Exploring the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple in Bali: A Visitors’ Guide

Indonesian Name: Pura Ulun Danu Beratan

The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Lake Beratan, Bali | Image: Oleksandr Pidvalnyi

The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Lake Beratan, Bali | Image: Oleksandr Pidvalnyi

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    Introduction

    The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a beautiful and important religious site located on the island of Bali in Indonesia. Situated on the shores of Lake Beratan in the highlands of central Bali, the temple is known for its stunning architecture and natural surroundings, as well as its significance in Balinese Hinduism.

    In addition to its religious significance, the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is also a popular destination for sunrise chasers, who come to admire the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

    Address

    The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is located at Jl. Raya Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia. (See on Google Maps)

    Location

    The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is situated on the shores of Lake Beratan in the highlands of central Bali. The temple is located in the Tabanan Regency, which is known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural attractions. The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a short drive from other popular destinations in the region, such as the Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club's famous gates and the Bedugul Botanical Garden.

    Address & Phone Number of Nearest Hospital for Emergency

    The nearest hospital to the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is the Tabanan Hospital, which is located at Jl. Merdeka, Tabanan, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia. The hospital can be reached by phone at +62 361 821 868.

    It’s a good idea to consider travel insurance cover because of the high cost of medical treatment in Bali.

    Three Key Reasons To Visit

    1. Religious significance: The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is an important religious site for the Balinese Hindu community, and is considered one of the nine directional temples in Bali. Visitors to the temple can learn about the history and significance of the temple, as well as observe traditional Balinese rituals and ceremonies.

    2. Stunning architecture and natural surroundings: The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is known for its beautiful architecture and natural surroundings, making it a popular destination for photographers and sightseers. The temple is located on the shores of Lake Beratan, with the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains providing a breathtaking backdrop.

    3. Sunrise views: The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a popular destination for sunrise chasers, who come to admire the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains at sunrise. The temple is known for its beautiful sunrise views, making it a great place to relax and watch the sun come up.

    History, Myths and Legends

    The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, also known as Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, is a beautiful and important religious site located on the island of Bali in Indonesia. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, and is considered one of the nine directional temples in Bali. According to local legend, Dewi Danu is the guardian of the lake, and is believed to bring fertility and prosperity to the surrounding area.

    The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is believed to have been founded in the 17th century, during the rule of the King of Mengwi, I Gusti Agung Putu. The temple was built on the shores of Lake Beratan, which is considered a sacred site in Balinese Hinduism. The temple is also associated with the Hindu god Shiva, who is believed to be the protector of the lake.

    Over the centuries, the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple has undergone several renovations and expansions, with the most recent renovations being completed in the early 21st century. Today, the temple is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to admire the beautiful architecture and natural surroundings, and to observe traditional Balinese rituals and ceremonies.

    What To Expect When Visiting

    When visiting the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, visitors can expect to find a beautiful and peaceful religious site, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The temple is open to the public, and visitors are welcome to observe traditional Balinese rituals and ceremonies, as well as explore the temple grounds and take in the beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

    Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, also known as Pura Ulun Danu Beratan or the "Floating Temple," is a beautiful and iconic complex located on the shores of Lake Beratan in the highlands of the mountainous Bedugul region in Bali, Indonesia. The temple is surrounded by stunning mountains and is known for its dreamy, mesmerizing atmosphere, which makes it a popular destination for photographers and tourists.

    The temple is located on the calm and still waters of Lake Beratan, which is surrounded by a thin mist that gives the temple a surreal appearance. The Pura Ulun Danu Beratan complex consists of four sacred buildings devoted to the Hindu gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The complex is known for its historical relevance and its characteristic Balinese architecture, as well as its picturesque location.

