General Information
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, or Pura Bratan, is a major Shivaite and important water temple (not to confuse with the other major water temple being Pura Ulun Danu Batur). The temple site is located in the mountain highlands near Bedugul on the shores of Lake Bratan. It was built around 1663 and is used to worship the lake and river goddess Dewi Danu.
This picturesque site is featured on an Indonesian banknote and is definitely one of the important and also well-known landmarks of Bali.
Location & Setting
Ulun Danu Bratan (Beratan) is located on the western shore of Lake Bratan. It belongs to the village Candi Kuning which is part of the highlands of Bedugul, Tabanan Regency. The Bedugul area is a favourite weekend and holiday retreat for many locals from all over Bali and the fresh climate and mountainous scenery is a much-enjoyed change from hotter coastal areas. Bedugul is located right in the centre of Bali and the main street passing through connects the south of Bali (coming from Ubud) with north Bali (Singaraja and Lovina) area.
The part of the temple complex in the water has four groups of shrines and are shown on most photographs taken at this temple.
This historical site has been built during the rule of the Mengwi kingdom.
Interestingly there is an old megalithic sarcophagus within the complex, so scientists reckon that this site was established even before the Hindu shrines have been built.
Good to Know
Bring a rain jacket if you can, or a jumper, as it can be quite fresh up here, particularly during the rainy months between November and March.
Besides visiting the temple complex you can hire small traditional boats (jukung) and explore the lake and coastal area. It’s a nice way to explore this unique area and to enjoy the lake and views on the surrounding mountains.
You can even hire fishing equipment. If you are interested in visiting a Botanic Garden is quite nearby.
