Pura Ulun Danu Batur, Indonesia

The name Ulun Danu Bratan translates as “the source temple of Lake Bratan.” It was constructed in the 16th century. Many of the shrines were transported to Lake Bratan after the temple’s original location on the slopes of Mount Batur was destroyed by a volcanic eruption. The temple complex features four distinct shrine areas with gates at compass point directions.

Lingga Petak is on the shore to the east and has an eleven-tiered Meru tower dedicated to Vishnu and Dewi Danu, as well as a three-tiered Meru tower that holds the sacred well. Facing south is a Buddhist stupa with a resident Buddha statue. Ulun Danu Bratan also holds some megalithic artifacts — a sarcophagus and stone tablet — which has led archeologists to believe that this was a consecrated site long before the temple was built.

The western shrine is regarded as a symbol of soil fertility. Lake Bratan is known as “The Lake of The Holy Mountain” due to the great soil fertility of the area, where the subak pulls water down from Lake Batur. The region has a cool, tropical climate because of its altitude of 3937-feet (1200-m) above sea level. The temple appears to “float” on the lake when the water is high, which can be seasonal or based on recent weather conditions. It is best to visit the area in the morning before clouds obscure the sun and background. The temple can be explored within two hours.

Lake Bratan offers opportunities for boating from both shores and watersports on the east side. There’s also fishing and trekking available. The site is very popular. The area surrounding the temple can be a congested scene, with numerous vendors clamoring for attention and an unfortunate number of wild animals on display in small cages. There is another small temple outside the western gates of the main structure that is worth seeing but only if you haven’t yet had your fill of pesky Balinese monkeys.