Pura Ulun Danu Beratan

One of Bali's most famous temples is Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, located just off the shore of Lake Beratan at 1,200m above sea level.

The location is stunning and when the mist rolls in, the mood becomes just a little more special.

Built in 1633 by the King of Mengwi, this temple serves an important religious function for all Balinese as it was dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, to ensure ample supply of water and rich harvests. The visually spectacular temple is spread across two separate tiny islands that can only be accessed by a boat by people for ceremonial purposes. There is also a section of the temple on the shore which serves a religious purpose but is often overlooked by visitors due to its comparatively mundane visual appeal.

You'll have to compete with bus loads of domestic tourists to get a prime spot to take a photo of this temple as there really is one main spot that everyone takes photographs from. Taking a shot from the other side doesn't quite have the same classic look that you see in many books, but it certainly allows a different perspective on a heavily photographed object.

Within the grounds of the temple complex are sprawling gardens with a variety of tropical plants, manicured lawns and a range of colourful flowers. It's possible to bring a picnic and spend an hour or so here eating lunch under the shade of one of the trees and basking in the cool mountain air.

Clean toilets are available outside of the ticket office for 2,000 rupiah.

As this area is on the main bus route between Denpasar Ubung terminal and Singaraja, it is easy enough to hop off the bemo at Pura Ulun Danu Beratan and then back on another half an hour later to continue your journey.