On the shores of Lake Bratan in the Bedugul region of Bali, Indonesia, the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, also known as Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, is a stunning Hindu water temple. Dewi Danu, the lake goddess who is worshipped by Balinese people as the goddess of water, rivers, and lakes, is the subject of the temple.

The temple is a significant cultural and religious landmark in Bali, and postcards and posters advertising travel to the island frequently display its recognisable image. The temple complex is made up of a number of pagodas and shrines that are encircled by lotus ponds and beautiful green gardens, which contributes to the tranquil and quiet atmosphere. The Meru tower, which has 11 storeys and represents the various realms of heaven in Balinese Hindu cosmology, is the major draw of the temple.

Bali’s Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a well-liked tourist attraction where visitors can take pictures, stroll through the gardens, and discover Balinese Hindu customs and culture. There is a cost for international visitors to enter the temple, which is open to the public every day from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. To escape the crowds and enjoy the serene ambiance, it is best to visit the temple early in the morning or late in the day.

There are no precise records of the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple’s origins or construction, and its past is shrouded in mystery. Local lore and historical reports, however, claim that the temple was actually constructed in the 17th century, during the Mengwi kingdom’s rule.

Following is a timeline of some of the important occasions and turning points in Ulun Danu Beratan Temple’s history:

• 1633: The Mengwi kingdom, under the rule of I Gusti Agung Putu, constructed Ulun Danu Beratan Temple to honor the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu.
• 1663: The temple underwent extensive renovations and expansion under the rule of I Gusti Agung Made Agung, the son of I Gusti Agung Putu.
• 1894: The Dutch colonial administration took control of Bali and confiscated the temple’s land and properties.
• 1926: The temple underwent another significant renovation under the rule of the Rajah of Tabanan, I Gusti Nyoman Kaler.
• 1959: The temple was damaged by a massive earthquake that struck Bali, and the Indonesian government allocated funds for its restoration and repairs.
• 1973: The Bali government designated Ulun Danu Beratan Temple as a cultural heritage site and implemented measures to preserve and protect its cultural and historical significance.
• 2012: The temple underwent extensive renovations and restorations to preserve its unique architecture and cultural value.

1. Take a guided tour: Guided tours are available at the temple, and they provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and traditions of the Balinese people.
2. Photography: The temple and its surroundings offer stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
3. Boat ride: Visitors can rent a traditional Balinese boat and take a leisurely ride on Lake Bratan, which surrounds the temple.
4. Paddle boating: The temple also offers paddle boating services that allow visitors to explore the lake and its beautiful surroundings.
5. Explore the gardens: The temple is surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful lotus ponds, which offer a peaceful and serene environment to explore.
6. Witness a traditional ceremony: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is an active Hindu temple, and visitors can witness traditional Balinese ceremonies and rituals if they are lucky.
7. Learn about Balinese culture: Visitors can learn about Balinese culture and traditions by observing the temple’s architecture, artworks, and sculptures, which reflect the unique cultural identity of the Balinese people.
8. Feed and click photos with owl – Here in the garden you can feed and click photos with different species of owl.
9. Photo with Bat – They have kept “BAT” that is mostly sleeping. Tourists can click the photo with the bat.
10. Feed Luwak – One can also feed Luwak at one of the counter at Ulundanu Beratan temple.

Here are some interesting facts about Ulun Danu Beratan Temple:

1. The temple is located on the shores of Lake Bratan, which is one of the three main lakes in Bali, Indonesia.
2. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, who is revered by the Balinese people as the goddess of water, lakes, and rivers.
3. The temple was built in the 17th century by the Mengwi kingdom and underwent extensive renovations and expansions over the years.
4. The temple’s iconic image, with its multi-tiered roof and reflection on the lake, is a popular tourist attraction and is often featured on Bali tourism posters and postcards.
5. The temple’s main attraction is the Meru tower, which has 11 tiers, representing the different levels of heaven in Balinese Hindu cosmology.
6. The temple is an active Hindu temple, and traditional Balinese ceremonies and rituals are held at the temple throughout the year.
7. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple was designated as a cultural heritage site by the Bali government in 1973 and is now a protected site.
8. The temple is open to visitors daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, and there is an entrance fee for foreigners.
9. The temple’s architecture and design reflect a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist styles and showcase the intricate carvings and sculptures of Balinese craftsmen.
10. The temple is surrounded by lush green gardens, lotus ponds, and beautiful scenery, offering a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to explore and enjoy.