Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is one of Bali’s most famous landmarks, located on the edge of Lake Beratan in Bedugul. Known for its beautiful setting, the temple often appears to float on the lake, creating a stunning and peaceful view. Dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water and fertility, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple combines cultural significance, rich history, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for visitors.
In this guide, you’ll learn more about the history of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, what makes it special, and the best time to visit Bali’s iconic floating temple.
Why Ulun Danu Beratan Temple Is One of Bali’s Most Famous Landmarks
- The Famous Floating Temple in Bali
One of the most unique features of Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is its floating appearance. Parts of the temple complex, including the iconic 11-tiered Meru tower, sit on a small island along Lake Beratan. When the water level rises, the temple seems to float on the lake, which is why it is often called the Floating Temple Bali. - Beautiful Mountain Scenery
Located in the cool highlands of Bedugul, around 1,200 meters above sea level, this Bedugul temple is surrounded by lush green mountains and often covered by light mist. The fresh air and peaceful atmosphere make it very different from Bali’s warmer beach areas. - A Symbol of Bali Tourism
The beauty of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is recognized around the world. The temple was once featured on Indonesia’s 50,000 Rupiah banknote and continues to appear in many travel guides and tourism campaigns promoting Bali. - An Important Part of Bali’s Culture
Beyond its beauty, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan plays an important role in Bali’s traditional farming system. The temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, and is a place where ceremonies are held to pray for a steady water supply that supports the island’s famous Subak irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The History Behind Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple’s history is closely connected to Bali’s royal heritage, farming traditions, and spiritual beliefs. Interestingly, long before the temple was built, this area was already considered sacred. Archaeologists discovered ancient artifacts, including a stone sarcophagus and a stone tablet, which are believed to date back to around 500 BC.
According to the ancient Balinese manuscript Babad Mengwi, Ulun Danu Bratan Temple was founded by I Gusti Agung Putu, the founder of the Mengwi Kingdom. The temple was built after he achieved victory in battle and completed a meditation journey on Mount Mangu in search of spiritual guidance.
Over time, Ulun Danu Temple Bali became an important place of worship dedicated to the Tri Murti (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva) as well as Dewi Danu, the goddess of water. The temple plays a key role in praying for fertility and a reliable water supply for Bali’s traditional Subak irrigation system. Another unique feature is the Buddhist stupa located near the temple entrance, reflecting the long-standing harmony between Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Today, the Lake Beratan Temple remains an active religious site. Its preservation and ceremonial activities are jointly managed by four nearby traditional villages: Candi Kuning, Bangah, Antapan, and Baturiti, helping protect its cultural and spiritual importance for future generations.
The Temple Complex Explained
The Pura Ulun Danu Beratan complex is made up of several sacred areas located around the lakeside and on the water. Each temple has its own unique architecture and spiritual purpose, making this famous Bedugul temple much more than just a beautiful landmark.
Here’s a simple guide to the main parts of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan:
- Pura Penataran Agung
This is the largest temple area and the first one visitors usually see when entering the complex. Recognized by its impressive Balinese split gate (Candi Bentar), this temple is where worshippers offer prayers for prosperity, well-being, and blessings from Sang Hyang Widhi. - Pura Lingga Petak (The Floating Temple Area)
This is the most iconic part of Pura Ulun Danu Beratan and the main attraction for visitors. Located on a small island in Lake Beratan, this area features two sacred Meru towers that appear to float on the water when the lake level rises.- Meru Tumpang 3 is a three-tiered tower dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, fertility, and prosperity.
- Meru Tumpang 11 is an eleven-tiered tower dedicated to Lord Shiva and houses a sacred white linga stone.
- Pura Dalem Purwa
Located on the southern side of the lake, this temple is a place to pray for protection, safety, and balance in life. It is dedicated to Bhatara Durga and Dewa Rudra and is closely connected to preserving the natural environment around the lake. - Pura Taman Beji
Situated east of the main complex, this temple is used for purification rituals. Worshippers come here to cleanse themselves and purify sacred ceremonial objects before important Balinese celebrations such as Galungan and Nyepi. The water in this area is considered especially holy. - Pura Prajapati
This temple sits beneath a large banyan tree that has stood for generations. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, it serves as an important starting point for various religious ceremonies before worshippers continue to other sacred areas within the complex.
