Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is located close to the western banks of Lake Bratan in the Bedugul Highlands. The temple enjoys a lofty elevation of 1239m, and is undoubtedly one of the most exquisite and photographed temples on the island of Bali.
Danu Bratan is situated on the site of an extinct volcano known as Gunung Catur. The lake is a major irrigation resource in the Balinese highlands, so the temple was built in dedication to Dewi Danu - a lake goddess. Many people make a pilgrimage to the site to pay homage and pray for bountiful harvests.
According to an ancient manuscript from the Mengwi Kingdom, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan was constructed in 1633 by the King of Mengwi, the same man who built Pura Taman Ayun.
Inside the gate, there is a large stupa adorned with beautiful carvings, as well as the Pura Teratai Bang Temple. There is also a smaller temple, Pura Dalem Purwa, and on the shore there are two more important monuments. The other shrine, Lingga Petak, is smaller and further out in the lake. This shrine, featuring a three-tier meru, is in dedication to Shiva. It is only reachable by boat.
When the shrine was repaired in 1968, three round stones were unearthed at the foundations; the stones were red, white and black in color. The white stone is believed to be a phallic symbol of Shiva, and associated with fertility worship.
Need to Know
- What is it? one of Bali’s most beautiful temples situated on a lake and home to many important shrines and religious monuments
- Opening hours: open 24 hours daily.
- Entrance fee: R3,300
- Where: Lake Bratan, near the mountains of Bedugul
- How to get there: book an organized tour from a travel agent or take a taxi from your hotel