2013 May: Indonesia: Bali: Ulun Danu Beratan

Next stop, it took us around less than 2 hours before we reach Ulun Danu Beratan from Ubud.  I’m aware there are mountains in the area, but I did not know that the lake is actually at the top of the mountain.  Think of it as Baguio, we drove by the mountain side until we went higher and higher.  When we get out of the car, it is already windy and cold.  Bad that it is cloudy, cause it is giving a sad theme on the photos.    

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, or Pura Bratan, is a major Shivaite and water temple on Bali.  The temple complex is located on the shores of Lake Bratan in the mountains near Bedugul. Water temples serve the entire region in the outflow area; downstream there are many smaller water temples that are specific to each irrigation association.

Built in 1663, this temple is used for offerings ceremony to the Balinese water, lake and river goddess Dewi Danu, due to the importance of Lake Bratan as a main source of irrigation in central Bali. The 11 stories of pelinggih meru dedicated for Shiva and his consort Parvathi. Buddha statue also present inside this temple. [Reference]

Palebahan Pelinggih Lingga Petak / Ulun Danu (visually visible by the three stacks of “Meru”. In this Pura there is a holy well which provide the holy water called “tirta” used during the Pura's ceremonies to bless peoples coming to pray. The unique fact of this Pura is that this Pura has four entrances facing each directions of the cardinal point. North, East, South and West. this Pura is the place to reside Bhatara Siwa and also become “Ulun Danu” which mean the upper course of the lake. [Reference]

Destination: Ulun Danu Beratan

Location: Candikuning Village, Baturiti District, Regency of Tabanan in Province of Bali

Website: http://www.ulundanuberatanbali.com

Entrance: 30,000Rp (120Php)

Duration: 1 hour

Travel Date: May 5, 2013