Are you looking for a unique and memorable experience in Bali? Do you want to explore the rich and diverse culture and nature of the island? If yes, then you should not miss visiting Pura Ulun Danu Batur, one of the most important and beautiful temples in Bali.
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about this temple, including its history, significance, architecture, and activities. You will also find out how to get there, when to visit, and what to expect. Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple, a family, or a group, you will find something that suits your interests and preferences at Pura Ulun Danu Batur.
What is Pura Ulun Danu Batur and Why is it Important?
Pura Ulun Danu Batur, which means “the head temple of Lake Batur”, is a Hindu temple complex located on the slopes of Mount Batur, an active volcano in the Kintamani region of Bali. The temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers, who is believed to control the water supply and irrigation system of the island. The temple is also the second most important temple in Bali, after Pura Besakih, the mother temple of Balinese Hinduism.
The temple complex consists of nine different temples, with a total of 285 shrines and pavilions. The main temple, Pura Penataran Agung Batur, is the largest and most prominent one, with a majestic gate and a towering meru (multi-tiered roof) that symbolizes Mount Meru, the sacred mountain of Hindu cosmology. The temple also features a stunning view of Lake Batur, the largest lake in Bali, and the surrounding mountains and forests.
The temple is not only a place of worship, but also a place of celebration and festivity. The temple hosts several festivals and ceremonies throughout the year, especially during the full moon and the new moon. The most important and spectacular one is the Odalan, the temple anniversary, which falls every 210 days according to the Balinese calendar. During this time, thousands of pilgrims and visitors flock to the temple to offer prayers, offerings, and performances. The temple is also decorated with colorful flags, umbrellas, and flowers, creating a festive and lively atmosphere.
How to Get to Pura Ulun Danu Batur and When to Visit
Pura Ulun Danu Batur is located about 75 km from Denpasar, the capital city of Bali, and about 65 km from Ubud, the cultural hub of the island. You can reach the temple by various modes of transportation, depending on your budget, time, and convenience. Here are some of the options:
By car:
You can rent a car and drive to the temple by yourself, or hire a driver and a guide to take you there. This is the most comfortable and flexible option, as you can stop along the way and enjoy the scenic views of the countryside. The drive takes about 2 hours from Denpasar or Ubud, depending on the traffic and the route. The car rental fee ranges from 300,000 to 500,000 IDR per day, while the driver and guide fee ranges from 500,000 to 800,000 IDR per day.
By bike:
You can rent a bike and ride to the temple by yourself, or join a bike tour that includes the temple as one of the destinations. This is the most adventurous and eco-friendly option, as you can experience the thrill and challenge of biking on the hilly and winding roads of Bali. The bike ride takes about 3 to 4 hours from Ubud, depending on your speed and stamina. The bike rental fee ranges from 50,000 to 100,000 IDR per day, while the bike tour fee ranges from 300,000 to 500,000 IDR per person.
By bus:
You can take a public bus or a shuttle bus to the temple, or join a bus tour that includes the temple as one of the stops. This is the most economical and social option, as you can save money and meet other travellers along the way. The bus ride takes about 3 to 4 hours from Denpasar or Ubud, depending on the traffic and the schedule. The bus fare ranges from 50,000 to 100,000 IDR per person, while the bus tour fee ranges from 200,000 to 400,000 IDR per person.
The best time to visit the temple is during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is sunny and clear, and the views are spectacular. The rainy season, from November to March, is not recommended, as the weather is cloudy and wet, and the roads are slippery and muddy. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the temple in a more serene and peaceful way, you can visit during the weekdays, early in the morning, or late in the afternoon.
What to Do and See at Pura Ulun Danu Batur and Nearby
Pura Ulun Danu Batur is not only a temple, but also a destination that offers a variety of activities and attractions for different types of travellers. Here are some of the things you can do and see at the temple and its surroundings:
Sightseeing: You can explore the temple complex and admire its architecture, design, and decoration. You can also learn about its history, significance, and culture from the guides, the priests, or the locals. You can also enjoy the panoramic views of Lake Batur, Mount Batur, and the surrounding landscape from the temple grounds.
Photography: You can capture the beauty and the essence of the temple and its surroundings with your camera. You can take photos of the temple’s gate, meru, shrines, and pavilions, as well as the lake, the mountain, and the forest. You can also take photos of the temple’s festivals and ceremonies, as well as the people and the animals that live around the temple.
Boating: You can rent a boat and cruise on Lake Batur, the largest and most scenic lake in Bali. You can enjoy the fresh air and the cool breeze, as well as the stunning views of the temple, the mountain, and the forest from the water. You can also visit the nearby islands, such as Pulau Abang and Pulau Teratai, which are home to some wildlife and vegetation.
Hiking: You can hike on Mount Batur, an active volcano that offers a challenging and rewarding experience. You can choose from different trails and levels of difficulty, depending on your skills and preferences. You can also join a sunrise hike, which starts in the early morning and ends at the summit, where you can witness the spectacular sunrise over the lake and the temple.
Cycling: You can rent a bike and cycle around the temple and its surroundings, which offer a diverse and picturesque terrain. You can cycle on the paved roads, the dirt roads, or the off-road paths, depending on your mood and adventure. You can also cycle to the nearby villages, such as Kedisan and Trunyan, which have their own unique culture and tradition.
Hot springs: You can relax and rejuvenate at the hot springs, which are located near the temple and the lake. The hot springs are natural pools of water that are heated by the volcanic activity of Mount Batur. The water is rich in minerals and has healing and therapeutic properties. You can soak in the hot springs and enjoy the views of the temple, the lake, and the mountain.
What to Know Before Visiting Pura Ulun Danu Batur
Before visiting Pura Ulun Danu Batur, there are some things you need to know and prepare, such as:
Dress code: You need to dress respectfully and modestly when visiting the temple, as it is a sacred and holy place. You need to wear a sarong and a sash, which are traditional Balinese garments that cover your legs and waist. You can bring your own sarong and sash, or rent them at the temple entrance for a small fee.
Entrance fee: You need to pay an entrance fee to enter the temple complex, which is 50,000 IDR per person. The entrance fee includes a donation to the temple maintenance and a guide service. You can also make additional donations at the temple shrines if you wish.
Opening hours: The temple is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm, except during special occasions, such as festivals and ceremonies, when the temple may be closed or restricted to the public. You can check the temple schedule and calendar online or at the temple entrance before visiting.
Weather: The weather at the temple and its surroundings can be unpredictable and changeable, as it is located on a high altitude and near a volcano. The temperature can range from 15°C to 25°C, depending on the season and the time of the day. The weather can also be sunny, cloudy, rainy, or foggy, depending on the season and the wind. You need to check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly before visiting.
Facilities: The temple complex has some facilities and services for the visitors, such as parking, toilets, restaurants, shops, and lockers. However, the facilities and services may be limited or unavailable during peak hours or busy days. You need to plan ahead and bring your own essentials, such as water, snacks, sunscreen, hat, umbrella, etc.
Pura Ulun Danu Batur is a destination that you should not miss when you visit Bali. It is a place that will enrich your mind, body, and soul, as well as your travel memories. If you are interested in visiting this temple, you can book your trip with Tripoto, the leading online travel platform that offers the best deals and services for your travel needs.
You can also read more articles and reviews about Bali and other destinations on Tripoto’s website and blog. Thank you for reading and happy travels!
