Ubud Water Palace (Saraswati Temple): Complete Visitor Guide

If you’re wandering around central Ubud and looking for something quick and easy to check out, Ubud Water Palace — also called Saraswati Temple — is a solid little stop.

It’s got that classic Bali vibe: a lotus pond, stone walkway, a temple backdrop, and maybe even a dance show if you time it right. You won’t spend hours here, but if you’re already nearby in Ubud, it’s 100% worth a look.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know before you go — how much it costs, when to visit, what to wear, and where to grab a bite after.

Quick Overview of Ubud Water Palace

Ubud Water Palace is a quick, photogenic stop in central Ubud — best known for its lotus pond, symmetrical walkway, and traditional Balinese dance performances in the evening.

You can’t enter the main temple itself, but the outer grounds are open daily and easy to visit if you’re already in the area.

It’s not a place you need to go out of your way for, but if you’re walking around Ubud town or building a day tour itinerary, it’s worth popping in for 20–30 minutes.

There’s a small entrance fee, no strict dress code, and plenty of photo ops, especially in the early morning or just before sunset.

The on-site Cafe Lotus offers a front-row seat to the stage where nightly dance shows are held (except Fridays). It’s a bit pricey but has been a go-to tourist restaurant since the 80s.

Overall, Ubud Water Palace is more of a relaxed cultural experience than a major sightseeing spot — low effort, high reward if you time it right.

Summary

📍 Location: F7V6+JHX, Jl. Kajeng, Ubud
🕗 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM–7:00 PM (Fridays until 9:30 PM)
🎟️ Entrance Fee: IDR 60k (adults), IDR 45k (children)
💃 Dance Performances: Every night except Friday (IDR 100k)
⌛ Visit Duration: 30 minutes
👗 Dress Code: Casual. No strict rules
📸 Photo Spots: Central walkway, lotus pond

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What is Ubud Water Palace?

Ubud Water Palace, officially known as Pura Taman Saraswati (Saraswati Temple), is a small but iconic temple tucked right in the center of Ubud town.

It’s dedicated to Saraswati — the Hindu goddess of wisdom, knowledge, and the arts. That tracks perfectly with Ubud’s vibe as Bali’s cultural hub.

What makes it special is the lotus pond out front. A long, symmetrical stone path cuts through the water, leading straight to the ornate temple gate. It’s easily one of the most photographed spots in Ubud.

You can’t go inside the main temple unless there’s a ceremony and you’re dressed appropriately — and even then, it’s usually reserved for locals. But that’s not really why people come.

Most visitors stop by for the atmosphere, to snap a few photos, or to catch the traditional Balinese dance performance in the evening. It’s a quick stop, especially if you’re already exploring central Ubud on foot.

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Ubud Water Palace History

The Ubud Water Palace was built in the early 1900s as part of the royal palace complex. At the time, it was a private temple for the Ubud royal family, not the public attraction it is today.

The temple was designed by I Gusti Nyoman Lempad — one of Bali’s most well-known artists and architects. He was responsible for many of Ubud’s major structures and worked closely with the royal family on cultural projects.

His architectural style blends traditional Balinese elements with fine artistic detail. You’ll notice it in the intricate stone carvings and the overall layout of the temple and lotus pond.

Like many temples in Bali, it’s still active. Ceremonies are held here, especially on Saraswati Day — a Balinese Hindu holiday that celebrates learning and wisdom.

Tourism at the site picked up later, especially in the 1980s when Cafe Lotus opened next door. That changed everything. With a stage set up in front of the pond, the temple became one of Ubud’s most photographed and visited spots.

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Location & How to Get There

Ubud Water Palace is right in the heart of Ubud, just off the main road — Jalan Raya Ubud. The exact address is F7V6+JHX, Jl. Kajeng, Ubud.

The entrance is easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. Look for the Cafe Lotus sign — the temple is directly behind it. It’s also just a few minutes’ walk from Ubud Palace and Ubud Art Market, so if you’re exploring on foot, you’ll pass right by it.

How to get there:

• Private car and driver
  Easiest and most comfortable. Great if you’re doing a full Ubud day tour.
• Renting a Scooter
  Fine if you’re confident riding in traffic. There’s a small parking area nearby but it gets crowded.
• Grab/Gojek
  Works well for a short trips if you’re already in Ubud.
• Walking
  If you’re staying nearby in Ubud central, it’s within walking distance of most hotels and guesthouses.

No matter how you get there, just be aware the area gets congested, especially midday. If you’re driving yourself, good luck finding parking.

The best parking area near Ubud Water Palace is Ubud Central Parking. However, you should be able to find small parking spots in the small alleyways. Just bring cash to pay for the parking fee.

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Ubud Water Palace Entrance Fee

Entrance to Ubud Water Palace isn’t free — you’ll need a ticket even if you’re just visiting the outer courtyard and pond area.

• Adults: IDR 60,000
• Children: IDR 45,000

You can pay in IDR cash (Bali’s currency) or by credit/debit card, including international cards. Just make sure your card has contactless or chip-and-pin — older magstripe cards might not work.

