The Gates of Heavan – Ubud Jungle Swing & Waterfall Tour

Experience Bali’s Beauty in a Day with The Gates of Heaven – Ubud Jungle Swing & Waterfall Tour

If you’re looking to pack a good chunk of Bali’s most stunning sights into one day, this full-day tour offers an excellent balance of natural beauty and cultural highlights. For $60 per person, you’ll get picked up from your hotel in areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, and beyond, and spend approximately 10 hours exploring some of Bali’s most photogenic and serene locations. The tour includes visits to Lempuyang Temple, famously known as the “Gates of Heaven,” the tranquil Tirta Gangga Water Palace, the breathtaking Tukad Cepung Waterfall, and the lush Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Plus, you’ll challenge yourself at the Ubud Jungle Swing, a popular Instagram spot.

What we really love about this experience is how well it balances stunning viewpoints with cultural touches—particularly the early visit to Lempuyang Temple for avoiding crowds and capturing those iconic photos with Mount Agung in the background. The second standout feature is the professional guides who not only coordinate smoothly but also go out of their way to make your day memorable by taking great pictures and sharing insightful information.

One possible consideration is that the day is quite packed; if you prefer a slow pace or more time at each site, this might feel rushed. Still, for those eager to see Bali’s highlights without multiple days of touring, this full-day trip hits the sweet spot. It’s especially ideal for travelers who enjoy natural beauty, cultural spots, and don’t mind a busy schedule.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, first-time visitors wanting a broad overview, or anyone eager to tick Bali’s must-see sights off their list with expert guidance and good value.

Key Points

• Efficient itinerary covering Bali’s iconic natural and cultural sites in one day
• Early visit to Lempuyang Temple helps avoid crowds and captures the perfect photo
• Professional guides enhance the experience with local insights and great photos
• Inclusion of transportation and entrance fees adds convenience and value
• Flexible pickup options from multiple popular Bali locations
• Ideal for travelers who want a full, immersive day without sacrificing comfort

A Deep Dive into the Tour: What You Can Expect

The Early Start at Lempuyang Temple

We loved the way this tour kicks off with an early morning trip to Lempuyang Temple. Located in the Slove of Lempuyang mountain, this site is one of Bali’s most revered temples. Known as the “Gate of Heaven,” it’s famous for the photo opportunity of standing between two towering gates with Mount Agung majestically in the backdrop. Visiting early means you beat the crowds that flock later in the day, making it your best chance to snap that perfect Instagram moment. Plus, the scenic drive here passes through beautiful rice paddies, giving you a taste of Bali’s lush landscape even before the main attraction.

Tirta Gangga Water Palace

Next, you’ll visit Tirta Gangga, a palace that embodies tranquility. It’s a maze of pools, fountains, and gardens, with charming statues and stone carvings scattered throughout. We appreciated how this stop offers a peaceful contrast to the busy temples and waterfalls, and it’s a great spot for photos or just soaking in the serenity. Since admission is free, the real cost here is your time, but we found it well worth the visit for its visual appeal and peaceful atmosphere.

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Moving on, you’ll explore Tukad Cepung Waterfall, an almost legendary spot because of its cave setting. This hidden gem is inside a cave, with the waterfall emerging into a small opening at the top. The walk involves descending stairs into the cave, but the view—a waterfall emerging from nature’s own cathedral—is truly a sight to behold. Many reviews rave about its untouched charm, calling it a “virgin waterfall” and a “fascinating view”. Note that this site involves a bit of walking and stair-climbing, so some mobility is helpful.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Following the waterfall, you’ll arrive at the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, arguably Bali’s most famous rice field. Here, you’ll see the classic lush green paddies, framed by the subak irrigation system, which has been used for centuries. We loved how this site combines scenic beauty with cultural significance, providing a perfect backdrop for photos or a relaxed stroll through the fields. It’s a busy spot, but still worth every second for its vibrant landscape.

Ubud Jungle Swing at Uma Pakel

Finally, the tour takes you to Uma Pakel Agro Tourism for the Ubud Jungle Swing experience. This is a hit for adrenaline junkies and Instagram lovers alike, offering a chance to swing high above the jungle and capture some fun, memorable shots. The swing isn’t just a thrill—it’s a chance to enjoy the lush canopy views that Bali’s jungle offers from a unique vantage point. Reviews mention guides who are knowledgeable and friendly, making this a highlight of the day.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

The transportation is by private, air-conditioned vehicle, which means comfort is prioritized, especially after a long day of sightseeing. The tour’s group size is small, which allows for personalized attention from your guide. Entrance tickets to key sites are included, so there are no surprises or long lines. Plus, the tour guides provide sarongs at temples—saving you the hassle of bringing your own or worrying about modesty rules.

The reviews consistently praise guides for their knowledge and their willingness to take great photos, which adds a personal touch to your experience. The flexibility to start from different locations makes it accessible for many travelers.

The Value of the Experience

While $60 might seem modest for a full day of diverse sightseeing, the real value lies in the convenience and expert guidance. Instead of trying to navigate Bali’s often confusing transportation system and lines, this tour handles all logistics while you focus on enjoying the sights. The inclusion of entrance fees and bottled water further adds to the value.

What Could Be Better?

The main drawback is the tight schedule—some sites might feel rushed for those who prefer lingering longer, especially since the tour covers multiple sites in just about 10 hours. If you love to explore at a leisurely pace or want more time at each location, this might feel a bit hurried. Also, the early start means waking up before dawn, which might not suit everyone.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a first-time visitor to Bali looking to see the highlights in one go, or someone who wants stunning photos and natural beauty in a compact package, this tour fits perfectly. It’s also well-suited for travelers who value guided experiences that include cultural insights and picture-perfect moments without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Your Time?

For those eager to experience Bali’s most iconic sights in one well-organized day, this tour provides excellent value and efficiency. The combination of natural waterfalls, cultural temples, and breathtaking rice terraces makes it a well-rounded introduction to the island’s diverse charm.

The guides truly make a difference, providing both local knowledge and helpful photography tips, often receiving glowing reviews for their friendliness and professionalism. It’s an adventure that balances spectacular views with cultural respect, making it ideal for travelers eager for a full, engaging day with minimal stress.

The only caveat is the packed schedule, so if you prefer a slow pace or more time at each site, you might want to consider other options or extend your stay. However, for efficient sightseeing, this tour delivers as promised—an energetic, scenic, and culturally enriching day.

In short, whether you’ve got limited time or just want a curated taste of Bali’s best, this tour offers a fantastic snapshot of the island’s natural splendors and spiritual sites—guided by friendly experts eager to make your day memorable.

FAQs

What locations does the tour pick up from?
The tour offers pickup from Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, and Ubud, making it convenient no matter where you’re staying.

How long does each stop last?
Most stops are about an hour, giving you enough time to take photos, explore, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes private air-conditioned cars, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the long day of sightseeing.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, tickets to Tukad Cepung Waterfall and Tegalalang Rice Terrace are included, while other sites like Tirta Gangga have free admission.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves some walking and climbing stairs—particularly at Tukad Cepung Waterfall—so moderate mobility is recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to enjoy Bali’s most photogenic and meaningful sites. Ideal for those eager to maximize a single day with guided insight and stunning scenery, it’s sure to leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of great photos.