Pura Taman Saraswati (Ubud Water Palace)
A serene water palace in Ubud, featuring vibrant lotus ponds, intricate Balinese architecture, and captivating traditional dance performances.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Pura Taman Saraswati (Ubud Water Palace)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene water palace in Ubud, featuring vibrant lotus ponds, intricate Balinese architecture, and captivating traditional dance performances.
"A must-see in Ubud for its beauty, culture, and picturesque lotus gardens."
Wear the Provided Garments
A sarong and sash are required for entry. They are provided at the entrance. :kimono:
Check Performance Schedules
Don't miss the traditional dance shows! Check local listings for performance times. :performing_arts:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lotus Pond & Water Gardens
Main Courtyard
Vibrant pink lotuses bloom in serene ponds, creating a picturesque backdrop for photos. A truly iconic Ubud sight.

Traditional Dance Performances
Amphitheater
Experience captivating Balinese dance performances held in the stunning water gardens. Check schedules for showtimes.

Architectural Beauty
Temple Facade
Admire the intricate red and white stone carvings and traditional Balinese architecture of this former palace.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & Respect
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
tips for Ubud
Wear the Provided Garments
A sarong and sash are required for entry. They are provided at the entrance. :kimono:
Check Performance Schedules
Don't miss the traditional dance shows! Check local listings for performance times. :performing_arts:
4 Days Ubud Help
Ubud Water Palace
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
To enjoy the beauty without the masses, aim for an early morning visit. :sunrise:
Max 30 Mins Visit
It's a lovely spot, but you can see most of it in about 30 minutes. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear the Provided Garments
A sarong and sash are required for entry. They are provided at the entrance. :kimono:
Check Performance Schedules
Don't miss the traditional dance shows! Check local listings for performance times. :performing_arts:
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
To enjoy the beauty without the masses, aim for an early morning visit. :sunrise:
Max 30 Mins Visit
It's a lovely spot, but you can see most of it in about 30 minutes. :stopwatch:
Cafe Discount
Enjoy a 10% discount at their cafe for lunch after your visit. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Pura Taman Saraswati a beautiful and picturesque spot, especially for its lotus ponds and traditional architecture. The mandatory sarongs add an authentic touch, and the evening dance performances are a highlight. However, many note that it can become very crowded, and the reused garments might be a concern for some.
"This place was great fun. Very beautiful and you get to dress in local garments (mandatory for the purpose of respectfully cover up bare skin). This gave a very authentic vibe. Also, they play local music in concert at designated times which was a nice addon. I would consider this mandatory during your stay in Ubud!"
Frederik Amris
"the temple is a must see when you are in the center of Ubud. you get traditional clothing at the entrance so don’t bother bringing a own sarong or similar. the ticket costs 65k per person which is a fair price considering the temple is rather small.
something to note is that the temple gives the vibe of a tourist attraction rather than a spiritual place."
Eli
"Fun experience but very crowed during the day. Might be better to go early to beat the crowds. They give clothing to wear but it’s reused right away which can be a little sweaty from others. They offer 10% discount at their cafe for lunch."
Samantha Taranto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pura Taman Saraswati is centrally located in Ubud, making it easily accessible. You can walk if you're staying nearby, or hire a taxi or scooter. Pre-booking cabs from Denpasar to Ubud is recommended for better rates.
Parking can be challenging in central Ubud due to its popularity. It's best to arrive early or consider walking if your accommodation is close. Scooter parking is generally more available than car parking.
Ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab are available in Ubud and can be a convenient way to reach Pura Taman Saraswati. Be aware that some areas might have restrictions on ride-sharing pickups.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ticket price is approximately 65,000 IDR per person. This fee includes the rental of traditional Balinese garments (sarong and sash) required for entry.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance upon arrival. Booking in advance is usually not necessary, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any updates.
The temple is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the water gardens and lotus ponds. Performances usually occur in the evenings.
Standard restrictions apply, such as not bringing in outside food or drinks (unless purchased at their cafe). Be mindful of your belongings and respect the sacred nature of the temple.
While the main courtyard and water gardens are accessible, the inner temple areas may have restricted access. Visitors are generally confined to the front area with the fountains and ponds.
📸 📸 Photography
The stepping stones across the lotus ponds offer iconic photo opportunities. The vibrant sarongs worn by visitors also add color to your shots. Capture the intricate temple facade and the blooming lotuses.
Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of the temple complex, especially around the water gardens and lotus ponds. However, be respectful and avoid disrupting any ongoing ceremonies or performances.
Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways for extended periods while taking photos. Some visitors have noted that the stepping stones can become crowded, making it difficult to get unobstructed shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in temple areas and crowded public spaces in Bali. It's best to assume drones are not permitted to avoid any issues.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Evenings can also be beautiful, especially if there's a performance, but may be more crowded.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site that offers a 10% discount to temple visitors. It's a convenient place to grab a bite or a drink after your visit.
The cafe typically serves a range of local Indonesian dishes and some international options. It's a good place to experience Balinese cuisine in a pleasant setting.
Being in the heart of Ubud, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and warungs (local eateries) within walking distance, offering a wide variety of culinary choices.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the area can get crowded, so holding onto little ones is advisable. The cafe on-site offers a place to rest and refuel, with a discount for visitors. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the peak crowds and potential heat, making the experience more comfortable for younger visitors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Early mornings are ideal for softer light and fewer people, allowing for more creative freedom. Evenings can be atmospheric, especially if a dance performance is scheduled, but be prepared for more competition for the best shots. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expanse of the water gardens and a telephoto lens for details on the temple carvings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Pura Taman Saraswati
While it serves as a place of worship, its prominent location and aesthetic appeal have also made it a significant tourist attraction in Ubud. Visitors often come to admire the architecture, the tranquil lotus ponds, and to witness the traditional Balinese dance performances that are frequently held in the temple's amphitheater. These performances are a vibrant display of Balinese culture and art, adding another layer to the visitor experience.
It's important to note that while it is a temple, its current presentation leans towards a tourist experience. Some visitors feel it's more of an attraction than a deeply spiritual site, especially during peak hours when it can be quite crowded. Nevertheless, its beauty and cultural offerings make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Ubud.
Experiencing the Dance Performances
It's advisable to check the performance schedule in advance, as shows usually take place in the evenings. The exact timings can vary, so it's worth inquiring locally or checking any available signage at the temple. Attending a performance offers a deeper immersion into Balinese culture and provides a unique cultural experience that complements the visual beauty of the temple itself. The combination of the mystical ambiance of the water palace and the vibrant energy of the dance makes for an unforgettable evening.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit