If you are looking for a place that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance, then you should not miss Pura Ulun Danu Bratan in Bali, Indonesia. This temple, also known as the water temple or the floating temple, is one of the most iconic and picturesque attractions in Bali. Located on the shores of Lake Bratan, the temple is surrounded by stunning scenery and offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about this temple, including its history, culture, how to visit, things to do, and more. Read on to discover why Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is a must-visit attraction in Bali.
History and Culture
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, which means “the source temple of Lake Bratan”, was built in the 17th century by the king of Mengwi, I Gusti Agung Putu, as a dedication to the Hindu gods and goddesses. The temple is composed of four main shrines, each representing a different aspect of the Balinese Hinduism. The most prominent shrine is the 11-tiered meru, which is dedicated to Shiva, the supreme god of destruction and transformation. The other shrines are dedicated to Vishnu, the god of preservation and protection, Brahma, the god of creation and manifestation, and Dewi Danu, the goddess of water and fertility. The temple is also a place of worship for the local farmers, who believe that the goddess Dewi Danu blesses them with abundant crops and irrigation.
The temple’s architecture, design, and symbolism reflect the harmony and balance between the natural and the divine elements. The temple is built on a small island that seems to float on the lake, creating a stunning contrast between the blue water and the green mountains. The temple’s roofs are made of black thatch, representing the dark clouds that bring rain and fertility to the land. The temple’s walls are decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting various scenes from the Hindu mythology and folklore. The temple’s gates are adorned with colorful flowers and flags, welcoming the visitors and pilgrims.
The temple is not only a historical and cultural landmark, but also a national pride and identity. The temple’s image is featured on the 50,000 rupiah banknote, as well as on several stamps and coins. The temple is also a popular venue for various festivals and ceremonies, such as the odalan (temple anniversary), the purnama (full moon), and the nyepi (day of silence). During these occasions, the temple is filled with devotees, offerings, prayers, and rituals, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
How to Visit
The best time to visit Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is during the dry season, which lasts from April to September. During this period, the weather is sunny and pleasant, and the visibility is clear, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views of the temple and the lake. However, the dry season is also the peak season, which means that the temple can get crowded and busy, especially on weekends and holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is also more beautiful and dramatic.
The temple is located in the village of Candikuning, in the Tabanan regency, about 50 kilometers from Denpasar, the capital city of Bali. You can reach the temple by various modes of transportation, depending on your budget and preference. The most convenient and comfortable option is to hire a private car or a taxi, which will cost you around 500,000 to 700,000 rupiah (35 to 50 USD) for a round trip. The journey will take about 2 hours, depending on the traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can take a public bus or a shuttle bus from Denpasar, Ubud, or Kuta, which will cost you around 50,000 to 100,000 rupiah (3.5 to 7 USD) per person. The journey will take about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the stops and transfers. You can also rent a motorbike or a bicycle, which will give you more flexibility and freedom to explore the area at your own pace. However, you should be careful and confident with the road conditions and the traffic rules, as they can be challenging and chaotic.
The entrance fee to the temple is 50,000 rupiah (3.5 USD) per person, which includes a parking fee and a sarong rental. The temple is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., but the best time to visit is between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun is not too harsh and the lake is not too misty. When visiting the temple, you should respect the dress code and the rules of the temple. You should wear modest and appropriate clothing, covering your shoulders and knees. You should also wear a sarong and a sash, which are provided at the entrance. You should not enter the temple if you are menstruating, pregnant, or have an open wound. You should also not touch or disturb the offerings, the statues, or the priests. You should also keep your voice low and your behavior respectful, as the temple is a sacred and holy place.
Things to Do
There are many things to do at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, besides admiring the temple and its surroundings. You can enjoy various activities and experiences that will make your visit more memorable and fun. Here are some of the things you can do at the temple:
Boating:
One of the most popular and enjoyable activities at the temple is boating on the lake. You can rent a traditional wooden boat, a paddle boat, or a speed boat, and explore the lake and its beauty. You can also take a boat tour, which will take you around the lake and show you the different attractions and landmarks, such as the Buddhist Stupa, the Bali Botanic Garden, and the Bali Handara Golf Course. The boat rental fee ranges from 50,000 to 150,000 rupiah (3.5 to 10.5 USD) per hour, depending on the type and size of the boat. The boat tour fee is 300,000 rupiah (21 USD) per person, which includes a guide and a snack.
Photography:
Another popular and enjoyable activity at the temple is photography. The temple and the lake offer many opportunities and angles for capturing stunning and Instagram-worthy photos. You can take photos of the temple from different perspectives, such as from the shore, from the bridge, or from the boat. You can also take photos of the lake and its reflections, the mountains and the clouds, the flowers and the trees, and the people and the culture. You can also rent a traditional Balinese costume, such as a kebaya or a udeng, and pose like a local. The costume rental fee is 50,000 rupiah (3.5 USD) per person, which includes a dressing service and a locker.
Praying:
Another popular and enjoyable activity at the temple is praying. The temple is a place of worship and devotion, where you can connect with the divine and the spiritual. You can join the locals and the pilgrims, and participate in the prayers and the rituals. You can also make an offering, such as a canang sari or a banten, which are baskets of flowers, fruits, and incense, and express your gratitude and wishes to the gods and goddesses. You can also receive a blessing, such as a tirta or a rice grain, which are holy water and rice that are sprinkled or placed on your forehead, and symbolize purification and prosperity. You can also meditate, reflect, and relax, and feel the peace and harmony of the temple.
Exploring:
Another popular and enjoyable activity at the temple is exploring. The temple is not only a temple, but also a complex that includes other attractions and facilities. You can explore the temple’s grounds and gardens, and admire the various plants and flowers, such as the lotus, the frangipani, and the orchid. You can also explore the temple’s museum and library, and learn more about the temple’s history, culture, and art. You can also explore the temple’s market and souvenir shop, and buy some local products and handicrafts, such as the songket, the batik, and the wood carving.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is a sacred and scenic destination that you should not miss when you visit Bali, Indonesia. The temple is a masterpiece of architecture, design, and symbolism, that reflects the harmony and balance between the natural and the divine elements. The temple is also a place of history, culture, and spirituality, that showcases the richness and diversity of the Balinese Hinduism. The temple is also a place of fun and adventure, that offers a variety of activities and experiences that will make your visit more memorable and enjoyable.
Whether you are a history buff, a culture lover, a nature enthusiast, or a thrill seeker, you will find something that suits your taste and interest at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Pura Ulun Danu Bratan today,
