Ulun Danu Tamblingan isn’t the famous lake temple on the 50,000 rupiah note. That’s Beratan. This one sits deeper in the Munduk highlands, quieter, older, and way less polished.
You’ve probably seen it on Instagram without realizing what it’s called. Stone gates standing in still water. Mist rolling in. Canoes drifting past. It looks cinematic, almost unreal.
Here’s exactly what to expect, entrance fees, location, when the “floating” effect actually happens, and whether it’s worth the drive from South Bali. I’ll keep it straight so you know if this place fits your trip or not.
About Tamblingan Temple
Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan (or simply Ulun Danu Tamblingan) is a 10th-century water temple sitting quietly on the edge of Lake Tamblingan in Munduk, North Bali.
It’s part of the Twin Lakes area and dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, who’s believed to protect the island’s lakes and irrigation system.
It’s usually overlooked by most tourists. You’ll often see it pop up on Instagram with that moody lake-and-mist shot, and half the people posting it don’t even know where it actually is.
What I like about it is how untouched it feels. The stone gates are weathered, the lake sits right at its edge, and when the mist rolls in it honestly feels like you’ve stepped into a different era of Bali.
📍 Location: P3PR+9J Munduk, Buleleng Regency, Bali
⏰ Opening Hours: No official hours
💸 Entrance Fee: IDR 30,000 (cash)
🚗 Parking: Included
🥻 Dress Code: No strict dress code
🚻 Facilities: Toilets near parking
⏳ Recommended Visit: 30–45 mins
Why Visit (or Skip) Tamblingan
Ulun Danu Tamblingan is for travelers who care more about atmosphere than convenience. It’s quiet, damp, and slightly haunting. That’s basically the whole idea.
The biggest draw is the silence. It’s eerily quiet. Unlike Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, you won’t see big tour groups or organized photo spots.
If you come early, especially around sunrise, the fog rolls over the lake and it genuinely feels like you’ve stepped back into old Bali (or a post-apocalyptic movie set).
Keep in mind, this part of Bali is wet. If it’s not raining, it’s usually misty. And the “floating temple” look is seasonal. In dry months, the lake can recede and you’re looking at more mud than reflection.
👍 Go: if you’re into photography, nature, or staying in Munduk and want something atmospheric.
👎 Skip: if you’re on a tight North Bali schedule and just ticking off the highlights.
The 10 Temple Circuit
While the Tamblingan Temple gets all the attention, it’s just one part of a larger sacred complex protected by the Catur Desa, the four traditional villages around the lake.
Most of these temples sit quietly along the shoreline and you’ll need to trek or hire a traditional wooden canoe to reach them.
Here’s the full circuit, simple and straight:
- Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan
The main one. The iconic lakeside temple at the water’s edge. - Pura Gubug
On the western shore. Extremely atmospheric, especially in rainy season when it’s surrounded by water. - Pura Tirta Mengening
The “Temple of Clear Water.” Sacred springs start here. Locals use it for purification rituals like Melasti. - Pura Dalem Tamblingan
The spiritual core of the area. A forest temple dedicated to ancestors, set away from the lake. - Pura Endek
Historically linked to both Hindu and Buddhist influences. Associated with prosperity and trade. - Pura Embang
One of the older, megalithic-style stone temples believed to pre-date the 10th century. - Pura Tukang Timbang
Another ancient stacked-stone structure, part of the early archaeological remains in the area. - Pura Sang Hyang Kangin
Located on the eastern side of the lake. - Pura Sang Hyang Kawuh
Found on the western side. - Pura Naga Loka
A lesser-known site connected to the broader sacred network. - Pura Pengukiran
One more temple tucked into the lakeside complex, rarely visited by casual tourists.
💡 Pro Tip: Only attempt to hit all of these temples if you’re staying in nearby Munduk, Bedugul, or Wanagiri (the surrounding areas). If you’re visiting on a day tour from South Bali, there are more iconic places to visit.
Tamblingan Temple’s History
The name Tamblingan comes from two old Balinese words: tamba meaning medicine, and eling meaning spiritual awareness or memory.
According to local lontar manuscripts, a plague once hit the villages around the lake. A holy man meditated at the water’s edge, used the lake as a spiritual remedy, and the people were healed.
Since then, the lake has been treated as sacred medicine. Even today, locals don’t swim here. The water is respected, not played in.
