The exact year of the temple's construction is not certain, though it is thought to have been constructed in the 9th century, perhaps between 800 and 890, predating the better-known Borobudur. It is thought to have been a resting and bathing area for the Hindu Mataram-era kings, as well as serving as a site of worship. It is one of only four confirmed pools from the era, the others being Sidomukti near Semarang, Cabean Kunti in Boyolali, and Payak in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. Umbul was likely abandoned following the 1006 eruption of Mount Merapi, which covered the area in ash, and a flood not long afterwards. Although the year of rediscovery is not recorded, the temple has been known since at least the 19th century, and Dutch coins from the 1700s have been found in the area.