Bali Instagramable Tour: Gates of Heaven Lempuyang – Water Palace – Waterfall

Bali Instagramable Tour: Gates of Heaven Lempuyang – Water Palace – Waterfall

This Bali tour offers a chance to tick off some of the most Instagram-worthy sights in East Bali in just one day. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the combination of scenic temples, royal water palaces, and stunning waterfalls makes it seem like a pretty irresistible way to spend a day exploring Bali’s most photogenic spots.

What catches our eye about this tour? First, its affordability — at only $31 per person, it packs a lot of value. Second, the inclusion of transportation, a knowledgeable driver, and flexible timing means you can relax and focus on capturing memories. Third, the itinerary’s focus on both cultural highlights and natural beauty ensures a well-rounded experience. The only thing to consider is the early start, which might be a challenge if you’re not an early riser.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want an easy, budget-friendly way to see Bali’s most iconic spots without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s perfect for those eager to get stunning photos, learn about Bali’s heritage, and enjoy a full day of sightseeing with minimal fuss.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $31, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle and a friendly driver make the long day more enjoyable.
• Multiple Photogenic Stops: From the Gates of Heaven to waterfalls, each spot offers incredible photo ops.
• Flexible Schedule: Pickup between 6-9 am allows for a relaxed start.
• Cultural and Natural Highlights: Combines temples, royal water palaces, and waterfalls for a diverse experience.
• Limited Food Options: No included lunch—plan to bring snacks or plan for a meal after the tour.

The Itinerary in Detail

Lempuyang Temple: The Gates of Heaven

The day kicks off with a visit to Lempuyang Temple, situated at the peak of Mount Lempuyang in East Bali. As the most famous Instagram spot, it’s known for its “Gates of Heaven,” framing awe-inspiring views of the coastline beyond. The architecture is striking, and the temple itself is one of Bali’s oldest and most revered.

Travelers typically spend about an hour here, soaking in the panoramic vistas and snapping photos of the iconic gate. An important aspect to note is that there’s no entrance fee, but the experience of standing at the gate with the vast Balinese landscape behind you makes it priceless.

Tirta Gangga: The Water Palace

Next, you’ll head to Tirta Gangga, a former royal water palace located in Ababi village, about 35 minutes from Lempuyang. Built in 1948, this site offers a refreshing change of scenery — lush gardens, pools, and intricate architecture make it an ideal spot for relaxing and taking photos.

Reviewers highlight Tirta Gangga’s playful design with swimming pools and water features, which can be especially enjoyable for families and kids. Expect to spend around an hour here, with plenty of photo opportunities of the palace’s impressive water features and vibrant surroundings.

Kanto Lampo Waterfall

After the palaces, you’ll visit Kanto Lampo Waterfall in Ubud. This waterfall isn’t just scenic — it’s a place where you can actually swim, making it a favorite for travelers wanting a bit of fun with their sightseeing. The waterfall’s gentle flow and natural setting are perfect for a quick dip or simply snapping photos of the cascading water framed by lush greenery.

Guests who’ve visited mention the waterfall as a highlight, enjoying the chance to cool off and take stunning shots amidst Bali’s natural beauty.

Ujung Water Palace

The last stop is Ujung Water Palace, a less-maintained but still visually captivating site. Its ruins and unique architecture make for great selfies and photos. Even though the building isn’t fully intact, its picturesque setting and historical charm lend an authentic Bali vibe to your photos.

The visit here is brief, about a minute, but it’s enough to soak in the atmosphere and capture some memorable images.

What We Love About This Tour

Proximity and Flow: The itinerary is carefully planned to minimize long travel times between stops, maximizing your sightseeing instead of sitting in the van. The early start means cooler temperatures and fewer crowds for popular spots like Lempuyang.

Authentic Cultural and Natural Mix: Visiting both temples and palaces alongside waterfalls offers a well-rounded taste of Bali’s spiritual and natural beauty. You’ll get a sense of the island’s heritage while also enjoying its lush landscapes.

Value for Money: At only $31, the tour includes transportation, a friendly driver (who doubles as a guide), Wi-Fi, bottled water, and optional entrance tickets. For travelers on a budget, this is a no-brainer.

Photogenic Locations: Based on reviews, you’ll love the views at each stop, especially the Gates of Heaven and Kanto Lampo Waterfall. Many travelers have mentioned taking “lots of photos,” and the scenery really does justify the hype.

Practical Aspects and Tips

Transportation: The air-conditioned van makes a long day comfortable, and a private group ensures you won’t be stuck with strangers. Your driver is also your guide, providing info and tips along the way.

Timing: The pickup window is flexible between 6.00 am and 9.00 am. We recommend opting for the earliest pickup to beat the crowds at Lempuyang and enjoy cooler weather.

Duration: Expect a full-day outing, around 10 to 12 hours, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking and standing at each site.

Cost and Value: While no lunch is included, the tour’s low price makes it easy to bring your own snacks or plan a meal afterward. Entrance fees are not charged at most stops, but optional tickets are available for some activities.

Crowds and Photos: The early start at Lempuyang is appreciated by many reviewers, who noted fewer visitors at the Gates of Heaven during the morning. The waterfall, being outdoors, is less crowded and perfect for a quick swim.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see Bali’s most Instagrammable spots. It suits those eager to snap photos at iconic locations, explore some of Bali’s lesser-known royal sites, and enjoy a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

It’s also great for families or groups who appreciate a relaxed pace and the convenience of a private vehicle. If you enjoy early mornings and want to avoid the crowds at major sites, this tour is a smart choice.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a leisurely pace with more time at each location or plans to dine out for lunch, you might want to consider adjusting the schedule or adding on extra stops.

The Sum Up

This Bali Instagramable Tour delivers a well-balanced day of sightseeing, combining Bali’s iconic temples, royal water palaces, and waterfalls at an incredibly accessible price. It’s designed for travelers looking for stunning photos, cultural insights, and natural beauty without breaking the bank or spending too much time planning.

The early start, comfortable transport, and varied stops make it a practical choice for most visitors, especially those eager to make the most of their shorter Bali stay. While it’s a full day, the variety of landscapes and photo opportunities will leave you with a treasure trove of memories and images.

If you’re after a straightforward, budget-friendly way to experience Bali’s best Instagram spots with a local guide, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

What is the pickup time for this tour?
Pickup is offered between 6.00 am and 9.00 am, giving you flexibility to choose a time that suits your schedule.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 12 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Are entrance tickets included?
Most stops do not have entrance fees, but optional tickets are available if you want to enhance your experience at certain sites, like the swing at the Water Palace.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace, short waiting times, and scenic stops make it family-friendly, especially since kids can enjoy swimming at Kanto Lampo Waterfall.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
While lunch is not included, bottled water is provided, and you can bring snacks or plan to eat after the tour.

Is the tour private or shared?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as there’s some walking involved. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture all those beautiful moments.