Thee temple dates back to at least 948 AD during the Warmadewa Dynasty. This area was home to the Bali Aga, the original Balinese people, who built water temples not for show but for survival.
These temples were part of a functioning irrigation and agricultural system that supported life in the highlands.
Unlike many temples in South Bali that were heavily restored, Tamblingan has been left largely untouched. The moss, the raw stone, the weathered shrines, that’s not design. That’s age.
Tamblingan vs Beratan Temple
People mix these two Bali temples up all the time. Both are called “Ulun Danu,” which simply means head of the lake, and they’re only about 20 minutes apart in the same highland area.
If you’re booking a tour for the “floating temple,” make sure you’re clear which one you mean. They’re very different experiences.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is the famous one on the IDR 50k note. It’s on main road in Bedugul and fully set up for visitors. Landscaped gardens, restaurants, boats, ticket gates, and steady crowds.
Ulun Danu Tamblingan is the quieter alternative tucked deeper into the Munduk side. No big gardens, no heavy infrastructure. If you go out on the water, it’s by traditional wooden canoe.
- Go to Ulun Danu Beratan if you want the iconic Bali photo.
- Go to Ulun Danu Tamblingan for a more off-the-beaten path experience
- Or, just visit both! Who’s stoping you?
Ulun Danu Tamblingan Location
Ulun Danu Tamblingan is up in the Munduk highlands in Buleleng, North Bali. It sits about 1,200 meters above sea level inside an old volcanic caldera, roughly 20 minutes from Munduk village.
This temple is usually accessed from the south end of Lake Tamblingan (Danau Tamblingan). So if you’re coming from elsewhere, you’ll need to drive around the north end of the lake.
- From Canggu: 2 hrs (67 km)
- From Kuta : 2 hrs 45 mins (76 km)
- From Nusa Dua: 3 hrs (87 km)
- From Sanur: 2 hrs+ (71 km)
- From Seminyak: 2.5 hrs (72 km)
- From Ubud: 2 hrs (60 km)
- From Uluwatu: 3.5 hrs (96 km)
⚠️ Note: There is another location labelled on maps “Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan” on the northern side of the lake. That is not the correct location for the one mentioned here.
The exact coordinates on Google Maps is P3PR+9J Munduk, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Getting to Ulun Danu Tamblingan
Getting to Lake Tamblingan means heading into proper mountain territory.The drive is beautiful, especially once you hit the Twin Lakes viewpoint.
But it’s not the kind of route I’d call relaxing if you’re not used to Bali roads. Fog can roll in fast, visibility drops, and some of the turns are tight with zero warning signs.
This is exactly why I suggest booking one of my private drivers for the day. You can sit back, enjoy the views, stop for photos, and not stress about a ride back down.
Plus, when the rain hits, and it probably will, having a dry car waiting for you makes a big difference.
A Warning on Scooter Rentals
These aren’t flat beach roads. You’re dealing with long, steep climbs that can push smaller engines hard, plus narrow rural lanes as you get closer to the lake.
There are also street dogs along certain stretches. Some are territorial and will chase or bark at passing bikes. If you’re not confident on a scooter, that split second of panic is all it takes to wobble or swerve.
If you’ve got solid Southeast Asia riding experience, no worries. If not, this is one of those trips that’s simply safer and more comfortable by car.
Ulun Danu Tamblingan Entrance Fee
As of 2026, the entrance fee is IDR 30,000 per person, roughly USD $2 / AUD $3 depending on the exchange rate.
It’s usually treated as a donation and goes directly to the local Catur Desa villages who manage and preserve the temple area.
When you arrive, the small ticket kiosk is one of the first things you’ll see as you enter the temple grounds.
There’s no dramatic entrance gate like you’ll find at bigger temples. Instead, a local staff member will stop you, collect the fee, and point you where to park.
💡 Money Tip: Bring IDR cash, preferably small bills (IDR 5k / 10k / 50k). There are no card machines here or ATMs nearby. And if you arrive early in the morning, they might not have enough cash for change.
Dress Code & Temple Etiquette
Unlike many temples in Bali, there’s no strict requirement to wear a sarong and sash when you’re just exploring the lakeside area.
You’re mostly walking along the shore and through light jungle paths, not entering active prayer courtyards. Comfortable hiking clothes, leggings, or normal summer outfits are completely fine.
That said, this is still a sacred site. Skip swimwear or anything overly revealing. Basic respect goes a long way.
You also won’t be entering the inner temple area. Those areas are reserved for worshippers and ceremonies.
