Explore Pura Ulun Danu Batur: A Sacred Temple Above the Clouds
Explore Pura Ulun Danu Batur: A Sacred Temple Above the Clouds
Explore Pura Ulun Danu Batur: A Sacred Temple Above the Clouds
Where nature, spirituality, and Balinese culture meet in divine harmony.
Located high in the Kintamani highlands near Mount Batur, Pura Ulun Danu Batur stands as one of Bali’s most important and spiritually revered temples. Often mistaken for its sister temple, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan in Bedugul, this mountain temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and water. It plays a vital role in the island’s irrigation system and spiritual well-being. Unlike coastal temples that are dramatic and windswept, Ulun Danu Batur has a quiet majesty. Perched 900 meters above sea level, it offers stunning views of Lake Batur, Mount Batur, and the surrounding volcanic landscape. For centuries, it has been a place of pilgrimage, prayer, and purification—visited not only by locals but also by Balinese from across the island. For travelers, it’s a destination that blends history, spiritual serenity, and natural grandeur in one unforgettable experience.
The Temple’s History and Resilience
The original Ulun Danu Batur temple was built at the base of Mount Batur but was completely destroyed during the volcanic eruption of 1926. Miraculously, the central shrine—called the Padmasana, dedicated to the supreme god—survived the lava flow. This was seen as a divine sign, and the temple was relocated to a safer location where it stands today. The story of Ulun Danu Batur is not just about faith, but also resilience. It symbolizes the strength of the Balinese people in maintaining their spiritual roots despite the wrath of nature. Today, the temple complex consists of nine different temples with over 200 shrines and pavilions, making it one of the largest temple complexes in Bali. Each section is intricately decorated with stone carvings, traditional Balinese architecture, and spiritual symbolism. For those who visit, it’s not just a sightseeing stop—it’s a lesson in perseverance and devotion.
Spiritual Significance
Ulun Danu Batur is one of the “Sad Kahyangan Jagad”, the six most sacred temples in Bali believed to protect the island spiritually. It’s the second most important temple after Besakih, the Mother Temple. As a temple dedicated to Dewi Danu, it plays a crucial role in Subak, the traditional Balinese water irrigation system. Farmers from across the island come here to pray for fertile land and harmonious weather. Ceremonies are regularly held to honor the balance between humans, nature, and the gods—a key principle in Balinese Hinduism called Tri Hita Karana. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the cool mountain air, creates a deeply calming experience. Even if you’re not religious, spending time here allows you to feel the spiritual pulse of Bali, something that can’t be fully captured in photos or words.
Architecture and Layout
The architectural beauty of Ulun Danu Batur lies in its multi-tiered shrines (meru), traditional stone gates, and layered courtyards. The main sanctum stands tall with eleven thatched roofs, representing the highest spiritual hierarchy. As you walk through the temple, you’ll pass through various candi bentar (split gates) and bale (pavilions), each serving different religious functions. The temple layout follows ancient cosmic maps, symbolizing Mount Meru—the spiritual axis of the universe in Balinese Hindu cosmology. Every corner is rich with detail, from carved guardian statues to stone reliefs depicting Hindu epics. The surrounding landscape—lush hills, fog-covered peaks, and the distant shimmer of Lake Batur—adds to the temple’s mystical aura. It’s a place where the sacred and the natural world blend seamlessly, creating an atmosphere that is both majestic and meditative.
When to Visit ?
The best time to visit Ulun Danu Batur is early in the morning, when the air is crisp, the light soft, and the fog still gently rolls over the mountains. This is also when the temple is quietest, allowing for peaceful exploration and contemplation. Visiting during a ceremonial period, especially the temple’s anniversary or Piodalan, can be a magical experience. Locals will dress in traditional attire, colorful offerings fill the temple grounds, and the air is filled with the sound of gamelan music and chanting. While ceremonies may make the site more crowded, they offer an authentic glimpse into Balinese religious life. Be sure to dress respectfully—sarongs are often provided at the entrance, but bringing your own is always a good idea. And don’t forget a jacket—the mountain air can be surprisingly chilly, especially if you're coming from the warmer coast.
Ulun Danu Batur is located near several other beautiful attractions in Kintamani, making it ideal for a full-day cultural and nature tour. After visiting the temple, you can head to Mount Batur for a scenic lunch overlooking the crater lake, or even hike the mountain at sunrise for a once-in-a-lifetime view. Nearby, you’ll also find Toyabungkah Hot Springs, a great place to relax your body after exploring. You can visit local coffee plantations to try Bali’s famous kopi luwak, or stop by the Penelokan Viewpoint for panoramic shots of Mount and Lake Batur. The region is rich with volcanic soil, which means it’s also home to unique agriculture and charming local villages. Kintamani is a part of Bali that many tourists overlook, but those who venture here often say it’s one of the most spiritually refreshing places on the island.
Let Us Arrange the Journey for You
If exploring the spiritual heart of Bali sounds like your kind of adventure, let Aviator Bali help you get there. We offer affordable, customized day tours to Ulun Danu Batur and its surrounding highlights. Whether you’re interested in temple visits, scenic drives, or combining it with a Mount Batur sunrise trek, our team can build the perfect itinerary for you. Our private drivers are knowledgeable, respectful, and ready to share insights about local traditions. Plus, traveling with a local guide means you won’t miss out on the deeper meanings behind what you see. No need to stress about navigating the winding mountain roads—we’ll handle everything. Just tell us what you want to experience, and we’ll help you Fly Your Life—straight into Bali’s sacred mountains. To book a tour or get recommendations, simply speak with our front desk or send us a message via WhatsApp.
Pura Ulun Danu Batur is more than just a stop on a map—it’s a spiritual destination that offers perspective, peace, and cultural connection. Whether you’re drawn to its history, its spiritual energy, or its breathtaking location, the temple invites you to reflect, breathe deeply, and appreciate the richness of Balinese tradition. Visiting this temple is like opening a window into a different way of seeing the world—one where nature and the divine are not separate, but one and the same. In a single visit, you can witness sacred rituals, enjoy mountain landscapes, and return with a renewed sense of calm. For guests of Aviator Bali, it’s a journey we highly recommend—not only to see more of Bali but to feel more of Bali. Let this be more than just a trip. Let it be a part of your story. Let it be how you Fly Your Life.
