Take a boat out on the lake, join local worshippers or just take photos at one of Bali’s most iconic water temples.
Set against one of Bali’s highest peaks, the historic Ulun Danu Temple offers a portal into Bali’s spiritual and cultural life. Rising dramatically from the shores of Lake Bratan, the temple and its surrounds are a photographer’s dream.Built in 1663 as a directional temple in order to guard the island from evil spirits, Ulun Danu Temple is one of Bali’s main water temples. Its name means ‘the beginning of the lake’At its entrance is a stupa (burial ground). The main temple, Pura Teratai Bang, with its distinctive tiered wooden roof is situated on the shore of the lake and surrounded by a picturesque garden. The lake itself is known as the ‘lake of holy mountain’ in tribute to the fertility of the area and is even featured on the 5,000 Rupiah bank note. There are four temples in the complex. The Lingga Petak Temple is devoted to the Lord Siva Penataran Pucak Manggu Temple to the God Vishnu Terate Bang Temple to the God Brahma and Dalem Purwa Temple to the Goddess Danu.Situated some 1,200 metres above sea level, this region is noticeably cooler than elsewhere, so it’s advisable to bring a jacket. You can spend anywhere from an hour to half a day here. Enjoy the views as you walk along the lake’s shore or even rent a boat and venture onto the water for more incredible views. Or do as the locals do drop a fishing line, sit back and relax.Ulun Danu Temple is in the Bedugul area, 50 kilometres north of Denpasar. It is accessible by Bemos (mini-bus), hire car or via a local tour operator. Local guides and drivers are available to hire.
