Day Trip: Lempuyang Temple &Tirta Gangga with Snorkeling at Blue Lagoon beach

Travelers seeking a blend of spirituality, regal beauty, and oceanic adventure will find this Bali day trip to be a compelling choice. With a thoughtfully curated itinerary, it promises a mix of awe-inspiring sights, cultural insight, and relaxing beach time—all in one day. Our review explores what makes this trip stand out, what you should watch for, and how it can fit into your Bali adventure.

Three aspects stand out immediately: the early start at Lempuyang Temple for the perfect sunrise shot, the lush tranquility of Tirta Gangga, and the snorkeling experience at Blue Lagoon Beach. We love how each stop offers a different flavor of Bali, from spiritual reflection to royal grandeur to vibrant marine life. The tour’s flexibility and private nature mean you’ll get personalized attention, and the included equipment ensures a fuss-free snorkeling session.

One consideration is the early wake-up call—6 am pickup can be tough if you’re not an early bird. Still, many find it worthwhile for the clear morning light and fewer crowds at the temples. This trip suits travelers who want to capture iconic photos, enjoy highland scenery, or simply love exploring Bali’s less-visited eastern side in comfort.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The sunrise at Lempuyang offers unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Cultural and Royal Heritage: Tirta Gangga’s water gardens are a peaceful, beautifully restored site.
• Snorkeling Adventure: Two spots, Blue Lagoon and Tanjung Jepun, provide vibrant marine life from a boat.
• All-Inclusive Value: Entrance fees, snorkeling gear, and lunch are covered, simplifying your day.
• Flexible and Private: The tour is tailored to your group, with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Time Management: The 8-10 hour schedule strikes a good balance, but be prepared for a full day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Early Morning Departure for Lempuyang Temple

The adventure begins with a 6 am hotel pickup, which might seem early but is crucial for this trip’s highlights. Notably, the early start allows you to beat the crowds and catch that stunning sunrise illuminating Mount Agung behind the “Gate of Heaven.” Guests have praised the view, with one reviewer sharing, “We saw sunrise from the temple gate while taking some pictures, and we got very good shots.” The three gates with their tall stairs and dragon sculptures are perfect for photos that will make your friends jealous on social media.

The temple itself feels like a sacred space, and the experience of climbing the steps while the morning light hits the mountain creates a sense of serenity and awe. The guide’s tips for photography help you maximize this moment—especially if you’re into capturing Bali’s iconic scenery.

Tirta Gangga Royal Water Gardens

After about two hours exploring the temple, you’ll head toward Tirta Gangga—meaning “Water of the Ganges.” Sitting on the southern slope of Mount Agung, this royal water garden is a splash of tranquility and regal charm. Built in 1946 by the king of Karangasem, the site has been beautifully restored after volcanic ash from the 1963 eruption.

Here, you’ll wander through 1.2 hectares of pools, fountains, and statues amid lush lawns and tropical plants. Reviewers have described it as a “cool retreat,” and many appreciate the chance to relax in such a peaceful setting. It’s a popular spot for photos, especially with the intricate stone carvings and the clear water reflecting the sky. The gardens’ history and restoration story add depth to the visit—especially for those interested in Bali’s royal past.

Snorkeling at Blue Lagoon Beach and Tanjung Jepun

The afternoon is dedicated to snorkeling—an activity many find the highlight of the day. The provided boat takes you to two top spots: Blue Lagoon Beach and Tanjung Jepun. Both locations are renowned for their clear waters and vibrant marine life, making them ideal for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

The tour includes all equipment—fins, masks, and life jackets—so you can jump straight into the water without fuss. Reviewers mention the opportunity to see colorful fish and coral, with some noting the blue lagoon’s striking hue and lively underwater scene. If you’re not confident in your swimming, the life jackets ensure safety, and your guides will be happy to assist.

Between snorkeling spots, there’s time to enjoy a simple yet delicious Indonesian lunch, with options like fried noodles or fried rice. Many guests find this a perfect, energizing break before heading back to Bali’s interior.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

With a quoted price of $94 per person, this tour encompasses a lot: private transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets, snorkeling gear, and lunch. For those wanting a full-day experience without the hassle of planning each step, the inclusive nature of this trip is a big plus.

The private aspect means you won’t be squeezed into a large bus, and your driver will be able to adapt the schedule if needed. The early start might be tiring, but it’s a small sacrifice for the stunning photos and fewer crowds at the temples. Overall, many travelers report that the cost feels justified given the quality and diversity of experiences packed into this day.

What’s Not Included & Practical Tips

The tour does not include personal expenses or photos/videos, so bring your camera and some extra cash if you want souvenirs or additional snacks. Towels are not provided, so you should bring your own if you plan to snorkel or want to dry off quickly after.

Remember to wear comfortable clothes suitable for temple visits and water activities. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must, especially since you’ll be outdoors for most of the day. The tour is most suitable for those comfortable with an early start and a full day of sightseeing.

Authentic Feedback from Past Travelers

One reviewer simply said, “Good trip yesterday,” highlighting the overall satisfaction. They appreciated the opportunity to photograph the sunrise at Lempuyang and the scenic beauty of Tirta Gangga. Another pointed out how beautiful the temple and the surrounding views were, emphasizing the tranquility and the unique photo opportunities.

Guests also mentioned that the snorkeling experience was well-organized and enjoyable, with some noting the vibrant underwater life they encountered. The ease of using supplied equipment and the boat transfer made the activity accessible and fun for all levels.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This tour is ideal for photography enthusiasts eager to capture Bali’s famous “Gate of Heaven” with Mount Agung as a backdrop. It’s also perfect for culture lovers who want to explore Tirta Gangga and learn about Bali’s royal heritage. If you enjoy beach and marine activities, the snorkeling at Blue Lagoon provides an exciting underwater perspective.

Travelers who prefer a relaxed, private experience with flexible scheduling will appreciate the exclusivity of this tour. However, those who aren’t early risers might find the 6 am pickup challenging, so plan accordingly.

In summary, this private day trip offers a well-rounded snapshot of Bali’s eastern highlights—starting with the breathtaking sunrise at Lempuyang Temple, continuing through serene royal gardens, and wrapping up with snorkeling at crystal-clear waters. Its value lies in the seamless organization, inclusivity of all necessary gear, and personalized touch, making it suitable for a range of travelers.

Whether you’re after iconic Bali photos, a taste of royal history, or vibrant marine life, this tour delivers on multiple fronts. It’s particularly attractive for those who want a full day of meaningful experiences without the hassle of DIY planning or large group crowds.

This trip can be a highlight of your Bali visit—especially if you’re eager to see Bali’s lesser-visited eastern side and enjoy a mix of cultural and natural beauty.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at 6:00 am, ensuring you arrive at Lempuyang Temple early for the best photos and fewer travelers.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour price covers all entrance tickets for Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga, and snorkeling spots.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkel equipment—fins, masks, and life jackets—is provided, so you can just relax and enjoy the underwater scenes.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, with provided life jackets, non-swimmers can safely enjoy snorkeling at Blue Lagoon and Tanjung Jepun.

How long is the snorkeling session?
You’ll spend about 2 hours snorkeling across two locations, with boat transfers included.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for temple visits and water activities, plus sun protection like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, your driver can make slight adjustments, but the key stops and timings are fixed for optimal experiences.

Embarking on this Bali day trip promises a mix of stunning vistas, cultural insight, and fun aquatic activities—all wrapped into one memorable adventure. Perfect for capturing Bali’s essence while enjoying comfort and convenience.