Pura Taman Saraswati (Ubud Water Palace) - Image 1
1 / 10

Pura Taman Saraswati (Ubud Water Palace)

3.9
·1k reviews·, Indonesia

A serene water palace in Ubud, featuring vibrant lotus ponds, intricate Balinese architecture, and captivating traditional dance performances.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Pura Taman Saraswati (Ubud Water Palace) - Image 1

Pura Taman Saraswati (Ubud Water Palace)

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene water palace in Ubud, featuring vibrant lotus ponds, intricate Balinese architecture, and captivating traditional dance performances.

3.9
(1k reviews)

"A must-see in Ubud for its beauty, culture, and picturesque lotus gardens."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear the Provided Garments

A sarong and sash are required for entry. They are provided at the entrance. :kimono:

Check Performance Schedules

Don't miss the traditional dance shows! Check local listings for performance times. :performing_arts:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lotus Pond & Water Gardens

Lotus Pond & Water Gardens

Main Courtyard

Vibrant pink lotuses bloom in serene ponds, creating a picturesque backdrop for photos. A truly iconic Ubud sight.

Traditional Dance Performances

Traditional Dance Performances

Amphitheater

Experience captivating Balinese dance performances held in the stunning water gardens. Check schedules for showtimes.

Architectural Beauty

Architectural Beauty

Temple Facade

Admire the intricate red and white stone carvings and traditional Balinese architecture of this former palace.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Dress Code & Respect

A sarong and sash are mandatory for entry to Pura Taman Saraswati. These are provided, but some visitors note they are reused, so consider this if you're sensitive. Dress respectfully to honor the spiritual nature of the site. Reddit

Beat the Crowds

This popular spot can get very crowded, especially during peak hours. Visiting early in the morning or later in the evening can offer a more serene experience and better photo opportunities. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Atmospheric, potential performances
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

tips for Ubud

Wear the Provided Garments

A sarong and sash are required for entry. They are provided at the entrance. :kimono:

Check Performance Schedules

Don't miss the traditional dance shows! Check local listings for performance times. :performing_arts:

reddit.com

4 Days Ubud Help

reddit.com

Ubud Water Palace

Go Early to Avoid Crowds

To enjoy the beauty without the masses, aim for an early morning visit. :sunrise:

Max 30 Mins Visit

It's a lovely spot, but you can see most of it in about 30 minutes. :stopwatch:

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear the Provided Garments

A sarong and sash are required for entry. They are provided at the entrance. :kimono:

Check Performance Schedules

Don't miss the traditional dance shows! Check local listings for performance times. :performing_arts:

Go Early to Avoid Crowds

To enjoy the beauty without the masses, aim for an early morning visit. :sunrise:

Max 30 Mins Visit

It's a lovely spot, but you can see most of it in about 30 minutes. :stopwatch:

Cafe Discount

Enjoy a 10% discount at their cafe for lunch after your visit. :coffee:

What Travellers Say

3.9
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Pura Taman Saraswati a beautiful and picturesque spot, especially for its lotus ponds and traditional architecture. The mandatory sarongs add an authentic touch, and the evening dance performances are a highlight. However, many note that it can become very crowded, and the reused garments might be a concern for some. Reddit

"This place was great fun. Very beautiful and you get to dress in local garments (mandatory for the purpose of respectfully cover up bare skin). This gave a very authentic vibe. Also, they play local music in concert at designated times which was a nice addon. I would consider this mandatory during your stay in Ubud!"

Frederik Amris

"the temple is a must see when you are in the center of Ubud. you get traditional clothing at the entrance so don’t bother bringing a own sarong or similar. the ticket costs 65k per person which is a fair price considering the temple is rather small.
something to note is that the temple gives the vibe of a tourist attraction rather than a spiritual place."

Eli

"Fun experience but very crowed during the day. Might be better to go early to beat the crowds. They give clothing to wear but it’s reused right away which can be a little sweaty from others. They offer 10% discount at their cafe for lunch."

Samantha Taranto

What People Like

Beautiful lotus ponds
Intricate architecture
Dance performances

What People Dislike

Overcrowding
Reused garments

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pura Taman Saraswati is centrally located in Ubud, making it easily accessible. You can walk if you're staying nearby, or hire a taxi or scooter. Pre-booking cabs from Denpasar to Ubud is recommended for better rates. Reddit

Parking can be challenging in central Ubud due to its popularity. It's best to arrive early or consider walking if your accommodation is close. Scooter parking is generally more available than car parking. Reddit

Ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab are available in Ubud and can be a convenient way to reach Pura Taman Saraswati. Be aware that some areas might have restrictions on ride-sharing pickups. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The ticket price is approximately 65,000 IDR per person. This fee includes the rental of traditional Balinese garments (sarong and sash) required for entry. Reddit

Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance upon arrival. Booking in advance is usually not necessary, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any updates. Reddit

The temple is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the water gardens and lotus ponds. Performances usually occur in the evenings. Reddit

Standard restrictions apply, such as not bringing in outside food or drinks (unless purchased at their cafe). Be mindful of your belongings and respect the sacred nature of the temple. Reddit

While the main courtyard and water gardens are accessible, the inner temple areas may have restricted access. Visitors are generally confined to the front area with the fountains and ponds. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The stepping stones across the lotus ponds offer iconic photo opportunities. The vibrant sarongs worn by visitors also add color to your shots. Capture the intricate temple facade and the blooming lotuses. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of the temple complex, especially around the water gardens and lotus ponds. However, be respectful and avoid disrupting any ongoing ceremonies or performances. Reddit

Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways for extended periods while taking photos. Some visitors have noted that the stepping stones can become crowded, making it difficult to get unobstructed shots. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in temple areas and crowded public spaces in Bali. It's best to assume drones are not permitted to avoid any issues. Reddit

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Evenings can also be beautiful, especially if there's a performance, but may be more crowded. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on-site that offers a 10% discount to temple visitors. It's a convenient place to grab a bite or a drink after your visit. Reddit

The cafe typically serves a range of local Indonesian dishes and some international options. It's a good place to experience Balinese cuisine in a pleasant setting. Reddit

Being in the heart of Ubud, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and warungs (local eateries) within walking distance, offering a wide variety of culinary choices. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pura Taman Saraswati can be a visually stimulating experience for families. The blooming lotus flowers and the water gardens are likely to capture children's attention. While the temple itself might not hold their interest for long, the opportunity to see traditional Balinese dance performances in the evening could be a highlight. Remember that the provided garments are mandatory, and while they add to the experience, ensure your children are comfortable wearing them. Reddit

Keep in mind that the area can get crowded, so holding onto little ones is advisable. The cafe on-site offers a place to rest and refuel, with a discount for visitors. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the peak crowds and potential heat, making the experience more comfortable for younger visitors. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Pura Taman Saraswati offers a wealth of visual opportunities. The iconic lotus ponds with the temple facade in the background are a prime subject. The stepping stones across the water provide unique angles, though they can get crowded, so patience is key. Capture the intricate details of the Balinese architecture and the vibrant colors of the traditional attire worn by visitors. Reddit

Early mornings are ideal for softer light and fewer people, allowing for more creative freedom. Evenings can be atmospheric, especially if a dance performance is scheduled, but be prepared for more competition for the best shots. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expanse of the water gardens and a telephoto lens for details on the temple carvings. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Pura Taman Saraswati

Pura Taman Saraswati, often referred to as the Ubud Water Palace, is a beautiful temple dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, art, wisdom, and learning. Originally part of the Ubud Royal Palace, it was renovated and transformed into its current picturesque form by the renowned Balinese architect I Gusti Nyoman Lempad. The temple's design features stunning water gardens with large ponds filled with blooming pink lotuses, creating a serene and visually captivating environment. The intricate red and white stone carvings are characteristic of Balinese temple architecture, adding to its historical and cultural significance. Reddit

While it serves as a place of worship, its prominent location and aesthetic appeal have also made it a significant tourist attraction in Ubud. Visitors often come to admire the architecture, the tranquil lotus ponds, and to witness the traditional Balinese dance performances that are frequently held in the temple's amphitheater. These performances are a vibrant display of Balinese culture and art, adding another layer to the visitor experience. Reddit

It's important to note that while it is a temple, its current presentation leans towards a tourist experience. Some visitors feel it's more of an attraction than a deeply spiritual site, especially during peak hours when it can be quite crowded. Nevertheless, its beauty and cultural offerings make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Ubud. Reddit

Experiencing the Dance Performances

One of the most enchanting aspects of visiting Pura Taman Saraswati is the opportunity to witness traditional Balinese dance performances. These captivating shows are typically held in the temple's open-air amphitheater, set against the backdrop of the water gardens. The performances often feature Legong dance, a highly refined classical dance form characterized by its intricate movements and expressive storytelling. The dancers, adorned in elaborate costumes and makeup, bring ancient myths and legends to life through their graceful artistry. Reddit

It's advisable to check the performance schedule in advance, as shows usually take place in the evenings. The exact timings can vary, so it's worth inquiring locally or checking any available signage at the temple. Attending a performance offers a deeper immersion into Balinese culture and provides a unique cultural experience that complements the visual beauty of the temple itself. The combination of the mystical ambiance of the water palace and the vibrant energy of the dance makes for an unforgettable evening. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2