Saraswati Temple Ubud
A serene Balinese Hindu temple dedicated to Saraswati, featuring a stunning lotus pond and intricate architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Saraswati Temple Ubud
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Balinese Hindu temple dedicated to Saraswati, featuring a stunning lotus pond and intricate architecture.
"A beautiful and peaceful temple with stunning architecture and a charming lotus pond."
🎯 Arrive Early for Calm
Beat the crowds by visiting in the morning for a peaceful experience and better photo ops.
👗 Respectful Attire Provided
Traditional garb is provided for entry. It's damp sometimes, so bring an umbrella!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lotus Pond Serenity
Entrance pathway
Walk across a picturesque pathway surrounded by vibrant lotus flowers, leading to the temple entrance.
Intricate Balinese Architecture
Temple grounds
Marvel at the detailed carvings and traditional Balinese Hindu temple design, a feast for the eyes.
Traditional Dance Performances
Temple courtyard (check schedule)
Experience captivating Balinese dance performances held in the evenings, adding a cultural spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Dress Code & Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Calm
Beat the crowds by visiting in the morning for a peaceful experience and better photo ops.
👗 Respectful Attire Provided
Traditional garb is provided for entry. It's damp sometimes, so bring an umbrella!
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The temple offers stunning backdrops, but be prepared for queues for popular photo spots.
☕ Cafe Lotus Views
Enjoy a drink or meal at Cafe Lotus for great views of the temple and fountains.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Calm
Beat the crowds by visiting in the morning for a peaceful experience and better photo ops.
👗 Respectful Attire Provided
Traditional garb is provided for entry. It's damp sometimes, so bring an umbrella!
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The temple offers stunning backdrops, but be prepared for queues for popular photo spots.
☕ Cafe Lotus Views
Enjoy a drink or meal at Cafe Lotus for great views of the temple and fountains.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Saraswati Temple for its stunning beauty, intricate architecture, and the serene lotus pond. The provided traditional attire adds a unique cultural touch, and the adjacent Cafe Lotus offers lovely views. Some find the temple small and can be crowded during peak times, with occasional damp ceremonial clothing.
"Very nice. They have the traditional garb for you to wear, but it was damp from previous wearers not understanding the use of umbrellas…
The temple itself is pretty and a nice 10 min stroll around. Some cool sculptures and it must be great to watch the traditional dancing they do here!! Can have a drink or food at lotus cafe with good view of temple and fountains as well."
Shane Kruse
"Beautiful temple costing 60k per person. You dress up in traditional clothes so everyone is wearing purple which just makes the place even more stunning. The water features are gorgeous too. The only downside is that it is quite small so you do have to wait a little while sometimes to have your photo taken."
Coralie Pattenden
"Beautiful temple to visit. The tour guide told me all about Saraswati and how the temple works. There are 3 sections, but you can't go inside the holy part. You're given ceremonial dress as you enter to be respectful of the customs. There's a lovely cafe with great food and drink, and lots of great photo opportunities. Really enjoyed it!"
Lucinda Pavitt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Saraswati Temple, also known as Pura Taman Saraswati, is conveniently located in the heart of Ubud, right behind the Starbucks on Jalan Kajeng. You can easily walk there from most central Ubud accommodations. If you're coming from further afield, a taxi or ride-sharing service like Grab is a good option.
Yes, it's very easy to find! Its central location makes it a popular landmark. Look for the Starbucks on the main street, and the temple entrance is just behind it.
Absolutely! Apps like Grab are widely used in Ubud and can drop you off very close to the temple entrance.
Walking is often the best way to explore central Ubud and reach Saraswati Temple. For longer distances, consider hiring a local driver for the day or using ride-sharing apps.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the temple entrance, there are public parking areas available in central Ubud. It's often easier to walk if you're staying nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around 35,000 to 60,000 IDR per person. This fee often includes the use of traditional ceremonial dress.
