The Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, commonly known as the Ulun Danu Temple, is a Hindu water temple located on the shores of Lake Beratan in the Bedugul area of Bali, Indonesia. It is one of the most iconic and picturesque temples on the island and holds significant religious and cultural importance for the Balinese people.

Key features and information about Ulun Danu Temple:

Location and Setting:
The temple is situated around 1,200 meters (3,900 feet) above sea level in the central highlands of Bali. It is located near the town of Bedugul, in the Tabanan regency. The temple complex is surrounded by the serene Lake Beratan and the mist-covered mountains of the Bedugul region, creating a breathtaking and tranquil atmosphere.

Religious Significance:
Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is dedicated to the goddess Dewi Danu, who is considered the goddess of water, lakes, and rivers in Balinese Hinduism. As Bali’s primary irrigation temple, it is a focal point for water-related ceremonies and offerings, as water is essential for rice cultivation, a cornerstone of Balinese culture and subsistence.

Architecture:
The temple complex consists of several shrines and meru (multi-tiered pagodas), each dedicated to different deities within the Balinese Hindu pantheon. The most prominent shrines are the ones dedicated to Dewi Danu and Lord Shiva.

Main Temple Complex:
The complex comprises four groups of shrines, each representing a different aspect of Balinese Hinduism. The Lingga Petak temple is associated with Shiva and Parvati, while the Penataran Pucak Mangu temple is associated with Vishnu and Lakshmi. The Terate Bang temple honors Brahma, and the Dalem Purwa Temple is dedicated to worshiping Lord Danu.

Floating Temple:
The temple’s unique feature is its appearance of “floating” on the surface of Lake Beratan, particularly during the wet season when the lake’s water levels rise. The reflection of the temple in the calm waters adds to its mystical allure.

Lake Bratan:
The temple’s setting on the shores of Lake Bratan adds to its beauty and charm. Lake Bratan is a volcanic lake located in the central highlands of Bali. The temple’s reflection in the calm waters of the lake creates a picturesque and serene scene that is often captured in photographs.

Botanical Garden:
Within the temple complex, there is also a beautifully maintained botanical garden showcasing a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers native to Bali and Indonesia. This adds to the overall aesthetic and educational experience for visitors.

Cultural Significance:
Ulun Danu Temple is an important symbol of harmony between religion, culture, and nature in Balinese life. Its setting and design emphasize the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, which seeks to maintain harmony between humans, nature, and the divine.

Tourism and Visitors:
Due to its stunning location and cultural significance, the temple attracts a large number of tourists and travelers. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, take photographs, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

Ceremonies and Festivals:
Various ceremonies and rituals are held at the temple throughout the year. The most notable ceremony is the “Odalan” festival, which is celebrated every six months according to the Balinese calendar. During this festival, locals gather to pay homage to the deities and offer prayers and offerings.

Conservation and Preservation:
Due to its cultural and historical significance, the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple has been recognized as a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site. Efforts have been made to preserve and protect the temple, as well as its natural surroundings.

Entry Fees and Accessibility:
Visitors are required to pay an entry fee to access the temple complex. The temple is easily accessible by road from various parts of Bali.

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is not only a religious site but also a symbol of Bali’s rich cultural heritage and connection to its natural surroundings. It continues to inspire visitors with its beauty, serenity, and spiritual significance. When visiting the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, it’s important to be respectful of the cultural and religious significance of the site. Remember to dress modestly, follow the rules and guidelines provided by the temple staff, and appreciate the beauty and spirituality of this Balinese treasure.