Lake Bratan Overview
Lake Bratan is a stunning caldera lake in Baturiti – Tabanan, Bali. Nestled near Mt. Catur in Petang Village – Plaga, it stands at an elevation of 1239 meters above sea level, offering a cooler climate than the rest of Bali.
The lake’s western shore is adorned with the iconic Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, dedicated to the lake’s Goddess, Dewi Danu.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Baturiti – Tabanan, near Mt. Catur, Bali |
| Elevation | 1239 meters above sea level |
| Key Attraction | Ulun Danu Bratan Temple |
| Activities | Jet skiing, cycling-boat, parasailing, motor boating, canoeing |
| Nearby Attractions | Bali Botanical Garden, Banyumala Waterfall, Tamblingan and Buyan Lakes |
| Operating Hours | 7 AM – 7 PM |
| Entrance Fee (Adults) | 75k IDR (~$5) |
| Entrance Fee (Kids 5-11) | 50k IDR |
| Best Photo Time | Before 9 AM to avoid cloud cover |
| Accessibility | Rent a scooter or hire a private car and driver; 1.5 hours from Ubud/Canggu/Sanur |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the temple against a mountainous backdrop, especially in the morning. | Crowds: Can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays, as noted by visitors. |
| Cultural Significance: The Ulun Danu Bratan Temple is a significant cultural site dedicated to the Goddess Dewi Danu. | Limited Time for Exploration: Some visitors felt their visit was too short or crowded to fully appreciate the site. |
| Variety of Activities: From watersports to exploring nearby attractions, there’s something for everyone. | Entrance Fee Increases: The entrance fee tends to increase every few years, making it pricier over time. |
| Cooler Climate: Its elevation provides a cooler climate, offering a pleasant escape from Bali’s heat. | Accessibility: While the location is part of its charm, it requires a bit of travel from Bali’s main tourist centres. |
| Photography Opportunities: Ideal for capturing stunning landscapes and architectural beauty. |
Key Attractions and Activities
- Ulun Danu Bratan Temple: A significant cultural landmark dedicated to Dewi Danu, showcasing classical Balinese temple architecture.
- Watersports: Visitors can engage in jet skiing, cycling-boats, parasailing, motor boating, and canoeing right on the lake.
- Nearby Attractions: The area is also close to other notable sites such as the Bali Botanical Garden, Banyumala Waterfall, and the neighbouring lakes Tamblingan and Buyan, making it a popular spot for weekends and holidays.
Visiting Tips and Hours
For those interested in photography, it’s recommended to arrive by 9 AM to capture the temple against the backdrop of the mountains before clouds obscure them. Drones, however, are prohibited in the area due to its sacred nature.
- Operating Hours: The temple is open from 7 AM to 7 PM, welcoming visitors even outside these hours for sunrise views.
- Entrance Fees: As of 2024, the entrance fee is 75k IDR (~$5) for adults and 50k IDR for kids aged 5-11.
Accessibility
Lake Bratan is located in the northern part of Bali, in Bedugul. The best ways to reach this serene location include renting a scooter or hiring a private car and driver, with the journey from Ubud, Canggu, or Sanur taking approximately 1.5 hours.
Highlights of Lake Bratan
- Lake Bratan is a significant cultural and natural landmark in Bali, offering cooler climates and scenic beauty.
- The iconic Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, is a major attraction.
- Offers a variety of watersports activities for visitors seeking adventure.
- Surrounded by other notable attractions like the Bali Botanical Garden and Banyumala Waterfall, making it a popular spot.
- Open from 7 AM to 7 PM, allowing for flexible visiting hours.
- Entrance fees are relatively affordable, with options for both adults and children.
- Early morning visits are recommended for photography enthusiasts to capture the temple against a clear mountain backdrop.
- Accessible by renting a scooter or hiring a car, it’s well-connected to major areas in Bali like Ubud and Canggu.
Additional Information
Lake Bratan not only offers a peaceful retreat with its picturesque views and spiritual significance but also represents a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
With its array of activities, from serene temple visits to adventurous watersports, Lake Bratan holds appeal for every type of traveller.
How to Get There
Lake Bratan FAQs
Lake Bratan, also known as Bratan Lake, is a caldera lake located in Baturiti, Tabanan, Bali. It sits near Mt. Catur in Petang Village, Plaga, at an elevation of 1239 meters above sea level, making the surrounding area cooler than most parts of Bali.
Originally, Lake Beratan was the largest lake in Bali. However, a significant earthquake split it into three separate lakes: Beratan, Buyan, and Tamblingan. The name “Beratan” is derived from “Brata,” signifying a commitment to fulfilling life’s nine primary needs.
Lake Bratan is renowned for its picturesque views, cooler climate, and the iconic Ulun Danu Bratan Temple dedicated to the Goddess Dewi Danu. It’s a popular destination for both cultural appreciation and recreational activities like watersports.
As of the latest update, the entrance fee to Lake Bratan and the Ulun Danu Bratan Temple is approximately 75k IDR (~$5) for adults and 50k IDR for children aged 5-11.
The Ulun Danu Bratan Temple at Lake Bratan is open from 7 AM to 7 PM. However, visitors often arrive earlier for sunrise photos.
Yes, Lake Bratan and its surroundings offer stunning photography opportunities, especially in the morning before the mountains become clouded.
However, the use of drones is prohibited due to the sacred nature of the temple.
Yes, there are restaurants and cafes nearby where visitors can enjoy various dining options, from local cuisine to international dishes.
Lake Bratan offers a variety of activities including jet skiing, cycling-boat, parasailing, motor boating, and canoeing. It’s also a great spot for exploring nearby attractions like the Bali Botanical Garden and Banyumala Waterfall.
Lake Bratan is best accessed by renting a scooter or hiring a private car and driver. It is located in Bedugul, in the northern part of Bali, with travel times varying based on your starting location.
Yes, Lake Bratan is family-friendly, offering activities and sights that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages, including educational experiences at the temple and fun watersports.
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A seasoned traveller and Bali enthusiast with a wealth of experience and knowledge about the island. With a passion for exploring and discovering Bali’s hidden gems, Ben has a keen eye for details and a deep understanding of Bali’s culture, history, and unique features. With years of travel experience under his belt, he has explored almost every corner of the island and can provide invaluable insights and recommendations to make your trip unforgettable. From the best beaches to the tastiest local cuisine,he’s has got you covered.