The temple was relocated piece-by-piece to its current high-altitude site after the 1926 lava flow buried the original village and temple.
The central shrine, Pura Penataran Agung, is dedicated to the mountain and lake deities of Batur.
It acts as a 'Pura Kahyangan Jagat,' or state temple, meaning it is meant for the worship of all Balinese Hindus, not just local residents.
The complex houses a specific shrine for the worship of the deity of Mount Batur, honoring the volcano's dual role as a provider of fertile soil and a destructive force.
The transition from the old site to the new one in 1926 is considered a significant historical event in Balinese religious administration.
Pura Ulun Danu Batur is the second most important temple in Bali after Pura Besakih, dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and water. Following the devastating 1926 eruption of Mount Batur which destroyed the original temple located in the valley, the current structure was reconstructed on the higher caldera rim. The temple complex comprises nine separate temples with a total of 285 shrines and pavilions. It serves as the primary sanctuary for the regulation of irrigation systems across Bali's subak cooperatives. The architecture features multi-tiered meru towers reflecting the volcanic landscape of the Batur region. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized as part of the Cultural Landscape of Bali Province.
The main entrance gateway (candi bentar) framing the backdrop of Mount Batur.
Bring a warm jacket as the Kintamani region is significantly cooler than coastal Bali due to its high elevation.
Always rent a sarong and sash at the entrance if you are not wearing appropriate clothing, as these are mandatory for temple entry.
Hire a local guide to explain the complex relationship between the subak irrigation system and the temple's religious hierarchy.
Avoid visiting during major ceremonies if you are not prepared for large, busy crowds; avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops.
The temple may be closed to tourists during major odalan (temple anniversary) ceremonies; check local calendars for the Purnamasiddhi dates.
Visitors must wear a sarong and temple sash; women should not enter during menstruation; do not climb on shrine structures or walk in front of people praying.
