Ulun Danu Batur Temple
A sacred Hindu temple complex dedicated to the water goddess, set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Batur volcano.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Surreal sunrise views
Ulun Danu Batur Temple
Best Time
Surreal sunrise views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred Hindu temple complex dedicated to the water goddess, set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Batur volcano.
"The most breathtaking temple I saw in Bali. Bali certainly has it all. "
🎯 Sarong Savvy
A sarong is required, but a free one is often included. Don't be pressured into buying! :admission_tickets:
🚶♂️ Hire a Local Guide
Guides can enhance your visit and help navigate potential sales pitches. Tip them well! :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Temple Complex
Main temple grounds
A breathtaking collection of Hindu temples and shrines set against a stunning volcanic backdrop. Feel the ancient energy.
Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
Mount Batur slopes
Embark on an early morning trek for a surreal sunrise experience above the clouds. Truly unforgettable.
Volcanic Landscape Views
Temple surroundings
Marvel at the dramatic vistas of Mount Batur and its caldera, a testament to Bali's powerful natural forces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sarong Scrutiny
Navigating the Hustle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sarong Savvy
A sarong is required, but a free one is often included. Don't be pressured into buying! :admission_tickets:
🚶♂️ Hire a Local Guide
Guides can enhance your visit and help navigate potential sales pitches. Tip them well! :walking:
📸 Capture the Views
The volcanic landscapes are incredible. Bring your camera for stunning shots.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if you're doing the Mount Batur trek, carry plenty of water. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sarong Savvy
A sarong is required, but a free one is often included. Don't be pressured into buying! :admission_tickets:
🚶♂️ Hire a Local Guide
Guides can enhance your visit and help navigate potential sales pitches. Tip them well! :walking:
📸 Capture the Views
The volcanic landscapes are incredible. Bring your camera for stunning shots.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if you're doing the Mount Batur trek, carry plenty of water. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ulun Danu Batur Temple is praised for its stunning beauty and spiritual atmosphere, especially when combined with the Mount Batur sunrise trek. However, visitors frequently mention aggressive sales tactics and the pressure to purchase sarongs or hire guides, which can detract from the experience.
"You have to buy tickets across the street, and either purchase or rent a sarong. We ended up purchasing them as this was our first temple visit and figured we would use them again. The pricing for the sarong is negotiable.
We had a nice older man guide us through the temple and take amazing pictures. He also took us around back to show us the view, but made sure to not let anyone bother us trying to sell things."
Sarah W
"Amazing temple complex! Very artistic and lovely. I have to agree with other reviewers though, the aggressiveness of people trying to sell and hustle you for money is way too over the top here. Enjoy the inner part of the temple but DO NOT go around the back. You will meet a man that is highly agressive trying to sell you lava rock drawings. He will actually get in your face! The view in the back is the same from the cafes."
Alex
"The ticket price idr 30.000 for local but we have to rent sarong to go in.
You may negotiate the price for the rent sarong, as cheap as you can"
Santoso S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Ulun Danu Batur Temple from Ubud is by hiring a private driver or joining a guided tour. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Renting a scooter is also an option for experienced riders, but be prepared for winding roads and potential traffic. +1
Yes, it's possible, but it will be a long day. Hiring a driver for the day is recommended, as it allows for flexibility. Factor in at least 2-3 hours of travel time each way, plus time for exploring the temple and potentially the Mount Batur area.
For the Mount Batur sunrise trek, most tours include pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation. If you're arranging it independently, you'll typically meet your guide at a designated point near the base of the mountain.
Ride-sharing apps may be available in some areas, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, especially for reaching more remote locations like Ulun Danu Batur Temple. Hiring a local driver is generally more dependable.
Public transportation options are very limited in Bali, and there are no direct public buses to Ulun Danu Batur Temple. Private transport or organized tours are the most practical ways to visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Ulun Danu Batur Temple is typically IDR 30,000 for locals and slightly more for foreigners. However, prices can vary, so it's always good to check upon arrival.
Yes, a sarong is required to enter the temple grounds. While you might be pressured to buy or rent one, a free sarong is often included with your entrance ticket. Politely inquire about the included sarong.
Discounts are generally not advertised for Ulun Danu Batur Temple. The stated entrance fees are usually fixed, though negotiation might be possible for sarong rentals.