Tickets can be bought at the gate, but if you’re visiting during peak hours or on weekends, it’s better to book online through their official website.

They sometimes limit the number of people allowed in at once, especially during busy periods or when there’s a dance performance scheduled later that day.

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Opening Hours & When to Visit

Ubud Water Palace is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with extended hours on Fridays until 9:30 PM.

That gives you plenty of time to stroll the grounds or catch an evening dance performance if you’re around later in the day.

Just a heads up — hours can occasionally change due to ceremonies or special events. If you’re planning your day around it, it’s worth checking their official website or giving them a quick call.

Best Time to Visit

You can visit anytime, but midday tends to be the hottest and most crowded. It’s also when the sun is directly overhead, so your photos might look a bit blown out.

If you want better lighting and a slightly cooler atmosphere, late afternoon around 4–5 PM is a great window. You’ll get softer light for photos and might be able to stick around for the dance performance if you’re planning to attend.

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Ubud Water Palace Dress Code

Wondering what to wear to Ubud Water Palace? If you’re just there to walk around the lotus pond and take a few photos, casual clothes are totally fine — shorts, tank tops, sandals, whatever.

But if you’re planning to go inside or attend a ceremony (on the rare chance you’re allowed), you’ll be asked to wear traditional attire out of respect. The good news? They provide it at the entrance.

You’ll be given a sarong and a purple robe to wear over your clothes. It’s quick, easy, and part of the experience. No need to bring your own — though you can if you prefer.

If you’re just coming for the dance performance, there’s no strict dress code, but it’s still a good idea to wear something modest and comfortable, especially in the evening when the air cools down a bit.

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Ubud Water Palace Dance Show

Balinese dance performances are held at Ubud Water Palace every evening except Friday. Each night features a different traditional show, backed by live gamelan music and set against the stunning lotus pond backdrop.

Tickets for the Ubud Water Palace Dance Show cost IDR 100,000 per person.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Monday – Joged Dance
  A playful, upbeat social dance performed during celebrations. Known for graceful hand gestures, footwork, and colorful costumes.
• Tuesday – Ladies Orchestra & Dance Troupe
  A full women’s gamelan orchestra paired with elegant, expressive traditional dances.
• Wednesday – Ramayana Ballet
  A dramatic retelling of the Hindu epic Ramayana, blending intricate choreography, music, and storytelling.
• Thursday – Barong Dance
  The classic good vs evil performance featuring Barong (the protector) and Rangda (the demon queen).
• Saturday – Legong Dance
  A refined classical dance performed by young girls, known for precise movements and stunning traditional dress.
• Sunday – Janger Dance
  A joyful group dance with male and female performers, often staged during ceremonies and festive events.

Shows typically start around 7:30 PM. If you want good seats, show up a bit early — and don’t forget your camera. The backdrop of the lit-up temple behind the stage is unreal.

👉 If you’re looking to catch a Legong Dance on any night of the week, check out the Ubud Palace Legong Dance performance instead.

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Ubud Water Palace Photos

If you’re chasing a classic Ubud shot, Ubud Water Palace is one of the easiest wins. You won’t need a drone or fancy gear — just a good eye and decent lighting.

Here are the best photo spots:

• The central walkway:
  The stone path that runs through the lotus pond is the most iconic angle. Stand halfway down for a symmetrical shot with the temple gate in the background.
• Side angle from Cafe Lotus:
  If you’re grabbing a drink or meal at Cafe Lotus, the view from the side gives you a slightly elevated, wider perspective over the pond — especially nice during golden hour.
• Close-ups with the lotus flowers:
  Frame a few lotus blooms in the foreground and blur the background. Works great for a softer, more artistic feel.
• Evening shots during the dance performance:
  The temple is beautifully lit at night. Use a lower shutter speed or night mode to capture the glow behind the dancers.
• From the bridge just outside the gate:
  Before entering, there’s a small raised platform where you can get a great shot of the full layout — pond, walkway, and temple

Pro tip: Go early morning or late afternoon. Midday light is harsh and will flatten your photos — and you’ll be elbowing through the crowds.

👉 See my full list of Bali Instagram spots if you’re looking to make your Instagram followers jealous.

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The Restaurant: Cafe Lotus

Right at the entrance to Ubud Water Palace, you’ll see a path split — one way leads to the temple, the other to The Café Lotus. This isn’t just a casual cafe — it’s been a fixture in Ubud since 1983, and it’s got front-row seats to one of the prettiest views in town.

The focus here is on Balinese cuisine, but the vibe leans a bit more toward fine dining — both in presentation and price. It’s not street food, and the prices reflect that. That said, it’s a solid pick if you’re after a more refined setting without going full white-tablecloth.

The menu is mostly local — expect dishes like bebek betutu, nasi campur, and Balinese satay — but there are also international options like pizza, pork ribs, and fettucine if you’re not feeling adventurous.

This is also where the nightly dance performances happen. There’s a stage right in front of the lotus pond, and if you reserve a table, you can enjoy the show while eating dinner or sipping a cocktail.

It’s touristy, yes — but it’s earned its reputation. Come for the view, stay for the atmosphere, and if you’re okay with paying a bit more, it’s a great way to experience Balinese culture without leaving your seat.

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Is Ubud Water Palace Worth Visiting?

If you’re not already in Ubud, I wouldn’t go out of your way just to see the Water Palace. It’s small, and you’ll likely spend no more than 20–30 minutes there unless you’re staying for the dance show.

That said, if you’re already in central Ubud, it’s absolutely worth a quick visit — especially if you’re walking between Ubud Palace, the art market, or grabbing lunch nearby.

It also fits in nicely as a stop on a Ubud day tour, since it’s close to a lot of the main attractions. Think of it as a low-effort, high-impact spot to add to your itinerary — beautiful, cultural, and easy to access.

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Ubud Water Palace Reviews

Aside from my recommendation, it’s important for you to get a clear picture of what others experience at Saraswati Temple so you can decide for yourself whether it’s worth visiting or not.

Here’s a quick summary of both the good and the bad:

👍 The Good

• Beautiful and peaceful setting – Visitors often praise the serene vibe, especially in the early morning or just after sunset when it’s quieter.
• Great for photos – The lotus pond and architecture are major highlights for photography lovers.
• Informative cultural experience – Some guided tours offer insight into Balinese Hinduism and the temple’s symbolism.
• Nice add-on to your itinerary – Many people appreciate it as a quick, scenic stop during an Ubud walking tour.
• Fish feeding adds a fun touch – A few visitors mentioned enjoying feeding the koi fish in the pond.
• Cafe Lotus is a bonus – Several reviews mention the café’s quality food and prime view of the temple and performances.

👎 The Bad

• Perceived as a tourist trap – Some feel the ticket price isn’t justified for how little of the temple you can actually access.
• Can feel underwhelming – A few reviews mention that it’s small and more style over substance, especially compared to other temples.
• Service complaints – Negative experiences with rude staff or poor customer service at the ticket booth were mentioned.
• Hygiene concerns – A couple of reviewers reported dirty or smelly ceremonial attire provided at the entrance.
• Not worth the entrance fee – Several reviews express that the value doesn’t match the cost, especially for those expecting a larger site or deeper experience.

As always, experiences can vary — but this should give you a more balanced view before you go.

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Ubud Day Tour

If you’re planning to visit Ubud Water Palace along with a few other highlights, booking a private Ubud day tour is the easiest way to do it.

You’ll get a personal driver, an air-conditioned SUV, and the freedom to choose your own itinerary — no fixed group schedules, no rushing. Just let the driver know what you’re into (temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, local food), and they’ll help you make the most of your day.

Most of the best stops — like Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Goa Gajah, Tirta Empul, and of course Ubud Palace — are all close enough to fit into a single tour without feeling rushed.

Bonus: we don’t charge per person, so the price stays the same whether you’re solo or rolling with 4 friends. You can also skip the hassle of figuring out parking or navigating Bali traffic.

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Where to Visit After Ubud Water Palace

If you’re building a central Ubud itinerary or browsing for things to do in Ubud, Ubud Water Palace makes a great starting point — or a mid-morning stop.

Here are a few nearby places worth adding to your list:

• Ubud Palace
  Right around the corner. Another quick but worthwhile stop.
• Ubud Art Market
  Great for souvenir shopping. Expect everything from sarongs to handmade crafts.
• Blanco Museum
  Bold art, quirky charm, and sweeping views over the jungle.
• Campuhan Ridge Walk
  A scenic walk with rice field views, especially nice around sunrise or late afternoon.
• Ubud Monkey Forest
  A fun and slightly chaotic experience with hundreds of macaques roaming freely.
• Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA)
  A quieter spot with beautifully curated Balinese and Indonesian art.
• Prianka Ubud Art Market
  Different from the main market — slight less crowded but sees some traffic.
• Goa Gajah
  Also known as the Elephant Cave, this archaeological site is about 10–15 minutes from central Ubud.

All of these are within easy reach by foot or a short drive — perfect if you’re touring the area with a private driver or just exploring on your own.

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Best Restaurants in the Area

If you’re not planning on eating at Cafe Lotus and want more options nearby, there are plenty of great restaurants within walking distance of Ubud Water Palace. Whether you’re after Balinese food, vegetarian cafes, or something a bit more international, central Ubud has you covered.

• Bollywood Indian Cuisine Ubud
• Milk & Madu Ubud
• Umah Pizza
• Ibu Rai Restaurant Ubud Bali
• Casa Luna
• Simply Social
• Anomali Coffee Ubud
• Lazy Cats Cafe (Vegetarian)

Alternatively, head over to Jalan Goutama — one of Ubud’s most vibrant little streets, packed with cozy eateries, healthy food spots, and quirky cafes. Even if you’re not hungry, it’s a fun place to wander and see what catches your eye.

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Ubud Water Palace FAQs

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