Pura Luhur Uluwatu

At the western most tip of Bukit Peninsula (farther south from Jimbaran), there is one of Bali's nine important 'Kayangan Jagat' temples (believed to protect the island through their intricate positioning). The location is dramatic, rocky precipices drop almost 100 metres to the Indian ocean, and the temple balances on a narrow promontory's edge that offers one of the best sunset views on the island above dramatic crashing white surf. It was built in the 11th century to worship the holy priest, Empu Kuturan, who came to Bali bringing religious law and the formation of 'Desa Adat' – traditional villages. The temple is also in honour to the doctrine of the holy man, Dang Hyang Nirartha, who came to Bali at the later date of 1550. He spent his last day in the world at the temple to reach 'moksa or ngeluhur' (enlightenment) which then lent its name to the temple's present name of Luhur Uluwatu.

Candi Bentar
The 'candi bentar', or split entrance gate, has carved fl anked sides in the shape of wings. The 'jaba tengah', or second courtyard, is guarded by statues of Ganesha, the man-bodied, elephant-headed god. He is believed to be the remover of obstacles and leads into 'jeroan' – or the innermost sanctuary – that can only be accessed to those who are praying. The frangipani blossoms that surround the temple are home to some friendly but mischievous monkeys, that seem to be as much of an attraction as the temple to the many foreign visitors, that come by the coach load around sunset time.

Kecak Dance
Post-sunset hails a daily 'kecak dance' that is impressive and a must-see for those who have not yet been privy to this exhilarating trance performance that emulates the sound of the chattering monkeys of Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple