NORTH OF BALI
Things to Know Before Visiting Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Bali
Ready for an adventure that’s anything but ordinary? Let’s ditch the crowded beaches and head to Bali’s enchanting highlands, where a hidden gem awaits – Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. Picture this: mist-shrouded mountains, a tranquil lake reflecting the sky, and a temple that appears to magically float on the water. This isn’t just a temple; it’s a photographer’s dream, a nature lover’s sanctuary, and a window into Bali’s rich cultural heritage.
Known as the “floating temple,” Ulun Danu Beratan is a visual masterpiece. Its reflection on the still lake creates an illusion so captivating that you’ll find yourself reaching for your camera again and again. But there’s more to this place than meets the eye. This temple is a living testament to Bali’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions, dedicated to the goddess of water and central to the island’s agricultural rituals.
Intrigued? Get ready to dive into our exclusive guide, packed with everything you need to know before you embark on this unforgettable journey. We’ll reveal the best ways to get there, insider tips for maximizing your experience, and fascinating stories that bring the temple’s history to life. Whether you’re seeking a moment of Zen, a cultural immersion, or simply a jaw-dropping backdrop for your next social media post, Ulun Danu Bratan promises to exceed your expectations.
So, are you ready to trade the ordinary for the extraordinary? Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is calling – let’s answer the call together!
Ulundanu Temple: A Brief History
The story of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a captivating one, deeply interwoven with the history and spiritual traditions of Bali. It’s believed that the temple’s origins stretch back to the megalithic period, around 500 BC, as evidenced by ancient relics found in the vicinity. However, the temple we see today is a result of a 17th-century reconstruction led by the King of Mengwi, I Gusti Agung Putu.
This picturesque sanctuary, nestled on the shores of Lake Bratan, was strategically chosen for its serene beauty and the lake’s crucial role in providing water for the surrounding agricultural lands. The temple’s dedication to Dewi Danu, the revered goddess of water, lakes, and rivers, underscores the importance of water in Balinese culture and the island’s intricate irrigation system known as “subak.”
The architecture of Ulun Danu Beratan is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Buddhist elements, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of these two religions in Bali. The temple complex consists of several shrines and pagodas, each with its unique style and purpose. The most iconic structure is the 11-roofed “pelinggih meru,” dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and his consort Parvati.
Over the centuries, the temple has witnessed the ebb and flow of Balinese history, surviving natural disasters and political upheavals. It has remained a spiritual anchor for the local community, a place where generations have come to seek blessings, offer prayers, and celebrate religious festivals.
Today, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple stands as a testament to Bali’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring power of its spiritual traditions. It continues to be an active place of worship, a cultural landmark, and a source of inspiration for all who visit its sacred grounds.
Architecture and Design
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is not merely a place of worship; it’s a masterpiece of Balinese architecture, a harmonious blend of artistry and spirituality. The temple complex is a collection of shrines and pagodas, each with its unique charm and symbolism.
The most iconic structure is the majestic Pelinggih Meru, a multi-tiered pagoda with eleven roofs. This architectural marvel is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and his consort Parvati, symbolizing their divine union. The odd number of roofs is a common feature in Balinese temple architecture, representing the connection between the earthly and spiritual realms.
Another noteworthy structure is the Linga Pura, a three-tiered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its distinct shape and intricate carvings reflect the reverence for this powerful deity. The Pura Puncak Mangu, an 11-tiered shrine, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe.
The temple’s design seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, creating a sense of harmony between the human-made and the divine. The reflective waters of Lake Bratan enhance the temple’s ethereal beauty, creating the illusion that it’s floating on the water, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The use of black volcanic stone for the temple’s construction adds to its mystique, contrasting beautifully with the lush greenery and the azure sky. The intricate carvings adorning the shrines and pagodas depict mythological figures, animals, and floral motifs, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of Balinese artisans
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a testament to the deep connection between Balinese people and their natural environment. Its architecture is not just about aesthetics; it’s a reflection of their spiritual beliefs, cultural traditions, and reverence for the elements. A visit to this temple is not just a visual treat; it’s a journey into the heart of Balinese art and spirituality.
Significance
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple isn’t just an architectural wonder; it’s a spiritual cornerstone of Balinese life. This sacred site holds deep significance for the Balinese people, representing the harmonious relationship between humanity, nature, and the divine.
- Water’s Divine Essence: At its core, the temple is a tribute to Dewi Danu, the revered goddess of water. In Bali, water is considered a life-giving force, essential for agriculture and sustenance. The temple’s location on the shores of Lake Bratan, a major source of irrigation for the region, reflects this deep connection between water and prosperity. Dewi Danu is believed to bless the land with fertility and abundance, ensuring bountiful harvests and a thriving community.
- Spiritual Harmony: The temple complex is a microcosm of Balinese cosmology, with each shrine representing different deities and aspects of the universe. The main shrine, dedicated to Dewi Danu, is the focal point, while other shrines honor deities like Shiva and Vishnu, creating a spiritual tapestry that reflects the interconnectedness of all things.
- Living Traditions: Ulun Danu Beratan is not just a historical relic; it’s a living testament to Balinese Hinduism. Regular ceremonies and rituals are held at the temple, offering a glimpse into the island’s vibrant spiritual practices. Visitors are welcome to witness these ceremonies, gaining a deeper understanding of the temple’s significance and the role it plays in the lives of local people.
- Subak System: The temple is also closely linked to the “subak” system, Bali’s intricate irrigation network. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a marvel of ancient engineering and community cooperation, ensuring the equitable distribution of water resources. Ulun Danu Beratan serves as a spiritual center for the subak system, highlighting the interdependence of nature and human ingenuity.
