Pura Ulun-Danu Temple on Bratan Lake

Bali Island is a treasury of the richest fauna and flora, ancient architectural structures, as well as spiritual values. The Indonesian climate is striking in its diversity. Travelers who are tired of the tropical heat and stuffiness on the ocean coast are recommended to visit the highlands of Bali. The small village of Bedugul, in the central part of the island, is located at an altitude of over 1,000 meters above sea level. It is pretty cool and often foggy. Popular points of interest in the area include Pura Ulun Danu Temple and Beratan Lake.

History

The Pura Ulun Danu Temple is considered one of the main sanctuaries of the island. The shrine is located right on the water of Lake Beratan at the foot of Mount Gunung Katur. The surroundings are covered with tropical forests. The temple is quite recognizable and famous all over the world. His image can be seen in countless travel guides, as well as on the denomination of Rs 50,000.

The temple was erected in the 17th century on the initiative of King Mengwi. There is a legend that the builders of the sanctuary were local blacksmiths. Craftsmen made magic swords and daggers for royalty. These craftsmen were commissioned to build a unique temple. As a reward for their successful construction, they were allowed to settle in the surrounding area.

Architecture

The Pura Ulun-Danu temple has the shape of a multi-tiered pagoda. This is a classic style of Asian architecture. The structure consists of 11 elements, alternating roofs that tend upward. The roofs of each part of the temple are covered with sugar palm leaves and bathed in black resin. The walls were built of volcanic stones. The temple is dedicated to the god Shiva, as well as the goddess of primitive water - Devi Danu, the patroness of Lake Bratan. According to legend, the mistress of the lake really liked the temple, and she decided to take part of the structures for herself, raising the water level. It seems that the Ulun Danu temple is floating on the lake. In fact, the answer lies in a simple natural phenomenon. At high tide, the sanctuary is flooded by the waters of the lake. In September and October, when the water recedes, you can see the islet on which the temple rises.

Territory

The area around the temple is very picturesque. The clean and transparent surface of the lake, against the background of the mountains, a light nebula, a large park area - all this inspires tourists with a sense of charm and unity with nature. In the sacred area, there are several separate temples made in the form of pagodas. The buildings differ from each other in a different number of tiers. The pagodas are scattered along the shores and islands of the lake. Each of the buildings is dedicated to a specific deity. The main religious concept of the entire local area is considered to be the exaltation of the honor and glory of the great divine trinity - Vishnu, Shiva, Drachma.

According to the canons of Balinese culture, various architectural structures, sanctuaries, pavilions with beautiful roofs, colonnades and gates are installed throughout the complex. The buildings are covered with bright colors and decorated with intricate stucco moldings of architects. The well-kept park is full of plants and shrubs. Walking along the refined and neat paths, tourists feel the delicate and pleasant scent of flowers. You can also see the banyan tree, which is considered sacred by the Balinese. This is evidenced by the large number of gifts brought by local residents to the banyan tree.

There are numerous unique sculptures depicting mythical spirits, as well as many exotic figures of dragons, elephants, tigers, bears and birds.

Sacred Lake Bratan

The sacred lake Beratan is located in the crater of the extinct volcano Chatur. It is a very popular tourist destination. Contemplation of clean and transparent water combined with fresh mountain air creates a feeling of heavenly serenity and tranquility. The water in Lake Beratan has a special sacred meaning for the Balinese. Every day, local residents come to the lake to offer gifts to the mistress of the local waters, Devi Dan. People pray for a prosperous life on their land and for a future fruitful harvest. Lake Beratan is a vital symbol for the nearby settlements. It is the main source of fresh water for irrigating rice fields, growing fruits, vegetables, coffee and cocoa. Therefore, the water in the lake is very valuable for local farmers.

There is a belief that if you take a dip in the lake, a person will gain spiritual strength, longevity, beauty and health. Therefore, tourists and pilgrims from all over the world come here to perform the ritual ablution. Swimming and fishing in the lake is allowed. The water temperature does not exceed 22 ° C heat. There is a large pier with boats near the shore. Therefore, there is an opportunity to take a boat trip on the lake and see all the local attractions.

Travel tips before visiting

The temple complex is located in the mountains, where the air temperature is much lower than on the coast. Travelers should bring warm clothes. The trip to the temple and the lake will take a long time, so you need to plan your daily routine in advance. The local weather conditions are often changeable. Heavy rain or thick fog can descend at any moment. You can go directly to the territory of the temple without wearing a sarong. The entrance fee to the park area is 30,000 rupees. The most central part of the shrine is intended for solemn ceremonies and guests are not allowed to enter there.

The Ulun-Danu Temple on Lake Beratan is a very popular place and a huge number of tourists from all over the world arrive here by buses. A large crowd of people can cause discomfort. Therefore, it is recommended to visit the sacred territory early in the morning, when there will be fewer visitors.

Where is it and how to get there

You can get to the temple from anywhere in Bali by taxi or by sightseeing bus. The distance from the capital to the Bedugul village is about 60 km. The road to the temple is winding, but very picturesque.

Ulun Danu Temple on the map