Ulun Danu Batur Temple Travel Guide

One of the attractions that attracts both local and international tourists is Ulun Danu Batur Temple, a magnificent temple that serves as a spiritual center and a favorite tourist destination in the Kintamani area. In this travel guide, we’ll discuss how to get to Ulun Danu Batur Temple, its unique features, and why, after visiting the temple, you should continue your journey to Tan’s Estate, a premium tourist area offering a unique experience, from cruises on Lake Batur to exclusive glamping accommodations.

Getting to Know Ulun Danu Batur Temple

Batur Temple is a temple dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water and lakes in Balinese Hinduism. It is located in Batur Village, Kintamani, approximately 1,200 meters above sea level. It is often considered the second most important temple in Bali after Pura Besakih. With its distinctive Balinese architecture, strong religious atmosphere, and majestic views of Mount Batur in the distance, a visit to Ulun Danu Batur Temple not to be missed.

The temple has nine main shrines and over 200 pelinggih (small sacred buildings). Their presence symbolizes the importance of water to Balinese life, particularly for the traditional Subak irrigation system. Not only is it a spiritual center, but it is also one of the best spots to witness the beauty of Kintamani from a cultural perspective.

How to Get to Ulun Danu Batur Temple

To reach Ulun Danu Batur Temple, you can travel overland from Denpasar or Ubud. From Denpasar, the distance is approximately 60 kilometers, with a travel time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you depart from Ubud, the trip is shorter, taking about an hour and covering 40 kilometers.

The route usually follows winding mountain roads, but along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of green hills, coffee plantations, and expansive rice paddies. For travelers who want to save time, renting a car with a local driver is the best option. Besides being more comfortable, a local driver can also act as a short guide, providing additional information about the local history and culture.

The Beauty and Activities at Batur Temple

Upon arrival at Ulun Danu Batur Temple, you will immediately be greeted by a sacred and serene atmosphere. Some activities you can enjoy here include:

Admire the Temple Architecture

Every carved detail in this temple has symbolic meaning. Walking around the temple grounds while observing the sacred structure is a profound experience for culture and photography enthusiasts.

Participate in a Religious Ceremony

If you visit at certain times, you might have the opportunity to witness a colorful traditional ceremony. This atmosphere adds to the authentic feel of your trip.

Enjoy the View of Mount and Lake Batur

The temple’s location on a plateau allows tourists to see the beauty of Mount Batur and Lake Batur from a distance. This is the perfect opportunity to take photos or simply enjoy the cool mountain air.

Learn about Balinese Spiritual Life

Through this temple, tourists can better understand how the Balinese people maintain a balance between nature, humanity, and spirituality.

Continue Your Journey to Tan’s Estate

After exploring Ulun Danu Batur Temple, your trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Tan’s Estate. This exclusive area is located not far from the temple, only about a 10-minute drive away. Situated within the vicinity of Lake Batur, tourists can experience a blend of cultural beauty and natural charm in one trip.

Tan’s Estate offers a unique tourism concept: combining the natural beauty of Lake Batur with modern, exclusive facilities. Here, you can not only relax but also enjoy an experience rarely found elsewhere.

Enjoy a Cruise on Lake Batur

One of the main attractions of Tan’s Estate is the cruise on Lake Batur. Aboard a comfortable private boat, tourists are invited to sail across Bali’s largest volcanic lake. From the boat, the views are breathtaking: the calm waters of the lake, the majestic silhouette of Mount Batur, and the cool mountain air.

This cruise is more than just a trip; it’s an experience of being at one with nature. You’ll experience extraordinary serenity while listening to the guide’s fascinating stories about the history of the lake and the lives of the surrounding community. This activity is suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers who are looking for tranquility and adventure.

Glamping Experience at Tan’s Estate

Besides cruises, Tan’s Estate is also known for its comfortable and luxurious glamping (glamour camping) facilities. Unlike traditional camping, glamping here offers exclusive tents complete with soft beds, private bathrooms, and balconies with views of Lake Batur.

Staying at Tan’s Estate gives you the unique opportunity to wake up to a spectacular sunrise. The sun slowly rising from behind Mount Batur creates an unforgettable, magical atmosphere. In the evening, you can enjoy a campfire while relaxing under the stars.

This glamping is perfect for travelers who want to feel close to nature without sacrificing comfort. From Tan’s Estate, you can also easily return to Ulun Danu Batur Temple if you want to explore more.

Distance and Access between Ulun Danu Batur Temple and Tan’s Estate

Many travelers ask, how far is it between Ulun Danu Batur Temple and Tan’s Estate? The answer is quite simple: it’s only about 5 kilometers, or about a 10-minute drive. Their close proximity makes them ideal for a day trip.

After a cultural tour of Ulun Danu Batur Temple, you can head straight to Tan’s Estate to enjoy a relaxing lakeside experience. If you’d like to stay overnight, glamping at Tan’s Estate is a great option before continuing your journey to other destinations in Kintamani or North Bali.

Tips for Visiting Ulun Danu Batur Temple and Tan’s Estate

To make your trip more comfortable and memorable, here are some tips:

Arrive in the Morning

The morning atmosphere at Ulun Danu Batur Temple is very cool and serene. The morning sunlight is also more beautiful for photography.

Dress Modestly

Because Ulun Danu Batur Temple is a place of worship, tourists are required to wear modest clothing and a sarong, which are usually provided at the entrance.

Bring a Jacket or Sweater

Kintamani is known for its cool, even cold temperatures, especially at night. A thick jacket is highly recommended if you plan to stay at Tan’s Estate.

Prepare Your Camera

Both the temple and Tan’s Estate are excellent spots for photography. Don’t forget to bring a camera or a fully charged phone.

Book Your Cruise or Glamping Site Early

Due to its popularity, cruises and glamping sites at Tan’s Estate often fill up during the holiday season. Be sure to make reservations in advance.

Conclusion

Ulun Danu Batur Temple is not only a cultural tourism destination, but also a gateway to unique experiences in the Kintamani area. With its beautiful temple architecture, deep spiritual atmosphere, and views of Mount and Lake Batur, this temple is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Balinese experience.

However, the journey doesn’t stop there. Just 10 minutes from Ulun Danu Batur Temple is Tan’s Estate, an exclusive retreat offering Lake Batur cruises and luxurious glamping experiences. This combination of culture and nature makes your trip even more complete and unforgettable.

So, if you’re planning a vacation to Bali, be sure to include Ulun Danu Batur Temple and Tan’s Estate on your list. From history and culture to modern conveniences, you can discover it all in one short but meaningful trip.