Together, these temples form the spiritual heart of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, making it one of the most important religious and cultural sites in Bali.
What Makes Ulun Danu Beratan Temple Unique?
- Its Famous Floating-on-the-Lake Design
One of the most distinctive features of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is its location on a small island within Lake Beratan. Unlike Bali’s sea temples, which sit on coastal cliffs or rock formations, this temple appears to float on the water.
On calm days, the reflection of the iconic 11-tiered Meru tower creates a beautiful mirror-like effect across the lake. - An Important Temple for Water and Fertility
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple serves a special role in Balinese Hinduism as a temple dedicated to water. While many temples in Bali focus on mountain deities or ancestral worship, this temple honors Dewi Danu, the goddess of water and fertility. It is believed to help maintain the balance of water that supports farming and daily life across much of Bali. - Surrounded by the Cool Bedugul Highlands
Another thing that makes the temple unique is its location in the Bedugul highlands, about 1,200 meters above sea level. Surrounded by mountains and Lake Beratan, the area enjoys cool temperatures, fresh air, and frequent mist.
This peaceful atmosphere creates a very different experience compared to Bali’s warmer coastal temples. - A Symbol of Harmony Between Religions
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is also known for its strong connection between Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Near the temple complex, visitors can find an ancient Buddhist stupa that has stood alongside the Hindu temple for centuries.
Its presence reflects the spirit of religious harmony and cultural coexistence that has long been part of Bali’s history.
When to Visit and What the Conditions Actually Look Like
Choosing the right time to visit can make a big difference to your experience at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. Because the temple is located in the cool Bedugul highlands, weather conditions can change quickly throughout the day.
Early Morning Fog vs Mid-Morning Clarity
Morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) is widely considered the best time to visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. During these hours, the air is fresh, the lake is usually calm, and the temple’s reflection can often be seen clearly on the water. Light morning mist around the mountains also creates a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere.
By late morning and afternoon (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM), fog often rolls in from the surrounding hills. In some cases, the mist can partially cover the temple and lake views. Stronger winds may also create small waves, reducing the famous mirror-like reflection on the water.
Dry Season vs Wet Season Differences
The season you visit can also affect the scenery around the temple.
- Dry Season (April – October): Generally offers clear skies and excellent views of the surrounding mountains. However, during the peak dry months, the lake level may drop slightly, making the floating effect less noticeable.
- Rainy Season (November – March): The lake is usually fuller, creating a stronger floating temple appearance. The trade-off is that rainfall can be frequent, especially in Bedugul, which may limit outdoor activities.
Ceremony Days and How They Affect Your Visit
As one of Bali’s most important temples, Ulun Danu Beratan regularly hosts religious ceremonies and traditional Subak rituals.
During these events, visitors can see local worshippers dressed in traditional white clothing, colorful ceremonial decorations, and live Balinese gamelan performances. Some sacred areas may be temporarily closed to tourists, but it is also one of the most authentic times to experience Balinese culture.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple Entrance Fee and Opening Hours
The temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM WITA. The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple entrance fee starts from IDR 50,000 for domestic adults and IDR 100,000 for international adults, which includes access to the temple grounds, gardens, and selected cultural performances.
How to Get to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is located in Candikuning Village, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, along the main road that connects South Bali and North Bali. Thanks to its accessible location in Bedugul, the temple is a popular day-trip destination from many parts of the island.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple from Ubud
Traveling to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple from Ubud takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, covering approximately 45 kilometers. The most common route passes through Payangan or Sangeh before joining the main Denpasar–Singaraja road and continuing toward Bedugul.
From Seminyak, Kuta, and Denpasar
If you’re staying in South Bali, the journey is slightly longer. Expect a travel time of around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. The route usually passes through Denpasar or Mengwi before heading north along the main highway toward Bedugul.