And honestly, you’re not missing some hidden chamber. The visual impact here comes from the outer gates, the meru towers, the moss, and the way everything sits against the lake and mist.
The main rules are simple and fall under general Bali temple etiquette. Don’t climb on the walls or shrines for photos. Don’t treat it like a playground. And don’t swim in the lake.
Hiring a Canoe at Tamblingan
Hiring a traditional wooden canoe (called a jukung, pedau, or commonly kano), is the best way to feel what this lake is really about. Motorized boats aren’t allowed, so it’s just you, the rower, and the sound of the lake.
How It Works
Walk towards the main temple gate and you’ll see a group of local women from the Catur Desa who manage the canoe rotations. Just approach them and ask for a ride. Ask: Berapa kano tiga puluh minit?
As of 2026, expect to pay around IDR 150k to 200k for a private 30-minute ride. That comfortably fits two passengers plus the rower.
If you’re shy, don’t worry. They will approach you. And yes, they’ll usually start higher, sometimes around 300k. There’s no fixed official price, so negotiating politely is completely normal here.
Pro Tip
Don’t just circle in front of the main temple. Ask your rower to take you to the southern shore to see more temples. During the rainy season, some of these spots aren’t accessible by foot.
Seeing those moss-covered shrines from the water, with the mist rolling in behind them, is easily the best part of the whole experience. Most visitors never go that far.
Quick Tips for the Lake
- Bring a jacket: It might be hot in Ubud or Canggu, but up here it’s cooler. Add wind over the water at sunrise and it gets chilly fast.
- Stay dry: These traditional dugout canoes sit low. A few splashes are normal, so keep your phone and camera in a dry bag or tucked safely under the seat.
- No swimming: The lake is considered sacred “medicine” by locals. Even if it looks tempting, don’t jump in.
- Have someone on shore for photos: If you’re traveling with friends, one (unlucky) person staying back to shoot from land helps. With the mist rolling in, it genuinely looks unreal.
- Pre-download Google Translate: Signal can be spotty up here. If you’re going without a guide or driver, having offline translation ready helps.
When to Visit Tamblingan Temple
If you’re already staying in Munduk or nearby, aim for sunrise between 5:45 and 6:15 AM for that misty, glassy lake look.
That’s when the fog hangs low and the reflections are at their best. By mid-morning the mist usually clears. Late afternoon around 4:00 PM is another nice window when the light softens again.
If you’re coming from South Bali like Canggu, Seminyak, or Kuta, sunrise is realistically very difficult unless you leave at an ungodly hour. In that case, don’t stress.
Ulun Danu Tamblingan Temple is still worth visiting any time of day. The atmosphere shifts, but the setting remains beautiful.
Season also changes the look. During Bali’s rainy season, roughly December to March, the lake level rises and you’re more likely to see the “floating” effect.
In the dry season, June to September, the water can recede and expose grass or mud instead. Clearer skies, less floating illusion.
Tips for Best Photos
The best light is during blue hour just before sunrise. The mist acts like natural diffusion, softening everything and giving the stone gates that cinematic glow.
If you’re shooting from the shore, use the wooden canoes in the foreground. They add depth and help show scale against the meru towers.
Drones are generally allowed here and there’s no formal permit system in place as of 2026. A top-down shot is the best way to capture the symmetry of the gates when the water is high.
From above, the lake turns into a mirror reflecting the surrounding jungle. It’s a completely different perspective.
💡 Drone tip: Remember why people come here. It’s quiet. The sound of a drone carries far over the water and can easily disturb locals praying or visitors who came for the stillness.
