What To See On The Bukit Peninsula In Bali
The Bukit peninsula, in Bali, is one of the most characteristic areas of the region. In fact, for a few years it has been one of the most popular destinations on the island, attracting tourists from all over the world every year. And this peninsula is perfect both for cultural tourism and for sun and beach lovers, photography or surfers.
The range of activities and points of interest is quite wide, therefore, we have created a small guide to travel to Bukit and not miss any of its most emblematic corners. Take note!
The Bukit Peninsula
The Bukit peninsula is located in the extreme south of Bali, administratively linked to the district of Kuta Sud. The climate is a little drier than in the rest of Bali, therefore, the landscape is more rocky and rugged, with small coves and wide beach areas surrounded by spectacular cliffs. This is divided into three large areas: Uluwatu, Jimbaran and Nusa Dua.
Uluwatu, located in western Bukit, offers labyrinthine mountain roads, perfect for hikers. We can walk along these green paths with exotic landscapes where, in addition, we can enjoy the best beaches for surfing and some of the most famous temples in Bali.
In contrast, Jimbara and Nusa Dusa have large beach areas. In these areas there is a strong contrast between small towns and large luxury resorts for international tourism. And, despite the clear influence of tourism, the Bukit peninsula still retains much of its Balinese legacy.
What to see on the Bukit peninsula
Without a doubt, one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Bukit are its beaches. In Uluwatu we can find magical beaches such as Blue Point, which is guarded by two large rocks and offers the opportunity to practice snorkeling. For surfers, Sunday Beach Club is recommended, and for lovers of coastal landscapes, nothing like Karma Beach.
Uluwatu Temple
The temple is built on an 80 meter high cliff and is surrounded by greenery. Built in honor of the god of the sea, the Uluwatu temple is one of Bali’s seven Directional Temples, created to protect the island from demons.
In addition, this thick jungle environment offers shelter to some of Bukit’s own animals such as monkeys. We can also see kecak dance shows in the open air and in which fire is used as the main element.
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Park
This park is located in Ungasan, right in the center of the peninsula. The park covers an area of 205 hectares and offers tourists information about Balinese culture.
In addition, along the route we will be able to see the statue of Garuda Wisnu Kencana. Standing 120 meters high and designed by the famous Indonesian sculptor Nyoman Nuarta, it represents the god Vishnu on the back of Garuda, a legendary bird.
Puja Mandala religious complex
It is one of the best representations of the five religions that predominate in Bali. In this complex we can visit from a mosque to a Catholic church. We can also find three temples: one Hindu, another Buddhist and a Protestant temple, which are open to the public.
Pasifika Museum
In this museum there is a collection with works by more than 200 Asian artists distributed by rooms of each country represented. In addition, among the more than 600 works on display we can see creations by famous Indonesian painters, such as Raden Saleh and Nyoman Gunarsa.
Tips during your stay on the Bukit Peninsula
If we have finally decided to travel to Bali and visit the Bukit peninsula, we must take into account a number of factors. If we do not want large crowds and high prices, we must avoid traveling during the summer months. However, if we want to surf, this will be the most suitable date.
Similarly, the easiest way to travel to Bukit is by plane. From the Ngurah Rai International Airport we will be only 20 kilometers from our destination. We can rent a car, motorcycle or order a taxi.
Once on the peninsula, it is recommended to go by bicycle or motorcycle to walk without problems and without traffic jams. There are also minibuses perfect to move to the most touristic areas of the peninsula.
To settle in, Bukit offers a wide range of possibilities. From villas, apartments, hotels and luxury resorts . We can also choose to stay in the guest houses located in the Nusa Dusa area, for those looking for a closer and more traditional experience.