Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is one of the most famous and picturesque temples in Bali. It is located on the western shore of Lake Beratan, in the mountains of Bedugul, at an altitude of about 1,200 metres above sea level. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is one of Bali’s most recognisable symbols and frequently appears on postcards, posters, and promotional materials for the island. Its significance is further emphasised by its appearance on the 50,000 Indonesian rupiah banknote, highlighting its status as a national symbol. Ulun Danu Beratan is often called the “floating temple” because it appears to float on the lake’s surface, especially during the rainy season when the water level is high.

         Photo: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

We set off for the temple from our villa in Banjar right after breakfast. We trusted the GPS without checking the route beforehand. While it may not have been a mistake, we certainly didn’t expect so much excitement on a mere 40-kilometre stretch. The roads were narrow, often barely wide enough for one car, with cliffs on either side. The inclines were so steep that I was pushed back into my seat and had to hold onto the steering wheel tightly. Scooters and hairpin bends were the norm. After the toughest 20 kilometres, which took us about an hour to cover, we stopped for a short break. Marianna and Mum could barely walk, their legs were like jelly.

The views from the top were stunning. On our return journey, we took a different route. Just before the turnoff to this road, I noticed a sign in English saying, “This road is so dangerous.”

Photo: Views in the Bedugul mountains

Continuing on, we stopped by Lake Tamblingan and Lake Buyan. Marcel spotted an iguana, a bat, and a boa constrictor and insisted on holding all of them, one after the other.

Photo: Marcel holding a boa constrictor

Photo: Marcel holding a bat

Photo: Marcel holding an iguana

The views of the lakes were absolutely captivating, and we could have easily spent more time there, sipping coffee from a nearby café. However, we were pressed for time due to afternoon online meetings, so after encountering a group of monkeys, we headed straight to Ulun Danu.

Photo: Monkeys by the lake

Photo: Monkeys by the lake

Photo: A family of monkeys

As soon as we arrived at the car park, even before entering the temple grounds, we had to satisfy our hunger and thirst with some dried fruits and Balinese sweets from one of the nearby shops.

Photo: Shop near Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Finally, we entered the temple grounds. Tickets cost around £4 for adults and £3 for children. With the ticket, the cashier also gave us a small bottle of water, which is worth asking for since they often forget to hand it out 😊. At the temple, there’s no need to wear a sarong. Upon entering, you are greeted by well-maintained gardens and a playground.

Photo: Crowds at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

The temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of the lake and rivers. In Balinese culture, water is considered the source of life, and this temple plays a key role in rituals related to agriculture, irrigation, and prayers for bountiful harvests.

Built in the 17th century by King Mengwi, I Gusti Agung Putu, the temple has withstood Bali’s turbulent history. The area surrounding the temple offers not only breathtaking views of the lake but also lush gardens filled with exotic plants and flowers. Nearby, you can also visit waterfalls like Gitgit, a popular spot for tourists.

Ulun Danu Beratan is the site of many important Balinese ceremonies, such as Piodalan—the temple’s anniversary—during which locals make offerings and participate in prayers. This is a time when you can truly experience Balinese culture and spirituality.

Photo: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Photo: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

For those interested, here is a bit of the temple’s history.

Photo: History of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Here, I tried Luwak coffee for the first time. It was tasty but a bit more acidic than other coffees.

Photo: My first Luwak coffee

To wrap up, we went on a speedboat ride on Lake Beratan. For the first time in Bali, we felt a pleasant and refreshing chill—this area is much cooler than the rest of the island. We would have loved to stay longer, spending the whole day here, if not at the temple itself, then exploring the surrounding areas. Unfortunately, our time was limited, and we had to head back.

Photo: Speedboat ride on Lake Beratan