[2025 Bali Attraction] Travel Guide for Lake Beratan (Updated Jun)

Lake Beratan is like an emerald gently caressed by the morning mist, lying quietly at an altitude of 1,200 meters. In the center of the lake stands the 11th-century Ulun Danu Water Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess of the lake and is looming in the mist. The layers of thatched roofs and the reflections on the lake form a Zen picture of virtuality and reality. During the early morning sacrificial ceremonies, local villagers often come in colorful wooden boats. The palm leaf offerings on the bow and the ancient songs sung by the boatmen dye the lake into a flowing cultural painting. The road around the lake winds through strawberry fields and pine forests, where cycling enthusiasts can feel the coolness brought by the altitude. Professional road riders prefer the challenge of the 3-kilometer continuous climb on the west bank, while family tourists prefer the gentle section on the east bank. There are often easels set up on the viewing platforms along the way, and sketchers use paint to record the fleeting changes of cloud shadows on the lake. The botanical garden at the northwest corner of the lake cultivates Bali's unique ferns, and the canopy walkway allows visitors to observe the layers of the rainforest from a bird's eye perspective. Water activities maintain a tacit understanding of ecological balance. Traditional outrigger boats cruise around fish spawning areas, and boatmen will point out chestnut-throated bee-eaters skimming across the water. Fishing experiences open in certain seasons must follow the catch-and-release principle. While learning the traditional Balinese casting techniques, anglers will also learn about the protection stories of the lake's unique cichlid species. There is a transparent bottom kayaking project on the south side of the lake. When paddling through the water lilies, you can see the graceful posture of the water chestnut roots stretching underwater. The terrace of the lakeside cafe is a natural theater for observing the microclimate. The waiter brought Arabica coffee grown in volcanic soil. The rising steam in the cup entangled with the steam rising from the lake, and the tinkling sound of the temple bells came from afar, forming a multi-dimensional sensory experience.