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The Ulun Danu Bratan Temple (also called Pura Ulun Danu Beratan) is a famous Hindu water temple located in the north-central region of Bali, Indonesia. Because it is situated on the coast of Lake Beratan, the temple is fondly known as the “floating temple.” The temple complex is surrounded by the dreamy mountain region of Bedugul which adds to the beauty of this sacred spot.
Where is Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple is located in the north-central region of Bali in a village called Bedugul. The entire temple complex is along the banks of Lake Beratan (Danau Beratan) which gives it a very serene vibe. It is most easily accessible from Munduk since it’s only a 30 minute drive. However, it is also possible to do a day trip from Ubud or Canggu with a little over an hour drive each way.
Overview of Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
| Address | Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191 |
| Region | Bedugul, Bali |
| Elevation | 1200 m |
| Entrance fee | 50,000 IDR ($3.50 USD) |
| Opening Hours | 7 am to 7 pm |
| When to go | November to May (rainy season) |
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple history
The Pura Ulun Danu Beratan was built in the 1600’s in dedication to 3 of the Hindu Gods, Brajma, Vishnu and Shiva, along with the Balinese lake goddess Dewi Danu. Each of the three main tiered shrines at the temple are associated with one of the three aforementioned Hindu gods. The temple is intended to bring fertility and prosperity to the surrounding region since the lake it sits on, Lake Beratan, is the main source of irrigation in central Bali.
>>Read: Visit the Largest Buddhist Temple in Indonesia!
What to expect at Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
As soon as you purchase your ticket and enter the grounds you’ll find that it is a pretty large complex. Inside there are 3 main shrines in the traditional tiered structure, as well as gorgeous gardens.
After you go through the main gates you can turn left to see the two iconic floating shrines. Because they are in the water and there are many spots along the coastline, it is possible to get photos without other people in them even if there are big crowds.
While there are a couple places that tourists aren’t allowed to enter, this place honestly feels 100% geared towards tourism. There are many shops surrounding the complex as well as a children’s playground. While these can be nice facilities, they do detract from the authenticity a bit.
Outside of the temple grounds is a pier where you can rent the iconic boats for a different vantage of the temples.
>>Tip: visit the other top things to do in Munduk while you’re here!
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple Opening Hours
The official hours they have posted are 7 am to 7 pm, however many people go for sunrise and are allowed to enter.
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple Entrance Fee
The 2019 entrance fee for Ulun Danu Bratan Temple is 50K IDR ($3.50 USD) per person, is cash only.
>> Also visit the nearby Banyumala Twin Waterfalls!
How to get to Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
It is easy to get to Ulun Danu Bratan Temple by either renting a scooter or hiring a driver for the day. There are also many organized tours that will take you here. While it’s easiest to get to the temple from Munduk, it is still an easy day trip from many popular areas like Canggu, Seminyak or Ubud.
Munduk to Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
The drive from Munduk to the temple is a short 30 minutes and is full of gorgeous views along the way! If you feel comfortable driving a scooter it’s the easiest and cheapest way to get to the temple, otherwise you can hire a driver to take you around all the best things to do in Munduk for the day.
Ubud to Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Depending on traffic, it takes about 1-2 hours to get to the temple from Ubud. We’d only recommend this on a scooter if you are very confident on major roads, otherwise hiring a driving for the day is the best way to go!
Is it actually a floating temple?
The answer is both yes and no since it depends on the time of year! We were very bummed to find a temple that was indeed not floating when we went in October. This was because it was the end of dry season and the water had receded from the shoreline, leaving the temple just sitting on grass.
Best time to visit Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
The best time to visit Ulun Danu Bratan Temple is in the wet season, from November through May. During this time the water levels are high enough for the temple to appear floating, and also high enough to take a boat ride on the lake overlooking the temple.
The temple complex is beautiful at all times of day, but to avoid crowds going before 10 am is best. Because of the gorgeous colors and reflections many photographers and artists love to spend sunrise here, too!
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple Dress Code
Because it is a place of worship, it is important to dress conservatively. While they are very open to visitors here and we didn’t see them turning anyone away, it’s respectful modest and cover your knees and shoulders if you can.
Note: we were not prepared to visit this day so Kylie had bare shoulders, and they still let us in.
Other rules for visiting
- Women should not visit during their period
- Keep the area clean, this is of upmost importance in Hinduism
- The complex does not allow drones
Is it worth going?
Again, yes and no. During the rainy season, I’m sure it would get two thumbs up from us. However, during the dry season it really loses a lot of its magic since it isn’t floating. That said, we’d highly recommend visiting in the wet season and suggest you taper your expectations if you’re visiting other times of year.
>> Read: Is Bali’s famous Handara Gate worth visiting??
Where to stay near the floating temple
The beautiful Munduk Moding Plantation is a short 20 minute drive from the floating temple, so it’s a great place to stay when you visit.
See the amazing property in the video below!
Enjoy your time at the floating temple!
Kylie & Scott
(If you liked this article or have any questions, please comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften)
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