Gates to Heaven – Lempuyang Tour

An Honest Look at the Gates to Heaven – Lempuyang Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Bali and craving a mix of cultural sights and picture-perfect moments, the Gates to Heaven – Lempuyang Tour might be on your radar. This full-day adventure takes you through some of Bali’s most revered temples and royal water palaces, with the iconic Lempuyang Temple as the star attraction. With a carefully curated itinerary, comfortable transport, and a small group setting, it promises an enriching experience—but not without a few quirks.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines spectacular views with cultural insights, all wrapped in a convenient package. The highlight, of course, is getting that famous shot through the “Gates of Heaven”—a surreal frame with Mount Agung rising in the background. However, it’s worth noting that waiting times can be lengthy due to the popularity of the location, and access to the actual temple remains restricted to the public. Still, this tour suits travelers who value authentic sites, photo opportunities, and guided insights over purely crowd-free experiences.

In this review, we’ll unpack what makes this tour worthwhile, what to expect at each stop, and how to make the most of your day. Whether you’re a culture seeker, a photographer, or simply curious about Bali’s spiritual landmarks, you’ll find helpful details to decide if this is the right fit.

Key Points

• Stunning Photo Opportunity: The gates offer a surreal frame with Mount Agung, perfect for memorable shots.
• Cultural Significance: Visits to Pura Goa Lawah and Tirta Gangga provide insight into Bali’s spiritual and royal heritage.
• Long Waits Expected: Queues at Lempuyang can be lengthy, especially during peak times.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: The tour covers three major sites in a day, with enough time to explore each comfortably.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles ensure a relaxed journey across East Bali.
• Guide’s Role: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing insights you might not find in guidebooks.
• Value for Money: At $66 per person, the tour offers good access to cultural landmarks, with all fees included—minus lunch.

Starting with the Icon: Lempuyang Temple

The day begins early, with pickup in Ubud and a scenic drive eastward. Arriving at Lempuyang Temple is the main event. Perched at 1,175 meters above sea level within Mount Lempuyang, this temple is one of Bali’s most sacred sites. Its remote location means you’ll likely face a queue before reaching the gates, but it’s part of the charm—anticipating that iconic shot with Mount Agung seemingly “floating” in the reflection.

What makes Lempuyang special? It’s not just the views but the experience of being in a place considered highly sacred. As one reviewer pointed out, access is not granted to the general public, so don’t expect to wander freely inside — the focus is on the photo ops and the view. The guides often help organizing your shots, but be prepared for a wait if you arrive during busy times.

While the admission ticket is included, the long lines are something you can’t control. One visitor described it as “a big wait,” noting that the photo they expected was more about timing than access. Still, the views are breathtaking, especially early in the morning or late afternoon when the crowds thin out.

Tirta Gangga: The Royal Water Palace

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere at Lempuyang, the tour continues to Tirta Gangga, a former royal water palace nestled in the village of Ababi. This site, with its tiered fountains, lush tropical gardens, and stone sculptures, offers a peaceful contrast to the intensity of Lempuyang.

Expect about 1.5 hours to wander through the grounds, enjoy the fountains, and take in the serene scenery. The palace was a favorite retreat for Bali’s royal family, and you can feel that history in the quiet elegance of the gardens. Water features dominate here, with mythical creatures pouring water into pools, creating perfect spots for photography and reflection.

A visitor described Tirta Gangga as a “fabulous retreat,” appreciating the peaceful vibe and the elaborate water features. The admission fee is included, making this a hassle-free stop. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll and to appreciate Bali’s royal past.

Pura Goa Lawah: The Cave Temple with Bats

The last major site on the itinerary is Pura Goa Lawah, also known as the Bali Bat Temple. Built in the 11th century, it’s considered one of the island’s most important temples. The temple is built around a cave that teems with hundreds of bats, giving it a unique and slightly spooky charm.

Expect to spend about 2 hours exploring the complex. The temple’s history and architecture are fascinating, especially knowing it’s part of Bali’s spiritual landscape for nearly a millennium. The bats add a lively, if slightly unusual, atmosphere.

