BALI, INDONESIA — Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, one of Bali’s most iconic and photographed cultural landmarks, is enhancing its visitor experience by inviting tourists to rent traditional Balinese ceremonial attire during their visit. The initiative aims to offer a deeper connection to the island’s rich heritage and has become increasingly popular with both domestic and international travelers.
Situated on the serene banks of Lake Beratan in the Bedugul Highlands, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is renowned for its stunning lakeside setting and deep spiritual significance. The temple, a prominent symbol of Balinese Hinduism, continues to be a must-visit destination for those seeking to engage with the island’s cultural and spiritual traditions.
While it is customary for all visitors to wear a sarong and sash within temple grounds, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple now offers the opportunity to go beyond the basics. Tourists can rent full ceremonial outfits, including the elaborate Payas Agung ensemble, traditionally worn during sacred rites such as weddings and the metatah (tooth-filing) ceremony. The package includes not only the attire but also assistance from temple staff to ensure authenticity and proper wear.
The Payas Agung for men features multiple layers of cloth, an udeng (traditional headcloth), ornate jewelry, and even a keris, the ceremonial dagger symbolic in Balinese culture. Women are dressed in a finely detailed kebaya, a sash-wrapped kamen sarong, and traditional accessories. Prices for the attire rental range from IDR 90,000 to IDR 250,000, in addition to the standard temple entry fee.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple’s Public Relations Manager, Made Sukarata, noted that the service enhances the visitor experience by offering not just attire but also professional photo sessions. “We provide this service to enrich vacation experiences for visitors,” Sukarata said. He added that bookings for the full clothing and photography package should be arranged directly at the temple’s tourism counter.
In addition to the attire rental experience, visitors during the peak season months of July and August will have the chance to witness the daily Gebogan Parade. On weekdays, the parade takes place at the temple itself, while weekend performances are hosted at The Blooms Garden, a neighboring attraction. A combined entry ticket is available for both sites, offering greater value and convenience for tourists.
As Bali continues to welcome a growing number of culture-seeking travelers, initiatives like the ceremonial attire rental at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple are helping to preserve traditions while offering meaningful and memorable experiences for guests.
