Bali East: Lempuyang Gate of Heaven, Tirta Gangga & Ujung Tour

Summary

East Bali temples, water gardens and volcano views in one day

You’ll wind through East Bali’s lush rice fields with a local guide, visit Ujung Water Palace before crowds arrive, stand at Lempuyang’s Gate of Heaven with Agung volcano behind you, and wander Tirta Gangga’s royal ponds—entry fees and hotel pickup included. Expect laughter, small surprises, and maybe a moment or two you’ll keep thinking about.

What’s the experience like?

“You want to see the real Bali?” our driver Wayan grinned, elbow on the wheel as we wound past rice fields that looked almost too green. I’d barely finished my coffee when we reached Ujung Water Palace—quiet except for the splash of koi and a few kids giggling near the steps. The stone was still cool under my hands. There’s something about early morning light here, soft but already warm enough to make you squint. I tried to get a photo but mostly just watched the way the palms moved in the breeze.

We stopped for fried bananas from a roadside stand (Wayan said they’re best hot—he wasn’t wrong) before heading up toward Lempuyang Temple. I’d seen photos of the Gate of Heaven online, all those perfect reflections, but standing there with Mount Agung behind clouds… it didn’t feel staged at all. There were families in temple dress, and a woman offered me a sarong with a shy smile. The air smelled faintly of incense and rain on stone. We waited our turn for a photo—everyone laughing at their own awkward poses—and I realized I didn’t care if mine turned out perfect or not.

Tirta Gangga was our last stop, and honestly by then I was tired but happy to just wander. The stepping stones across the ponds are slippery (I nearly lost my sandal), but watching the fish swarm around your toes is weirdly calming. Our guide told us about the royal family who built it—not in some lecture-y way, just chatting while feeding breadcrumbs to carp. He pointed out carvings I would’ve missed. By afternoon, everything felt slower; even time seemed to stretch out in that garden.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit East Bali's Top Attractions

• Explore Taman Ujung Water Palace
• Walk around Tirta Gangga Water Garden
• Visit Lempuyang Temple Gate of Heaven

Top questions

How long does this East Bali day trip take?

The tour is a full-day trip from your hotel in Bali and includes stops at three main sites: Ujung Water Palace, Lempuyang Temple (Gate of Heaven), and Tirta Gangga.

Is hotel pickup included in this Bali tour?

Yes, private hotel pickup is included for your convenience.

Are entrance tickets covered?

All entrance fees for Ujung Water Palace, Lempuyang Temple, and Tirta Gangga are included in the price.

Do I need to bring my own sarong for Lempuyang Temple?

No need—sarong donation is included as part of your entry at Lempuyang Temple.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants can join in prams or strollers; specialized infant seats are available upon request.

What should I wear on this day trip?

The dress code is smart casual; comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to temple steps and garden paths.

What happens if Lempuyang Temple gate is closed during festivals?

If there’s a big temple festival and the gate closes, your guide will take you to other nearby spots with similar views for photos.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is provided; however, bottled water is included and there are opportunities to buy snacks along the way.

What’s included

Your private day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by English-speaking driver, bottled water throughout the journey, all entrance tickets for Ujung Water Palace, Tirta Gangga Water Garden and Lempuyang Temple (including shuttle service up to the temple), sarong donation at Lempuyang Temple if needed, plus petrol and parking fees so you can just enjoy without worrying about logistics.