Photo Journal: Pura Luhur Uluwatu – Bukit Peninsula

One of the nicest temples you can visit and, one that’s on the regular tourist track, is Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple. It is one of Bali’s six major temples collectively known as Sad Kahyangan Jagat. This temple down on the Bukit Peninsula is especially great to visit during the Galungan festival [the most important event in the Balinese calendar that occurs every 210 days and celebrates the victory of good over evil] and people from all over Bali come to worship here.

Pura Luhur Uluwatu is located on cliff top close to the famous surf break bearing the same name. The temple was founded in the 10th century by Empu Kuturan, a Javanese Hindu priest who built the tiered meru and a shrine here as well as at other key locations along the Balinese coast.

One thing you will find is the monkeys here are more than mischievous! Keeping a tight hold onto your bag or backpack is highly recommended. You will see these pesky simians at the carpark and along the steep road leading down to the temple. Here, they seem to more than ubiquitous in their presence.

Pura Luhur Uluwatu is a striking temple to explore and the highlight of the place is when you reach the top of the steps leading up to the temple From here you have a vast panorama of ocean and pounding surf. Do allow yourself a couple of hours to visit this island. Best time to visit in my opinion is at dusk when the light softens allowing for excellent photography.