What to Do Nearby
- Munduk Waterfall (4.4 km away)
A short jungle trek leads you to one of the easiest waterfalls to access in the Munduk area. Tall, powerful, and surrounded by lush greenery. - Munduk Rice Terraces (6 km away)
Smaller and quieter than the famous Tegallalang terraces. Great for a peaceful walk and photos without the crowds. - Wanagiri Hidden Hill (6.3 km away)
A collection of photo spots overlooking the Twin Lakes. Expect platforms, swings, and dramatic viewpoints. - Banyumala Waterfall (9 km away)
One of North Bali’s most beautiful twin waterfalls. Clear water, swimmable pool, and a proper reward after the downhill hike. - Wanagiri Coffee Plantation (9.9 km away)
A roadside plantation stop where you can sample local coffee and learn about traditional roasting methods. - Twin Waterfall Wanagiri (10.4 km away)
A scenic twin cascade close to the Wanagiri viewpoint area. Easy to pair with other stops in one loop. - Puncak Wanagiri (10.1 km away)
A high viewpoint overlooking Lake Buyan. You’ll usually see monkeys hanging around the roadside. - Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall (11 km away)
A hidden cluster of multiple waterfalls in one area. Less crowded and worth the longer walk in. - Bali Farm House (12.1 km away)
A small petting zoo experience with alpacas and picnics. Popular with families and kids. - Bali Handara Gate (13.7 km away)
The famous split gate photo spot on the main Bedugul road. Quick stop, very recognizable. - Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (16.4 km away)
The iconic lakeside temple on Lake Beratan. Landscaped gardens and much more developed for tourism. - Bedugul Traditional Market (19.2 km away)
A local highland market selling strawberries, vegetables, spices, and snacks. Good place to see daily life in the mountains. - Bali Botanical Garden (19.3 km away)
Indonesia’s largest botanical garden. Cheap entry tickets and perfect for renting a bicycle and riding through the forest.
You probably won’t be able to hit all of these stops within a day. Pick a two waterfalls, a few photo stops, and hit the rest on the bottom of this list on the way back (or on the way there).
Ulun Danu Tamblingan Reviews
Aside from my experiences, it’s good to know what other people are saying about Ulun Danu Tamblingan temple online. Here’s a quick summary:
Here’s the honest mix of what people are saying online, good and bad:
- Beautiful lakeside setting with mountains and jungle creating a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere
- Very quiet and not touristy compared to other temples in Bali
- Great spot for camping, sunrise views, and slow mornings by the lake
- Canoe rides across the lake are a highlight for many visitors
- No selfie platforms or staged photo spots, which some people really appreciate
- Cooler mountain air makes it a nice escape from the heat
- You cannot enter the inner temple areas unless you are Balinese and there for prayer
- Some visitors feel disappointed after paying the entrance fee and only being able to view the temple from outside
- Limited photography angles from shore, especially with cars sometimes parked nearby
- Occasional stray dogs around the area, though generally not aggressive
- Some reports of litter or lack of maintenance in certain spots
- If you’re expecting a large, developed attraction, it may feel underwhelming
Overall, reviews are split. People who go for atmosphere, quiet, and photography tend to love it.
Those expecting a fully accessible temple complex or a major landmark experience sometimes leave feeling like there “wasn’t much to see.”
Some reviews complained about the temple being “abandoned,” which is untrue. It’s just not as polished as the more popular Bali temples. It’s still used to this day, just not for massive ceremonies.
Tamblingan Temple FAQs
Is Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan the same as Ulun Danu Beratan?
No. They share a similar name and are only about 20 minutes apart, but they’re completely different experiences. Ulun Danu Beratan is the famous temple on the IDR 50,000 note with landscaped gardens and heavy tourism. Tamblingan is quieter, older, and far less developed.
How far is Ulun Danu Tamblingan from Ubud?
Around 1.5 hours by car, depending on traffic and weather conditions in the mountains.
What is the entrance fee for Ulun Danu Tamblingan Temple?
As of 2026, the entrance fee is IDR 30,000 per person. This typically includes parking. Canoe rides cost an additional IDR 150,000 to 200,000 depending on what you negotiate.
Can you swim in Lake Tamblingan near the temple?
No. Swimming is strictly prohibited. The lake is considered Tirta, or holy water, and is used for religious Tamba ceremonies. Visitors are expected to stay on shore or in canoes.
Is there a dress code to visit Ulun Danu Tamblingan?
There is no official dress code. No sarong is required when exploring the lakeside area since visitors cannot enter the inner temple area. Just dress respectfully and avoid swimwear.
Is Ulun Danu Tamblingan crowded?
Not usually. It’s significantly quieter than Beratan. You may see other visitors, but it rarely feels packed.
Is Ulun Danu Tamblingan worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you enjoy photography, slower travel, and quieter locations. If you prefer polished gardens and easy access, Beratan may suit you more.
Can I fly a drone at Ulun Danu Tamblingan Temple?
Yes, drones are generally allowed and do not currently require a special permit. Be respectful of the quiet atmosphere and any locals performing ceremonies.
Can I visit Ulun Danu Tamblingan without a guide?
Yes. You can explore independently. However, having a driver can make logistics easier, especially given the remote location.