What to Expect on the Drive
Getting to Bedugul is part of the experience. As you leave the coastal areas behind, you’ll notice the weather becoming cooler and fresher as the road climbs into the highlands.
Along the way, you’ll pass scenic mountain views, green forests, vegetable farms, and roadside strawberry stalls that are popular with visitors. The changing landscape is one reason many travelers consider the journey worthwhile, especially during the best time to visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple in the morning, when visibility is usually at its best.
Transportation Options
When deciding how to get to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, there are several options to choose from:
- Private Driver (Recommended)
Hiring a private car with a local driver is the most comfortable and flexible option. Drivers are familiar with the mountain roads and can easily include other Bedugul attractions in your itinerary. - Join a Tour Group
Group tours are a budget-friendly choice, especially for solo travelers. Transportation, schedules, and entrance tickets are usually arranged for you, although you’ll have less flexibility during the visit. - Self-Drive Car or Motorbike
Renting your own vehicle is possible, but it is best suited for confident drivers. The roads to Bedugul can be steep, winding, and busy with buses and trucks. During the rainy season, fog and slippery road conditions can also make driving more challenging.
No matter which option you choose, the journey to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple offers beautiful scenery and a refreshing escape from Bali’s coastal areas.
Things to Do Inside the Temple Grounds
There’s more to enjoy at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple than simply admiring its beautiful architecture. Here are some of the best activities to experience during your visit:
- Take Photos of the Famous Floating Temple
One of the most popular things to do is capture photos of the iconic Meru towers that appear to float on Lake Beratan. The temple gardens, colorful flowers, and mountain backdrop also offer plenty of scenic photo opportunities. - Explore Lake Beratan by Boat
Visitors can rent a traditional boat (jukung) or a speedboat from the lakeside dock. A boat ride allows you to enjoy panoramic views of the lake and see the temple from a unique perspective on the water. - Watch Traditional Balinese Performances
At certain times, the temple complex hosts cultural performances such as Balinese dances and traditional music. These shows add an extra cultural experience to your visit and provide a deeper look into Bali’s rich heritage. - Relax in the Beautiful Gardens
The temple grounds feature spacious green lawns, colorful flower beds, and tall pine trees. It’s a great place to take a leisurely walk, enjoy the cool Bedugul climate, and unwind while surrounded by nature. - Respect the Temple Environment
Although there is no strict Ulun Danu Beratan Temple dress code for general visitors, modest clothing is recommended out of respect for this active place of worship.
Comfortable clothing and a light jacket are also a good idea, as the Bedugul area can be quite cool, especially in the morning and evening.
Things to Do Near Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
After visiting the temple, there are plenty of attractions around Bedugul that are worth exploring. If you plan your trip well, especially during the best time to visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, you can easily combine several destinations into one enjoyable day.
Visit Candi Kuning Market
Located just a few minutes from the temple, Candi Kuning Market is a great place to shop for fresh local produce, including strawberries, passion fruit, and oranges grown in the Bedugul highlands. You’ll also find Balinese snacks, souvenirs, and ornamental plants at affordable prices.
Explore Bali Botanic Garden
Just a short drive away, Bali Botanic Garden is the largest botanical garden in Indonesia. Covering more than 150 hectares, it features beautiful rainforest landscapes, orchid collections, cactus gardens, and large open spaces perfect for a relaxing walk or family picnic.
Stop by Handara Gate
One of Bali’s most famous photo spots, Handara Gate is located around 10 minutes north of the temple. Surrounded by green hills and cool mountain air, this iconic Balinese gate has become a favorite destination for photography lovers.
Enjoy the View at Wanagiri Hidden Hill
For stunning views of Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan, head to Wanagiri Hidden Hill. The area is known for its scenic viewpoints and creative photo spots, including giant bird nests and panoramic swing platforms overlooking the twin lakes.
Where to Eat Around Bedugul
After exploring the area, you’ll find plenty of dining options nearby.
