Handara Gate & Ulun Danu Beratan: Misty Mornings in Bali

Some places in Bali completely change their atmosphere depending on the time of day. Handara Gate and Ulun Danu Beratan Temple are perfect examples of this. When visited early in the morning, this route reveals one of Bali’s calmest and most atmospheric sides.

Handara Gate: The Reward of an Early Morning

Handara Gate is one of Bali’s most iconic photo spots. But what truly makes it special isn’t just the gate itself it’s being there at the right time. In the early morning hours, when the mist slowly lifts, the surroundings feel calm, cool, and almost surreal.

At the entrance, there’s a board listing the rules. You sign your name, wait your turn, and when it’s your time, you’re given a limited window to take photos and videos. Everything is organized and moves efficiently despite the popularity of the location.

Standing in front of the gate, framed by greenery and soft mist, the symmetry and scale of the structure feel truly impressive. The quiet air and cool temperature make it easy to understand why Bali feels so peaceful in moments like this.

On the Way to Ulun Danu Beratan

After Handara Gate, the route continues toward Ulun Danu Beratan. As you drive, the air becomes cooler, the landscape greener, and the atmosphere noticeably calmer. This transition alone makes the journey feel unhurried and relaxing.

Ulun Danu Beratan: Calm on the Water

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple sits right beside a lake and is one of Bali’s most photogenic temples. The small shrine appears to float on the water, creating a serene and balanced scene that feels almost timeless.

The Feeling This Route Leaves Behind

Handara Gate and Ulun Danu Beratan showcase Bali’s quieter, more reflective side. Away from crowded beaches and busy streets, this route offers a harmony between nature and architecture.

It’s a clear reminder that waking up early in Bali is often rewarded with moments that feel truly special.

Berkay Ustundag

I spent two years living in Melbourne, a city that shaped the way I travel and experience places. It wasn’t just a destination, but everyday life studying, improving my English, building friendships, and learning the rhythm of the city. Melbourne taught me to slow down and notice daily details, from parks and rivers to neighborhoods and local culture. During this time, I also took a short trip to Sydney, experiencing its iconic harbor, Opera House, and a more energetic, crowded atmosphere.

After Australia, my journey continued to Bali, where life moved at a completely different pace. Temples, nature, local streets, and daily rituals created a calm and reflective experience. I then spent a short time in Phuket, exploring temples, islands, and coastal areas, gaining a brief but memorable impression of Thailand. Later, I traveled to Japan, visiting Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara where tradition and modern life exist in perfect balance, and everyday details feel intentional.

This blog is a personal collection of places I lived in, short trips I took, and moments that left an impression on me focusing on local life, culture, food, nature, and the small details that often go unnoticed.