A visit to Pura Ulun Danu Beratan

A few years ago, I visited Bali in Indonesia. And honestly, I was amazed by the number of temples that existed in Bali. The temples were spectacular and huge. And as part of that travel, I also visited Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, which I adorably address as the floating temple as a part of the temple is set on the water.

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About Pura Ulun Danu Beratan

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is a 17th century temple in Bali dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in adoration of Goddess Danu. Located 1200 metres above the sea level in Denpasar, the temple is set on the shores of Lake Bratan. The temple is one of the nine Kahyangan Jagat temples in Bali.

It is the most photographed temple and one of the spiritual experiences in Bali. The temple is in Balinese architectural style and the highlight of the temple complex is the 11 storey building, dedicated to Lord Shiva, sitting on the lake that appears to be floating on the calm lake.

The temple complex also has a Buddhist stupa where Buddhists worship Buddha. The stupa signifies religious harmony. It is the harmony between the two religions Hinduism and Buddhism.

In Bali, the Hindu temples are known as Pura.

• The temple is open between 7 AM and 7 PM everyday except Sunday where it is open between 5 AM and 7 PM.
• There is an entrance fee of IDR 50,000 per person (check at the entrance for up to date prices). The tickets are purchased at the entrance of the temple.
• Wear appropriate clothing as it is a temple and you are required to respect the premise and the God. There are sarongs that can be borrowed at the entrance of the temple.
• The temple does not have any restaurants or cafes. Food stalls are set up during the festivals.

How to get to Pura Ulun Danu Beratan?

The best way to travel in Bali is by either hiring a taxi or renting a motorbike. I had hired a day taxi and the taxi drove me from the place I stayed (Seminyak) to the temple.

The temple is around 57 kilometres (1 hour 30 minutes) from Seminyak by car. The day taxi cost me IDR 500,000 per day but that included many other places that I visited along.

Unfortunately, there is no direct bus to Pura Ulun Danu Beratan. The only way is to either drive/ ride or take a taxi.

Story of Pura Ulun Danu Beratan

The history of Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is written on traditional lontar leaves manuscript. It is believed that to overcome a loss of a battle and to gain strength and enlightenment, I Gusti Agung Putu went to Mount Mangu, near Lake Beratan to meditate. After gaining victory, he then built a temple at the same spot and established his own empire, the Mengwi Kingdom.

The same manuscript also suggests that the location has been a sacred place for rituals since the Megalithic era. The temple is named after Goddess Danu, the queen of water.

Safety for solo female travelers

I found Bali to be very safe for solo female travelers even though some fellow travelers of mine disagree. I did not have any issues whatsoever and people were very friendly most of the time. Having said that, I did not venture out too much after sunset as well and I traveled to Bali twice, the first time with two girl friends of mine and the second time alone.

Like any other place, it is best to be cautious and know your surroundings, especially at nights. Also, selecting the best and safe accommodation makes a huge difference when you are traveling alone. Here is a detailed guide on where to stay in Bali.

Closing Notes

I loved this temple. It was so pretty and is definitely one of the best temples I visited in Bali. I wish I had spent more time there looking around and exploring. I highly recommend visiting this temple along with the Tanah Lot when in Bali. I will definitely visit Bali again and go to these temples to learn more about the history and the traditions.

Have you visited Pura Ulun Danu Beratan? What did you think? Let me know in the comments below.

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