Summary
Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan Lake Temple
The Tamblingan Lake Temple is situated along the shores of Lake Danau Tamblingan. During the rainy season, when water levels rise, the temple appears to float on the lake, creating a breathtaking sight.
This enchanting location attracts many Balinese couples who visit for prewedding photographs, and it’s easy to understand why. The moss-covered rooftops on the gates present a surreal appearance on misty mornings, with the tranquil lake serving as an ideal backdrop.
Although I was born too late to witness ‘the old Bali’, I can imagine this serene environment—absent of crowds, selfie sticks, and shopping malls—offering a unique blend of peace, nature, and culture.
The beauty of Tamblingan Bali sometimes feels like a scene from Angkor Wat Cambodia, yet this temple remains a pivotal site for local Hindu ceremonies.
Positioned at an elevation of approximately 1,200 meters (4,000 feet), the refreshing air adds a wonderful atmosphere for trekking and camping enthusiasts.
Entrance Fee
The entrance fee is 20k Rupiah (approximately $1) as of 2024. This ticket provides access to both the lake and the temple at Tamblingan Bali.
Additionally, visitors have the option to pay extra for guided jungle treks and canoe rides around the lake at Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan.
How To Get There
Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan is located in Munduk, on the northern side of Bali. The location requires a drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours from more tourist-heavy areas in southern Bali, such as Ubud, Canggu, or Kuta.
To reach the temple most conveniently, consider renting a scooter or hiring a private car and driver, both options available online.
Lake Tamblingan Trek
If you’re eager for further adventure in Tamblingan Bali, jungle treks in the pristine rainforest surrounding the lake await you. The area features beautiful Banyan trees and diverse exotic plants and wildlife, including a scenic view of the now-extinct volcanic cone known as Mount Lesung (Gunung Lesung in Indonesian).
Jungle treks typically range from 2 to 6 hours, and they can be arranged at the entrance to Lake Tamblingan Bali.
More Bali Temples
For those interested in additional information regarding temples in Bali, the Bali Temple Guide provides an exhaustive overview, including photographs and maps.
Bali Private Driver & Motorbike Rental
To explore Bali safely and comfortably, consider hiring a private vehicle with an English-speaking driver. My top recommendation is GetYourGuide.
Their rates start at 700k Rupiah (around $48 USD) for a full day (up to 10 hours) accommodating 1-5 passengers, which includes the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and petrol—a great value!
For those preferring a motorbike, scooter rentals start from 140k Rupiah (approximately $9) and come with helmet, raincoat, and complimentary delivery in the southern Bali area.