Pura Luhur Uluwatu
[postlink]http://baliovguide.blogspot.com/2011/08/pura-luhur-uluwatu_10.html[/postlink]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTqnxKQq4uQendofvid [starttext]Spectacularly located cliff-top on the most southern coastal tip of the island, Uluwatu temple is considered one of Bali's most important places of worship for Hindus.
This temple was established during the 11th Century, and it is dedicated to the spirits of the sea. The name is derived from 'ulu' meaning end and 'watu' meaning stone, so this is roughly translates as temple at the stony end. Empu Kuturan was believed to be one who built this temple, he was known as a talented shrine builder. Another figure associated with Uluwatu is Danghyang Nirartha who is believed to have built a padmasana at Uluwatu temple where he was able to attain a state of moksa (pure escape from reincarnation's cycle).
To visit this temple, late afternoon is the best time when heat of the sun is less intense. You get some beautiful sunsets here, unfortunately during peak season this means tour buses at sunset. Another pest is the local monkey population. The monkeys have lost their fear of people and are known for quickly snatching things like glasses, hats, cameras, and other personal items. So be aware of your belonging when visiting this temple.
To visit the temple: There is no public transportation directly to the temple. Renting a car is the best way, as there are a number of other places in this area you can visit along the road such as Padang padang beach, Bingin beach, Dreamland beach, and Impossible beach. It takes about an hour to get to Uluwatu Temple from the Kuta area.[endtext]
This temple was established during the 11th Century, and it is dedicated to the spirits of the sea. The name is derived from 'ulu' meaning end and 'watu' meaning stone, so this is roughly translates as temple at the stony end. Empu Kuturan was believed to be one who built this temple, he was known as a talented shrine builder. Another figure associated with Uluwatu is Danghyang Nirartha who is believed to have built a padmasana at Uluwatu temple where he was able to attain a state of moksa (pure escape from reincarnation's cycle).
To visit this temple, late afternoon is the best time when heat of the sun is less intense. You get some beautiful sunsets here, unfortunately during peak season this means tour buses at sunset. Another pest is the local monkey population. The monkeys have lost their fear of people and are known for quickly snatching things like glasses, hats, cameras, and other personal items. So be aware of your belonging when visiting this temple.
To visit the temple: There is no public transportation directly to the temple. Renting a car is the best way, as there are a number of other places in this area you can visit along the road such as Padang padang beach, Bingin beach, Dreamland beach, and Impossible beach. It takes about an hour to get to Uluwatu Temple from the Kuta area.[endtext]