    When visiting the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, visitors can expect to find a beautiful and peaceful religious site, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The temple is open to the public, and visitors are welcome to observe traditional Balinese rituals and ceremonies, as well as explore the temple grounds and take in the beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

    Inside the complex, visitors can see the three main shrines dedicated to the worship of the Hindu gods Vishnu, Brahma, and Shiva. The inner sanctums of the four Hindu temples are not accessible to non-worshippers, but the ceremonies and the tiered shrines can be viewed from the temple gates. The most photographed part of the temple is the 11-tiered and three-tiered shrines on a small island reflected in the lake.

    In addition to the religious significance of the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, the complex is also known for its beautiful gardens, which are filled with tropical foliage and flowers. Visitors can also see kitsch cement statues of animals and plants, such as lions, owls, corncobs, and fish. The temple is also home to a small fenced compound containing a couple of barking deer.

    Photo Opportunities and Tips

    The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a great place for taking photographs, with its beautiful architecture and natural surroundings providing a stunning backdrop. Some tips for taking photos at the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple include:

    1. Look for interesting angles and perspectives. Instead of just taking a photo of the temple from the front, try moving around and finding different angles to capture the scenery.

    2. Use natural light to your advantage. The best time to take photos at the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is during the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and more natural.

    3. Look for details and patterns. In addition to capturing the overall beauty of the temple, look for small details and patterns in the architecture and the surrounding scenery.

    What Visitors Say They Liked About Visiting

    Many visitors to the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple rave about the stunning architecture and natural surroundings. The temple is located on the shores of Lake Beratan, with the beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains providing a breathtaking backdrop. Visitors also appreciate the opportunity to observe traditional Balinese rituals and ceremonies, and learn about the history and significance of the temple.

    What Visitors Say They Did Not Like About Visiting

    While most visitors to the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple have a positive experience, some have reported issues with overcrowding, particularly during peak tourist season. Others have mentioned the high prices of some of the food and drink options, and the lack of shade and seating in certain areas of the temple grounds.

    How Accessible is it for The Elderly, Children and Those With Mobility Issues?

    The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is generally accessible for elderly visitors, children, and those with mobility issues. The temple grounds have a flat surface and are easy to navigate, and there are several seating areas available for those who need to rest. However, some parts of the temple grounds may be more difficult to access for those with mobility issues, as there are stairs leading up to certain areas.

    Safety Tips When Visiting

    As with any religious site, it's important to respect local customs and traditions when visiting the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. Some safety tips to keep in mind when visiting include:

    1. Follow dress code guidelines. The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple has a dress code, which requires visitors to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.

    2. Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Observe traditional rituals and ceremonies with respect, and refrain from taking photographs during these times unless it is allowed.

    3. Stay hydrated. The highlands of central Bali can be cooler and more humid than other parts of the island, so be sure to bring plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day.

    Typical Amount of Time to Allocate for a Visit

    The typical amount of time to allocate for a visit to the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple depends on your interests and what you hope to do while there. If you're just looking to take in the sights and observe traditional rituals and ceremonies, an hour or two might be sufficient. However, if you're planning to explore the temple grounds and take in the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, you may want to allocate more time for your visit.

    Food and Drink Options Nearby

    There are several food and drink options available near the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, including local restaurants and cafes offering traditional Balinese cuisine. Visitors can also find refreshments and snacks at several stalls and vendors located near the temple.

    Conclusion

    The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a beautiful and important religious site located on the island of Bali. With its stunning architecture and natural surroundings, the temple is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you're interested in the temple's religious significance or just want to take in the beautiful views of Lake Beratan and the surrounding mountains, a visit to the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a unique and memorable experience. Just be sure to follow local customs and traditions and respect the temple's dress code, and you'll be sure to have a safe and enjoyable visit.

    Discover more destinations in North Bali


    Simon St John

    Editorial Team
    Hi, I’m
    Simon St John, Baligram’s writer. I am a published Author of travel guide books and a Travel Writer. I have visited Bali more than 35 times over a 25-year period. I share my passion for Bali’s nature, culture, and adventure in this travel guide. I welcome your feedback and ideas!
    Read about Simon and about Baligram.

    https://baligram.me
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