Visiting Pura Ulun Danu Batur
By Imagine standing at the edge of Mount Batur’s caldera, with Lake Batur shining in the distance. As the mist clears, Pura Ulun Danu Batur appears, a grand temple complex. Our first sight was breathtaking, showing its beauty and spiritual importance. This visit was more than just sightseeing; it was a journey into Bali’s culture.
Before our visit, we knew it would be an unforgettable experience. The temple, with its nine major temples, is key to understanding Bali’s culture. It’s a must-see for those exploring Bali’s spiritual side. Join us as we explore Pura Ulun Danu Batur’s legends and stunning settings.
Quick Facts
- Pura Ulun Danu Batur was built in 1926 and is dedicated to the goddess of lakes and waterways, Dewi Batari Ulun Danu.
- The temple complex features approximately 300 shrines, integral to Bali’s culture and spiritual life.
- Pura Ulun Danu Batur offers stunning views of Lake Batur and Mount Batur, making it a significant spot for a spiritual journey in Bali.
- The temple stands as the second most important one in Bali, right after Pura Besakih.
- The best time to visit this remarkable Bali temple is during the dry season, from April to October.
Talking About Pura Ulun Danu Batur
If you’re into Kintamani cultures, Pura Ulun Danu Batur is a must-see. It offers stunning views of Lake Batur and Mount Batur. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy Bali’s culture and scenery.
What is the history of Ulun Danu Temple?
The area around Pura Ulun Danu Batur is believed to have been a significant site for worship and religious ceremonies since the megalithic era. Near the temple, you can find a sarcophagus and a stone slate that date back to around 500 BC. The temple itself was first recorded in 1556, and later, in 1633, it was reconstructed by King I Gusti Agung Putu of Mengwi, incorporating elements from both Hindu and Buddhist architecture.
The Ulun Danu Temple’s history is fascinating. It was first at Mount Batur’s foot but moved after early 20th-century eruptions. Now, it sits high, overlooking the Kintamani volcano and its lake.
Ulun Danu Batur Temple Area
Ulun Danu Batur Temple is a marvel of architecture. It has nine temples and 285 pavilions for various gods and goddesses. Each courtyard tells stories of faith and devotion, making it a key site in Balinese Hinduism.
The temple area offers stunning views of the Kintamani volcano. Visitors can take a speedboat or traditional boat to see the temple from Lake Beratan during the rainy months.
How do I Get to Ulun Danu Batur?
Traveling to Ulun Danu Batur is a journey through Bali’s stunning landscapes. We’ll look at the best ways to get there, including routes and transportation. We’ll also cover important details to make your trip smooth.
Route to Ulun Danu Batur Temple
The Bali temple route to Ulun Danu Batur is scenic. It goes through Kintamani, at about 1.459 meters (4.787 ft) high. From Ngurah Rai International Airport, it’s a 76.4 km drive that takes about two hours.
Transport Option
Hiring a taxi is the best way to travel. Scooters are fun but taxis are faster and more comfortable. The ride offers views of lush landscapes and rural Bali.
Opening Hours
Knowing the opening hours Ulun Danu is key. The temple is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. Arriving early in the morning is best to avoid crowds.
Entrance Fee
The temple sits at 1.500 meters in Bedugul, irrigating rice fields. Entrance fees are 50.000 IDR for adults and 25.000 IDR for kids.
Understanding the route, transport, opening hours Ulun Danu, and entrance fee makes visiting smooth. Pura Ulun Danu Batur offers a mix of natural beauty, culture, and spirituality.
What the Interesting of Pura Ulun Danu Batur
Here, we find unique worship places in Bali, where nature and architecture meet.
Views of the surrounding volcanic landscapes
The views of volcanic landscapes around the temple are breathtaking. Mount Batur and Lake Batur create a calm setting. This natural beauty adds to the temple’s peaceful vibe.
Ornate architecture
The architecture of Pura Ulun Danu Batur is stunning. Built in the 17th century and moved in 1926, it has nine temples and nearly 300 shrines. The 11-tiered meru shrine, dedicated to Shiva and Parvati, survived a big eruption in 1926. It shows the skill and faith of Balinese culture.
