Uluwatu Temple

Visiting Uluwatu was breathtaking and certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience- but was not without definite drawbacks. Had it not been for our driver/tour guide I would have been at a complete loss of what to do when we first arrived at Uluwatu. Our driver helped us figure the entrance fee plus the yellow sash, monkey, and fire dance ticket situations- and I am eternally grateful. His expertise helped us to enjoy the awe-inspiring splendor of the Uluwatu Temple.

First of all, though hundreds of years old, Uluwatu is an active temple, so women and men alike must wear clothing that covers their knees and must wear the yellow sash around the waist to show reverence for this sacred spot. With that being said, exploring Uluwatu and the surrounding area is quite a physical endeavor and doing it in a full-length dress- is a challenge (see the picture of me i on the stairs)- but it is completely worth it. The views are stunning and somewhat terrifying as you can get very close to the cliffside which overlooks the Indian Ocean. I've never seen anything like it. As you walk along the trails leading from the forest to the temple you will encounter the infamous monkeys that inhabit the area and if you are not careful or are not ready with a banana for them they will (unapologetically) take whatever they want from you- sunglasses are a favorite, but while I was there I saw one try to make off with someone's unattended backpack. The monkeys, I felt, only added to the wonderful and culturally infused experience of seeing Uluwatu.

If you have the chance, stick around for the Kecak (fire dance) ceremony- I think it takes place at sunset every Friday night. Sure, it is crowded and touristy, but I found it was impressive all the same. I love the Ramayana story and to see it brought to life like this was an experience- just be sure and go to the ceremony space a little before the sun has completely set, as it gets incredibly (like no room whatsoever, lots of sweaty people) crowed.