Ulun Danu Batur Temple is generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. For the Mount Batur sunrise trek, you'll be starting well before dawn.
Currently, there isn't a widely advertised online ticketing system for Ulun Danu Batur Temple. Tickets are typically purchased at the entrance booth across the street from the temple.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Ulun Danu Batur Temple is a significant Hindu temple complex dedicated to the deities of the lake and mountains. You can explore the various shrines, pavilions, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The surrounding volcanic landscape is also a major draw.
Many visitors find hiring a local guide beneficial. They can provide historical context, help you navigate the complex, and assist in managing aggressive vendors.
Dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees. You will be required to wear a sarong, which is usually provided or available for rent/purchase. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to trek Mount Batur.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. Food and drink options can be found near the temple entrance and in nearby cafes, especially if you are visiting after the Mount Batur trek.
Absolutely! The temple's architecture, the serene lake setting, and the dramatic volcanic backdrop make it a photographer's paradise. The early morning for sunrise treks or late afternoon for golden hour light are particularly popular.
📸 📸 Photography
The main temple complex offers iconic shots with its multi-tiered pagodas. For a different perspective, the views of Mount Batur from the temple grounds are spectacular. If you do the sunrise trek, the panoramic views from the summit are unparalleled.
Early morning, especially during sunrise if you're trekking Mount Batur, offers dramatic lighting. Late afternoon provides beautiful golden hour light. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
Drone usage is often restricted at religious sites in Bali to respect the sanctity of the location and for safety reasons. It's best to check local regulations or inquire on-site before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive temple grounds and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details within the temple or distant mountain shots. A tripod can help with low-light conditions during sunrise or sunset.
Visiting very early in the morning, especially for the Mount Batur trek, will help you beat the crowds. Alternatively, exploring less-visited corners of the temple complex or visiting during the shoulder seasons might offer more solitude for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider hiring a guide who is good with children, as they can make the visit more engaging. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options within the temple grounds might be limited. The visual beauty of the temple and its surroundings can captivate young minds, offering a glimpse into Balinese culture and spirituality.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to avoid inflated prices near the tourist sites. While the Mount Batur trek has a cost, it's often considered a worthwhile splurge for the experience. Look for package deals that might combine the trek with temple visits to get better value.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 If you're doing the Mount Batur trek, the sunrise views are unparalleled and a must-capture moment. Be mindful of the crowds and vendor interactions, which can sometimes detract from the photographic experience. Consider exploring different angles and compositions within the temple complex to find unique perspectives. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended for capturing the grandeur of the site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mount Batur Sunrise Trek Experience
It's crucial to be prepared for the conditions. The ascent can be steep and rocky in parts, and the summit is known for being freezing cold due to the altitude. Wearing layers, including a windproof jacket, is highly recommended. Many trekkers also bring a headlamp for the initial ascent in darkness.
Upon reaching the summit, guides often prepare a simple breakfast, usually boiled eggs cooked using the volcano's steam, and hot drinks. The descent offers a different perspective of the volcanic landscape. While the trek is popular, the sheer beauty of the sunrise makes it a worthwhile experience for many.
Navigating Vendor Interactions
Some travelers also mention being pressured to hire a guide or purchase items like lava rock drawings. While a guide can be helpful for understanding the temple's history and navigating the site, be clear about your intentions and budget. If you're not interested in purchasing anything, a polite but firm 'no thank you' is usually sufficient.
Despite these challenges, many visitors still find the temple experience rewarding. The key is to be prepared, stay assertive, and focus on the spiritual and natural beauty of the location. If you encounter overly aggressive behavior, seeking assistance from temple staff or your hired guide can be helpful.
The Spiritual Significance of Ulun Danu Batur
The temple's location is intrinsically linked to the Mount Batur volcano, which is considered sacred. The temple complex itself is believed to have been built from the very ashes of Mount Batur's eruptions, imbuing it with a powerful spiritual energy. Visitors often describe a profound sense of peace and connection to nature and the divine when visiting.
This sacred site is also featured on the 50,000 Indonesian rupiah banknote, highlighting its national importance and iconic status. Experiencing Ulun Danu Batur is an opportunity to connect with Bali's rich cultural heritage and its deep-rooted spiritual traditions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit