Ulun Danu Batur Temple: The Complete Guide to Visiting the Holy Shrine in Kintamani

In the heart of the Kintamani mountains, stands the Ulun Danu Batur Temple — one of  the most revered sacred temples in Bali. This temple is not just a place of worship; it is a symbol of Bali’s spiritual, historical, and natural beauty that is integrated in one place. From the misty peak, visitors can watch the stunning panorama of Mount Batur and Lake Batur.

This guide will help you plan your visit completely: from history, ticket prices, opening hours, dress code, to the best tips to make your experience at Batur Temple Kintamani  truly unforgettable.

A Brief History of Ulun Danu Batur Temple

Ulun Danu Batur Bali has a long history that is closely related to the spiritual life of the people in Bali. This temple was built to worship the Goddess Danu as the goddess of water, lake, and fertility according to Balinese Hindu beliefs.

At first, this temple stood on the shore of Lake Batur, precisely at the base of the caldera of Mount Batur. However, in 1926 the devastating eruption of Mount Batur destroyed almost the entire surrounding area. One miracle of this event occurred: one of the temple’s main buildings remained untouched in the midst of hot lava. From this Event, it is believed to be a proof of the spiritual power of the temple.

After the disaster, the entire temple complex was moved to a different location and rebuilt in a higher and safer location. This temple was finally rebuilt in Kalanganyar Village, Kintamani (the location of which stands until today).

Today, Batur Temple Kintamani has nine temple complexes and is included in the ranks  of the world’s kahyangan. Kahyangan jagat are the nine main temples that guard spiritual balance in Bali. The temple also has a central role in the traditional irrigation system of subak which has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage.

Explore other attractions in Kintamani:

• Kehen Temple
• Penglipuran Village
• Lake View Kintamani Bali

What Can You See at Ulun Danu Batur Temple?

The temple complex is much more spacious than it looks from the outside. Here are some highlights that should not be missed:

1. Nine Temple Complexes (Great Temple)

The temple consists of nine temples that each have a different ritual function and meaning. Each building is decorated with highly detailed Balinese stone carving ornaments.

2. Meru (Tiered Holy Tower)

meru tower Ulun Danu Batur Temple

Meru towers have odd-tiered roofs (3, 5, 7, up to 11 levels) that are characteristic of Hindu temple architecture in Bali. Each level symbolizes a different level of spirituality.

3. View of Mount & Lake Batur

view of Mount Batur from Ulun Danu Batur Temple

Because it is located at an altitude of ±900 meters above sea level, the temple offers spectacular panoramas: Mount Batur which is still active on one side and the calm blue Lake Batur below. If you come in the morning, you will see the fog that surrounds the temple complex.

4. Traditional Ceremony (If Lucky)

Ulun Danu Batur Temple is still actively used for Balinese Hindu religious ceremonies on a regular basis. If your visit coincides with the ceremony, you will witness a very sacred and beautiful procession. It is necessary to pay attention if you still have to maintain distance and respect the privacy of the worshippers.

Visit Information: Tickets, Opening Hours & Dress Code

How to get to Ulun Danu Batur Temple

Batur Temple is located in the Kintamani area, about 2 hours drive from Denpasar or Ubud (depending on traffic). Here are some options for how to get to the location:

• From Ubud: ±60–75 minutes drive north via Tampaksiring or Bangli.
• From Denpasar / Kuta: ±90–120 minutes via Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai → Bangli → Kintamani.
• From Tan’s Estate (Kintamani): Only ±30 minutes drive — making it the perfect choice to combine in a single day trip.
• Transportation: Renting a car + driver or motorbike is recommended. There is no direct public transportation to the location.

Tan’s Estate Tip: If you are staying or visiting Tan’s Estate in the Batur Geopark area, Ulun Danu Batur Temple can be reached in 30 minutes. Combine the two destinations for the most complete Kintamani experience — temple spirituality in the morning, nature adventures at Tan’s Estate day to evening.

