Bali Gate of Heaven, Tirta Gangga & Tegalalang Rice Terrace Tour

Summary

East Bali Temple Tour with Waterfall and Rice Fields

If you want to see Bali beyond its beaches—temples above clouds, royal water gardens, hidden waterfalls, and rice terraces that go on forever—this tour covers it all with local insight and zero hassle.

What’s the experience like?

The drive out to Lempuyang Temple is a bit longer than you’d expect, but the scenery keeps you awake—rice paddies, sleepy villages, and the occasional rooster darting across the road. When we finally reached the temple’s base, our guide Wayan handed us sarongs (they’re required here) and pointed up: 1,700 steps to the top. The air was thick with incense and the faint sound of bells from a nearby ceremony. At the famous “Gate of Heaven,” there was already a small line for photos—everyone wanted that shot with Mount Agung peeking through the clouds in the background. I’ll admit, it felt surreal standing there; even if you’ve seen it on Instagram a hundred times, being there is something else entirely.

Afterwards, we wound our way down narrow roads to Tirta Gangga Water Garden. The place felt peaceful—koi fish gliding under stone bridges, kids giggling as they tried to hop across the stepping stones without falling in. Our guide shared that this palace was built by a king in 1948 for family relaxation; now locals come here to cool off on hot afternoons. The water’s so clear you can see every ripple when someone tosses in a crumb of bread. There’s a faint scent of frangipani in the air if you stand near the fountains.

Tukad Cepung Waterfall was next—a short trek through jungle paths and slippery rocks. You’ll hear the water before you see it. Sunlight cuts through the cliffs just right around midday; we got lucky with timing and caught those golden beams lighting up the spray. It’s cool down there, almost chilly compared to everywhere else. Some folks took a dip; I just sat on a rock for a while listening to nothing but water and birds.

Last stop: Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Late afternoon is best—the light turns everything green-gold and farmers are usually still working in their hats. We watched an old man balancing two baskets on his shoulder along one of those impossibly narrow paths between terraces. There are little warungs (cafés) at the edge where you can grab coconut water or kopi Bali while looking out over the fields. It’s quiet except for frogs croaking somewhere below.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bali East and Central Highlights

• Visit Lempuyang Temple and Gate of Heaven
• Explore Tirta Gangga Water Garden
• Trek to Tukad Cepung Waterfall
• See Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Top questions

How long does this Bali tour take?

The full day usually runs about 10-12 hours including all stops and travel time between locations.

Is there a dress code for Lempuyang Temple?

Yes, everyone needs to wear a sarong (provided by your guide) as a sign of respect at Balinese temples.

Can I swim at Tukad Cepung Waterfall?

You can wade or take a dip in the pool beneath the waterfall—just watch your step as rocks can be slippery.

Are meals included?

No meals are included but there are plenty of local cafés along the route where you can buy snacks or lunch.

What’s included

Your day includes an English-speaking driver/guide who knows all the shortcuts (and where to avoid crowds), entrance tickets for every site, bottled water to keep you cool, fuel surcharge covered, plus easy hotel or port pickup and drop-off so you don’t have to worry about transport at all.