Pura Luhur Uluwatu, located by Bali Sea, belongs to the 11th century. Its legendary nine directions ward off the evil spirits from the city. The crystal white beaches that surround the temple are also the soil for Alila Villas Uluwatu among other Bali Boutique Villas.

Pura Luhur is ranked among the six most important temples in Bali.

The monkeys in the adjacent forest, it is believed, proect the temple. Concreted walls strengthen the snake-like walkway that leads to the temple. The journey on this path will take an hour to reach the temple. The views from the bottom of the water surging up against rocks and the ocean horizon are remarkable.

Nestled at least 70 metres above sea level on a rock, this temple calls for a truly magical sightseeing experience. As the sun sets on sea, it reminds another Balinese temple, Tanah Lot. This temple is apparently one of the best places in Bali to enjoy, feel and breathe in the sunset. As Bali’s sunrays kiss the glistening waters of the Indian Ocean, it proves to be another delightful evening.

Take a stroll to sight the temple’s olden-day architectural marvels. These architectural remains trace the temple to megalithic origin.

Ulu is Thai for Top and watu for rock – which means ‘the temple on the top of the rock’.

As Hindus in Bali accept, three divine powerful forces of Brahma, Vishnu and Siva are united in this place. As a result, Uluwatu temple is also revered as a place occupied by Siva Rudra. Siva is a Hindu deity for all elements of universal living.

According to historical sources, an architect by the name of Danghyang Nirartha had been responsible to design Uluwatu temple along with other temples such as Lombok and Sumbawa. In the past, the access to Uluwatu temple was not a cakewalk. The path was repaired in 1983, though in 1999 a lightening strike has caused the temple to be on fire.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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