Experience the Best of Eastern Bali with the Lempuyang Temple Tour

If you’re craving a day away from the crowds and winding mountain roads, this Lempuyang Temple tour from Ubud offers a refreshing way to explore eastern Bali. For just under $80 per person, you’ll spend about 9 to 10 hours visiting some of Bali’s lesser-known but stunning sites, including Tirta Gangga Water Palace, the secluded Lempuyang Temple, Charly’s Chocolate Factory, a white sand beach, and a water palace. The tour includes pickup, group discounts, and a mobile ticket, making it a hassle-free way to see the highlights without the stress of self-driving.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the chance to beat the crowds at popular landmarks—especially at Lempuyang Temple’s famous “Gate of Heaven”—and to relax while someone else handles the navigation and logistics. Plus, the opportunity to capture more people-free photos at these scenic spots is a real bonus. One thing to keep in mind is the length of the drive, which is a bit over two hours each way—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic journeys.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value authentic experiences and want to see more of Bali’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s especially well-suited for those with a moderate level of fitness, given the elevation at Lempuyang and the walking involved. If you’re after a well-organized day with knowledgeable guides, this trip offers good value, especially considering the inclusion of transportation and the lack of crowds.

Key Points

All-Inclusive Convenience: This private tour covers transportation, entry fees, and a knowledgeable guide, saving you from logistical headaches.
Unique Photo Opportunities: The famous “Gateway to the Heaven” at Lempuyang offers iconic shots, often less crowded than other popular Bali temples.
Cultural and Natural Highlights: From Tirta Gangga’s beautiful water gardens to a white sand beach and a water palace, each stop offers a different flavor of Bali.
Relaxed Pace: With around 9-10 hours, the tour balances sightseeing with enough time for photos and relaxation.
Authentic Experiences: Visiting lesser-known landmarks means fewer travelers and more genuine encounters.
Good Value for Money: The combination of multiple stops and scenic beauty makes this tour a worthwhile investment.

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A Deep Dive into the Lempuyang Temple Tour

Getting Started: Comfort and Convenience

This tour kicks off with pickup from your Ubud accommodation, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without the need to navigate yourself. The transportation is private, meaning your group will travel together, compared to noisy, crowded buses. This setup helps you settle in comfortably, with plenty of room for cameras and snacks.

The group discounts and mobile ticket system simplify the booking process, making it straightforward to secure your spot. The price of $79.99 per person is quite competitive considering the number of sites visited and the personalized experience.

Tirta Gangga Water Palace: A Royal Retreat

Your first stop is Tirta Gangga, a former royal water garden built in 1946. It’s a lush, peaceful spot, perfect for wandering along pools, fountains, and stone carvings. The admission fee of IDR 30,000 isn’t included in the tour price, but it’s a small price for the chance to enjoy one of Bali’s most picturesque water palaces. Several reviews mention it as a favorite retreat, with visitors appreciating its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful architecture.

We loved the way Tirta Gangga combines historical charm with natural beauty—it feels like stepping into a different world. You’ll probably find yourself taking lots of photos here, especially of the ornate gates and lush gardens.

Lempuyang Temple: The Highlight of the Day

Next up is Pura Lempuyang, one of Bali’s oldest and most revered temples, perched over 1,175 meters above sea level. Its “Gateway to the Heaven” is famous worldwide, thanks to countless photos of the silhouette with Mount Agung in the background. Visiting this temple involves a moderate hike uphill, which is why some reviews suggest it’s best suited for visitors with a bit of a fitness level.

The donation of IDR 20,000-30,000 is voluntary, but it’s customary to contribute to upkeep. The temple’s long history and spiritual significance make it a must-see for culture buffs. We loved the spectacular views and the sense of serenity that envelops the site.

However, crowds can be intense at the popular photo spots, particularly during peak times. Some reviewers mention waiting for up to two hours for a photo in prime spots, so patience and an early start could be beneficial. The tour’s advantage is that it generally bypasses some of the busiest times, but it’s good to be prepared.

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Water Palace and White Sand Beach: Scenery and Serenity

After Lempuyang, your guide will take you to a water palace, which adds a splash of regal elegance to the day. The white sand beach provides a relaxing contrast to the historic temples, offering scenic views and photo ops. These stops are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick dip, depending on the weather.

Final Touches and Reflection

The tour wraps up with some time at a local spot for lunch or snacks—many reviewers highlight the good food options—and a comfortable drive back to Ubud. The long drive might seem tiring, but many find it’s part of the experience, offering scenic views of Bali’s countryside and volcanic landscape.

Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback

Several travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, noting how guides like Putu or Wee enhance the trip with stories and helpful tips. One reviewer mentions, “Putu was amazing, friendly, communicative, and very helpful,” which shows the importance of a good guide in making the day memorable.

Most reviews agree that the value for money is solid, especially given the inclusion of transportation, entry fees, and private service. Many travelers also appreciate the small group size and personalized attention, which make photo opportunities less frantic.

The crowd factor is often addressed; some mention that waiting in line to take photos can be lengthy, especially at the temple. Nonetheless, most agree that the scenic views and cultural insights outweigh the minor inconvenience of waiting.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for first-timers to Bali wanting an overview of key sights without the stress of self-driving. It’s perfect for photographers eager for iconic shots with fewer travelers in the background. If you’re interested in Balinese culture and history, visiting Lempuyang and Tirta Gangga offers a glimpse into local traditions and architecture.

Travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and organized logistics will find this tour very convenient. It’s also great for those who want to avoid the overcrowded, touristy spots and experience some of Bali’s more tranquil, scenic locations.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While most stops are manageable, climbing up to Lempuyang Temple requires some walking and a moderate hike. If you have mobility issues, it’s best to assess whether you’re comfortable with this.

How long is the drive from Ubud to Lempuyang Temple?
The drive is approximately 2 hours each way, so expect around four hours of travel combined, plus time at each site.

Are meals included in the tour?
The tour mentions the availability of food for special diets, but it doesn’t specify whether meals are included. Many travelers bring snacks or plan for lunch during the day.

What should I bring for this trip?
Bring sunscreen, mosquito spray, comfortable shoes, a hat, and a camera for photos. The weather can be hot, and the elevation at Lempuyang may be breezy.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private, all-inclusive experience for your group, offering a more personalized and flexible day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility in your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

The Lempuyang Temple tour from Ubud offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, combining culture, scenery, and tranquility. The opportunity to visit less crowded landmarks while enjoying professional guidance makes it a smart choice for travelers seeking authentic Bali experiences without the crowds. The scenic drives, picturesque stops, and cultural insights make it a worthwhile investment for those with a day to spare.

If you’re after iconic photos, peaceful temples, and a relaxed pace, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good value, personalized service, and the chance to see Bali’s countryside and temples without the hassle of self-driving.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a photographer, or simply eager to explore Bali’s quieter corners, this tour offers a memorable, hassle-free way to experience the island’s eastern treasures.