Bratan, Volcanic complex in northern Bali, Indonesia
Bratan is a volcanic complex in northern Bali whose caldera holds three crater lakes, with the highest point reaching 2,276 meters. The caldera contains several geological structures, and the Batukaru cone is the largest post-caldera volcanic cone in the area.
The complex formed during the Holocene through intense volcanic activity that shaped the landscape of northern Bali. The collapse that created the caldera left the depressions where the three crater lakes now sit.
The temple Pura Ulun Danu Bratan sits at the edge of the crater lake and is dedicated to the goddess of the lake. Visitors can watch offerings being placed on wooden platforms that float just above the water.
The area is reachable by paved roads from lower parts of Bali, and temperatures at this elevation are noticeably cooler than at the coast. Starting early in the morning gives the clearest views and the least foot traffic on the paths.
Lake Bratan, the main crater lake, feeds a large part of Bali's rice fields through an ancient irrigation system that is still in use today. This system, known as Subak, works without pumps or modern infrastructure and was recognized by UNESCO.
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