Duration: approx 10 hours
Highlights: Karangasem area
Language: The tour is originally in Indonesian and English.

The Lempuyang Temple Tour is an absolute dream for anyone seeking a mix of Bali’s spiritual essence, royal history, and breathtaking landscapes. Known for its iconic "Gate of Heaven", the tour doesn’t just stop at Instagram-worthy moments; it dives deep into Bali’s ancient traditions, architectural beauty, and serene water palaces. Here’s a step-by-step journey of my experience, and why you should consider this for your next Bali tour.

Early Start for a Heavenly Experience
We began bright and early with a 5:00 AM pick-up from the hotel. I won’t lie, waking up before sunrise was tough, but as soon as we hit the road, the excitement kicked in. The early departure is key, because we were headed straight for the Lempuyang Temple—home to Bali’s famous "Gate of Heaven". You’ve probably seen the jaw-dropping photos of visitors standing between two towering temple gates with Mount Agung’s dramatic peak framed in the distance. Trust me, those photos don’t even do it justice.

Lempuyang Temple: Gate of Heaven
We arrived at Lempuyang Temple just after sunrise, and the first thing I noticed was how calm and peaceful the surroundings were. Perched high on a mountain, the temple has an almost ethereal atmosphere. As we made our way to the "Gate of Heaven", I could see why this place holds such spiritual significance. The gates, which serve as the temple’s entrance, perfectly frame the sky and the majestic Mount Agung in the distance.

Here’s the kicker—there’s often a wait for the famous photo op, especially if you arrive later in the day. But arriving early, we only waited for a short time. Pro tip: The mirror effect in the photos isn’t natural, it's done by local photographers using a simple trick with a mirror beneath your phone camera. They’re super helpful, and honestly, the photo is worth the wait. But don’t forget to actually breathe in the moment without the camera in hand. Lempuyang is more than just a photo spot—it’s a deeply spiritual place where locals come to pray.

Tirta Gangga Water Palace: A Royal Retreat
After soaking in the serenity of Lempuyang, we made our way to the Tirta Gangga Water Palace, one of Bali’s most beautiful royal water gardens. Tirta Gangga was built by the Karangasem royal family, and its name translates to "holy water of the Ganges"—a nod to its sacred springs.

The palace is a maze of tranquil ponds, fountains, and stepping stones that allow you to walk across the water. The gardens are filled with koi fish, and the atmosphere is unbelievably peaceful. I couldn’t resist walking on the stepping stones, balancing myself as I crossed the reflective pools. For lunch, we stopped at a small café overlooking the palace. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a meal with such a peaceful, picturesque view.

Puri Karangasem: Discovering Bali’s Royal Heritage
Next, we headed to Puri Karangasem, the royal palace of the Karangasem Kingdom. The palace itself is a fusion of Balinese and European architectural styles, a nod to the diverse influences Bali has absorbed over the years. Walking through the palace grounds, you get a sense of Bali’s royal past and how important the Karangasem dynasty was in shaping the island’s history.

Though parts of the palace are weathered, you can still see the grandeur it once had. The gardens are expansive, filled with traditional Balinese statues and ornate pavilions. If you’re a history lover like me, this stop is fascinating because it’s a quieter, less touristy glimpse into Bali’s royal legacy.

Goa Lawah Temple: The Bat Cave Temple
The final stop on our tour was Goa Lawah Temple, also known as the Bat Cave Temple. It’s one of Bali’s oldest temples and is famous for the cave filled with thousands of bats. The sight and sound of the bats swirling around the cave’s entrance was unlike anything I’d ever experienced. It’s eerie but also deeply spiritual—the temple itself is a place of worship for the locals, and it’s believed that the cave connects to the sacred Mount Agung.

While the bats are the main attraction, don’t miss out on exploring the temple complex. The architecture is beautiful, with intricately carved stone gates and shrines. As I stood there, listening to the sound of the ocean crashing in the distance (the temple is located near the coast), I couldn’t help but feel connected to the energy of the place.

Reflections on the Day
By the time we headed back to the hotel, I was amazed at how much ground we had covered, both literally and figuratively. The Lempuyang Temple Tour offers so much more than just a chance to snap an iconic photo. It’s a journey through Bali’s spiritual, historical, and natural wonders, all rolled into one.

My biggest takeaway from this tour was the sense of balance between the spiritual and the natural that Bali is so famous for. Whether you’re standing at the Gate of Heaven, walking through the tranquil water gardens of Tirta Gangga, or listening to the whispering bats at Goa Lawah, this tour offers moments that will stay with you long after you’ve left the island.

A word of advice: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a bit of walking involved, especially at Lempuyang and Tirta Gangga. And if you’re planning to take the famous Gate of Heaven photo, be sure to arrive early—it’s worth the early wake-up call. Most of all, be prepared to take in the beauty and spirituality of Bali in a way that touches your soul.

Why You Should Take This Tour
If you’re visiting Bali and want to go beyond the beaches, this tour is perfect. It blends stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking for a meaningful travel experience, the Lempuyang Temple Tour delivers on all fronts.

It’s a full day, but every stop offers something unique—from the towering gates of Lempuyang to the quiet elegance of Tirta Gangga, and the ancient mysteries of Goa Lawah. You’ll leave with not only beautiful memories but a deeper understanding of Bali’s rich cultural tapestry.