Pura Ulun Danu
Ulun Danu is one of the sacred temples of Bali. They are located throughout the island and are designed to protect residents from evil spirits. The name of the temple literally translates as “head of the lake.”
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is one of the most famous and revered temples in Bali, located on the shores of the picturesque Lake Bratan. This temple complex is surrounded by many legends, adding to its mystical appeal.
One of the stories says that after the completion of the temple, the goddess of lakes and rivers, Devi Dan, liked it so much that she raised the water level to take part of the shrine for herself. Thanks to this effect, the temple often appears “floating” - especially during the rainy season, when the water of the lake comes close to the buildings. If you want to see this unusual sight and take impressive photographs, it is best to plan your visit when the water level is high. During the dry season, such as September or October, the temple loses its floating effect and each building can be approached on foot.
According to legend, the temple complex was built by order of Prince Mengvi, and its construction was carried out by master gunsmiths who made edged weapons for the noble classes of society. However, the masters did not work of their own free will. After the completion of construction, the prince allowed them to live on the territory of the temple and continue their craft. However, the blacksmiths were later driven out by invaders who arrived from the island of Java.
Pura Ulun Danu is revered as one of the most sacred places in Bali. Lake Bratan, near the shores of which the temple stands, plays a vital role for the island, supplying fresh water to numerous irrigation systems. The depth of the lake in some places reaches 35 meters, which makes it a significant natural resource. Oolong Danu Bratan is not only a spiritual, but also a natural symbol of the harmony and beauty of Bali.
One of the stories says that after the completion of the temple, the goddess of lakes and rivers, Devi Dan, liked it so much that she raised the water level to take part of the shrine for herself. Thanks to this effect, the temple often appears “floating” - especially during the rainy season, when the water of the lake comes close to the buildings. If you want to see this unusual sight and take impressive photographs, it is best to plan your visit when the water level is high. During the dry season, such as September or October, the temple loses its floating effect and each building can be approached on foot.
According to legend, the temple complex was built by order of Prince Mengvi, and its construction was carried out by master gunsmiths who made edged weapons for the noble classes of society. However, the masters did not work of their own free will. After the completion of construction, the prince allowed them to live on the territory of the temple and continue their craft. However, the blacksmiths were later driven out by invaders who arrived from the island of Java.
Pura Ulun Danu is revered as one of the most sacred places in Bali. Lake Bratan, near the shores of which the temple stands, plays a vital role for the island, supplying fresh water to numerous irrigation systems. The depth of the lake in some places reaches 35 meters, which makes it a significant natural resource. Oolong Danu Bratan is not only a spiritual, but also a natural symbol of the harmony and beauty of Bali.
As you enter through the main gate of the temple, you will be greeted by the tiered architecture typical of Balinese culture, embodying the deep spirituality of the island. The three main sanctuaries of the complex, reminiscent of pyramids, are dedicated to the main deities of Hinduism.
1. The first sanctuary is the highest and most recognizable. It is crowned with eleven tiers, and it is dedicated to Vishnu, the guardian god of the universe. This sanctuary symbolizes stability, protection and harmony.
2. The second sanctuary - with seven tiers, is dedicated to Brahma, the god of creation. It represents the creative energy from which all living things are born.
3. The third sanctuary - with three tiers, is dedicated to the Supreme God Shiva. This is a symbol of cosmic consciousness and the unity of two principles: the motionless masculine and the dynamic feminine, which together create the balance of the universe.
Together, these three sanctuaries reflect the triune deity - Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma, personifying the harmony of preservation, destruction and creation that underlies the universe. This architectural ensemble not only impresses with its beauty, but also invites reflection on the unity and cyclical nature of life.
1. The first sanctuary is the highest and most recognizable. It is crowned with eleven tiers, and it is dedicated to Vishnu, the guardian god of the universe. This sanctuary symbolizes stability, protection and harmony.
2. The second sanctuary - with seven tiers, is dedicated to Brahma, the god of creation. It represents the creative energy from which all living things are born.
3. The third sanctuary - with three tiers, is dedicated to the Supreme God Shiva. This is a symbol of cosmic consciousness and the unity of two principles: the motionless masculine and the dynamic feminine, which together create the balance of the universe.
Together, these three sanctuaries reflect the triune deity - Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma, personifying the harmony of preservation, destruction and creation that underlies the universe. This architectural ensemble not only impresses with its beauty, but also invites reflection on the unity and cyclical nature of life.
Ulun Danu Temple is a large-scale complex consisting of ten separate temples, including 285 shrines and pavilions. These holy places are dedicated to the gods and goddesses of water, agriculture, arts, crafts and sacred springs, all of whom play an important role in the lives of the Balinese people.
Religious ceremonies and holidays
To gain the favor of the water goddess Devi Danu, on whom the harvest and well-being of the local population depends, religious ceremonies and colorful ceremonies are often held here. Believers bring offerings to the goddess, filling the temple atmosphere with the flavor of Balinese traditions. The most significant holidays include:
• The holy day of the temple is Piodalan. Celebrated every 210 days according to the Balinese calendar. This celebration is dedicated to the anniversary of the temple.
• Pyodalan Agung. The largest holiday, held every 420 days. It gathers a large number of believers and guests.
Tourists are allowed to visit most of the temple, with the exception of the central area where important religious events take place.
Additional areas of the complex
• Children's playground. Simple, but good for keeping the kids occupied for a while.
• Park area. Spacious and harmoniously integrated into the natural surroundings, it is ideal for walking and relaxing.
Location and features
Ulun Danu Temple is located far from popular tourist areas, in the mountains, at an altitude of more than 1200 meters above sea level. This makes its atmosphere especially peaceful. However, it is known to every tourist, because the image of the temple adorns the 50,000 Indonesian rupiah banknote.
Visiting it is not only an introduction to the spiritual side of Bali, but also an opportunity to enjoy the majestic natural landscapes surrounding this unique temple complex.
Religious ceremonies and holidays
To gain the favor of the water goddess Devi Danu, on whom the harvest and well-being of the local population depends, religious ceremonies and colorful ceremonies are often held here. Believers bring offerings to the goddess, filling the temple atmosphere with the flavor of Balinese traditions. The most significant holidays include:
• The holy day of the temple is Piodalan. Celebrated every 210 days according to the Balinese calendar. This celebration is dedicated to the anniversary of the temple.
• Pyodalan Agung. The largest holiday, held every 420 days. It gathers a large number of believers and guests.
Tourists are allowed to visit most of the temple, with the exception of the central area where important religious events take place.
Additional areas of the complex
• Children's playground. Simple, but good for keeping the kids occupied for a while.
• Park area. Spacious and harmoniously integrated into the natural surroundings, it is ideal for walking and relaxing.
Location and features
Ulun Danu Temple is located far from popular tourist areas, in the mountains, at an altitude of more than 1200 meters above sea level. This makes its atmosphere especially peaceful. However, it is known to every tourist, because the image of the temple adorns the 50,000 Indonesian rupiah banknote.
Visiting it is not only an introduction to the spiritual side of Bali, but also an opportunity to enjoy the majestic natural landscapes surrounding this unique temple complex.
Pura Ulun Danu Temple is located here
Or you can visit this temple on a tour with a local guide, who will tell you more interesting facts about this amazing place.
https://mos-activity.com/en/excursion-bedugul-tanah-lot
https://mos-activity.com/en/excursion-bedugul-tanah-lot