Forget beaches and Bintang for a sec – Bali’s got a whole other side that’s just waiting to be explored. If you’re up for some spiritual vibes and Insta-worthy pics, the Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga, and Taman Ujung tour is where it’s at. This day trip is packed with adventure, taking you to the iconic “Gates of Heaven” at Lempuyang, plus you’ll get to chill in the super serene water palaces of Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung. It’s the perfect mix of mind-blowing scenery and a deep dive into Balinese culture – like, seriously, it’s the best of both worlds.
From epic views of Mount Agung to peaceful ponds and lush gardens, this tour is perfect for anyone who wants to see the real Bali, not just the tourist traps. Let’s break down what makes this tour so awesome and everything you need to know before you go.
Let’s dive into what makes this tour a must-do in Bali and everything you need to know before you go.
Good to Know: The Complete Tour Experience
This tour covers three of Bali’s most famous and sacred sites—each one offering a unique experience. You’ll start at Lempuyang Temple, home to the famous Gate of Heaven, before continuing to the beautiful water palaces of Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung. Together, they offer a comprehensive look at Bali’s natural beauty and its spiritual and royal heritage.
Lempuyang Temple is often the highlight of the tour. The temple complex is perched high on Mount Lempuyang, and its famous Gate of Heaven frames Mount Agung perfectly on clear days. While the photo opportunity draws most visitors, the temple’s spiritual significance shouldn’t be overlooked. As one of Bali’s six most important temples, Pura Lempuyang is a place of worship and pilgrimage, where locals come to pray and make offerings. Visitors should be respectful of the customs, including wearing a sarong and sash, which are available for rent at the entrance.
The tour then takes you to Tirta Gangga, a former royal palace known for its beautifully landscaped gardens, tiered fountains, and tranquil ponds filled with koi fish. Built by the Karangasem royal family, Tirta Gangga is a place of peace and reflection, where water plays a central role in Balinese spirituality. Walking through the palace gardens, you’ll see statues of Hindu deities and stepping stones across the ponds, offering a serene and picturesque experience.
Lastly, the tour concludes at Taman Ujung Water Palace, another royal retreat located near the coast. Taman Ujung’s expansive grounds feature a unique blend of Balinese and European architecture, with reflecting pools, pavilions, and bridges that connect various parts of the palace. The views from the palace’s higher terraces are breathtaking, offering panoramic scenes of the ocean and surrounding hills.
This tour is not just about visiting three separate sites—it’s a journey that ties together Bali’s spirituality, royal history, and natural beauty into one enriching experience.
What You’ll Experience on This Tour
The day starts with a scenic drive through Bali’s eastern countryside, where you’ll pass through picturesque rice fields, small villages, and lush green hills. This journey sets the tone for what’s to come, as you make your way to your first destination: Lempuyang Temple. Upon arrival, you’ll immediately notice the grand temple gate, which perfectly frames Mount Agung in the distance. Visitors often queue here for a photo at the Gate of Heaven, but while you wait, take the time to explore the temple’s peaceful surroundings and learn more about its spiritual importance.
The 1,700-step climb to the higher temple tiers is part of the Lempuyang experience. Along the way, you’ll encounter smaller shrines and altars, where local worshippers leave offerings. The atmosphere is quiet and meditative, and the views from the top are a reward for your effort.
After exploring Lempuyang, the tour continues to Tirta Gangga. This royal water palace offers a contrast to the temple’s steep climb with its flat, manicured gardens and tranquil ponds. As you walk along the stepping stones that cross the water, you’ll be surrounded by koi fish swimming in the clear ponds. The 11-tiered fountain in the center of the palace is one of its standout features, and your guide will explain the significance of water in Balinese culture and rituals.
The final stop is Taman Ujung, a royal palace with sprawling gardens, reflecting pools, and pavilions. The architectural blend of Balinese and European styles makes Taman Ujung unique. You’ll have time to explore the palace grounds, walk across the stone bridges, and climb to the highest point of the palace, where the views of the ocean and mountains are simply stunning. It’s a peaceful and scenic end to your day, offering a moment to reflect on the beauty and history of the places you’ve visited.
What’s Included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off with air-conditioned transportation.
- English-speaking guide who will explain the cultural and historical significance of each location.
- Entrance fees to Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga, and Taman Ujung.
- Sarong and sash rental for temple visits.
- Lunch and refreshments at a local restaurant.
- Photography tips for capturing the best shots at the Gate of Heaven and water palaces.
Tour Information
The tour typically lasts around 8 to 10 hours, including travel time between locations. The drive to Lempuyang Temple from central Bali takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on your starting point and traffic conditions. It’s recommended to start the tour early in the morning to avoid long queues at the Gate of Heaven and to catch clear views of Mount Agung before the afternoon clouds roll in.
At Lempuyang Temple, visitors should be prepared for a wait to take photos at the Gate of Heaven, as it’s one of the most popular spots in Bali. The wait can range from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the time of day and season. It’s a good idea to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat to stay comfortable during the wait.
After visiting Lempuyang, the tour continues to Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung, where you’ll have plenty of time to explore the gardens, feed the fish, and take photos. Both water palaces are well-maintained and easy to walk through, making them accessible to visitors of all ages.
Customer Testimonials
“This was one of the best tours I’ve ever taken in Bali! The Gate of Heaven was stunning, but Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung were equally breathtaking. Our guide was fantastic and shared so much about the history and culture of Bali.” — Sophia, Canada
“The Lempuyang Temple tour exceeded my expectations. It was amazing to see Mount Agung framed by the gate, and the water palaces were so peaceful. I highly recommend this tour if you want to see a different side of Bali.” — Alex, UK
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and how much time you spend at each location.Do I need to be fit to climb Lempuyang Temple?
The climb is steep but manageable. It involves around 1,700 steps, so comfortable shoes and water are essential. If you need to take breaks along the way, there are plenty of resting spots.What should I wear?
Visitors are required to wear a sarong and sash at Lempuyang Temple, which are provided as part of the tour. Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially for the climb.Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, the tour is suitable for families. However, the climb at Lempuyang Temple might be challenging for very young children or elderly visitors.Can I bring my own food and drinks?
You are welcome to bring your own snacks and water, but lunch and refreshments are provided as part of the tour.
Special Deal: Save up to 30% on Your Lempuyang Temple Tour
For a limited time, book your Lempuyang Temple – Gate of Heaven Tour and enjoy a special discount of 800,000 IDR (down from 1.2 million IDR). This tour offers a full day of cultural exploration and breathtaking scenery, so don’t miss out! Book now and secure your spot here.