Tranquil courtyards
The temple’s courtyards are peaceful spots for meditation and prayer. These areas are some of the most serene in Bali. They help visitors connect with the temple’s spiritual side. The quiet spots and lush surroundings make it perfect for reflection.
Unique Places of Worship
Pura Ulun Danu Batur has many unique worship places in Bali. Its shrines honor different gods and aspects of life. The main temple, Pura Penataran Agung Batur, shows Bali’s irrigation system and its role in farming. The temple also has Chinese decorations, showing a mix of local and global cultures. Each part of the temple tells a story of faith and cultural mix.
If you want to see Balinese temple architecture and unique worship places, Pura Ulun Danu Batur is a must-see. It combines natural beauty with spiritual importance, making it a memorable visit in Bali.
Celebrations and Festivals at Pura Ulun Danu Batur
The spiritual calendar at Ulun Danu Batur pulses with vibrant festivities. Especially during the annual Purnama Kedasa, or the “tenth full moon.” This time showcases a harmonious blend of spiritual practices and community feasting. During Purnama Kedasa, thousands of devout Hindu worshippers create a never-ending stream of colorful processions. It’s one of the most remarkable Bali temple festivals.
The Ngusaba Ritual
The Ngusaba ritual occurs annually in the tenth month of the Balinese calendar. It emphasizes the cultural significance of Pura Ulun Danu Batur. Local villagers and visitors create elaborate offerings from fruits, rice, flowers, and other materials. These offerings are then used in a series of procedures. They highlight the temple’s role in Hindu festivals in Bali.
Performances of traditional Balinese dances and music are the artistic and creative backbone during the Ngusaba ritual. The entire community, including local villagers and tourists, actively participates in these cultural celebrations at Ulun Danu. This fosters strong community bonds through this inclusive event.
The Odalan
The Odalan ceremony at Pura Ulun Danu Batur commemorates the temple’s anniversary. It took place on the 12th of April, 2006. The Odalan ceremony draws thousands of devotees to honor Dewi Danu, the Water Goddess.
This event features a procession lasting around an hour before entering the sacred temple grounds. Participants wear traditional dress, such as a tie-dye sarong and traditional headdress. This fosters an authentic cultural immersion for participants.
By promoting environmental awareness and highlighting the importance of water resources, the rituals at Pura Ulun Danu Batur encourage a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation. As tourists and locals gather to honor Dewi Danu, the celebrations at Ulun Danu become a testament to Bali’s rich heritage and spiritual devotion.
Time to Plan Your Trip to Ulun Danu Batur Temple
Exploring Pura Ulun Danu Batur is a must when visiting Bali. It offers a mix of culture, spirituality, and natural beauty. You’ll see Bali’s rich heritage and enjoy views of Lake Batur and Mount Batur.
Learn More
What is the history of Ulun Danu Temple?
Pura Ulun Danu Batur was first built at Mount Batur’s foot. But, eruptions in the early 1900s covered it in lava. It was then moved to its current spot in the highlands. The temple honors Dewi Danu, the water goddess, and is a key spiritual place for both reflection and celebration.
What is the area of Ulun Danu Batur Temple like?
The temple has nine major temples and about 300 grand shrines. Each courtyard tells stories of faith and farming, showing the temple’s importance in Balinese Hinduism. It sits on Mount Batur’s caldera rim, offering stunning views.
How do I get to Ulun Danu Batur?
Ulun Danu Batur is 900 meters above sea level. You can drive or scooter to it. The trip shows off Bali’s green landscapes and rural beauty.
What can I see around the Pura Ulun Danu Batur?
You can see Lake Batur and volcanic landscapes. The temple’s design fits perfectly with Mount Batur’s dramatic view.
What is notable about the architecture at Ulun Danu Batur?
The temple has beautiful gateways, calm courtyards, and shrines with Chinese decorations. These show the site’s rich history and cultural value.
What are the main festivals celebrated at Ulun Danu Batur?
The big festival is the Purnama Kedasa, or “tenth full moon.” It features spiritual ceremonies and feasts, attracting locals and tourists.
How should I plan my visit to Ulun Danu Batur?
Visit during the dry months for better views. It’s a great way to experience Bali’s culture and nature deeply.
