Bali: Besakih Temple & Lempuyang Temple Gates of Heaven Tour

Planning a day trip that combines Bali’s most breathtaking temples, scenic landscapes, and cultural highlights? This guided tour of East Bali offers just that—enough to satisfy your curiosity about Balinese spirituality and history without the hassle of planning it all yourself. From the iconic Gates of Heaven at Lempuyang to the expansive grounds of Besakih Temple, this experience promises a full immersion into Bali’s sacred sites.

What we love about this tour is how it balances impressive sights with insightful guides who really know their stuff, making the experience both educational and memorable. The views of Mount Agung paired with lush rice paddies are truly spectacular, giving you plenty of photo opportunities and authentic moments. Plus, the flexibility of optional add-ons like photography services or coffee tasting allows you to tailor the day to your interests.

The only potential drawback? The trip can be quite long and involve some walking and stairs, especially at Lempuyang Temple. It’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and an appreciation for culture. If you love exploring off-the-beaten-path sites, this tour is perfect for you—especially if you’re keen on understanding Balinese spirituality and history through a local guide.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenic Drives: Enjoy the lush landscapes of rice paddies, winding roads, and mountain vistas.
• Expert Guides: Learn about the cultural and spiritual significance of each site from knowledgeable locals.
• Iconic Photo Opportunities: Capture shots at the famous Gates of Heaven and other scenic spots.
• Flexible Options: Customize your experience with add-ons like lunch, photo services, or coffee tasting.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect a full 9-10 hour experience, ideal for dedicated culture seekers.
• Comfortable Transport: Private or small-group options ensure a relaxed journey with trusted drivers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring East Bali: A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point, typically at Ubud Palace, a central hub for travelers exploring Bali. The transportation is highly rated, with 89% of reviewers giving the service a perfect score, highlighting the comfort and reliability of the travel arrangements. Whether you choose a private vehicle or a small group, the ride is smooth, ensuring you’re well-rested for the day’s adventures.

Lempuyang Temple and the Gates of Heaven

The highlight for many visitors, Lempuyang Temple, is famous for its “Gates of Heaven”, where Mount Agung forms an awe-inspiring backdrop. The visit lasts about 2 hours, during which you’ll walk through the temple grounds, participate in a short purification ritual, and take photos at the gates—though be prepared for potential queues during peak times, as many visitors flock here for the perfect shot.

Guides like Raka and Kabra John, praised for their kindness and professionalism, go beyond basic explanations. They offer insightful commentary about the temple’s spiritual importance and share insider tips for capturing the best photos. One reviewer mentioned how their guide helped with timing and patience during busy photo waits, emphasizing the importance of having a seasoned guide to maximize your experience.

Tirta Gangga Water Palace

Next, the journey takes you to Tirta Gangga, a former royal water palace renowned for its tiered fountains, stone carvings, and lush gardens. The visit lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to stroll through the grounds, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and snap some photos of the intricate architecture. Reviewers appreciated the scenic rice field views surrounding Tirta Gangga, making it a calming contrast to the more crowded temple sites.

It’s noted that the water palace is a favorite for its photogenic charm and tranquil environment, with one guest mentioning that the walking around the gardens is quite enjoyable and offers great opportunities for capturing memories. The relaxed pace at Tirta Gangga balances the more intense temple visits.

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Besakih Temple, Bali’s Mother Temple

The final major stop is the largest and most sacred Hindu temple complex in Bali, known as Besakih Temple. This stop typically lasts around an hour, during which your guide will walk you through the sprawling grounds, explaining its history and spiritual significance. Heres a place where you can truly feel the reverence of Balinese culture, with some areas requiring a bit of walking and stairs.

One review highlights how their guide, Cenik, was attentive and helpful, ensuring everyone’s needs were met—including accommodating questions and waiting patiently. Visitors often find that the view of Mount Agung from Besakih, when the weather allows, adds a dramatic and spiritual dimension to the visit.

Additional Experiences and Customization

Optional add-ons are available to enhance your day—these may include lunch, photography services, or coffee tasting, depending on your chosen package. Private tours often include these extras, allowing for a more tailored experience.

Some travelers appreciated the ability to customize their day, especially with optional photo services, which help you get professional-quality keepsakes. The flexibility means you can spend more time at places that resonate most with you or skip certain parts if you prefer.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Pace

Expect your day to last about 9-10 hours, making it a full but rewarding experience. Travel times to East Bali are longer, and traffic can add to the journey, so patience and comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour is ideal for those with moderate fitness levels, given the walking involved, especially at temples with stairs and uneven surfaces.

Guides and Group Size

Reviews consistently praise the guides—such as Joni, who was described as well-prepared and attentive, and Dwipa, who offered in-depth explanations about religion and culture. Guided by locals, you’ll gain insights that deepen your appreciation of each site, making this more than just a scenic drive.

Group sizes are small or private, providing a relaxed and personalized atmosphere. This setup is perfect for travelers who prefer intimate experiences over large tour buses.

Cost and Value

While the price isn’t explicitly stated here, reviews suggest that the tour offers good value, considering the transportation, entry fees, and guided insights included. The ability to add customized options, combined with the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport, makes it a worthwhile investment for culture enthusiasts and first-time visitors.

What to Bring

Pack comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and some cash for any additional expenses. Long pants or sarongs are necessary for temple visits, and sunscreen is advisable given Bali’s tropical sun. Keep in mind that women menstruating are not permitted in sacred temple areas, which is good to plan for.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers eager to explore Bali’s spiritual core and stunning scenery in one day. It’s especially good for those who appreciate guided insights and cultural context, rather than just sightseeing. The long duration and walking involved mean it’s best for active, moderately fit travelers.

It’s not ideal for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or young children under one year, given the physical demands and temple restrictions. If you love photography, the optional services and scenic backdrops will make this a memorable day.

Final Thoughts

This Bali temple and cultural tour offers a well-rounded experience for those interested in Bali’s sacred sites, scenic landscapes, and local history. The combination of stunning views, expert guides, and flexible options makes it a compelling choice for a full-day adventure.

You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Balinese spirituality, plenty of photo memories, and a sense of connection to the island’s most revered spots. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, this tour helps you see Bali with fresh eyes—guided by those who truly know its heart.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup is optional and can be arranged at your hotel lobby, ensuring a hassle-free start.

How long is the tour? The full experience lasts about 9 to 10 hours, so be prepared for a full day of exploring.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and temple visits—long pants or sarongs are required at sacred sites.

Can I customize the experience? Yes, optional add-ons such as lunch, photography, or coffee tasting are available depending on your tour package.

Are there any physical restrictions? Moderate physical fitness is recommended due to walking and stairs, particularly at Lempuyang Temple.

What’s the best time to visit? Early mornings are suggested to avoid crowds and catch good lighting for photos.

Are there any age restrictions? Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for young children under 1 year or those with mobility issues or pregnant women.

What’s included in the price? Transportation, entry fees, and guided explanations are typically included; additional services depend on your chosen package.

What if it rains? Weather can affect visibility, especially Mount Agung views, and the experience might be less ideal during heavy rain or clouds.

Is this tour suitable for photography lovers? Absolutely. With knowledgeable guides and scenic spots, it’s perfect for capturing memorable shots, especially at the Gates of Heaven.

You can check availability for your dates here: