Bali Kecak Dance History: A Dramatic and Incredible Story

Kecak Dance history has lasted almost a century, since the 1930s. Amazingly, even after the long period since its creation, it still makes one of the most sough-out art stages in Bali.

Bali Kecak Dance History: A Dramatic and Incredible Story

Among all, Uluwatu Temple is the most in-demand Kecak Dance stage in Bali. But what time is the Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple? How much does it cost? When to get there? The answers are all in this article.

The History of Kecak Dance

To help you understand the story, it is best to first know what it is about. What is the history of the Kecak Dance, and who created it?

Turns out, Kecak Dance already existed before its creation. It was inspired by Sanghyang, an ancient religious ritual that aimed to push evil spirits back.

Upon seeing the ritual, a Balinese dancer and his German colleague fused the Ramayana story and turned it into the must-visit art staging it is now. 

What is unique about the Kecak Dance? For a start, the dance consists of dozens of male dancers; 10-15 of them will play out the tale of the Ramayana, while the others act as choirs, consistently chanting the word “chak chak chak” throughout the show.

Moreover, the dance plays out without the help of musical instruments. What’s heard in the background are only the chants and a krincingan, an anklet-like bell that plays repeatedly.

Where to Watch Kecak Dance in Bali

Where is the Kecak Dance performed?

There are various Kecak Dance locations you can visit. For example, there is the Batubulan Kecak Dance at Gianyar and Tanah Gajah Kecak Dance at Ubud.

However, it is better to go to the most sought-out one, the one held at Uluwatu Temple. The prospect of watching traditional Balinese dance from above the ocean cliff with the sunset as the background is a view that no one should miss.

Kecak Dance Uluwatu is usually held on the temple’s open-air stage, and its location can accommodate up to 1.400 spectators. 

The Best Time to Watch Kecak Bali Dance at Uluwatu

With hundreds of visitors each day, the Uluwatu Temple conducts the gig daily. However, it’s only unavailable during the Nyepi period, in which Balinese pause all activities for a whole day.

To avoid being rained out, it’s best to visit the temple during the dry season, which is from May to October.

Show Schedule and Entrance Fee

The Kecak Dance in Uluwatu is a once-a-day performance, starting precisely at 6 p.m. The show lasts 60 minutes.

Before watching the show, there is one thing you should remember: While watching the dance itself is a breeze, securing tickets can be challenging.

Even though the venue can hold hundreds of people, it’s still best to come early since it tends to run out quickly. Moreover, the earlier you come, the better view of the dancers you can get.

Currently, Kecak Fire Dance Uluwatu tickets cost IDR 100k per day per person, and you can buy them directly at the venue. However, please take note that the price can change without prior notice.

Things You Need Before Watching the Kecak Bali Dance

There are some things you should take note of before watching the show.

First, since Uluwatu Temple is sacred, you must wear modest clothes during your visit. Alternatively, bring a sarong or wide clothes to cover your skin.

Second, it’s best to avoid using shiny accessories or jewellery since wild monkeys inhabit the area and can easily take your belongings. That being said, securing your camera with a strap is also a good idea.

Now, before you secure a seat to see the show in the evening, you may think of what to do before you visit the Uluwatu Temple. Or do you want to see another place in Bali with another experience to offer? Lucky for you, Bali has many beautiful places to put on your itinerary!

After a long day of learning about the history of Balinese art in Uluwatu, Canggu is waving hello to you with its beaches and tourist destinations. One of them you should not miss is—of course!—the biggest beach club in the world, Atlas Beach Club.

Atlas Beach Club lets you lounge leisurely on the poolside daybeds and even book a private sitting area for 20 people with a personal butler and assistant. Try dipping in multiple pools in the area or sipping tasty drinks at its 3280-foot beach bar.

Atlas Beach Club is the perfect place to sit back and relax, whether alone, with friends, or with family. Maybe you can catch up more on Kecak Dance history while you’re there? Place a reservation and find out.