- Local Restaurants
Many restaurants along the main Bedugul road serve authentic Indonesian and Balinese dishes. Popular menu items include Ayam Betutu, sate lilit, and local buffet selections, often accompanied by beautiful lake or mountain views. - Cozy Cafes
The Candi Kuning and Pancasari areas are also home to charming cafes where visitors can enjoy fresh coffee, local tea, homemade desserts, and Western-style meals made with vegetables sourced from nearby farms.
With so many things to do near Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, it’s easy to turn your visit into a full-day Bedugul adventure filled with nature, culture, great food, and unforgettable scenery.
Full Budget Breakdown for One Visitor
Planning your budget before visiting Ulun Danu Beratan Temple can help you enjoy the trip without surprises. Here’s a simple breakdown of the typical costs you may encounter during your visit.
- Entrance Tickets and Parking
Entrance fees vary depending on visitor category:- Domestic Adults: IDR 50,000
- Domestic Children: IDR 25,000
- Bali ID Card Holders: IDR 30,000 (Adults) / IDR 20,000 (Children)
- International Adults: IDR 100,000
- International Children: IDR 75,000
- Parking fees are also affordable:
- Motorcycle: IDR 3,000
- Car: IDR 5,000
- Bus: IDR 10,000
- Optional Activities
If you’d like to enjoy more of the lake experience, there are several optional activities available:- Traditional Boat (Jukung): around IDR 75,000–100,000 per trip
- Speedboat Rental: around IDR 150,000–200,000 per boat (can usually be shared with friends or family)
- Photo Sessions with Birds or Animals: around IDR 25,000–50,000
- Food and Small Extras
There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and local vendors around the Bedugul area:- Lunch at a local restaurant: around IDR 40,000–85,000 per person
- Coffee, tea, or light snacks: around IDR 25,000–50,000
- Fresh Bedugul strawberries: around IDR 20,000–40,000 per box
- Estimated Total Cost Per Person
- Budget-Friendly Visit
If you’re only paying for the entrance ticket, parking, and a simple meal, expect to spend around IDR 100,000–120,000 per person. - More Comfortable Experience
For visitors who want to include a boat ride, lunch at a restaurant, and a few souvenirs, a reasonable budget is around IDR 250,000–350,000 per person, excluding transportation or private driver costs from South Bali.
Overall, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is one of Bali’s most affordable cultural attractions, offering beautiful scenery, cultural experiences, and plenty of activities without requiring a large budget.
Practical Tips Before Visiting Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
To make the most of your visit, here are a few useful tips and important things to keep in mind before heading to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.
- Dress Respectfully
As this is an active place of worship, visitors are encouraged to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. If needed, sarongs are available at the entrance for visitors who are not dressed according to temple guidelines. - Respect Sacred Areas
Tourists can freely explore the gardens and outer sections of the temple complex. However, some inner sacred areas are reserved for worshippers and are not open to general visitors. Please follow all signs and instructions from temple staff during your visit. - Cultural Guidelines
In accordance with local customs and temple traditions, women who are menstruating are respectfully asked not to enter the temple grounds. - Bring a Jacket and Umbrella
Located around 1,200 meters above sea level, Bedugul is much cooler than most parts of Bali. Temperatures are often between 18°C and 22°C, and light rain or fog can appear unexpectedly. Bringing a light jacket and umbrella is highly recommended. - Carry Some Cash
While many facilities now accept cashless payments, it’s still useful to have some cash on hand for parking fees, boat rentals, local market purchases, snacks, or public facilities around the area. - Arrive Early for the Best Experience
If you’re hoping to capture the famous reflection of the floating temple on the lake, try to arrive before 9:00 AM. Early mornings usually offer calmer water, clearer views, and fewer crowds, making it one of the best times to enjoy Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.
Why Ulun Danu Beratan Stays in Your Memory Long After You Leave
Whether you’re visiting for its cultural significance, stunning scenery, or peaceful atmosphere, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is one of the must-visit destinations in Bali. From its iconic floating temple views and rich history to the cool highland landscapes of Bedugul, this landmark offers a unique experience that combines nature, spirituality, and local culture.
For more travel tips and the best guides to explore Bali, be sure to visit Insight Bali and discover even more of the island’s hidden gems.
