Ulun Danu Beratan: Bali's Lake Temple Guide

Ulun Danu Beratan stands on the shore of Lake Beratan at Bedugul, in the cool highlands between Munduk and south Bali. Its tiered meru shrines rise from the water, and when the lake is high they seem to float clear of the land, the image that has made the temple one of the most photographed in Bali. It is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of the lake, whose waters feed the irrigation of farms across the region. Ringed by forested hills and often wrapped in mist, the site keeps a calm, reflective mood.

The temple on the lake

The best known shrines are the tall, thatched meru towers that sit just offshore, their reflections doubling in still water on a calm morning. They honour the lake goddess and mark the importance of Beratan as a source of water for the surrounding land. Beyond these, the grounds hold further shrines, gateways and open lawns that spread back from the shore. The inner shrines are places of active worship rather than tourist entry, so visitors view them from the landscaped areas around the water.

Gardens and grounds

Away from the lakeside, the temple sits within wide gardens of clipped lawns, flower beds and mature trees. Paths lead between viewpoints, and the grounds are large enough to swallow a good number of visitors without feeling crowded early in the day. Bedugul lies over 1,200 metres above sea level, so the air stays cool and can turn misty, a marked change from the coast. The gardens make an easy, gentle walk that suits all ages.

Visiting respectfully

This is an active temple, and a sarong is expected on the grounds in keeping with Balinese custom. Bring your own or hire one near the entrance, and dress to cover the shoulders and knees. An entrance ticket applies, collected at the gate, so carry small rupiah notes for that and for parking. Early mornings bring the calmest water, the softest light and the thinnest crowds, before tour groups arrive later in the day.

How to visit

Ulun Danu Beratan pairs naturally with a wider tour of the Munduk region, often as the cultural stop alongside the Munduk Waterfall and the highland viewpoints. It lies about 30 to 40 minutes by road from Munduk village at Bedugul, reached by scooter or hired driver since ride-hailing apps are limited up here. Follow the clear signs on the main road to the entrance and car park. For more ways to shape a day in the cool highlands, see our guide to things to do in Munduk.

Frequently asked questions

What is the entrance fee for Ulun Danu Beratan?+

The standard adult ticket is around Rp 75,000, with a reduced rate for children. Prices are set by the temple and can change, so check on arrival. Parking is a small separate charge. The ticket covers the gardens and the lakeside viewing areas, though the inner shrines are for worship rather than entry.

Do I need to wear a sarong?+

A sarong is expected on the temple grounds, in line with custom at Balinese temples. Many visitors bring their own, and sarongs can usually be hired or bought near the entrance. Modest dress that covers the shoulders and knees is appropriate. Dressing respectfully matters, as this is an active place of worship.

When do the shrines appear to float on the water?+

The meru shrines look as though they float when the lake level is high, which is more likely in and after the wetter months. When the water drops, more of the base is visible and the effect is reduced. Calm, still mornings give the cleanest reflections. Weather in the highlands changes fast, so conditions vary day to day.

How far is the temple from Munduk?+

Ulun Danu Beratan sits at Bedugul, about 30 to 40 minutes by road from Munduk village. Most visitors come by scooter or hired driver, as ride-hailing is limited in the highlands. The temple is a common stop on the drive between Munduk and south Bali. Signs on the main road point clearly to the entrance and car park.