Bali Gate of Heaven Private Day Trip & Lunch from Ubud

Summary

Gate of Heaven day trip from Ubud with lunch and water palace visit

You’ll start your day before sunrise with hotel pickup in Ubud, then visit Bali’s Gate of Heaven for that iconic photo (and maybe a little awe). Wander Tirta Gangga Water Palace’s koi-filled ponds, then relax over lunch in Sidemen valley with river views and an infinity pool. It’s a day full of real moments you’ll remember long after you leave Bali.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely finished our first coffee when our driver, Wayan, pulled up outside the guesthouse in Ubud. It was still dark — I could hear roosters somewhere, and the air felt damp on my arms. The drive east was quiet except for Wayan’s stories about his childhood near Mount Agung. He knew every twist in the road, and somehow managed to keep us laughing even before sunrise. When we finally reached Lempuyang Temple — the famous Gate of Heaven — there was already a line for photos, but it moved fast enough. The mist hung low over Mount Agung behind the gates; I tried to take it all in before snapping the usual shot (Wayan insisted on being our photographer — he actually crouched in the gravel to get the angle right). I didn’t expect to feel so small standing between those pillars with clouds rolling past my ankles.

After that we headed to Tirta Gangga Water Palace. The place smells like wet stone and frangipani blossoms, which is a weirdly calming mix. There were families feeding koi fish by the ponds — one little girl kept giggling every time they nibbled her fingers. Our guide explained how the king built this place for spiritual ceremonies; you can see why people still come here just to walk around or sit by the fountains. I tried stepping across those floating stones (almost slipped once), but honestly it’s more peaceful just watching everyone else try not to fall in.

The last stop was Sidemen valley — green as far as you can see, rice terraces stacked up under Mount Agung’s shadow. We had lunch at this spot overlooking a river; there was an infinity pool glinting in the sun and dragonflies everywhere. Food came out slow but nobody minded — I think we all needed a pause after so much moving around. The chicken curry tasted like lemongrass and smoke, and I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — East Bali Highlights Tour

• Visit Gate of Heaven and Mount Agung view
• Explore Tirta Gangga Water Palace and feed koi fishes
• Photo stop at Sidemen valley and river
• Lunch at Wapa Di Ume with scenic eastern Bali views

Top questions

How early does the Bali Gate of Heaven tour start?

The tour starts before sunrise to reach Lempuyang Temple early.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip from Ubud?

Yes, private hotel pickup is included.

What sites are visited on this private Bali tour?

You’ll visit Gate of Heaven (Lempuyang Temple), Tirta Gangga Water Palace, and Sidemen valley.

Is lunch included on the Gate of Heaven day trip?

Yes, lunch is included at Wapa Di Ume Sidemen with river views.

Can I swim during this Bali tour?

Yes, there is access to an infinity pool by the river at lunch—bring swimwear.

Will there be a local guide on this tour?

Yes, a local driver/guide accompanies you throughout the day.

Are entry fees covered for all attractions?

Entry fees are included in your booking price.

How long does it take to get from Ubud to Lempuyang Temple?

The drive takes about 2–2.5 hours depending on traffic.

What’s included

Your experience includes private hotel pickup and drop-off from Ubud or nearby areas, all entry fees for Lempuyang Temple (Gate of Heaven) and Tirta Gangga Water Palace, a local driver-guide who also helps with photos if you want them, bottled water along the way, plus lunch at Wapa Di Ume Sidemen where you can use their infinity pool overlooking the river before heading back in comfort at your own pace.