be another issue for many in an emergency, such as a monkey attack. So, when you add these additional costs to your Temple entrance fee, it can all quickly pile up.    

How Is the Local Staff at Uluwatu Temple?

Visitor experience toward local staff is mixed. You’ll see and hear all kinds of views, from satisfactory to horrible. On the whole, though, it wouldn’t be wrong to rate it as unfavorable. 

The local staff at Uluwatu Temple can improve a lot. There are complaints about its poor communication, complete disorganization, etc., all of which contribute to creating an inadequate and confusing experience for visitors. Moreover, in a few unfortunate cases, some staff were also involved in scamming the visitors; this was a massive loss of trust and safety for many visitors. 

In the end, while some staff members were helpful and hospitable, the concluding experience is that the staff needs a complete overhaul or re-training in hospitality and communication.                                                                      

Is It Couple-Friendly?

The place is lauded for creating romantic and memorable customer experiences, especially for couples. The spiritually charged and beautiful view of the temple grounds offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy their time. And then there are the sunsets in the stunning backdrop, which adds a romantic touch for couples. 

The Kecak Fire dance is often the final highlight for many—and perhaps the most adventurous one. In conclusion, this combination of beauty, cultural heritage, and adventurous escapes makes this place a popular choice for couples.      

Is It Family-Friendly?

While Uluwatu Temple is routinely recommended for couples, we’re afraid the same cannot be said for families. Families with young children will be mainly at a disadvantage, as the temple grounds are no place for kids.  

One of the biggest reasons for this is the monkeys at the place. They can be unusually aggressive, posing a danger to kids and adults.  They can steal your phones or caps, try to snatch your food or other snacks, and in general, add an unnecessary amount of stress to your trip.  Plus, the unusually long queues and crowds at the temple add another trouble for families with young kids—it can get tricky.

How's the Food at Uluwatu Temple?

The place offers a variety of food options, so it's not surprising that visitors have rated it positively. For example, many people have enjoyed the seafood dinner near restaurants like Pandan San. It also helps that the place offers excellent coffee options and a variety of drinks, which was appreciated by many folks. 

The warungs, small local restaurants, offer various food options. From fresh coconut options to Indonesian dinners, there’s a lot to choose from. So whether you’re just looking for a meal or a light-hearted snack, you’ll find tons of stuff to try out at Uluwatu Temple. 

Other Activities to Do Close to Uluwatu Temple

Apart from being a breathtaking place, it’s also close to other attractions nearby. So, when you decide to visit, make sure you’ve mapped out how you can fit these places into your schedule. 

Here’s a host of places you can explore during your trip to Uluwatu Temple:

1. Suluban Beach: Popular for being a destination for surfing, Suluban Beach is a perfect place for those seeking relaxation and adventure.

2. Padang Padang Beach: First made famous by the movie “Eat, Pray, Love,” this place is known for its excellent swimming and sunbathing opportunities. 

3. Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park: Famous for its giant Vishnu statue, this park offers traditional dance performances.

4. Uluwatu Beach: If you’re anywhere near Uluwatu, you have to visit Uluwatu Beach.

5. Nyang Nyang Beach: It’s quiet and secluded, perfect for those romantic escapes.                    

6. Jimbaran Bay: Known for its beautiful seafood restaurants and sunsets, this place provides the perfect backdrop for your photos.           

7. Balangan Beach: A great beach known for its laid-back vibe and excellent surfing post.

8. Dreamland Beach: A beach famous for its swimming and sunbathing.

9. New Kuta Golf: A dream destination for all gold enthusiasts, this 18-hole course offers stunning ocean views and lush grounds.

