Uluwatu Temple is a Hindu temple set on the cliff
bank in south part of Bali Peninsula. It is one of Sad Kahyangan Temple in Bali
(six premier temples in Bali). Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple is an architectural
wonder in black coral rock, beautifully designed with spectacular views. This
is a popular place to enjoy the sunset. Famous not only for its unique
position, Uluwatu also boasts one of the oldest temples in Bali, Pura Uluwatu.
Most of Bali's regencies have Pura Luhur (literally high temples or ascension
temples) which become the focus for massive pilgrimages during three or five
day odalan anniversaries. The photogenic Tanah Lot and the Bat Cave temple, Goa
Lawah, is also Pura Luhur. Not all Pura Luhur are located on the coast, however
all have inspiring locations, overlooking large bodies of water. In Uluwatu
temple there is also daily performance of famous Kecak Dance which is highly
recommended for visitor to see before the sunset. Visitor may see a spectacular
view of sunset from the stage of Kecak Dance.
LOCATION
Uluwatu temple is located in Pecatu Village, Sub
district of South Kuta, in Badung Regencyor about 25 Km southern part of
Denpasar town. It is situated on the coral reef sordid to seaabout 80 meters
above the sea level. It is featured by a small dry forest which is mostly
called by Alas Kekeran (interdict forest) which is belong to the temple and
dwelt by a lot of monkeys and other animal. Name of Uluwatu was come from the
word Ulu meaning the head and Watu meaning stone. Therefore Uluwatu Temple
means the temple is built in tip of coral reef.
HISTORY
There is a story about Hindu priest came from
Java called "Dang Hyang Nirartha" or " Peranda Sakti Wawu
Rauh", full of mystical episodes since his arrival until his disappearance
in Bali. One of Hindu teaching is the same as other religion that is concerning
the world after death or the "here after world " This world is contrasted
into two polarization such as Eden garden and hell. For those devotee, a
promise of all goodness and happiness are there which is called
"sorga" In the tradition of Hindu in Bali it is said that the
"sorga" is undescribed by words, and undepicted with picture. Where
truth is an absolute, and body is embraced into it, so it only exist "
enlightenment". But one can not enter the sorga with worldly body except
their holy spirit when he/she during the life had completed duties and behaved
as indicated by religious teaching. Dang Hyang Nirarta is believed the one that
have reached such stage, and he accomplished his moksa on a spot of land which
is believed to be the sacred place. In this sacred place then was built a
temple called Ulu Watu. That was why the place has been considered a very
special place by the king in the past. It is not only Uluwatu temple that is
associated with Dang Hyang Nirarta, but many temple such as Ponjok Batu at
North West Bali, Rambut Siwi in Negara regency and Sila Yukti in East Bali. It
is probably the claim from Hindu priest in the past that their role in the
society was unquestionable.
