Full-Day Private Water Temples Tour in Bali — Ulun Danu, Jatiluwih & Tanah Lot
A private, full‑day circuit through Bali’s most evocative water temples — Ulun Danu Beratan, the UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih rice terraces, Luhur Batukaru and a sunset at Tanah Lot. Expect varied microclimates, short walks at each site and a culturally immersive day driven across Bali’s volcanic backbone.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress respectfully for temples
Wear shoulders and knees covered; sarongs and sashes are often available but bringing your own saves time at busy sites.
Start early to beat crowds
Ulun Danu is most serene in the morning; arrival before 8am reduces both traffic delays and tourists in photos.
Hydrate for changing elevations
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water — temperatures can drop in the highlands but solar exposure remains strong at viewpoints.
Carry small cash for offerings and stalls
ATMs are sparse in highland stops; small bills are useful for temple donations, snacks and local purchases.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning walk around the lakeshore at Ulun Danu offers calm reflections and fewer vendors
- •Small footpaths above Jatiluwih reveal quieter terrace views away from the main lookout
Wildlife
- •Long‑tailed macaque (primarily near temple edges and wooded areas)
- •White‑breasted waterbirds and kingfishers around the lakes and irrigation canals
Conservation Note
Jatiluwih’s Subak system is a living cultural landscape protected by UNESCO; visitors should stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing irrigation channels and rice paddies.
The water temples are integrated with Bali’s subak irrigation system and date from different eras — Ulun Danu (17th century), Batukaru and Tanah Lot with roots in medieval and 16th-century sacred practice.
Photographer's Notes
- • Ulun Danu lakeshore (mirror reflections)
- • Jatiluwih main terrace viewpoint and the lesser footpath above it
- • Tanah Lot clifftop for sunset silhouette shots
What to Bring
Light rain shell or windbreaker
Highland weather can shift quickly; a packable shell keeps you comfortable at Ulun Danu and Batukaru.
Modest clothing or sarong/sashEssential
Required for temple entry — brings respect and avoids delays.
Sturdy sandals or light hiking shoesEssential
Good traction for stone steps, wet boardwalks and uneven terrace paths.
Camera or smartphone with extra battery
Early light and sunset at Tanah Lot reward shooting; spares or power banks extend the day.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what’s included?
The private tour runs approximately 9–10 hours and includes private transport, hotel pickup and drop‑off, bottled water, lunch, entrance fees and an English‑speaking driver/photographer.
Do I need to wear a sarong at the temples?
Yes — shoulders and knees should be covered. Sarongs and sashes are often provided at temple entrances, but bringing your own is convenient.
Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes. The tour involves short walks and mostly vehicle transit between sites; notify the operator about mobility concerns so they can tailor pacing and pickup.
Can I visit Tanah Lot at low tide?
Access to the base of the rock is only possible at low tide; sunset visits are timed for late afternoon when vistas are best, but access may be limited by tidal conditions.
Are meals and drinks included?
Lunch and bottled water are included. Snacks and additional drinks at cafés or stalls are not included; bring cash for purchases.
What should I bring for photography?
Bring a wide-angle lens for terraces and a telephoto for distant meru and sunset details; a tripod or a monopod helps in low light at Tanah Lot.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9–10 hours
Location
Bedugul, Bali
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required — short walks, some stone steps and uneven paths; able to step in/out of vehicle frequently.
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