What is there to see at Lake Beratan and Ulun Danu temple?
Lake Beratan (or Bratan) is a volcanic lake nestled at around 1,200 m (3,900 ft) in the Bedugul highlands, with a morning mist that gives it a film-set feel. It is the island's second largest lake, and its real role is vital: it is one of the main sources of irrigation for central Bali.
Hence the temple. Pura Ulun Danu Beratan was built in 1633 by the king of Mengwi, I Gusti Agung Putu (the same man who built Taman Ayun), to honour Dewi Danu, the water goddess, and to pray for good harvests. When the lake level rises, the shrines seem to float. The temple appears on the IDR 50,000 banknote, and you'll see visitors posing beside it holding the note.
What you'll see:
- Tiered-roof shrines on the water's edge, and a large flower garden with a banyan tree.
- A Buddhist stupa, just before the temple entrance, on the left.
- Pedalos and rowing boats, to see the temple from the lake.
Practical details:
- Entry: IDR 50,000-75,000 (US$3-4) for a foreign adult.
- Hours: roughly 7am to 6pm.
- Best time: before 10am, when the mist hangs and the groups haven't arrived.
A caveat: in the dry season the lake level drops and the temple no longer "floats": the photo is less magical.
Nearby: the Candikuning market (7am to 11am), strawberry plantations and the Bali Botanic Garden (Kebun Raya).
Tip: combine Lake Beratan with Jatiluwih and Munduk in one "highlands and cool air" day, and bring a jacket.
Prices, hours and rules checked in October 2026. Confirm before you travel.
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