Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is one of Bali’s most iconic and scenic temples, famous for its unique position that looks like it’s floating on Lake Beratan in Bedugul. The significance of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is deeply tied to harmony between people, nature, and spiritual life. It’s no wonder the temple often shows up on postcards, Rupiah notes, and Bali tourism promos.
Sitting at around 1,200 meters above sea level in the cool Bedugul highlands, the temple offers a refreshing escape with misty air and peaceful surroundings. It’s also an important place for agricultural worship, where locals pray for water and fertility, both essential for Balinese farming life. If you plan to visit, here is some information about Pura Ulun Danu, a beautiful temple worth visiting. If you plan to visit, here is some information about Pura Ulun Danu, a beautiful pura in Bali worth visiting!
Overview & History of Pura Ulun Danu Beratan
Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a beautiful water temple (pura tirta) that sits on the edge of Lake Beratan in the cool highlands of Bedugul, Tabanan Regency, Bali. Sitting at around 1,200 meters above sea level, the temple is surrounded by misty air and peaceful scenery.
With its tiered meru tower that looks like it’s floating on the lake, it’s easy to see why this place has become one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks. You might even recognize it from the old Rp50,000 banknote.
The Ulun Danu Temple is nearly 400 years old, built in 1633 AD by the King of Mengwi, I Gusti Agung Putu, who also built the famous Pura Taman Ayun. The Ulun Danu Temple was built as a place to worship Goddess Danu, the goddess of water, to pray for plenty of water and good harvests. It holds an important role for Bali’s farming communities, especially those who rely on the subak irrigation system.
The temple complex includes several smaller temples, each with its own purpose:
- Pura Penataran Agung, the main spot for big ceremonies
- Pura Dalem Purwa, dedicated to the god of death and the spiritual realm
- Pura Lingga Petak, a small temple on its own little island, and the most photographed
- Pura Teratai Bang, often used for melasti rituals and other spiritual activities
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple location makes it a peaceful stop for those exploring Bali’s natural and spiritual beauty.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple Entrance Fee
Here’s a simple breakdown of the entrance fee for Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, which can vary based on the day and visitor category.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the entrance fee for Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, which can vary based on the day and visitor category.
On weekdays:
- Indonesian visitors: IDR 40,000
- Locals with a Bali ID: IDR 30,000
- Indonesian children (ages 5–10): IDR 20,000
- Foreign tourists: IDR 75,000
- Foreign children (ages 5–10): IDR 50,000
On weekends and national holidays:
- Indonesian visitors: IDR 50,000
- Bali ID holders: still IDR 30,000
- Indonesian children: IDR 20,000
- Foreign tourists: IDR 75,000
- Foreign children: IDR 50,000
Besides the entrance ticket, there’s also a parking fee depending on your vehicle. Motorcycles are charged IDR 3,000, private cars IDR 5,000, and tourist buses IDR 10,000. Payments are usually cash in IDR, so it’s a good idea to bring small bills or exact change.
For the best experience, come early, around 7 to 8 a.m. The morning fog creates a dramatic scene that’s perfect for photos. It’s also less crowded at that time. On weekends or during high season, arriving early or joining a tour can help you skip the long lines. Around the temple, you’ll also find stalls selling Balinese traditional food and Balinese souvenirs, perfect for a quick snack or gift shopping after your visit.
What to Explore Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
1. Sacred Temple Complex
This spot includes several smaller temples, each with its own spiritual role. The main temple honors Dewi Danu, the Balinese Hindu goddess of water. It’s still an active place for ceremonies and daily offerings.
2. Water Activities
You can hop on a duck boat or speedboat to cruise around Lake Beratan. It’s a fun way to see the temple from the water and snap some great photos.
3. Beautiful Gardens and Scenic Paths
The temple grounds are full of bright flowers and traditional Balinese statues. It’s a relaxing place for a walk or even a small picnic with family.
4. Mini Museum and Cultural Info
Inside the area, there’s a small museum where you can learn about the lake’s history and how the traditional subak irrigation system connects to Balinese farming and spirituality.
5. Souvenirs and Local Bites
Right outside the temple, you’ll find local stalls selling everything from Balinese snacks to handcrafted souvenirs like fabric, carvings, and coffee.
How to Get There
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple sits right by Lake Beratan in Candikuning Village, Baturiti, Tabanan, Bali. It’s about 1,200 meters above sea level, so the air is cool and fresh.
If you’re coming from Kuta, Seminyak, or Canggu, the drive takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. From Ubud, it’s quicker, just about 1 to 1.5 hours. This makes it easy to plan a day trip to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple from Ubud, especially if you’re staying in a peaceful villa nearby.
Transportation options:
1. Private Car or Rental with Driver
Great if you want comfort and flexibility. You can also stop by other spots like the Bedugul Botanical Garden or Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. Rates usually start from IDR 900,000 to 1,400,000 per day.
2. Motorbike Rental (Scooter)
A fun choice for experienced riders who enjoy freedom on the road.
3. Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Grab/Gojek)
Convenient for one-way trips from Denpasar, Ubud, or Kuta. Fares range between IDR 430,000 to 550,000. Just make sure you plan your return, since it can be tricky to get a ride back.
4. Bus or Shuttle Tour
Perama Tour offers shuttles from Sanur or Denpasar to Bedugul for around IDR 250,000 to 275,000 one way. You can also join a full day Bedugul or UNESCO tour with transportation included.
Best Time to Visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
The best time to visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is during the dry season, from April to October. The weather is usually clear, the lake looks beautiful, and it’s perfect for walking around the gardens or taking photos. It’s better to skip the rainy season (November to March) since heavy fog and rain can block the views and make things less comfortable.
If you want a calm, scenic visit, come in the morning between 7 to 9:30 a.m. The air is cool, the crowds are smaller, and the light is great for photos, especially when the temple reflects on the lake.
But if mornings aren’t your thing, the late afternoon, around 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., is also a great time. The vibe is peaceful, and the soft sunset light adds a nice touch. Try to avoid visiting around midday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., when it tends to be crowded and too bright for good pictures.
Nearby Attractions from Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
1. Bali Botanical Garden
Found in Bedugul, this is the biggest botanical garden in Indonesia. It’s great for a relaxed walk with cool mountain air all around. You’ll also find an orchid garden, a cactus house, and a canopy bridge for a fun nature escape.
2. Candi Kuning Traditional Market
This local market is full of fresh produce like strawberries, flowers, and organic veggies. You can also grab some Balinese souvenirs while enjoying the lively vibe.
3. Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan
These twin lakes are calm and surrounded by nature. You can go for a light trek, camp, or canoe while soaking in the peaceful scenery.
4. Wanagiri Hidden Hills
Known for its fun photo spots like cliff swings, bird nests, and views over Lake Buyan. A top pick for those who love capturing moments with a scenic backdrop.
5. The Blooms Garden
A wide flower park filled with colorful blooms and creative setups, great for couples or families. There’s even a Dutch-style garden, tiny windmills, and rows of lavender.
Final Thought On Ulun Danu Temple
Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a blend of spiritual charm and natural beauty in Bali. With its peaceful lake setting, mountain air, and rich history, it offers a unique experience that complements other famous temples like Pura Uluwatu. Whether you’re exploring Bali’s highlands or the coast, make your journey smoother with Ini Vie Hospitality, known for delivering some of the best hospitality management in Bali.
