Bali is known as a spiritual haven, with more temples dotted across the island than one can visit in one go. Soak in the tropical serenity from a quality boutique hotel Bali such as the elegantly-appointed L Hotel Seminyak. Its stylish interiors and exquisite modern amenities make it a premium Bali luxury hotel that caters to both business and leisure visits. The Uluwatu Temple, perched on a scenic Cliffside on the island’s southern corner, is famous as one of Bali’s nine directional temples erected to ward off evil from the island. Although it was a small temple in the initial period of its existence, it underwent massive reconstruction by a Javanese sage, Empu Kuturan, in the 11th century. Another sage by the name of Dang Hyang Nirartha was responsible for constructing the padmasana shrines, and was claimed to have achieved moksha or liberation from suffering on the site. The temple is perched high above the roaring Indian Ocean, 70 metres above the waves and treats visitors to a splendid Uluwatu sunset each time. Visitors to the temple are advised to either wear loose-fitting or long clothing, or sarongs and sashes can be rented free of charge at the temple. Keep a close look and grip on all personal belongs including bags and cameras, as the temple is home to a large number of inquisitive monkeys who will make off with whatever they can carry. If they make any successful loots, they can be enticed to return them with an exchange of fruit. The locals and temple priests sometimes offer tourists with the option of being the retrievers, for a tip, of course. Scenery enthusiasts might want to investigate a beautiful cave with unique rock formations that ultimately leads to the beach, and this natural offering is located close to the temple. It is well worth a visit the next time you are in Bali and crave the experience of some spiritual and scenic wonders.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.