Bali: Besakih Temple & Lempuyang Temple Gates of Heaven Tour

Exploring Bali’s east side offers a fascinating mix of spirituality, history, and natural beauty, and this guided tour packs some of the most iconic sights into one day. While we haven’t personally joined this trip, reviews suggest it’s an excellent way to see Bali’s sacred sites with knowledgeable guides and scenic vistas.

What we love about this tour is how it combines cultural landmarks like Besakih Temple—the island’s largest and most revered Hindu complex—with the breathtaking Gates of Heaven at Lempuyang. We also appreciate the flexibility of optional add-ons, making it customizable to your interests. The only thing to keep in mind is that the day involves a fair bit of driving and walking, so it’s best suited for active travelers with moderate fitness levels. Perfect for those keen on cultural exploration and stunning photo opportunities, this tour offers a comprehensive East Bali experience.

Good To Know

• Cultural & Spiritual Significance: Visit Bali’s most sacred temples and learn about their importance.
• Stunning Photo Opportunities: Iconic Gates of Heaven and scenic mountain backdrops.
• Comfortable Transportation: Highly-rated vehicles that make long drives more enjoyable.
• Flexible Options: Add-ons like lunch, coffee tasting, and photography services.
• Guide Expertise: Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness.
• Timing & Weather: Views of Mount Agung depend on weather; early start helps avoid crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: An Authentic Dive into Bali’s East

This Bali tour promises a full day of discovery, highlighting some of the most revered sights in the island’s eastern region. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized experience filled with cultural depth and natural beauty.

What draws travelers most is the chance to see Lempuyang Temple’s Gates of Heaven, famously framed by Mount Agung, and the Besakih Temple, which isn’t just the biggest but also the most spiritually significant. The journey through lush landscapes, rice paddies, and mountains is a feast for the eyes, making it more than just a temple visit.

A key perk is the guide’s role in enriching the experience—offering insights that deepen understanding of Bali’s tradition and architecture. However, note that some spots, especially the Gates of Heaven, can draw long lines for photos during busy seasons, so patience is part of the package.

This tour suits active travelers who want a compact yet meaningful exploration of East Bali’s spiritual sites, with enough flexibility to customize their experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Lempuyang Temple and Gates of Heaven

The day begins with pickup at your hotel, usually in Ubud, with a scenic drive through Bali’s signature rice terraces and mountain views. The highlight here is the Gates of Heaven, where Mount Agung often forms an impressive backdrop. This iconic photo spot is a must for many travelers, and your guide will assist with perfecting that shot.

Expect to spend around two hours here, which includes a brief holy water purification ritual—a ritual that visitors often find both meaningful and photogenic. The ascent involves some walking and stairs, so comfortable shoes are a must. According to reviews, the guide’s helpfulness in explaining the temple’s significance adds real value—many mention their guides answered questions and gave tips for capturing the best photos.

Tirta Gangga Water Palace

Next, the tour moves to Tirta Gangga, a former royal water palace known for its tiered fountains, stone carvings, and serene gardens. It’s a relaxing contrast to the mountain temple, with plenty of space for wandering and snapping pictures. Reviewers mention that the water features and lush gardens make it a peaceful place to spend an hour or so, with views of surrounding rice fields adding to the tranquil atmosphere.

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Besakih Temple: Bali’s Mother Temple

The final major stop is Besakih Temple, Bali’s largest and most important Hindu complex. Its sprawling layout and intricate structures provide an engrossing cultural experience. Guides typically take around an hour here, sharing insights into its spiritual importance and how it survived the 1963 Mount Agung eruption.

Visitors often comment on the impressive scale and the opportunity to walk through different sections, each with its own significance. The guide’s explanations help make sense of the complex, and many praise the way they managed to navigate the site efficiently, despite its size.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size

Most tours are rated highly for their comfortable, reliable vehicles—reviewers mention that the drive itself is pleasant, and the guides’ driving skills make long stretches less daunting. You can opt for private tours, which tend to be more flexible and personalized, or join small groups for a more social experience.

Duration & Timing

The full-day tour lasts about 9 to 10 hours, starting early to beat the crowds and avoid Bali’s busy traffic. This timing ensures you get the most out of each site, especially the Gates of Heaven, which can get crowded as the day progresses.

Cost & Value

While the price isn’t explicitly mentioned here, reviews suggest the tour offers excellent value given the inclusion of professional guides, transportation, and entry fees. Optional add-ons like lunch and photography services are available, allowing customization based on your interests.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking and climbing stairs
• Sun protection: sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen
• Camera for capturing the stunning scenery
• Cash for small purchases or tips
• Long pants or sarong for temple visits

Important Considerations

• Be prepared for some waiting time for photos at the Gates of Heaven, especially during peak season.
• Mount Agung’s views are weather-dependent, so don’t be surprised if the backdrop isn’t visible on cloudy days.
• Women menstruating are advised not to enter sacred temple areas.
• Moderate physical fitness is recommended due to walking and stairs.

Authentic Experiences & Guide Insights

Guides like Kubra John and Raka consistently earn praise for their kindness, knowledge, and willingness to go the extra mile. Reviewers mention that guides often provide more than just facts—they share cultural stories, answer questions thoroughly, and help with photo-taking.

One reviewer highlighted how their guide, Cenik, was very helpful and accommodating, even making sure all group members’ needs were met. Others appreciated the professional yet friendly attitude, which made the long drives feel shorter and the overall experience more relaxing.

Photographers and those wanting to maximize their photo opportunities should consider the optional photography services. Many travelers comment on how guides offer creative ideas for capturing the best shots at the Gates of Heaven, which can be a real boost for Instagram enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Bali tour offers a balanced mix of spiritual immersion, cultural insight, and eye-catching scenery. Its value shines through in the knowledgeable guides, well-organized itinerary, and flexibility for add-ons. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with moderate walking and want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see East Bali’s top temples and landmarks.

If you’re after stunning photo opportunities, meaningful cultural experiences, and engaging guides, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less structured day or are less mobile, you might find it a bit tiring.

This experience provides a genuine taste of Bali’s sacred side combined with stunning vistas—ideal for those wanting an immersive and visually rewarding day.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for this tour?
The tour begins at Ubud Palace, centrally located on Jalan Raya Ubud, opposite the traditional art market. You should arrive 10-15 minutes early.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting early in the morning to optimize sightseeing and avoid crowds.

Are there any optional extras available?
Yes, options like lunch, photography services, and coffee tasting can be added depending on your booking choice.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, highly-rated transport is used, and many reviewers mention how comfortable and reliable the vehicles are, making the long day more enjoyable.

Can I customize this tour?
Private tours are available and often allow for some customization, especially with add-ons like extra stops or specific experiences.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, cash, long pants or sarong for temple visits, and sunscreen are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s best for travelers with moderate physical fitness. The walking and stairs at Lempuyang may be challenging for those with mobility issues or less stamina.

What if the weather is bad?
Mount Agung views depend on weather conditions, and cloudy or rainy days might obscure the scenery. The temples are still worth visiting for their cultural significance.

Final Words

This tour offers an authentic glimpse into Bali’s spiritual heart, with guides who genuinely enhance the experience through their knowledge and friendly approach. It’s a well-rounded day that balances culture with the chance to enjoy some of Bali’s most iconic views. Perfect for curious travelers, photographers, and anyone interested in understanding Bali on a deeper level—and all within a manageable, organized day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby