Saraswati Temple
Saraswati Temple
A beautiful water palace dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and art. Famous for its stunning lotus pond and gateways.
Located on Ubud's main street, Pura Taman Saraswati is a tranquil sanctuary separated from the hustle and bustle by its magnificent lotus pond. Its official name means 'Saraswati Garden Temple,' and as its name suggests, it is a beautiful water palace dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of wisdom, art, and learning. A pathway flanked by vast ponds full of pink lotus flowers leads to the temple, and the water's reflection of the sky and ornate structures creates an ethereal atmosphere. The temple is also renowned for its design, which was overseen by the famous 20th-century Balinese artist I Gusti Nyoman Lempad, under commission from the Ubud Royal Family. It is a harmonious blend of sophisticated stone carvings and natural beauty, a fitting tribute to the goddess of art and a symbol of Ubud's creative spirit.
History and the Artist Lempad
The temple was built in the 1950s under the supervision of I Gusti Nyoman Lempad, a master architect and sculptor, by order of the Ubud Royal Family. Lempad was an artist with a deep understanding of traditional Balinese styles, yet he possessed a unique, innovative vision. In his design for Pura Saraswati, he strategically placed the large lotus ponds to act as a symbolic barrier, allowing visitors to mentally separate themselves from the secular world and focus their minds before entering the sacred space. His artistic genius is evident in the fluid and intricate carvings that adorn the temple.
Worship: The Goddess Saraswati and the Lotus
Saraswati is the consort of Brahma, the Hindu god of creation. She is typically depicted riding a swan and holding a 'veena' (a stringed instrument) and the 'Vedas' (holy scriptures). As the source of knowledge and creativity, she is deeply revered by artists, students, and teachers. Every 210 days, Balinese Hindus celebrate 'Hari Raya Saraswati', a day to honor her by making offerings on books and scriptures. The lotus, the temple's key feature, is a powerful symbol. It represents holiness, purity, and cosmic creation, as it emerges pristine and beautiful from muddy waters.
Rules and Etiquette
Anyone is free to enter the outer area and enjoy the lotus pond, but the inner sanctuary ('Jeroan') beyond the main gate is a sacred space reserved exclusively for worshippers. Visitors are not permitted to enter and should observe from the outside. While there is no strict dress code to see the pond, modest dress is recommended out of respect for the holy site. In the evening, the area in front of the pond is often used as a stage for traditional dance performances; please be a respectful audience member.
Highlights (What to See)
The bridge crossing the lotus pond, leading to the temple's ornate 'Candi Bentar' (split gateway), is a prime photo spot. The scenery, combining the intricate carvings with the pond, is exceptionally beautiful. Lotus flowers typically bloom in the morning and close in the afternoon, so a morning visit is best if you want to see them open. The famous Cafรฉ Lotus is adjacent to the temple, and its terrace offers spectacular views of the pond and temple while you dine or enjoy a drink.
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