The Gate Of The Heaven Bali with Top Places To Visit In The East of Bali

Experience the Sacred and Scenic East Bali
If you’re seeking a day full of stunning views, cultural insights, and spiritual sights, this Bali East tour offers all that—and more. For just $76.29 per person, you’ll spend around 11 to 12 hours visiting some of Bali’s most revered and photogenic spots, such as Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga, and the Goa Lawah Temple. The tour includes pickup, private transportation, and all entrance tickets, making it a convenient way to explore without the stress of planning.

What we really appreciate is how this trip combines iconic sights like the “Gate of Heaven” at Lempuyang with lesser-known gems like the Tenganan Village. The early start (around 3:30 am) means you’ll beat some crowds at the famous temple—and get that perfect sunrise shot with Mount Agung looming in the background. On the other hand, if you’re not an early riser, be prepared for a long day with early mornings and a packed schedule.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a mix of spiritual sites, panoramic views, and authentic local villages. It’s perfect for those eager to see Bali’s rich culture while enjoying some of the best photo opportunities and scenic landscapes.

Key Points

• Cultural and spiritual significance of temples like Lempuyang and Goa Lawah
• Beautiful scenery at Tirta Gangga and Ujung Water Palace
• Authentic experience at Tenganan Village, home of the Bali Aga people
• Full-day convenience with private transport and all entrance fees included
• Early start offers less crowded photos, but requires an early wake-up
• Suitable for travelers interested in both photography and culture

Exploring the East Bali Tour: A Deep Dive

Starting Early with the Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang

This tour kicks off in the early hours, around 3:30 am, with a pickup from your hotel or villa. This might seem brutal—especially if you’re not an early bird—but it pays off. As many reviewers have noted, arriving before the crowds at Lempuyang Temple gives you better chances at the famous “Gate of Heaven” photos, with Mount Agung standing tall behind.

The temple, one of Bali’s nine directional temples, isn’t just insta-worthy. It holds deep cultural importance for locals, who visit in ceremonial attire, balancing offerings and seeking blessings. The religious significance adds a layer of respect to your visit, even if most travelers are there to snap that perfect shot. Be aware, though, that the site is very busy later in the day, and waiting in lines for photos can be long—so patience is key.

The view of Mount Agung from the gate is awe-inspiring. Many visitors comment on how the combination of the ancient temple gateway and the mountain backdrop makes for an unforgettable picture. One reviewer mentioned, “Great job Ketut for an awesome Bali trip,” emphasizing how guides like Ketut enhance this experience with local insights.

Scenic Stops Along the Way: Tegalalang Rice Terrace & Taman Ujung

After the morning temple visit, the tour moves to the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Here, the lush, terraced fields spell out “Bali” in your photo album and are a favorite for travelers seeking that quintessential Bali landscape. It’s a great spot for a short walk or just soaking in the scenery, especially if you’re a fan of photography or nature.

Next, the Taman Ujung Water Palace offers a majestic view of large pools, historic structures, and Mount Agung in the distance. Despite having suffered damage from Mount Agung’s 1963 eruption and a 1979 earthquake, restoration efforts have brought it back to life. Visitors often comment on its spectacular setting and the chance to walk through history in a peaceful environment.

Unique Cultural Experience at Tenganan Village

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to Tenganan Village, home to the Bali Aga—the original Balinese inhabitants predating the Majapahit influence. This ancient village offers a glimpse into traditional life, with most residents skilled in textile weaving, especially the famous Geringsing cloth.

Travelers who love diving into authentic local cultures will appreciate the chance to see handmade textiles and observe the Pandan war Festival if visiting during May or June. It’s a rare glimpse into Bali’s pre-Majapahit heritage, making it well worth the short 20-minute stop.

The Mystical Goa Lawah Temple

Wrapping up the day, you’ll visit Goa Lawah, known as the Bat Cave Temple. This 11th-century site is built into a cliff with thousands of bats hanging from the cave ceiling. It’s a powerful spiritual place for locals, used for the Nyegara Gunung ceremony, which links the ocean and mountain.

Visitors often find the sight of the cave filled with bats both eerie and fascinating. This visit offers a different kind of spiritual connection—less about the travelers’ selfie and more about the locals’ devotion.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For the price, this tour packs in a lot of memorable sights. From early morning sunrise photos to tranquil water palaces and ancient villages, you gain a comprehensive look at East Bali’s cultural and natural beauty. Many reviews mention the professional guides, who make the long day easier with local insights and good humor.

The all-inclusive nature—covering entrance fees and private transportation—means you don’t have to worry about extra costs or navigating Bali on your own. This convenience, paired with the small group feel (since it’s a private tour), creates a relaxed yet immersive experience.

A Few Considerations

The earliest start might be challenging for some, especially if you’re not naturally an early riser. Also, the temples can be crowded, particularly later in the day, which might impact your photos or overall experience. If you’re sensitive to long days or tight schedules, consider whether this full itinerary matches your travel style.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for photographers eager for that iconic shot at the Gate of Heaven, as well as culture enthusiasts wanting to see traditional villages and ancient temples. Travelers interested in scenic landscapes from rice terraces to water palaces will find plenty to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive day that balances spiritual sites, natural beauty, and authentic culture—all with the ease of private transportation—this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal if you appreciate guided insights, want to avoid the hassle of planning, and value small-group intimacy.

The Sum Up

This all-in-one Bali east tour offers a well-rounded experience that showcases the island’s spiritual depth and stunning scenery. The early start and long day are balanced by the convenience of private transport and thoughtfully curated stops. The chance to see Lempuyang’s Gate of Heaven in the quiet early morning, explore Tirta Gangga, and visit Tenganan Village makes this a solid choice for those craving more than just the usual Bali tourist spots.

Travelers who love photography, culture, and authentic experiences will find this tour rewarding. Whether you’re captivated by the panoramic views, historical sites, or the vibrant local traditions, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Bali’s rich tapestry.

For those with limited time or seeking a thoughtfully organized experience that balances beauty, spirituality, and history, this tour offers a fantastic value—especially considering its reviews and reputation for knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics.

FAQ – Your Practical Questions Answered

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at around 3:30 am with hotel pickup, making it the early bird’s choice for beating crowds and catching sunrise photos.

Is this tour suitable if I don’t like early mornings?
While the early start results in a long day, many travelers find that the benefits of fewer crowds and better photos outweigh the early wake-up. If you’re not a morning person, be prepared for a full, busy day.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance tickets to the listed sites are included in the price, so there are no surprises or extra costs during the day.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour—only your group will participate—allowing for a more personalized experience and flexible timing.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide, but the core stops are set based on the standard itinerary.

How long are the visits at each stop?
Expect about 1 hour at Lempuyang Temple, 30 minutes at Tirta Gangga, 40 minutes at Ujung Water Palace, 20 minutes at Tenganan Village, and 20 minutes at Goa Lawah.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring cash for meals or snacks along the way.

This tour strikes a lovely balance between scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and spiritual significance. It’s a solid choice for travelers eager to see Bali’s best east with ease and comfort, all while capturing those unforgettable moments and learning about local traditions.