Tell me: What’s this place all about?
Known as Bali’s “floating temple,” Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is a 17th-century Hindu-Buddhist temple set against a backdrop of lush green mountains and Lake Bratan, the second-largest lake in Bali. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is comprised of several shrines and pagoda-like structures, the most notable being the meru, a multi-tiered shrine dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, lakes, and rivers, located on a small island on the lake. The architecture is classic Balinese Hindu design, with ornate carvings, statues, and intricate details. There are several smaller temples within the complex, each with a unique purpose, including shrines for offerings to other deities.
What’s it like being there?
The temple exudes an ethereal, otherworldly ambiance, particularly in the early morning when the lake is shrouded in mist and silence. While it’s a major tourist attraction, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan remains an active place of worship, with locals frequently visiting to offer prayers for agricultural prosperity. Religious ceremonies are held throughout the year, adding a spiritual dimension to the visit.
Is there a guide involved?
While the temple grounds are open to the public and visitors can explore them independently, many tour operators in Bali offer guided tours of the site. I visited on my own and was able to appreciate the temple facade, explore the manicured gardens and witness a religious procession taking place outside.
Who comes here?
The temple attracts a mix of visitors, from cultural enthusiasts and photographers to Instagrammers drawn by its stunning visuals. Its growing popularity has led to an increase in souvenir stalls and tourist-focused attractions including a small petting zoo. However, the grounds are spacious enough to find moments of tranquility away from the crowds—you can even rent a pedal boat to appreciate the temple from the water. As with most attractions in Bali, arriving early is recommended to avoid the masses.
Did it meet expectations?
Visiting Pura Ulun Danu Bratan feels like stepping into a painting, and it lives up to its reputation as one of Bali’s most beautiful temples. For a deeper cultural experience, try to catch one of the morning ceremonies, which provide a glimpse into the Balinese reverence for water and nature. It’s 30 miles north of Ubud, so many travelers pair it with other attractions in the Tabanan Regency, such as nearby waterfalls or the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces.
So then what, or who, do you think it’s best for?
I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to combine culture with natural beauty on a trip through Bali’s mountainous heart, where you can also explore the nearby Sekumpul, Gitgit, or Munduk waterfalls.
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