Tugujatim.id – Bali Island never fails to show its beauty. One of the factors comes from a temple called Uluwatu. Have you ever been to Uluwatu Temple? This magnificent temple stands on a cliff as high as 70 meters above the sea, in addition, Uluwatu Temple is used as a buffer for the Nine Cardinals and the location of Empu Kuturan worship. That’s why this place has become an icon for Bali Island. With various historical relics owned, Uluwatu Temple will bring you to feel the history of Bali.
Uluwatu Temple is a sacred building of Hindu worship located in Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia. This temple has the status of Sad Kahyangan Jagat Temple or the support of the cardinal shafts on the island of Bali.
This temple is suitable for those of you who want to explore various Balinese cultures. Besides being used as a place of worship, the Uluwatu temple has become an allure for visitors. Here are some things you should know about Uluwatu Temple!
History of Uluwatu Temple
Based on several sources, Uluwatu Temple was founded in the 11th century during the reign of Mpu Kuturan. It is believed that he was one of the early priests who played an important role in shaping Hinduism in Bali. Uluwatu, which translates to “batu ujung daratan “, was chosen as the sacred location of the temple because of its natural majesty and spiritual energy.
The temple’s construction features intricate Balinese architecture, using coral bricks, meticulously carved wooden gates, and ancient statues depicting Hindu deities. Despite facing natural elements and the test of time, the temple has been diligently restored over the years to preserve its cultural heritage and maintain its allure.
The Best Place to Watch a Beautiful Sunset
The attraction of Uluwatu Temple for tourists comes from its various uniquenesses. One of the uniquenesses of Uluwatu Temple is its location located on a cliff facing west with views towards the ocean. Because it is on top of the cliff, visitors will be very easy to see the sunset view.
In one corner of Uluwatu temple there is a place called amphitheater. Tourists can gather at the temple’s cliff-side amphitheater to watch the stunning sunset, a view that leaves a deep impression on anyone who sees it.
Uluwatu, Best Spot Surfing
In addition to seeing the sunset on the cliff, another thing that tourists can see is to see people who are surfing in the Indian Ocean. The waves from the Indian Ocean are strong and high, making the beach a target for surfers.
This place also often holds events on a local to an international scale. Because the waves on Uluwatu Beach are famous for being ideal to be used as a surfing location in addition to offering the stunning natural beauty of Bali.
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Balinese Kecak and Fire Dance Performances in Uluwatu Temple
Kecak dance is one of the most famous dances, Kecak dance also has another name, ‘Fire Dance’. This dance tells the story of Ramayana puppetry, involving Hanuman and the main characters, namely Rama, Sinta, and Ravana. What makes this dance unique is the sound of ‘cak cak cak cak’ shouted by male dancers who greet each other.
The time of Uluwatu Kecak dance performance is carried out in the afternoon before sunset, precisely staged at 18.10 – 19.00 Bali time. The location of watching the kecak dance in Uluwatu is still in the temple area. Usually, the temple guards start calling and notifying visitors who want to watch the Kecak Dance about 15 minutes before the dance takes place.
Uluwatu Temple, with its blend of spirituality and captivating natural beauty, stands as a magnificent wonder on the island of Bali. Its history, which dates back to the 11th century, reveals the deep-rooted cultural heritage of the Balinese people and their devotion to Hindu traditions.
The charm of Uluwatu Temple is further strengthened by a stunning Kecak dance performance with sunset views from the northwest Indian Ocean. For tourists who want to explore Bali’s rich cultural heritage, as well as extraordinary natural attractions, Uluwatu Temple is created as a must-visit destination.
Writer: Ludea Cindy (Magang)
Editor: Imam A. Hanifah
Editor Bahasa: Nugrahaningtyas FA MPd