The short answer
Pura Taman Saraswati: what visitors should know first
Yes, as a short stop. The lotus pond and temple gate are good for a quick photograph and it sits between the palace and the market. It takes 20 to 30 minutes, so do not plan a long visit.
History and context
The story behind Pura Taman Saraswati
Wikipedia says construction began in 1951 and was completed in 1952, designed by I Gusti Nyoman Lempad at the request of Prince Cokorda Gede Agung Sukawati.
It is also known as the Ubud Water Palace. We did not verify details of the dance programme offered here, so check locally.
Useful facts
Pura Taman Saraswati facts at a glance
- Location
- Jalan Raya Ubud, central Ubud
- Faith
- Balinese Hinduism
- Dedication
- Saraswati, goddess of learning and arts
- Visitor note
- Dress modestly; stay in permitted areas
- Built
- 1951 to 1952, designed by I Gusti Nyoman Lempad
Why it matters
Why Pura Taman Saraswati is worth your time
This temple honours Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning, literature and art, so it fits a town known for painting, carving and dance. The lotus pond makes it one of the calmer corners of central Ubud.
It is also a 20th-century temple by a major local artist. Because it was built in the early 1950s by Lempad for a member of the royal family, it links the palace, the museums and the market into a single cultural story.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Lotus pond
The water garden marks the outer area of the temple.
- 02
Carved entrance path
Stone figures line the approach.
- 03
Lempad design
A late work by the artist who also carved at Ubud Palace.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Walk along the path from the road past the lotus pond to the temple gate. The pond is the focus: pink flowers in season, lily pads and a stone path guarded by carved figures. Lonely Planet-style guides note carved figures along the entrance path; look at them closely.
The temple itself is a place of worship, so keep voices low and follow any signs about where you may go. Visitors are usually welcome to walk the outer areas but not the inner shrines, and dress rules apply: shoulders and legs covered.
There are often dance performances in the evening in this area, but programmes and tickets vary. Check the current schedule locally. The temple pairs easily with Ubud Palace and the art market, which lie a few minutes away on foot.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Cover shoulders and knees
- Respect worshippers and inner areas
- Visit in morning light
- Pair with palace and market
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Jalan Raya Ubud, beside Cafe Lotus, central Ubud
- Time needed
- 20 to 40 minutes
- Best time
- Morning for light; evening for a dance show
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Short and level, with a few steps near the temple; mostly open to the sun. No seating inside, but cafes nearby.
- Tickets and access
- The temple is normally viewed from the pond path; check on site what you may enter. Dance performances here are separately ticketed.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Pura Taman Saraswati
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Short and level, with a few steps near the temple; mostly open to the sun. No seating inside, but cafes nearby.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Who built Pura Taman Saraswati?
Wikipedia credits I Gusti Nyoman Lempad, working for Prince Cokorda Gede Agung Sukawati, between 1951 and 1952.
Is entry free?
Arrangements vary; check on site. Dance shows are ticketed.
What is the temple dedicated to?
Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning, literature and art.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
