A guide to the Ubud Water Palace, Bali

by - 9/08/2022

 If you have planning a trip to Bali, I am sure you would have considered to stay in Ubud (even if it's for a day or two). Ubud is the cultural capital of Bali and has a vibe of its own. Not to forget, 60% of tourist spots of Bali are in Ubud itself. And in Ubud, there are two palaces: The Ubud Palace and the Ubud Water Palace. Now the main Ubud Palace is known to everyone. But the water palace is known by its other name: Saraswati Temple or Pura Taman Saraswati. Whether you are able to visit the main palace or not, the Saraswati temple is a must because it is so unique!

All the temples/places of interest require a ticket to enter. Although the price is not too much (some temples are expensive as per Indian currency) , the best part of Saraswati Temple is that the entrance is free! 


This temple has one of the prettiest cafes in Bali, Cafe Lotus, which offers uninterrupted views of the lotus pond. There is a Starbucks right outside, and as soon as you enter the temple premises, you are greeted by lush lotus ponds on both sides. Lotus maybe the national flower of India, but it's not that common barring the Eastern parts of India. So watching them all over here is such a treat to the eyes!

Saraswati is the Goddess of knowledge (according to Hindu mythology) always has a lotus in her hand and that explains the boisterous lotus ponds.

Like all the Balinese temples, this temple too has sections called Mandalas. There is a specific opening and closing time, but we visited very early in the morning (before heading to the airport for departure).

It is mandatory to wear a sarong and cover the knees during the visiting hours.

The Ubud Palace is adjacent to the water palace and is not very big. You will probably explore it within 15 minutes. It also does not have any entrance fee (thankfully). There is a dance performance every evening for which you have to buy tickets.

The palace belonged to the Royal Family of Ubud. Built in the 19th century, this entire place has intriguing architecture and statues. 

We visited the Ubud Palace the previous night and it was dark everywhere. We were staying in Ubud itself so it wasn't much of a hassle. The most satisfying thing about this trip were the places we chose to stay.

Don't forget to take lots of pictures because this is what you are here for!

 'This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla and sponsored by BakezbyDaizy.'

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23 comments

  1. The Ubud Water Palace has such a unique aura about it. The lotus pond must be a beautiful sight, and it is always so nice to see the roots of Indian culture in a foreign country. Sandy N Vyjay

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  2. Would love to visit Bali one day! This looks beautiful… brindha from ritecontent

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  3. The picture of you with the lotus and the last picture are so beautiful. This post is making me crave for a vacation at Bali

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  4. Ubud now turned out to be a must to visit place when I plan for my Bali trip. The way you explained it actually took me with you on a virtual trip to Ubud. The beauty of Lotus mesmerized me completely and I want to thank you for that.

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  5. You brought back good memories of Ubud! We stayed at an Air BnB with a 10 month old baby and was super comfortable. I looooove the street shopping there. Nice travelogue & pics!

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  6. A good recommendation for bali, dunno if I will ever travel but the view tru ur blog sounds like a good place to visit.

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  7. As you mentioned at last you are there to take pictures so I would love to state that your pictures are amazing. Both the palaces look beautiful and I will keep them on my check list for sure.

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  8. My sister visited Ubud before the pandemic and had highly recommended it. Thanks for sharing more details. Lovely pictures. You have really captured the beauty of the palace.

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  9. Such beautiful pictures, the place certainly looks like a must-visit. Walking next to the lotus ponds must be a sure treat!

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  10. I think i read another review of yours too on Bali. Plan to visit it soon... will earmark yo

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    1. Will earmark your posts for research closer to the trip.

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  11. Bali is a beautiful place to visit. We had planned a vacation in 2020, but we had to cancel it due to the pandemic. Now that I've read your article, I'm going to keep it at the top of my bucket list.
    - Anjali

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  12. Bali always on my wish list. But don't think I will visit. Thank you for taking virtual tour. Temple look beautiful.

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  13. Amazing pictures and beautiful temples & locations. Ubud looks fascinating. Thanks for sharing this wonderful travelogue.

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  14. Bali has been on our bucket list for the longest time. I have heard great things about Ubud and your post cements it further. As always, thanks for sharing the tips. That makes all the difference.

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  15. Bali, the place to be! One of my dream destination with its relaxing vibe and beautiful scenery! I hope to visit that place one day! Appreciate you sharing your experience!

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    1. Bali, the place to be! One of my dream destination with its relaxing vibe and beautiful scenery! I hope to visit that place one day! Appreciate you sharing your experience!-MommyWithAGoal

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  16. What a lovely post! So much appreciation for you and all travel writers for taking the time to compile so much information on personal time :)

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  17. I have heard a lot about Ubud, I have it in my bucket list. Your pictures are amazing though.

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  18. Apart from the virtual tour that u give of the places u visit Mandira, one reason y I like to read your blogs is for the pics... they are amazing. They make me want to go there more. Such a lovely place n the temple is truly beautiful.
    P.S: love your fluorescent shoes😉

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  19. Bali is so exotic and amazing. Thank you for sharing indepth. It is on my bucket list for sure

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  20. Enjoyed your visual travelogue! I hope to visit Ubud someday!
    Noor

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