East Bali Tour: Lempuyang Temple – Gate of Heaven, Tirta Gangga, Virgin Beach

Introduction: A Day in East Bali’s Highlights

If you’re planning a day trip from Ubud or southern Bali, the East Bali Tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines cultural landmarks with natural beauty. For just $43 per person, you’ll spend roughly 10 hours exploring four key sites with a private driver, making it a hassle-free way to see the region’s most photogenic spots. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring comfort without the stress of navigating on your own.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is the attention to detail—from the knowledgeable guides like Putu or Budi, who bring a friendly and informative touch, to the stunning scenery at each stop. Plus, the all-inclusive ticket prices mean you can focus on soaking up the views rather than reaching for your wallet constantly. The only potential downside? Since it’s a full-day outing, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long day on their feet and sitting in a vehicle.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of cultural discovery and leisure. If you love capturing scenic photos, learning about local history, and enjoying peaceful beaches, this trip really hits the mark. It’s particularly popular among those who appreciate excellent guides and value organized, all-in-one experiences.

Key Points

• Comfortable and Hassle-Free — Private door-to-door transfers from Ubud or south Bali.
• Culturally Rich — Visits to Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga, and Ujung Water Palace enrich your understanding of Balinese history.
• Stunning Photogenic Spots — The Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang is a must-see for Instagram fans.
• Relaxing Beach Break — Virgin Beach offers a peaceful end to your busy day.
• Great Value — All entrance fees included, with highly personalized service.
• Suitable for Most — Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and a full day out.

Discovering East Bali: An In-Depth Look

The Journey Begins: Hotel Pickup and Comfort

Starting at 7:30 am, the tour begins with hotel pickups in Ubud or southern Bali, depending on where you’re staying. We find that having a private driver makes a huge difference compared to crowded group tours, especially when traffic or weather conditions change unexpectedly. Your driver—like the highly praised Wena, Budi, or Putu—serves as both a chauffeur and a friendly guide, often sharing insights about Bali’s culture along the way.

The vehicle itself is generally described as clean and comfortable, with reviews highlighting drivers’ professionalism and friendliness. Since most reviews mention drivers being accommodating, it’s clear that your comfort and safety are prioritized.

First Stop: Lempuyang Temple – The Gate of Heaven

Lempuyang Temple is often the highlight of this trip, and for good reason. It’s one of Bali’s oldest and most revered temples, believed to predate many others on the island. Sitting at 1,175 meters above sea level atop Mount Lempuyang, it offers sweeping views of lush landscape and the famous “Gate of Heaven”—a stunning photo spot that has become an Instagram icon.

The walk up the hill involves some steps, so be prepared for a bit of a climb, but many reviews commend the well-maintained paths. Once at the top, you’ll find the ticked tickets system, with visitors often lining up for photos in the iconic archway. Some travelers noted that the waiting time can vary, with one reviewer mentioning that the tickets can be over 100, but the experience of standing in front of such a scenic backdrop makes it worthwhile.

Be aware that the photo time can be limited during busy periods, and some reviews mention the longer wait isn’t always worth it if you’re after a quick visit. However, the spiritual atmosphere and breathtaking vista make it a unforgettable stop.

Tirta Gangga Water Garden: A Royal Oasis

Next, you’ll visit Tirta Gangga, about 7 km north of Amlapura. This royal water garden stands out with its tranquil reflecting pools, ornate sculptures, and lush greenery. Built by the royal family of Karangasem, it offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for strolling and photography.

Many travelers comment on how beautiful and well-maintained the gardens are, with one reviewer describing it as a “well-known cultural object” that’s both calm and photogenic. Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking in the serenity and perhaps spotting some local birds or fish in the pools. The admission included simplifies visiting, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery.

Ujung Water Palace: An Architectural Gem

From Tirta Gangga, a short drive will bring you to the Ujung Water Palace, a sprawling Dutch-era complex with a floating palace, pavilions, and extensive gardens. Built between 1919 and 1926 by the King of Karangasem, its large grounds offer expansive views of the water and surrounding hills.

Reviewers often highlight the beauty of the architecture and the peaceful setting. One even mentions how the palace was “built since the Dutch era,” giving it a historical charm that’s different from the more famous temples. Expect to spend about an hour here, enjoying the calm atmosphere and taking plenty of photos.

Virgin Beach: A Perfect Relaxing Finish

The final stop is Virgin Beach, known for its white sands and calm, shallow waters—ideal for swimming and unwinding. The tranquil ambiance and unspoiled nature make it an ideal spot to spend an hour soaking up the sun, listening to the ocean, or taking photos of the picturesque shoreline.

Many reviews praise the peacefulness and beautiful scenery. Visitors often enjoy spotting traditional Balinese boats, which add to the authentic seaside feel. The admission is included, and the beach’s remote location ensures fewer crowds, contributing to its relaxing vibe.

Why This Tour Works for You

The East Bali Tour offers a carefully curated experience that balances cultural sights with natural beauty. Its private nature means you can move at your own pace, avoid large crowds, and enjoy personalized commentary from guides like Putu or Budi. The all-in-price approach is convenient, with all entrance fees covered, so you won’t be surprised by hidden costs.

The scenic drives between stops are another highlight, giving you glimpses of traditional villages and rice terraces. And the stunning photo opportunities—from the Gate of Heaven to the lush water gardens—make this trip particularly appealing for travelers who love capturing memories.

Given the high praise for guides, you’ll value their insights into Balinese culture and history. Many reviews specifically mention guides being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, adding a personal touch to what could otherwise be a standard sightseeing day.

Practicalities and Considerations

Since the tour lasts about 10 hours, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day out. While most travelers report no issues with the pace, it’s worth noting that walking at some sites can be demanding, especially if you’re not used to hills or stairs.

The cost of $43 is quite reasonable for a private full-day tour, especially considering the included entrance tickets and transfers. This makes it a great value for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets and transportation themselves.

Meals are not included, so consider packing some snacks or planning for lunch afterward. The tour’s timing allows for flexibility, but arriving early helps beat the crowds at popular spots like Lempuyang’s Gate of Heaven.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This East Bali Tour suits travelers seeking a relaxed, hassle-free day that combines culture with scenic beauty. It’s ideal for those who appreciate friendly guides, well-organized itineraries, and photo-worthy landscapes. Families, couples, and solo travelers who want to see Bali’s iconic sites without navigating on their own will find this tour particularly valuable.

It’s also a good choice for first-time visitors wanting to get a well-rounded taste of East Bali’s treasures, all within a comfortable and private setting. If you’re looking for an authentic experience that balances history, scenery, and leisure—this trip delivers.

However, if your focus is purely on cultural learning or adventure, you might want to supplement this tour with additional activities. But for a beautiful, comprehensive day exploring some of Bali’s most photogenic and meaningful sites, this tour hits the spot.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and a full day on the road. It’s best for those comfortable with a long day.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 7:30 am with hotel pickup in Ubud or south Bali.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, if you select the option, all entrance tickets for Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga, and Ujung Water Palace are included.

How long will we spend at each site?
Typically around 2 hours at Lempuyang, and about an hour each at Tirta Gangga, Ujung Palace, and Virgin Beach.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. You can bring snacks or plan for lunch separately.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the driver/guide, within reason.

What if I want to skip a stop?
You can typically coordinate this with your driver, but confirm this at booking.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention the great photo opportunities at every stop, especially at the Gate of Heaven and water gardens.

This detailed look at the East Bali Tour shows it’s a well-structured, value-packed option that balances stunning sights, culture, and relaxing moments—perfect for making the most of your Bali visit.