Tips for Visiting Kintamani Temple

• Come early morning (07.00–09.00): The morning fog creates a very beautiful and photogenic atmosphere. In addition, the atmosphere in the morning is quieter than tourists.
• Bring a jacket or a thin cloth: The temperature in Kintamani can reach 16–20°C in the morning. It will feel very cold especially if you are used to the coastal areas of Bali.
• Dress code must be followed: Wear modest clothes and make sure to bring a sarong/cloth. Usually the temple also provides a rental sarong at the entrance.
• Respect the worship area: If there is a ceremony taking place, it is best to keep your distance and not take random photos.
• Bring cash: Shrine areas do not necessarily accept digital payments for tickets or parking.
• Combine it with other Kintamani destinations: Lake Batur, Trunyan Village, or Tan’s Estate for a maximum day trip.

Why is Ulun Danu Batur Temple a must-have on your itinerary?

This destination in Kintamani offers something that can rarely be found anywhere else: a blend of the majesty of Balinese Hindu architecture, powerful spiritual values, and dramatic natural scenery.

Unlike many Bali tourist destinations that are already very crowded and commercialized, Ulun Danu Batur Temple still maintains its authenticity and ritual reverence. This is where you can experience the real Balinese culture.

As one of the nine heavens of the universe, Batur temple is the guardian of the spiritual balance of the island of Bali. This temple has a very high spiritual weight for Balinese Hindus. Visiting here is not just an ordinary sightseeing, but an immersive cultural experience.

Visit 2 Destinations at Once: Ulun Danu Batur Temple + Tan’s Estate

Want to get the most complete Kintamani experience in one day? Combine a visit to Ulun Danu Batur Temple with Tan’s Estate in the Batur Geopark area.

• Morning (07.00–09.00): Visit Ulun Danu Batur Temple to enjoy the temple serenity in the morning against the fog of Mount Batur.
• Afternoon – Afternoon (10.00–17.00): Continue exploring the area to Tan’s Estate to explore the Geopark area, Instagram-worthy photo spots, and various exciting outdoor activities in Kintamani.

The distance between the two is only ±30 minutes by car. More information about Tan’s Estate is available at tansestate.com.

FAQ

1. Are foreign tourists allowed to enter Ulun Danu Batur Temple?

Yes, foreign tourists are allowed to enter the temple area by buying an entrance ticket and wearing a cloth (sarong) and shawl. Cloth is usually provided at the entrance of the temple if you do not bring your own.

2. How much does Ulun Danu Batur Temple entrance ticket cost?

Ticket prices for foreign tourists range from IDR 50,000 to IDR 75,000 per person. For domestic tourists around IDR 15,000 – IDR 30,000. Prices are subject to change depending on the community, so it is recommended to confirm directly upon arrival at the location.

3. What should I wear when visiting Ulun Danu Batur Temple?

Visitors are required to wear cloth (sarong) and shawl as a form of respect for the holy temple. It is highly recommended to use clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. If you don’t bring, the temple usually provides rental at the entrance.

4. How long does it take to visit this temple?

On average, the visit takes 1 to 2 hours. You can also explore for longer, especially if you want to explore the entire temple complex casually or if there happen to be ceremonies.

5. When is the best time to visit Ulun Danu Batur Temple?

The best time is in the morning between 07.00-09.00 WITA. At this time, fog still covers the Kintamani area. This will create a very beautiful and mystical atmosphere. In addition, the number of tourists is still small so the experience is more solemn.

Conclusion

Ulun Danu Batur Temple is one of the most memorable destinations in Bali that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and depth of spirituality in one place. As one of the  most important sacred temples in Bali, this temple deserves a top spot on your sightseeing itinerary in Kintamani.

Finally, plan your trip now, and make a visit to Batur Temple Kintamani one of the most meaningful moments of your trip to the Island of the Gods.