Pura Ulun Danu Beratan – Bali’s Famous Water Temple

Built in the 17th century to worship the main Hindu trinity, Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva, as well as the lake goddess, Dewi Danu, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan’s main reason for its popularity is that it floats on the lake. Upon entering the temple gates, you will notice the typical Balinese architectural features and the tiered shrines. Inside the complex, the three main shrines are dedicated to the worship of god Vishnu which boasts eleven tiers, god Brahma with seven tiers and Shiva with three tiers. This temple complex is also home to a megalithic artifact in the form of a sarcophagus and stone tablet, which has led to the assumption that it was a consecrated site before the Hindu temple was built.

There are two floating shrines – the Tengahing Segara Temple with eleven roofs devoted to worship Vishnu and the lake goddess and the Lingga Petak Temple with three roofs and the sacred well that contains holy water which is believed to be the main source of Lake Beratan’s water and fertility.

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is easily Bali’s most iconic sanctuary sharing the scenic qualities with the seaside temples of Uluwatu and Tanah Lot. The smooth reflective surface of the lake surrounding most of the temple’s base creates a unique floating impression, while the mountain range of the Bedugul region encircling the lake provides the temple with a scenic backdrop. However, the temple is not always floating, so you need to plan your visit carefully, depending on when the tide is low or high. Moreover, there are rainy days which result in a lot of fog with little visibility.

A visit to Pura Ulun Danu Beratan costs 50,000 IDR – I’m wondering if this is due to the fact that the temple is showcased on the 50,000 IDR note. Inside the temple complex, you can hire traditional jukung outriggers to tour the lake or motorized boats for a quicker ride. This floating temple is definitely worth a visit (but only when it’s floating).

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan
Address: Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia
Opening Hours: 8am to 6pm daily