Gates to Heaven – Lempuyang Tour

An Honest Look at the Gates to Heaven – Lempuyang Tour

Starting at $66 per person and lasting around 10 hours, this Bali sightseeing tour takes you through some of the most iconic and spiritual sites in eastern Bali. Led by local guides (like Wayan, who gets high praise from travelers), you’ll visit Lempuyang Temple, the Royal Water Palace Tirta Gangga, and Goa Lawah Temple. The tour includes pickup, bottled water, and all entrance fees, making it a well-organized way to experience Bali’s sacred and scenic highlights.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the stunning views from Lempuyang’s gates—famous for their reflection that creates that “Gates to Heaven” effect—and the chance to explore less touristy sites like Tirta Gangga’s lush water gardens. We also like that the tour is private, meaning your group gets a personalized experience and flexibility.

A notable consideration: long queues are common at Lempuyang, especially for photos. The temple’s popularity means you’ll need patience for those famous shots, and access restrictions mean you might not be able to explore the temple deeply or interact with all areas. This tour suits travelers who value authentic scenery and sacred sites over crowds and are willing to wait for that perfect photo opportunity.

If you enjoy guided cultural visits, have moderate physical fitness, and want a day filled with Bali’s spiritual sights, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially ideal for those who love stunning vistas and want a manageable, all-in-one day trip.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The photo at Lempuyang’s Gates of Heaven offers a memorable Bali postcard image, reflecting beautifully in the water.
• Expert Guides: Travelers rave about guides like Wayan, who make the experience helpful and enjoyable.
• Cultural Significance: Visiting important temples like Goa Lawah connects you with Bali’s spiritual roots.
• Crowd Management: Expect long queues at Lempuyang, often requiring patience for photo opportunities.
• Comprehensive Experience: The tour covers key highlights, including the royal water palace and historic temples.
• Flexible & Private: With only your group participating, the experience feels personalized and comfortable.

In-Depth Review of the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Lempuyang Temple, often called the “Gates to Heaven,” is the centerpiece. Situated at 1,175 meters above sea level, it offers sweeping views of Mount Agung on clear days. The temple’s dramatic gates, paired with the reflection in the water, create a picture-perfect moment. However, this popularity comes with a price—long lines are typical, and access is restricted, meaning you can’t explore the entire temple freely. One reviewer noted, “Looking at the photos of the gates online you would assume that there’s water—that’s an incorrect assumption. It is in fact a reflection made in the way that the photo was taken.”

Despite the crowds, many visitors find the scenery worth the wait. The tour includes about 2 hours at this site, giving ample time to take those iconic photos and soak in the atmosphere.

Next, you’ll move to Tirta Gangga, a former royal water palace that still feels regal. Located in Ababi village, it’s a peaceful contrast to the bustling temple. Its tiered fountains, lush gardens, and mythic sculptures pouring water into pools make for a relaxing stop. Visitors often mention its lush ambiance and photogenic surroundings. A typical comment from a traveler: “The palace features tiered fountains, gardens, and stone sculptures of mythical creatures pouring water into the bathing pools, along with tropical gardens, fish pools, and fountains.” Expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, enough to wander the grounds and enjoy some tranquil moments.

Finally, the tour wraps up at Goa Lawah Temple, known as the Bali Bat Temple. Built around a cave inhabited by hundreds of bats, this ancient site dates back to the 11th century, making it one of Bali’s oldest. It’s a significant spiritual site, where you can observe the Balinese reverence for nature and tradition. The 2-hour stop allows for exploration and appreciation of this historic place.

Transportation & Comfort

Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a relief after walking in Bali’s often warm climate. The tour is private, so your group doesn’t have to share space with strangers, adding comfort and flexibility.

Value for the Price

At $66, this tour is reasonably priced considering the transportation, entrance fees, bottled water, and the guided experience. The inclusion of all fees and taxes simplifies planning, though the lunch isn’t included—so you’ll want to plan for a meal on your own.

The Guide & Personal Experience

While not every review mentions the guide directly, those who do praise guides like Wayan for being helpful and kind. Having a knowledgeable guide can transform what might be a busy, crowded day into an insightful journey into Bali’s spiritual and cultural landscape.

The Downsides

The main challenge is long queues at Lempuyang, which can be frustrating if you’re seeking a quick photo or a more contemplative experience. The temple’s access restrictions mean you won’t get full access to its interiors, which might disappoint some travelers expecting more interaction or exploration.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour appeals to travelers interested in Balinese culture, spirituality, and iconic scenery. It suits those who appreciate guided experiences that simplify logistics, especially if you’d rather not worry about transportation or entrance fees. If you’re prepared for crowds and waiting, you’ll find the stops rewarding, especially with a knowledgeable guide who can share context and history.

It’s less ideal for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences or full access to temples, but perfect for visitors who want a balanced and efficient day touring Bali’s highlights.

The Sum Up

The Gates to Heaven – Lempuyang Tour offers a well-rounded Bali experience that takes you to some of the most spiritually and scenically significant sites. For around $66, you gain not only admission to key temples but also the expertise of local guides who can enrich your understanding of Bali’s cultural fabric.

While crowds and queues at Lempuyang are unavoidable, the spectacular views and the chance to visit less touristy sites like Tirta Gangga and Goa Lawah make it a worthwhile day out. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy photo opportunities, culture, and guided convenience.

If you’re willing to accept some waiting for that perfect shot and want to experience Bali’s spiritual heart, this tour provides a valuable and memorable glimpse into the island’s sacred landscapes.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle for your entire day, making travel comfortable and hassle-free.

How long does each stop last?
You’ll spend about 2 hours at Lempuyang, 1 hour 30 minutes at Tirta Gangga, and 2 hours at Goa Lawah.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour description suggests a moderate physical fitness level is recommended, mainly due to walking and waiting in queues at busy sites.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour includes all fees and taxes, so there are no surprises for entrance costs at each site.

Can I expect to take photos at Lempuyang?
Yes, but be prepared for long lines for the iconic Gates of Heaven photos, and access restrictions mean you might not explore the temple fully.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring your own or buy food during the day.

This detailed, practical review should help you decide if this tour matches your Bali adventure wishes—balancing iconic sights with the realities of popular tourist spots. Enjoy your trip!