Uluwatu and Tanah Lot Tour
Duration: 10 Hours (approximately)
Highlights: Uluwatu and Tanah Lot area
Language: The tour is originally in Indonesian and English
When I think of Bali, two places instantly come to mind: Tanah Lot and Uluwatu. Both are iconic, spiritual, and jaw-droppingly beautiful, especially if you love dramatic ocean views. Combining them into one day trip is like a Bali bucket list in itself, and having done this tour myself, I can honestly say it’s the perfect way to explore Bali’s sacred temples and coastal beauty. From the mystical Tanah Lot in the morning to the fiery Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple and ending with a seafood dinner by the beach, this tour is pure magic from start to finish.
Late Start, But No Stress
I absolutely loved that this tour doesn’t start until 11:00 AM. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed morning or a leisurely breakfast before heading out. Bali is all about balance, after all. The later start means you get to take your time, pack a small bag, and not feel rushed. I remember grabbing a quick coffee by the pool before our driver arrived—feeling calm and ready for the adventure ahead.
One thing that’s nice about tours in Bali is that transportation is usually included. We hopped into the van, and Bali driver gave us a rundown of the day, so we knew exactly what to expect. It felt good knowing we didn’t have to worry about a thing except enjoying the day.
Tanah Lot Temple: The Floating Marvel
Our first stop was Tanah Lot Temple, probably one of the most photographed temples in Bali—and for good reason. The temple sits perched on a rock just off the coast, and when the tide is high, it looks like it's floating in the middle of the sea. The scene is nothing short of magical. I remember the first time I saw it, I couldn’t help but feel like I had stepped into a postcard.
We arrived around midday, which is a good time to visit because the tide was low enough for us to walk across to the temple. Now, you can’t go inside unless you're there for prayer, but just being near it is an experience. The locals believe Tanah Lot is protected by sea snakes, and while I didn’t see any, I definitely got that mystical, ancient vibe from the whole place.
If you’re into photography, this is one of those spots where you’ll want to take a hundred photos from every angle. The waves crashing against the rocks, the temple silhouetted against the sky—it’s postcard-perfect.
Uluwatu Temple: Clifftop Beauty
After soaking in Tanah Lot, we headed to Uluwatu Temple, which took about an hour to reach. Uluwatu is one of those places that leaves you speechless. It’s perched on the edge of a towering cliff with waves crashing dramatically below. The views of the Indian Ocean are breathtaking, especially in the late afternoon when the light starts to soften, and you can feel the magic of the place.
But let me tell you, Uluwatu isn’t just about the views—there are also plenty of cheeky monkeys here! You’ve probably heard this a hundred times, but it’s worth repeating: watch your stuff. I’ve seen these little guys swipe sunglasses, flip-flops, and even phones! While they add to the temple’s charm, it’s best to keep a tight grip on your belongings.
The temple itself is beautiful, but it’s the combination of the setting, the ocean, and the culture that makes Uluwatu truly special. Walking along the cliff paths with the ocean roaring below was one of those moments that made me stop and just appreciate where I was.
Kecak and Fire Dance: Drama on the Cliffs
By around 6:00 PM, it was time for one of Bali’s most famous performances: the Kecak and Fire Dance. Set in an open-air amphitheater right on the cliffs of Uluwatu, this performance is unlike anything you’ve seen before. The dance tells the story of the Ramayana, a classic Hindu epic, through chanting, fire, and dramatic movements. The dancers are mesmerizing, and what makes it even more special is the backdrop—the sun setting over the ocean.
I’m not exaggerating when I say that the combination of the chanting, the setting sun, and the fire elements makes for an almost mystical experience. You can feel the energy in the air as the performers reenact the battle between good and evil. By the end, the crowd was completely captivated (myself included), and I left feeling like I’d just witnessed something truly extraordinary.
Seafood Dinner at Jimbaran Beach: The Perfect Finale
After the performance, we made our way to Jimbaran Beach for a seafood dinner. If you’re in Bali, eating fresh seafood by the beach is an absolute must, and Jimbaran is the place to do it. There’s something about having your toes in the sand, the ocean breeze on your face, and the sounds of the waves while you enjoy a delicious meal that just can’t be beat.
The seafood here is top-notch—grilled fish, prawns, calamari, all served with traditional Balinese sambal (a spicy sauce) and fresh veggies. We sat down at a table right on the sand, the lights from the beachside restaurants twinkling around us, and enjoyed a meal that was the perfect end to a perfect day. I recommend trying the grilled snapper; it was tender, flavorful, and had just the right amount of spice.
Reflections on the Day
By the time we made our way back to the hotel, it was late but in the best way. This tour isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing Bali’s culture, its natural beauty, and its deep spiritual roots. Tanah Lot and Uluwatu are two of Bali’s most iconic spots, and visiting them both in one day felt like a journey through Bali’s history and soul.
If you’re considering doing this Bali tour, my advice is simple: do it. It’s a well-paced, unforgettable day filled with everything that makes Bali so special—beautiful temples, breathtaking ocean views, culture, and of course, delicious food. And trust me, you’ll sleep like a baby after a day like this.
Tour's Itinerary
Full Day Uluwatu and Tanah Lot Tour Itinerary :
(The tour will start at 11.00)
- Pick up at the hotel
- Visit Tanah Lot Temple
- Visit Uluwatu Temple
- Watching Kecak Dance Performance
- Seafood dinner at Jimbaran Beach
- Back to hotel