The temple is generally open daily from morning until evening. Specific timings can vary, but it's usually accessible from around 8 AM to 6 PM. It's best to check locally for the most up-to-date information.
No, advance booking is generally not required. You can purchase tickets upon arrival at the temple entrance.
Yes, a respectful dress code is enforced. Visitors are provided with traditional Balinese sarongs and sashes to wear within the temple grounds.
While there is a small entrance fee, the cost is quite reasonable and contributes to the temple's upkeep. It's considered a worthwhile expense for the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The pathway over the lotus pond offers iconic shots. The intricate carvings on the temple itself and the water features are also excellent subjects. Be patient for clear shots without other visitors.
Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of the temple. However, always be respectful and avoid taking photos of people without their permission, especially during ceremonies.
It can be challenging during peak times. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you capture photos with fewer people.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites in Bali to maintain peace and respect. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
Early morning light is beautiful and the crowds are minimal, making it ideal for photography. The golden hour before sunset can also offer lovely lighting.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several options. Cafe Lotus is located within the temple complex and offers great views. Numerous restaurants and cafes are also just steps away in central Ubud. +1
Cafe Lotus is situated right next to the temple, offering a lovely ambiance with views of the lotus pond and temple architecture. It's a popular spot for a meal or a drink. 
Yes, there's a Starbucks located very close to the temple entrance, making it easy to grab a coffee before or after your visit.
You'll find a wide variety of Indonesian and international cuisine in the surrounding area, from local warungs to upscale restaurants.
Prices vary greatly. You can find budget-friendly local eateries (warungs) as well as more upscale dining options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning when it's less crowded and cooler. The nearby cafes, like Cafe Lotus, offer a relaxed environment where families can enjoy a snack or meal with a view. It's a good stop for a brief cultural immersion without requiring extensive walking or prolonged attention spans.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
+1To get the best shots, aim for the early morning hours when the light is soft and the crowds are minimal. This will allow you to capture the serene beauty of the temple without too many distractions. Be patient, as popular spots might require a short wait for an unobstructed view.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers
While the main temple areas are accessible, the true spiritual essence can be felt in the quiet moments of observation. The temple's location in Ubud, known as Bali's spiritual heartland, further enhances its significance for those seeking inner peace and connection.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Saraswati Temple
The temple is particularly famous for its picturesque lotus pond, which is filled with vibrant pink and white lotuses. A pathway gracefully crosses this pond, leading visitors to the main temple structure. This tranquil setting makes it a popular spot for quiet contemplation and photography. Many visitors find the atmosphere here to be incredibly peaceful and spiritually uplifting, aligning with the goddess it honors.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the temple often hosts traditional Balinese dance performances in the evenings. These performances are a vibrant display of local culture and artistry, adding another layer to the visitor experience. It's a wonderful opportunity to witness the grace and storytelling inherent in Balinese dance, making the visit both visually and culturally enriching.
Experiencing the Temple: What to Expect
To enter the main temple area, visitors are required to wear traditional Balinese attire. The temple provides these garments, typically a sarong and sash, which are usually purple. This ensures that visitors are dressed respectfully for the sacred site. While some reviewers mention the garments can be damp, it's a necessary part of adhering to local customs.
While the temple is beautiful, it's important to note that it is not an enormous complex. The main areas are accessible for exploration, but some inner sanctums may be off-limits to visitors. The experience is often described as a pleasant, relatively short visit, perfect for a peaceful interlude in a busy Ubud itinerary.
Beyond the Temple: Dining and Views
+1For those seeking a quick coffee fix, a Starbucks is conveniently located right next to the temple entrance, making it easy to grab a familiar beverage before or after your visit.
The surrounding streets of central Ubud are also brimming with diverse dining options, from local warungs serving authentic Indonesian dishes to international restaurants catering to various tastes. The combination of the temple's spiritual beauty and the nearby dining options makes Saraswati Temple a well-rounded destination. Whether you're looking for a cultural immersion, a peaceful retreat, or a scenic spot for a meal, this area offers a delightful experience for visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit