Ulun Danu Beratan: 8 Best Activities At Bali’s Floating Temple

One of the most famous places in Bali is the enchanting Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, or Pura Ulun Danu, which is located within the heart of Bali’s lush highlands. Often referred to as “The Floating Temple,” this extraordinary place of worship has earned its reputation as a “must-visit” tourist attraction, drawing in visitors from all over.

Nestled amidst the lush mountainous terrain, the Ulun Danu Bratan Temple radiates a sense of serenity, extending a warm invitation to both pilgrims and travellers as they immerse themselves in its tranquil charm. What sets this Balinese temple apart is its distinctive visual appeal, creating the illusion of a floating temple upon the serene surface of Lake Beratan, etching an unforgettable memory in the hearts of all who venture there.

What is Ulun Danu Beratan Temple?

The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (Pura Ulun Danu Beratan) is a sacred site dedicated as a homage to Dewi Danu, the Hindu goddess of the lake. According to local legend, Dewi Danu is said to take on the role of the lake’s protector, and her presence is believed to bring fertility and prosperity upon the vicinity.

History and Legends of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is part of the 9 Directional Temples of Bali, serving as a significant pilgrimage destination for all Hindu-Bali worshippers on the island. What sets these temples apart is their inclusivity, welcoming worshipers irrespective of their family lineage or stringent customs regulations.

The temple’s origins are traced back to the 17th century, during the rule of King I Gusti, Agung Putu of Mengwi. It was constructed on the shores of Lake Beratan, a sacred site within Balinese Hinduism community. In addition to that, the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple has connections to the Hindu deity Shiva, who is revered as the guardian of the lake.

Where is Ulun Danu Beratan Temple?

The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is located on the western shore of Lake Beratan in the Bedugul Highlands, which is in the Tabanan Regency of Bali.

The driving time to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple can vary depending on traffic conditions and your location. If you’re travelling from Ubud, you can expect the journey to take at around 1:30 hours, or around 2 hours if you’re coming from Kuta. Click here to get directions to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.

As this picturesque attraction is quite a distance away from most lodging options, we suggest enhancing your journey by pairing it with a visit to a nearby attraction like the Handara Gate or Wanagiri Hidden Hill to make the most of your experience.

Considering extra time for your travel is crucial, particularly if you’re on the road during peak traffic hours or if you encounter road closures or alternate routes. Bali’s streets can become heavily congested, especially when tourist seasons are at their peak, so it’s wise to carefully schedule your journey.

How do I get to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple?

There are plenty of ways to get to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple in Bali, Indonesia. Depending on where you are commuting from, the distance and time may vary. Among the popular modes of transport are:-

1. Using a Ride-Sharing Service

• Make sure to download apps such as Grab and Gojek as these 2 are the most popular ride-sharing service in Bali, Indonesia.

2. By Private Transportation

• If you’re staying at a hotel or villa in Bali, you can arrange for private transportation through your accommodation. Many hotels offer shuttle services or can help you hire a private car and driver for the day.
• Generally, the duration of the car rental is for 10 – 11 hours, inclusive of petrol and an English speaking driver. By taking this option, you can customise your own itinerary without the hassle of driving to places. Prices for the private car rental starts from 650k Rupiah.

3. Joining a Tour

• Many tour operators in Bali offer day tours that include a visit to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple as part of their itinerary. This can be a convenient option if you prefer to have transportation and a guide arranged for you.
• During our trip to Bali, Indonesia, we joined a private tour which handled all our transportation needs. We’d highly recommend this option, especially if you are travelling in larger groups, so that you can relax and leave all the itinerary planning to the tour operator.

4. By Renting a Scooter or Car

• Another option is to rent a scooter or car, which is cheaper option and gives you more flexibility in your schedule. However, please note that Bali traffic can be chaotic, so driving may be challenging for some travellers.

5. By Public Bus or Shuttle

• While Bali does have public transportation options, it might not be the most convenient way to reach Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, as public transport routes are limited, and schedules can be irregular. The best way to get there is to rent a scooter or hire a private car and driver (both of these can be booked online).

When is the best time to visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple?

You can visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple all year round, depending on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and the experience you seek. Generally, the best season to visit Bali, Indonesia is during the dry season (April to October) where you can expect much more sunnier days and minimal rainfall.

