Tour Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple – Blue Lagoon Snorkeling with lunch

Bali is full of unforgettable sights, and this tour offers a fantastic mix of cultural beauty and underwater adventure. While it’s a full-day affair, the balance of early mornings, scenic vistas, and vibrant marine life makes it worth every minute.

What we especially love about this experience is the chance to capture those breathtaking photo moments at Lempuyang Temple, the opportunity to snorkel among colorful fish and corals at Blue Lagoon, and the all-inclusive nature that keeps logistics simple. The tour’s professional and attentive guides really make a difference, ensuring you get the most out of each stop.

On the flip side, keep in mind that the early start means waking up at 5 or 6 am, which might be challenging but is necessary to beat crowds and catch the sunrise views. Also, as it’s a private tour, it’s best suited for those who want a personalized, relaxed experience rather than a large group adventure.

Ideal for travelers craving a blend of Bali’s cultural highlights and marine fun, this tour suits those who appreciate good value, photo opportunities, and a well-organized itinerary. Whether you’re a solo explorer, couple, or small family, it’s a memorable way to see Bali’s east coast.

Key Points

• Early start at 6 am ensures you beat crowds and capture iconic photos.
• Includes all transportation, tickets, and lunch, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Stunning photo opportunities at Lempuyang Temple’s Gate of Heaven with majestic mountain views.
• Vibrant snorkeling at Blue Lagoon offers clear waters, colorful fish, and coral reefs.
• Guides are praised for their thoughtfulness, care, and good personality.
• The tour is private, ideal for personalized experiences and small groups.

The Itinerary in Detail

Lempuyang Temple: The Gate of Heaven

The day kicks off bright and early with a 6 am hotel pickup (some guests have started even earlier, at 5 am). This is a smart move because the Lempuyang Temple—famous for its “Gate of Heaven”—draws crowds quickly as the day progresses. Starting early not only avoids the rush but also allows you to capture stunning photos with the sunrise illuminating the majestic mountain backdrop.

The temple is perched on Bali’s eastern tip, making it a bit of a journey but a worthwhile one. The ascent involves tall stairs decorated with dragon sculptures, and the view of the mountain behind the gate is a perfect photo moment — as one reviewer put it, “the beauty of the 3 gates that contain tall stairs decorated with dragon sculptures make a good place to take pictures.” Expect around 2 hours here, including time for photos and exploring.

While the temple’s popularity is a plus for those seeking memorable shots, it means the site can get crowded later in the day. Hosting a private tour, like this one, ensures a more relaxed experience.

Blue Lagoon & Tanjung Jepun: Snorkeling Paradise

After the temple visit, the trip continues with a boat ride to Blue Lagoon Beach, one of Bali’s top snorkeling spots. Here, the water is incredibly clear, making it a perfect stage for underwater photography and marine life spotting. Guests frequently comment on the abundance of colorful fish and corals, with some lucky visitors even spotting turtles.

The traditional boat, called a Jukung, adds a charming local touch. Once at the lagoon, you’ll spend about 2 hours snorkeling with all equipment provided. Reviewers mention how the clean water and vibrant marine life make snorkeling here a highlight, with one saying, “Snorkeling in Blue Lagoon was amazing, good beach, clean water.”

If you’re feeling adventurous, keep an eye out for friendly turtles, which are quite tame here, often swimming close by. The underwater scenery is so vivid and lively that it’s easy to forget you’re just a few meters from Bali’s busy tourist spots.

Tasty Lunch at Topi Inn

Post-snorkeling, the tour takes a short break at Topi Inn, where you can enjoy a set menu lunch. Reviewers appreciated the hot, freshly cooked food, describing it as delicious and satisfying. This pause lets you relax, refuel, and enjoy a bit of local hospitality before heading back into the water or returning to your hotel.

Flexibility and Comfort

The entire experience is shaped around comfort and hassle-free logistics. A full air-conditioned private vehicle is included, and the driver, often praised for being thoughtful and accommodating, ensures smooth transitions between stops. Pickup and drop-off are also part of the package, removing the stress of organizing transport.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $83, you get a full-day itinerary with all tickets, snorkeling gear, and lunch included. This bundling saves you money and time, compared to booking each component separately. The early start maximizes your experience — you’ll avoid the bulk of the crowds and get perfect lighting for photos at Lempuyang.

The reviews consistently praise the guides, especially for their friendly personalities and attentiveness. Guests have mentioned guides like Nyoman and Putu as being thoughtful, helpful, and well-organized. Their local knowledge and care make a big difference, turning what could be a rushed tour into a relaxing, enjoyable day.

The snorkeling component at Blue Lagoon is another standout: the crystal-clear water, vibrant marine life, and tame turtles make it more than just a swim — it’s an immersive experience. The included snorkeling equipment means there’s no extra hassle, and with around two hours in the water, you have plenty of time to explore.

Practical Details You Need to Know

• Duration: Approximately 10 hours, starting early at 6 am.
• Price: $83 per person, with group discounts available.
• What’s included: Pickup and drop-off, private air-conditioned vehicle, all tickets, snorkeling gear, and lunch.
• What’s not included: Local guide (though guides are often part of the service), souvenirs, or personal photos/videos.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 55 days in advance, indicating its popularity.
• Group size: It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

From the Reviews: Authentic Insights

Reviewers have highlighted guides like Putu, Nyoman, and Ketut as being especially helpful and friendly, often going out of their way to make sure guests are comfortable and well-informed. One reviewer noted that “Nyoman is a very thoughtful and good driver,” which underscores the quality of service you can expect.

The early start can be tiring, but many felt it was worth it for the peaceful atmosphere at Lempuyang and the chance to get those iconic shots without crowds. The snorkeling experience at Blue Lagoon is described as “amazing”, and some guests expressed gratitude for the care taken with snorkeling equipment and the friendly approach of guides**.

Food was also a highlight, with guests praising the hot, tasty lunch, which provided a much-needed break and energy boost.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a fantastic pick for travelers who want a balanced day of cultural sights and marine adventure. If you’re the type who loves capturing photos at iconic landmarks, snorkeling among vibrant fish, and enjoying a hassle-free day with everything provided, this experience is a top contender.

It’s also perfect for those who appreciate small-group or private arrangements — you’ll get more personalized care and flexible timing, especially at popular spots like Lempuyang.

Finally, if you’re on a tight schedule but want to make the most out of Bali’s east coast, this tour offers incredible value, combining two of Bali’s best experiences into a single, well-organized day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should be prepared for some walking and stairs at Lempuyang.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 6:00 am, with some guests starting as early as 5 am depending on their hotel location.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a set menu lunch at Topi Inn, included in the price.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear is included, so you don’t need to bring your own.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts about 10 hours, including travel, stops, and activities.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Will I get enough time at each stop?
Guests typically have around 2 hours at each snorkeling site and 2 hours at Lempuyang, plus time for lunch and travel.

Can I join if I don’t want to snorkel?
While snorkeling is a major part, most of the day is spent at the temple and enjoying the scenery; non-swimmers can relax and explore nearby.

How reliable are the guides?
Guests consistently praise the guides for their helpfulness, friendliness, and attentiveness, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 55 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure their spots.

This tour offers a seamless way to experience some of Bali’s most photogenic and exciting spots in a single day. Whether you’re chasing the perfect Instagram shot at Lempuyang or swimming among colorful fish at Blue Lagoon, it’s a well-rounded, value-packed adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories.