See The Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple in Bali

Exploring Bali’s East: A Full-Day Journey to Lempuyang’s Gates of Heaven, Tirta Gangga, and Virgin Beach

If you’re seeking a combination of spiritual sights, stunning scenery, and tranquil beaches, this full-day private tour from Ubud offers a compelling way to see Bali’s east. For $79 per person, you’ll visit Lempuyang Temple—home to the famous Gates of Heaven, explore the lush Tirta Gangga Water Palace, enjoy sweeping ocean views from Asah Hill, and unwind on the peaceful sands of Virgin Beach. The tour lasts around 10 hours and covers about 150 miles, making it a big day but packed with memorable moments.

We’re especially drawn to how this tour balances culture with leisure. The Gates of Heaven are undoubtedly the star attraction, for their photogenic appeal and spiritual significance. Plus, the chance to see Mt. Agung in the distance while exploring the temple offers a sense of the island’s dramatic landscape. The visit to Tirta Gangga adds a historical dimension, with its pools and pavilions echoing past royalty. For a perfect blend of photo ops and peaceful rest, Virgin Beach provides a welcome break from the crowds and a chance to enjoy Bali’s beautiful, quiet coast.

One thing to consider before booking is that the Gates of Heaven are extremely popular and often crowded, which can lead to long lines for photos—something we’ve read about repeatedly. Timing your visit early in the morning can help, but patience is key. Also, this tour is best suited for those who don’t mind long drives and enjoy diverse experiences—spiritual sites, scenic views, and beach relaxation all in one day.

This tour appeals most to travelers who want value, flexibility, and authentic sights without the hassle of planning each stop individually. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate guided convenience and expert local insights.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering 4 major stops in east Bali
• All entrance fees included, so no surprises at the gate
• Private transportation and guide ensure comfort and personalized attention
• Long day, but filled with diverse experiences from temples to beaches
• Popular for its photogenic spots and cultural significance
• Crowding at Lempuyang’s Gates can be a challenge, so early start recommended

In-Depth Review of the Experience

Bali is famed for its temples, beaches, and landscapes, and this tour captures that essence in a single day. Starting early from your Ubud hotel—often around 5:30 or 6 in the morning—you’ll be chauffeured in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The drive to Lempuyang Temple takes roughly 2.5 hours, giving you time to enjoy the scenery and chat with your guide about Bali’s culture and history.

Visiting Lempuyang Temple and The Gates of Heaven

The Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang stands at 1,175 meters above sea level—making it one of Bali’s highest temples. The famous Gate of Heaven is a broad, ornate arch framing the sky and Mount Agung in the background, creating a picture-perfect moment. As one of the most Instagrammed spots in Bali, the site’s popularity has its drawbacks: long queues and crowds, especially later in the day. Many reviews mention that visitors often have to wait in line for their photo, sometimes for hours.

One reviewer notes, “The line for taking photos is very long,” and suggests that arriving early can help beat the crowds. Despite the crowds, the experience of standing under the gate, with the volcano looming behind, is undeniably impressive. Your guide—like Kadek or Gede—can help you position yourself for the best shot and explain the temple’s spiritual significance.

Exploring Tirta Gangga Water Palace

Next, about an hour from the temple, you’ll visit Tirta Gangga, an elegant water palace built around a series of pools, fountains, and ornate pavilions. The site offers a glimpse into Bali’s royal past, with beautifully landscaped gardens and pools filled with colorful fish. Many visitors appreciate the tranquility here, and the chance to photograph the lush scenery.

From reviews, we learn that Tirta Gangga’s pools are not only scenic but also carry cultural meaning—locals believe the water springs are holy, with some magical effects attributed to them. Expect about an hour here, enough to stroll around, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Scenic Stop at Asah Hill

A quick 15-minute stop at Bukit Asah offers panoramic views of Bali’s coastline and the small island nearby. It’s a favorite among photographers for its sweeping ocean vistas and the chance to snap some memorable shots of Bali’s natural beauty. This stop is free, and your guide can point out interesting features or suggest the best angles.

Relaxing at Virgin Beach

The final highlight is Virgin Beach, a hidden gem with soft white sands and calm blue waters—perfect for unwinding after a busy morning. It’s less crowded than Bali’s main beaches and provides plenty of space for lounging, swimming, or a leisurely walk. Expect about two hours here, which many reviewers say is just enough to soak up the sun and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Practical Details and Value

All entrance fees are included in the $79 price tag, which makes this a straightforward value for a full day of sightseeing. The tour also provides bottled water, a knowledgeable guide, and round-trip hotel transfers, making logistics simple and stress-free.

While lunch and alcohol are not included, plenty of local eateries nearby make grabbing a meal easy and affordable. The tour’s private nature means you can go at your own pace—your guide is there to tailor the experience and answer questions along the way.

Real Traveler Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the guides—Kadek, Abdi, Gede, and Agung—for their friendliness, knowledge, and photography skills. One reviewer shared, “Kadek explained the history and significance of the site and shared cultural insights,” which adds depth to the visit. Another mentioned, “Gede made sure we got the most out of each site and took nice pictures of us,” emphasizing the personalized touch.

However, some have noted that crowds at Lempuyang can be intense, and waiting in line is unavoidable. Arriving early or visiting during off-peak hours can help mitigate this. The long drive is something to consider if you prefer shorter travel times, but the scenic views along the way often make up for it.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded day exploring Bali’s east with minimal hassle. It suits those who enjoy cultural sights and scenic views, and don’t mind a full day on the road. It’s perfect for photographers, thanks to the stunning photo opportunities, but also for anyone wanting a taste of Bali’s spiritual and royal history.

Families with kids, couples, or groups of friends looking for a day of varied experiences will find this tour offers excellent value. The private guide ensures you get personalized attention and can stay flexible—something many reviews highlight as a key benefit.

The Sum Up

This Bali tour packs a lot into one day, combining iconic temples, lush water gardens, scenic coastal views, and quiet beaches. It offers exceptional value by including all entrance fees, hotel transfers, and a dedicated guide, ensuring a smooth and enriching experience. While the crowds at the Gates of Heaven can be a challenge, arriving early and having a friendly guide to help with photos makes a big difference.

If you’re after authentic Bali sights with the convenience of guided touring, this is a great choice. It’s best suited for those who want variety—culture, nature, and relaxation—in one memorable day. The enthusiastic reviews show that with the right guide, this tour can turn a day of sightseeing into a truly special adventure.

FAQ

How long does the trip take?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time and stops, so be prepared for a full day.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, your guide covers all admission costs, so there are no surprises at the gate.

Is hotel pickup included?
Absolutely. Round-trip hotel transfers from Ubud and main south Bali hot spots are part of the package.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss with your guide if you’d like to spend more or less time at each location.

Is there an age limit or child rate?
Child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults, making it suitable for families.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera for capturing the stunning scenery. Water is provided.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.