High on the mist-drenched slopes of Mount Batur, the sacred crater lake known as Danau Batur is believed to be the earthly dwelling of Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, rivers and lakes. Her presence is not abstract, it is palpable in the cool vapour rising from the caldera and the ritual waters that flow from her springs to irrigate Bali’s ancient subak system.

First established in the 17th century, Pura Batur is one of Bali’s most venerated temples, second only to Pura Besakih on the sacred slopes of Mount Agung. Perched at roughly 900 metres above sea level, this mountain sanctuary overlooks the dramatic caldera of Mount Batur, an active volcano steeped in myth and raw geological power.