Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula offers cliff hanging views

Alila Uluwatu

Uluwatu map   

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The small village of Uluwatu, on the Bukit peninsula's west coast, is known for three peerless features: the breathtaking Uluwatu temple, astounding surf spots, and magnificent views of cliffs descending steeply to the ocean. Uluwatu temple, perched scenically on a sea-battered cliff side, is one of the six important "directional temples" of Bali. Famous as a site of unforgettable sunsets, Uluwatu temple is one historic site in Bali that you simply must not miss. From the temple, look down to admire the determination of surfers who come from all over the world to surf Uluwatu waves that are described in numerous guidebooks as "totally epic."

Unlike more-northerly beaches, where the flat, sparkling sands seem to stretch forever, Uluwatu offers intimate lovers' beaches nestled among the limestone rock faces and cliffs that have made the Bukit peninsula such a famous site of natural beauty. In one direction, you'll gaze upon an endless ocean and sky in shades of turquoise, aquamarine, and azure, but looking land-ward, feast your eyes on a varied horizon dotted with dramatic cliffs and ancient rock formations. Uluwatu will keep photographers busy and resort-goers eager to take in views from every angle of this magnificent and ancient locale.

Said to guard Bali from evil spirits that blow in from the south-west, Uluwatu temple is one of the oldest temples in Bali. This architectural marvel is constructed of black coral and designed to take advantage of the views from its plateau, 250 feet above the Indian Ocean. This sacred temple was chosen in the 15th century by a great pilgrim priest, Dwijendra, as his last earthly abode. It is well known that he achieved moksha, or oneness with the godhead, while meditating here. Within the temple complex, a statue of Dwijendra looks out upon the ocean. The temple's revered custodians, along with hundreds of nobles, devotees, and priests conduct a festival every seven months that celebrates the importance of Uluwatu temple to the whole of Bali with elegant rituals meant to bless all residents of and visitors to Uluwatu temple and town.

Between the relaxing warungs, or small restaurants, perched at vantage points upon the cliff, and the entertaining monkeys that keep visitors amused with their antics, Uluwatu is a place that encourages relaxation, contemplation, and the enjoyment of life's simple pleasures. Beautiful views and nature's wonders are nowhere more prevalent than here, in enchanting Uluwatu.