One reviewer highlighted the importance of this temple, noting its historical roots and spiritual significance. The visit offers a different perspective from the tourist-heavy gates, providing a more authentic and less crowded experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides bottled water, an air-conditioned vehicle, wet towels, and covers all fees and taxes, simplifying the logistics. However, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to find something during the day.

Travelers should have a moderate fitness level to navigate some of the steeper or uneven paths, especially at the temples. Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, making for a more personalized experience, but it also means you’re at the mercy of the schedule.

The Authenticity and Practicalities

Based on the reviews, guides seem to make a significant difference. One reviewer praised guide Wayan for being “helpful and kind,” mentioning he took them to multiple sites in a day with ease. Guides often share insights that enrich the visit, making the experience feel genuine rather than just a photo stop.

However, the long queues at Lempuyang are a recurring theme. While the tour includes the entrance fee, the wait time is beyond the control of the operator. One person noted that the photo of the “Gates to Heaven” is often a reflection, not water, which can be a surprise if you go expecting a literal reflection.

Another important note is that the actual temple access is restricted—these are mainly photo spots rather than places where you can explore freely. This might be disappointing if you’re hoping for an immersive spiritual experience but is typical of Bali’s most iconic sites.

Analyzing the Value

At $66 per person, the tour offers good value considering all fees are included and transportation is comfortable. It’s an efficient way to see three major sites without the hassle of organizing individual transport or entrance tickets.

However, if you’re sensitive to crowds or waiting, it could be a test of patience. The early mornings or weekdays might help avoid some of the queues, but during peak season, expect some delays.

The tour’s strength lies in guides, the scenic views, and the ability to tick off several major landmarks in a single day. For travelers who prioritize cultural insights, professional guidance, and iconic photo opportunities, this tour hits the right marks.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to see Bali’s sacred temples and royal sites in one convenient package. It’s perfect if you want professional guidance to understand the history behind these sites or are looking for that legendary shot at Gates of Heaven. It’s also suitable for photographers wanting that perfect Bali shot—just be prepared for crowds.

If you’re after more off-the-beaten-path experiences or seeking total peace and solitude, this tour may feel a little crowded or rushed. Still, for first-time visitors or those with limited time, it offers a well-rounded overview of some of Bali’s most visually stunning and culturally important landmarks.

Final Thoughts

The Gates to Heaven – Lempuyang Tour offers a blend of spiritual, royal, and scenic sights that showcase Bali’s diverse cultural heritage. The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, making it a practical choice despite the inevitable wait times at the main attraction.

While the tour is not designed for those seeking complete tranquility or full access to temples, it’s a fantastic option for travelers interested in iconic photo moments and historical sites. The included fees and small group setting help keep things smooth and manageable, especially for first-timers.

Given the high demand and the popularity of the temples, booking in advance (as most do, about 51 days ahead) is advisable. Remember that patience is key—many visitors found the wait at Lempuyang to be the biggest challenge, but the views and cultural insights can make it worthwhile.

If you’re okay with a little crowd and eager to check off Bali’s must-see landmarks in a single day, this tour is a sound choice. For those craving more solitude, it might be worth exploring beyond the most famous spots.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for the entire day, making travel between sites comfortable and convenient.

How long does each stop last?
Lempuyang Temple is around 2 hours, Tirta Gangga about 1.5 hours, and Goa Lawah Temple around 2 hours. These times give you enough space to explore but can vary depending on crowds.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all fees and taxes are included in the tour price, so you won’t need to pay extra at each site.

Can I expect to take photos at the Gates of Heaven?
Yes, but be prepared for queues. The photo spot is popular, so patience might be necessary, especially during peak times.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The moderate physical activity and some uneven paths mean it’s best suited for those in moderate physical condition. Elderly travelers should assess their comfort with walking and waiting.

What should I bring?
Water, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Since lunch isn’t included, consider packing snacks or eating beforehand.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private experience for your group, allowing for a more personalized visit.

This comprehensive tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into Bali’s spiritual and royal sites, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking iconic sights and cultural richness.