10. Omnia Dayclub: This vibey club is known for its parties and panoramic views.

The Basic Things to Know About Uluwatu Temple  

Here are some basic things to know about Uluwatu Temple:

Location of the Activity & How to Get There

Uluwatu Temple is located at the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula in Bali, Indonesia. Here are the approximate distances from major locations in Bali:

• From Ubud: 50 km (about 1.5 hours drive)
• From Seminyak: 30 km (about 1 hour drive)
• From Kuta: 35 km (about 1 hour drive)
• From Nusa Dua: 20 km (about 40 minutes drive)
• From Uluwatu: The temple is in Uluwatu
• From Jimbaran: 15 km (about 30 minutes drive)
• From Sanur: 40 km (about 1 hour drive)

Here are the top ways to get to these places in Uluwatu Temple:

• From Ubud: Take the Jl. Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra south, then follow Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai and Jl. Uluwatu to reach the temple.
• From Seminyak/Kuta: Head south on Jl. Sunset Road, then take Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai and Jl. Uluwatu.
• From Nusa Dua: Take Jl. Nusa Dua Selatan and then Jl. Uluwatu directly to the temple.
• From Jimbaran: Follow Jl. Uluwatu straight to the temple.
• From Sanur: Take Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai south, then follow Jl. Uluwatu.

Renting a scooter, hiring a driver, or joining a guided tour are some of the most popular ways to reach the temple. Remember that taxis are also available but can be expensive—especially for the return journey after sunset.

Entrance Fee

The entrance fee for Uluwatu Temple is around 50,000 IDR (approximately USD 3.50) per adult, plus a reduced rate for children. Also, remember that there might be an additional fee to attend the Kecak fire dance performance, around 100,000 IDR (about $7 USD) per person.

Timings of Uluwatu Temple

Unless otherwise stated, the temple is open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Moreover, the dance performance at the temple lasts for around one hour. It begins somewhere in the evening, so it’s highly recommended that you secure your tickets and seats well in advance. 

Hotels Near Uluwatu Temple

Let’s look at the top places you can stay near Uluwatu Temple:

Restaurants Near Uluwatu Temple

No trip is complete without some delicious food. Here are your best options near Uluwatu Temple to get your happy meal: 

The Final Verdict

Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali's most popular destinations. After reading our guide, you can see why. The atmosphere instantly takes people out of their minds and lets them simply be there, enjoying the oceanic beauty, heights, and traditional temple architecture. The evening dance performance after the beautiful sunset is another cherry on top.

It’s a place you don’t want to miss out on adding to your Bali itinerary. And although there are some drawbacks for sure—there are just too many people, for example—but on the whole, it’s a place that most visitors praise. So make sure to consider including it in your itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get to Uluwatu Temple from popular tourist areas in Bali?

The best way to reach Uluwatu Temple is by using a guided tour or hiring a private driver. This helps avoid the often heavy traffic in Bali and allows you to learn about the temple history from a local guide. Public transportation options are limited, so arranging transportation in advance is advisable.

Are there safety precautions I should take while visiting Uluwatu Temple?

Yes, visitors should be cautious of the resident monkeys, as they are known for stealing belongings like sunglasses and food. It is advisable to keep valuables secured and avoid feeding the monkeys. Additionally, wear comfortable non-slip footwear as the paths can be uneven, and you will need to remove your shoes before entering certain areas of the temple.

Can I see the sunset from Uluwatu Temple, and what is the best time to arrive?

Yes, Uluwatu Temple offers stunning sunset views over the ocean. To catch the best sunset experience, aim to arrive between 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM. This timing allows you to explore the temple grounds before settling in for the breathtaking view as the sun sets, often accompanied by traditional Kecak Dance performances.

What are the opening hours of Uluwatu Temple?

Uluwatu Temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours until 7:00 PM during peak tourist seasons. It is recommended to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the temple's beauty and avoid crowds, especially during sunset when it becomes particularly busy.

What is the dress code for visiting Uluwatu Temple?

Visitors are required to dress modestly when entering Uluwatu Temple. This typically means covering your shoulders and legs. Sarongs and sashes are available for rent at the entrance if you do not have appropriate clothing. It is essential to adhere to this dress code, as entry may be denied to those who do not comply.