Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is an important water temple on the shores of Danau Bratan (Lake Bratan). Built by the King of Mengwi in 1633 (who later built another water temple, Pura Taman Ayun) this picture-postcard temple is dedicated to the lake goddess, Dewi Danu, to ensure plentiful water and bountiful crops.

Set in the Bedugul Highlands, 1,239 meters (feet) above sea level, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is one of Bali’s most photographed and iconic temples. Its thatched multi-roofed shrines (meru) are surrounded and reflected by the lake, and its misty mountain backdrop highlights its serene beauty.

A banyan tree shades the temple entrance, which leads you through pretty gardens and past a Buddhist stupa to the lake and the main temple. On the shore of the lake are two multi-tiered merus and, if you hop in a canoe, you’ll find the Linga Petak fertility shrine in the lake itself.