Ulun Danu Beratan has weathered natural disasters and political upheavals, yet it remains a beacon of resilience and faith. The temple’s continued importance in Balinese society speaks to the enduring power of its symbolism and the deep-rooted connection between the people and their spiritual traditions.
Best Time to Visit Goa Gajah Temple
As always with outdoor destinations, it’s best to visit in the early morning hours before 10:00 pm. The best time to visit is after 5:00 pm when the jungle provides more shade and the sun is starting to set.
Between mid-March and October (Dry Season) is the most recommended time to visit, but any other month shouldn’t stop you from visiting the Elephant Cave. November to February is Bali’s wet season and can experience unforgiving rainfall at times.
However, the temple is still open all year round. The upside to visiting during the rainy season is that you’ll likely have the place mostly to yourself. An large umbrella will conquer the rain easily.
The Location
Goa Gajah is located approximately 5 kilometers southeast of Ubud in Bedulu, Gianyar. The exact location on Google Maps is Bedulu, Blahbahtuh, Gianyar Regency. It is a short drive from the centre of Ubud.
The temple complex is easily accessible by car, motorbike, or scooter and is a popular stop for visitors exploring Ubud and surrounding areas. The site itself sits near the Petanu River which adds to the mystical ambiance.
Here is the distance from major areas in Bali
- Central Ubud: 13-15 minutes
- Seminyak: 1.5 hours
- Canggu: 1.5 hours
- Kuta / Legian: 1.5 hours
- Bali Airport: 1.5 hours
- Nusa Dua: 1.5 hours
- Uluwatu: 2 hours
- Amed: 2.5 hours
Goa Gajah Opening Hours
You can visit Goa Gajah any day of the week. It is open from 8:00 am until 6:00 pm, but if you enter before 6:00 pm, you can continue exploring until 7:00 pm.
I recommend staying about 1 hour – although you can make it a quicker visit just the visit the Elephant Cave. But if you’d like to explore the entire property which extends all the way to the river at the bottom, take your time and spend 1 – 1.5 hours.
Entrance Fee
The entrance fee to Goa Gajah is IDR 50,000 and goes toward maintaining the property and keeping it clean and presentable for visitors.
Tickets can be paid with IDR cash or with credit / debit cards. After purchasing your entrance tickets, you can enter and stay as long as you wish. The entrance fee includes a sarong rental.
- Foreign adults: IDR 50,000 (AUD $5 or USD $3.15)
- Foreign children: IDR 25,000 (AUD $2.50 or USD $1.60)
Upon exiting, you’ll need to pay your parking fee. If you’re visiting the temple with one of our drivers, you don’t need worry about this. Parking fees are not included in your entrance fee.
- Car parking fee: IDR 10,000
- Scooter parking fee: IDR 5,000
What to Do at Goa Gajah
Explore the Elephant Cave – As previously mentioned, the Elephant Cave itself is quite small. You can enter to explore the interior. Inside of the cave, you’ll find a Ganesha statue and the lingam and yoni
Take photos – The entire temple complex provides tons of opportunities to get picturesque photos. The surrounding jungle and massive trees create an exotic backdrop.
Get a workout – The first thing you’ll notice upon entering is the never ending amount of stairs. While the descent is easy work, the climb back up will definitely work the thighs and calves.
Enjoy the atmosphere – One of my favourite things about the temple is that the jungle completely soundproofs the area – not a single sound of a scooter or car, just the fainting sounds of a few cascading waterfalls.
Find the Buddhist temple – If you keep following the stairways, you’ll eventually come across a small Buddhist temple after a huge tree with massive roots. Here you will likely run into an old gentleman who will ask you if you want to know more about the temple. This is not a scam nor is he trying to upsell you. He simply wants people to learn more about Bali’s Buddhist past. However, his English is not that great.
Shop for souvenirs – At the entrance, you’ll pass several vendors selling souvenirs like handmade crafts, sarongs, and small knick-knacks. I suggest saving your souvenir shopping for Ubud Art Market instead.
Visit the temples – Near the Elephant Cave at the back of the courtyard are active Balinese temples. You can enter these if you wish to explore. If there’s a ceremony, please be respectful and quiet.
Sit by the bathing pools – Sit and enjoy the quietness for a few moments. You’ll be sitting in a place once used by people over a thousand years ago.
Visit the waterfalls – There are a few waterfalls that run through the complex. Although they’re not as picturesque as some of the best waterfalls in Bali, they compliment the exotic nature of the temple.
Walk down to the river – If you follow the stairways all the way to the bottom, it will take you to Petanu River. You can find signs pointing to “Elephant River.” This area is quite serene and I suggest taking a break here to enjoy the nature.
Attractions near Goa Gajah
Yeh Pulu Temple – 1.4 km away
- ARMA (Agung Rai Museum of Art) – 3.4 km away
- Ubud Monkey Forest – 4.2 km away
- Ubud Palace Legong Dance – 5.2 km away
- Ubud Art Market – 5.3 km away
- Saraswati Temple (Ubud Water Palace) – 5.4 km away
- Blanco Museum – 6.2 km away
- Kanto Lampo Waterfall – 6.2 km away
- Tibumana Waterfall – 10.5 km away
Travel Tips
Here are a few tips to make the most out of your visit:
- Bring water. You can also buy water from the souvenir shops.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Take tons of photos! The entire complex is filled with Instagrammable spots.
- Dress modestly. It is a temple. If you’re wearing shorts or short skirts, you’ll be provided a sarong (included in your entrance ticket).
- Politely refusing souvenir vendors who are trying to sell you items.