What time is Ulun Danu Beratan Temple open?

The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple welcomes visitors daily from 6am – 6pm. To make the most of your visit and reduce any potential waiting, we advise arriving early, ideally before the majority of tour vans and buses begin to arrive.

How much is the entrance fees to visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple?

Currently, the entrance fee for Ulun Danu Beratan Temple stands at IDR 75,000 for adults and IDR 50,000 for children. If you intend to arrive by vehicle, car parking incurs a fee of IDR 5,000, while motorbike parking costs IDR 3,000. It’s important to be aware that due to its extensive appeal to tourists, it’s a common practice for ticket prices to experience an annual increase.

What to do at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple?

1. Visit the Floating Temple

The main attraction of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is this magical looking floating temple which sits at the centre of the lake. It was specially built to honour Dewi Danu, the goddess of the lake.

2. Explore Lake Bratan

If you wish to get a closer view of the floating temple and an opportunity to venture out onto Lake Beratan, you have the option to rent a traditional Balinese paddle boat, also known as “Cadik or Jukung”. Alternatively, if you’re seeking a unique experience, there are also swan boats available for tourists, and you can even opt for a brief 15-20 minute speedboat ride.

3. Enjoy the stunning views

Surrounded by the abundant greenery and against the stunning backdrop of the tranquil Lake Beratan, the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple offers the perfect setting for a leisurely retreat. You can unwind and savour a picnic while taking in the captivating scenery that envelops you. There are lots of picturesque vantage points at the temple, so it’s advisable to arrive early to ensure that your photos remain free of any unwanted crowds.

Many people who love watching the sunrise like to visit the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. They come to enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and the nearby mountains as the sun comes up. This temple is famous for its stunning sunrise views, and it’s a great place to relax and watch the sun slowly rise into the sky.

4. Enjoy the Gardens

The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is also renowned for beautifully landscaped with well-maintained gardens, teeming with tropical plants and flowers, along with whimsical cement sculptures of animals and plants, including lions, owls, corn cobs, and fish.

5. Discover the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Explore the temples here, and take a leisurely stroll through its peaceful surroundings while appreciating the distinctive Balinese architectural style. For those that wish to learn more on the temple’s history and significance, you can most definitely do so with the help of local guides. Don’t miss the chance to witness or participate in Hindu ceremonies during your visit, offering a unique and culturally enriching experience.

6. Take a photo with the with exotic animals in Bali

Attention all animal enthusiasts! Elevate your Ulun Danu Beratan Bali vacation by seizing the opportunity to capture unforgettable moments with a diverse selection of photogenic creatures, including rabbits, snakes, parrots, and our beloved eagles.

7. Dine at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

A great way to enjoy the stunning view of Lake Beratan is to have a meal at the restaurant in Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. Come and taste the local traditional Balinese food and enjoy a cup of coffee brewed right here.

8. Shop for Souvenirs

There are often local vendors selling souvenirs and handicrafts in the vicinity of the temple. You can shop for traditional Balinese items here.

Useful tips

• Obviously don’t forget your camera!
• Bring cash as they don’t accept cards here.
• You can expect to spend at least 2 hours here and potentially more if you intend to explore the temple grounds and fully enjoy the breath-taking lake views.
• For the most rewarding experience and the opportunity to capture beautiful photos, it’s advisable to plan your visit on a bright and sunny day when you can fully appreciate the stunning lake view.
• Make sure to adhere to the dress code at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, which entails wearing modest attire covering the shoulders and knees.
• Carry along a hat, shades and sunscreen as it can get pretty hot whilst waiting in line for your turn.

Bonus Tips

Where to shop for souvenirs in Bali?

Wrap up your day with a visit to Krisna Bali, the perfect destination for souvenir shopping without the hassle of bargaining. This shopping hub offers a wide range of items, including accessories, food, perfumes, clothing, bags, and artworks, all at affordable prices. Ideal for those who prefer fixed prices, Krisna Bali has multiple outlets across Bali, so be sure to explore them during your stay. We received a glowing recommendation for this spot from our guide, making it a must-visit for budget-conscious travellers seeking quality souvenirs without the need for negotiation.

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