See The Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple in Bali

See The Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple in Bali: An In-Depth Review

Bali’s Lempuyang Temple, famously known for its stunning Gates of Heaven, is a highlight for many travelers seeking that perfect Instagram shot and a moment of spiritual awe. This full-day private tour offers a well-rounded experience, combining cultural landmarks, scenic viewpoints, and relaxing beaches.

What we love about this tour is the seamless blend of iconic photo ops and authentic Balinese sights—all with the convenience of a private driver. That said, the crowds at the temple, especially for photos, can be overwhelming, so patience is key.

This tour is ideal for those who want a flexible, guided experience with plenty of picture opportunities and a taste of Bali’s east coast charm. If you’re after a balanced mix of cultural insight, natural beauty, and leisurely downtime, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Enjoy a personalized experience with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: No extra entrance fees; your driver covers the costs.
• Iconic Photo Spot: The Gates of Heaven are a must-see, but expect long queues.
• Diverse Stops: From ancient palaces to pristine beaches, each location offers something unique.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle and English-speaking driver/guide.
• Long Day: Around 10 hours, so prepare for a full-day adventure.

An Authentic Guide to the Lempuyang Temple Tour

The Journey Begins: Hotel Pickup and Transport

The tour kicks off early, with hotel pickup from Ubud or South Bali hot spots. The drive to Lempuyang Temple takes approximately 2.5 hours, giving you a chance to appreciate Bali’s lush landscapes from the comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle. The benefit here is obvious: no fuss about navigating or parking, and you get a knowledgeable guide who’s happy to answer questions and share local insights en route.

Visiting Lempuyang Temple: The Gates of Heaven

Arriving at Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang, we were immediately struck by the elevation—over 1,175 meters above sea level, making it one of Bali’s highest temples. It’s an active spiritual site, but most visitors come for the famous Gates of Heaven. These gates, framing Mt. Agung in the background, create a picture-perfect moment that’s been plastered all over social media.

A word of caution, though: crowds here can be intense, especially during peak hours or weekends. Several reviewers noted that the line for photos can last hours, which can be frustrating if you’re short on time. One reviewer, Yazmera, praised her guide Kadek for his detailed explanations and cultural insights, which helped her appreciate the significance of the site beyond just the photo.

The tour includes about 2.5 hours at this stop, giving ample time to snap photos, soak in the views, and explore the temple grounds. Remember, photography here is the main draw, so packing your patience for the queues is essential.

Tirta Gangga: A Splash of Royal Heritage

Next, we visited Tirta Gangga, a site that feels like stepping back into a regal era. Built during the Karangasem kingdom, this ornamental water palace is famous for its beautiful pools and pavilions, alongside the holy spring waters believed to have magical properties.

One of the most charming aspects is the large ancient pool filled with swimming fish and reflections of the surrounding architecture. Visitors often comment on the serene atmosphere and the visual appeal of the lush gardens and water features. The water spring beneath the trees is regarded as holy, adding a spiritual layer to the visit.

The tour allocates about an hour here, giving you time to wander and take photos. Many reviews highlight the well-preserved architecture and the peaceful ambiance, making it a favorite for those seeking a tranquil moment amid their busy sightseeing day.

Asah Hill: A Picture-Perfect Viewpoint

A quick stop at Bukit Asah, or Asah Hill, offers sweeping vistas of Bali’s east coast. The view of the small island offshore and the sea stretching to the horizon is truly breathtaking. It’s a favorite for photo enthusiasts and those who appreciate panoramic landscapes.

This stop is brief—about 15 minutes—but it’s enough to snap some memorable photos, especially if your guide helps with framing and composition. Reviewers mention that this spot provides a wonderful contrast to the more crowded temples and a chance for some quiet reflection with nature.

Virgin Beach: Relaxing on Bali’s Pristine Sands

The day winds down at Virgin Beach, a hidden gem known for its powdery white sands and relatively uncrowded shores. It’s an excellent spot to unwind, take a dip, or simply soak up the blue sky and gentle waves.

Most visitors find this a perfect way to relax after a busy morning of temple visits. The two hours allocated here allow plenty of time to lounge, swim, or walk along the shoreline. Reviewers often describe Virgin Beach as feeling like a private paradise, especially when compared to the more popular beaches in Bali.

Practical Aspects and What to Expect

Pricing & Value

At $79 per person, this tour offers great value considering the private transportation, all entrance fees, and guides included. Many reviews highlight that the driver covers all admission costs, meaning no hidden fees—saving you time and hassle. Given the long day and the number of locations, it’s an efficient way to see east Bali without the stress of planning each stop.

Duration & Comfort

The 10-hour duration might seem long, but with a private, air-conditioned vehicle, it remains comfortable. The group size is limited to your private party, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility. Expect a full day of sightseeing, with plenty of breaks and water provided.

Guides & Experience

Reviewers consistently praise their guides—like Kadek, Gede, and Agung—for being knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. Many mention their guides’ talent for taking great photos, which is a huge plus for travelers wanting professional-quality shots without the hassle.

Crowds & Timing

If you’re visiting during peak hours or weekends, be prepared for long queues at Lempuyang. Some reviewers suggest arriving early or choosing a weekday to avoid the worst crowds. The guide can sometimes help navigate the lines or suggest alternative angles for photos.

Accessibility & Suitability

The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families (with children sharing the cost) and those with moderate mobility, as most stops are accessible with some walking. Since the tour covers a variety of sites, be ready for a full-day adventure with plenty of walking and standing.

What Reviewers Say

• Guides Make the Difference: Multiple reviewers mention guides like Barong and Kadek for their attention to detail and cultural insights. Their ability to take fantastic photos and explain the significance of each site make a big difference.
• Iconic and Crowded: The Gates of Heaven are spectacular, but crowds can be daunting. Early start times or patience are recommended.
• Beautiful Scenery: Tirta Gangga’s peaceful pools and Virgin Beach’s pristine sands receive glowing praise, making them perfect for relaxation.
• Value for Money: Given that all entrance fees are included and the transportation is private, many find this tour worth the price, especially for a full-day experience.

The Sum Up

This Bali tour provides a well-rounded day packed with photo-worthy sights, cultural insights, and relaxing beach time. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided, private experience that covers multiple highlights without the hassle of separate bookings. The expert guides and scenic stops elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing, offering both visual delight and cultural understanding.

While the crowds at Lempuyang’s Gates of Heaven can be intense, arriving early or being patient with queues means you can still enjoy the stunning views and the significance of this spiritual site. Tirta Gangga and Virgin Beach add value with their peaceful ambiance and natural beauty, rounding out a memorable day in east Bali.

This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate personalized service, photography, and authentic Bali scenery. It’s a great pick for couples, families, or groups who want a comprehensive day out, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Ubud and main south Bali hot spots.

Are entrance fees included?
Absolutely. The driver covers all entrance costs, so there are no hidden fees at any of the stops.

How long is the drive to Lempuyang Temple?
The drive from your hotel to the temple takes approximately 2.5 hours each way.

Can I take photos at the Gates of Heaven?
Yes, but expect long lines, especially during peak times. Patience is key, or consider starting early.

How much time do I get at each site?
You’ll have about 2.5 hours at Lempuyang, 1 hour at Tirta Gangga, 15 minutes at Asah Hill, and 2 hours at Virgin Beach.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children sharing with adults usually pay a child rate.

What’s the tour duration?
Approximately 10 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, many reviews highlight guides like Kadek and Gede for their local knowledge, helpfulness, and photography skills.

Is it worth the price?
Considering private transportation, all entrance fees, and guided insights, many find the $79 rate very reasonable for a full day of sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, water, and your camera or phone for photos. Be prepared for crowds at the temple.

This tour offers a balanced blend of Bali’s most famous sights, cultural depth, and scenic leisure, making it a rewarding choice for anyone eager to explore east Bali without the stress of planning each detail.