Uluwatu Temple Pura Uluwatu is one of Bali's nine key directional temples. Though a small temple was claimed to have existed beforehand, the structure was significantly expanded by a Javanese sage, Empu Kuturan in the 11th Century. Another sage from East Java, Dang Hyang Nirartha is credited for constructing the padmasana shrines and is claimed to have attained Moksha here. Even more remarkable than the temple itself is its location, perched on a steep cliff 70 metres above the roaring Indian ocean waves. There are more steep headlands on either side and sunsets over Uluwatu are a sight to behold.
The entrance fee from 1 Feb 2012 is Rp 20,000 and you need to be properly dressed to enter. Sarongs and sashes are available free at the entrance. Guides, once famously mercenary, hassle visitors less than they used to, although they will offer to "protect" you from the monkeys, for a tip of course. Note that while you are free to walk around the temple grounds, the central courtyards can only be entered during special rituals.
The temple is inhabited by large number of monkeys, who are extremely adept at snatching visitors' belonging, including bags, cameras and eyeglasses. Keep a very close grip on all your belongings and stow away your eyeglasses if at all possible. If you do have something taken, the monkeys can usually be induced to exchange it for some fruit. Needless to say, rewarding the monkeys like this only encourages them to steal more. Locals and even the temple priests will be happy to do the job for you, naturally in exchange for a tip Rp 10,000-50,000.
The cliff is fascinating but the temple itself is not as impressive as others in Bali.
There is also a very scenic cave underneath with rock formations leading onto a beach close to the temple. This is a popular spot for surfers.
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park with 240 hectares area has many facilities such as amphitheater, Street Theater, Exhibition Hall and Lotus Pond besides a statue with 146 meters height and 64 meters of Garuda wing span will be the largest statue in the world when completed. The statue represent god Wisnu with his mount a Garuda bird. Some parts of the statue such as Wisnu chest statue has been completed and can be seen how big the statue is. Open from 8a.m. to 8p.m. local time with entrance fee Rp60,000 $6.3 for each foreign tourist and Rp30,000 and Rp25,000 for domestic adult and domestic child respectively.
