Kecak Fire Dance Uluwatu
Bali, Indonesia
4.7 (100+ Reviews) 100+ Booked
History
Origins of Kecak Dance
The Kecak Dance, one of Bali’s most iconic performances, was developed in the 1930s by Balinese artist Wayan Limbak in collaboration with Walter Spies, a German painter and musician. Inspired by the sacred Sanghyang dance, which is performed to ward off negative spirits, they adapted the ritual into a dramatic storytelling dance based on the Ramayana epic. Unlike traditional Balinese dance, Kecak Dance does not use musical instruments; instead, it relies entirely on the synchronized chanting of a large male chorus, producing the famous "cak-cak-cak" sound.
The Ritual and Spiritual Meaning
Kecak Dance is rooted in Balinese Hindu spirituality, borrowing elements from the Sanghyang ritual, where performers enter a trance state to channel divine energy. In its theatrical form, Kecak represents a battle between good and evil, symbolizing the cosmic balance central to Balinese philosophy. The circular formation of the chanting men signifies unity and spiritual protection, while the fire used in the performance is believed to have purifying and protective properties.
Connection to the Ramayana Epic
The Kecak Dance narrates scenes from the Ramayana, one of the most revered Hindu epics. It tells the story of Prince Rama, who, along with his wife Shinta, is exiled into the forest. The demon king Rahwana abducts Shinta, leading to an epic battle in which Hanoman, the white monkey warrior, plays a crucial role in rescuing her. The performance climaxes with Hanoman’s fire dance, where he burns down Rahwana’s palace, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Performed against the dramatic sunset backdrop of Uluwatu Temple, the Kecak Dance is more than just entertainment—it is a mesmerizing fusion of mythology, spirituality, and Balinese cultural heritage, making it one of the most unforgettable experiences in Bali.
Showtime & Tickets
Performance Schedule & Ticket Information
Performance Schedule
The Kecak Dance at Uluwatu Temple is held every evening, offering visitors a magical experience as the sun sets over the ocean. Below is the updated schedule:
- FIRST SHOW: 18:00 – 19:00 (Every Day)
- SECOND SHOW: 19:00 – 20:00 (Every Day)
- Open Gate: 16:00
To secure the best seats, visitors are encouraged to arrive at least one hour before the performance begins. As the show is highly popular, tickets may sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Ticket Prices
Visitors can purchase tickets at the official booth near the entrance of Uluwatu Temple. Below are the ticket prices:
- Adults: IDR 150,000
- Children (2 - 9 years old): IDR 75,000
Important Note:
- Parking fees and area entrance fees are NOT included in the Kecak Dance ticket price.
Why is Kecak Dance Unique?
Destination Details
No Musical Instruments, Only Chanting
Unlike traditional Balinese dance performances that use the gamelan orchestra, Kecak Dance relies entirely on the synchronized chanting of dozens of male performers. The repetitive “cak-cak-cak” sounds create a hypnotic rhythm, making the performance both dramatic and immersive. This vocal harmony builds intensity throughout the show, drawing the audience deeper into the story.
Fire Performance in Hanoman’s Battle Scene
One of the most thrilling aspects of Kecak Dance is the fire performance. During the climactic scene, Hanoman, the white monkey warrior is set ablaze as part of the battle against Rahwana, the demon king. The fire is a symbolic element representing purification and divine power, creating a visually stunning moment that leaves the audience in awe.
Performed on a Cliffside with a Breathtaking Sunset
The Uluwatu Temple amphitheater provides an unmatched setting for Kecak Dance. Located 70 meters above the Indian Ocean, the performance takes place as the sun sets behind the temple, creating an extraordinary backdrop of golden skies and crashing waves. The combination of mythology, sunset views, and cultural significance makes this experience truly unforgettable.
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