Ulun Danu Beratan Temple Bali Guide: Tickets, Highlights & Visiting Tips

Ulun Danu Beratan — or Pura Ulun Danu Beratan — is a remarkable Hindu temple complex built in 1633 by the King of Mengwi, I Gusti Agung Putu. The worship of the goddess of water, lakes, and rivers — Dewi Danu — the foremost goddess in Bali's agrarian culture, was the primary purpose for the temple's construction, as water is the main factor in the island's traditional irrigation system and spiritual practices.

Located differently compared to the majority of the coastal temples in Bali, Ulun Danu Beratan also has a beautiful and cool atmosphere due to its location on a jungle plateau at approximately 1,200–1,500 metres' elevation amid misty highlands.  It is a fact that it very nicely sees Bali's warmer lowlands contrasting with the temple's refreshing atmosphere, which very much makes it more appealing. The temple's goddess identification is the reason why it is a major holy water source for the island inhabitants who perform offerings to get water, and consequently fertility, crop production and life-giving water flows are coming to the island.

Bali's temples are often constructed with an open-air design consisting of several major areas with courtyards, sacred altars, and ornamental entrances. Ulun Danu Beratan is no exception; the beautiful pagoda-like temples (merus) are standing with thatched roofs in odd levels representing the heavenly hierarchy and the significance of the gods they worship.

The most prominent building with 11 levels is mostly associated with the water goddess Dewi Danu. Next to it are more altars and places for the rituals which together create a holy area that is characterised by reflections, water and ritual space, all of them merged into a single spiritual environment.

Located on the western bank of Lake Beratan, the temple appears to be one with the water during the rise of the lake level or even when the water just comes to the shore. Surrounded by green hills and sometimes even white clouds, the atmosphere of the temple is very close to heaven, and on silent days, the lake can be the temple’s perfect mirror. The whole area around Bedugul is an attractive retreat for both locals and tourists — due to its pleasant temperature, rich soil, strawberries, and flower gardens — and Ulun Danu Beratan is a cultural highlight in the midst of a nature-rich landscape.

Fun Fact: Ulun Danu Beratan is usually referred to as a water temple due to its significance in the Balinese agrarian belief systems and its physical location on the edge of a lake— it is one of the most beautiful visual examples of water-worship temples in Bali.

Seasonal Tip: For the best photos and to beat the crowds, come early in the morning around sunrise or late in the afternoon when the light is softer and the lake reflections are at their brightest.

• Scenic lakeside views with a floating-temple illusion
• Sacred multi-tiered meru shrines dedicated to Dewi Danu
• Deep cultural and spiritual significance in Balinese Hinduism
• Cool highland climate is unique to the Bedugul region
• Stunning reflection photography opportunities
• Easy access to nearby gardens, markets, and waterfalls

Whether you’re here for spirituality, photography, or nature, Ulun Danu Beratan offers a multi-layered experience grounded in both culture and landscape.

Location: Lake Beratan, Candikuning Village, Baturiti, Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia
Suggested Duration: 2–4 hours

Nearby Attractions & Day Trips

• Bali Botanical Garden: A vast collection of tropical and highland plant species
• Bedugul Traditional Market: Local produce, strawberries, flowers, and snacks
• Handara Gate: A popular scenic stop for photographs
• Banyumala Waterfall: A peaceful waterfall surrounded by forest
• Tamblingan & Buyan Lakes: Quiet lake escapes ideal for canoeing and nature walks

Day-Trip Tip:
Combine your visit with a stop at the botanical gardens and Bedugul market. Many travellers also enjoy a boat ride on Lake Beratan to view the temple from the water.

Lakeside Setting & Reflective Views

The defining feature of Ulun Danu Beratan is its picturesque lakeside location. On calm days, the water reflects the temple, surrounding hills, and sky.

• Feature: Expansive lake reflections
• Experience: Sunrise and sunset photography
• Why It’s Special: Seamless harmony between architecture and nature

Multi-Tiered Meru Shrines

The pagoda-style shrines form the spiritual heart of the complex.

• Feature: Tiered thatched roofs
• Experience: Walk along lakeside paths for multiple viewing angles
• Cultural Note: The number of tiers signifies the importance of the deity

Temple Gardens & Walking Paths

The shrines are encircled by lush gardens and calm walking paths.

• Feature: Tropical plants and flowers in beds
• Experience: Slow wandering and silent introspection

Lake Activities & Boat Rides

The lake offers the option of either paddle boats or the traditional wooden boats for the visitors' enjoyment.

• Feature: Boating for recreation
• Experience: One-of-a-kind views from the water level of the temple

Cultural Ceremonies & Rituals

Ulun Danu Beratan is still an active religious place.

• Feature: Incense and rituals
• Experience: Experience the Balinese religious practices through a respectful gaze

Pro Tip: Sarongs are often rented for 10,000–20,000 IDR (~₹830–1,660); digital payments are increasing, but cash is safest.

Best Visiting Tips

• Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and better reflections
• Late afternoon offers warm light and cooler temperatures
• The dry season (April–October) is ideal for sightseeing
• Weekdays are quieter than weekends

From Ubud: 1–1.5 hours by car or scooter
From Seminyak / Kuta: 1.5–2.5 hours
From Denpasar: Around 1–1.5 hours

Transport Options

• Taxi or ride-hailing
• Private driver or guided tour
• Scooter rental for experienced riders

• Arrive early for calm surroundings and better photos
• Dress modestly in temple areas
• Bring cash for tickets and small purchases
• Combine nearby attractions for a full-day itinerary
• Wear comfortable footwear for damp or uneven paths

• Lakeside cafés serving snacks and drinks
• Bedugul Market for fruits and local produce
• Restaurants with views of Lake Beratan
• Souvenir stalls selling handicrafts and keepsakes

Morning:
Visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and explore the gardens

Late Morning:
Walk through Bali Botanical Garden

Lunch:
Enjoy a lakeside meal

Afternoon:
Shop at Bedugul Market or relax near the nearby waterfalls

The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a representation of the spiritual balance between nature and culture in Bali. It is a peaceful place, with a religious function and natural beauty; thus, it becomes a place that every traveller who seeks deep experiences should visit.

1. Photograph the floating temple
2. Walk the lakeside gardens
3. Take a boat ride on Lake Beratan
4. Visit Bali Botanical Garden
5. Explore Bedugul Market

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is quite an ancient and brilliant example of Bali's respect for water, nature, and religion. The temple located by the lake offers a very memorable and especially Balinese experience, whether you do it in the name of culture and heritage or are just looking for peace.