Bali: Lempuyang Temple & Waterfall tour with driver

Summary

Gate of Heaven, waterfalls & quiet beaches in East Bali

You’ll explore Bali’s east with a local driver: swim at Kanto Lampo Waterfall, take in mountain views at Lempuyang Temple’s Gate of Heaven, wander Tirta Gangga’s ancient pools and relax on Virgin Beach’s quiet sand. With hotel pickup and all entry fees included, you’ll get both adventure and small moments you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll need this sarong — and patience for the line,” our driver Wayan grinned as he handed me a patterned wrap outside Lempuyang Temple. He’d already navigated us through early morning traffic from Ubud, windows down to catch that sweet, earthy smell after last night’s rain. First stop was Kanto Lampo Waterfall; I didn’t expect how cold the water would be on my feet or how the rocks felt slippery but kind of soft at the same time. There were a few locals laughing nearby, taking photos and helping each other climb up for better angles — I tried it too, but honestly almost slipped right off.

The drive east to Lempuyang took longer than I thought (Bali distances are sneaky), winding past rice fields and tiny warungs where people waved as we passed. Wayan told stories about his childhood here — something about his grandmother walking up these hills every week for ceremonies. At the temple, there was already a line for the Gate of Heaven photo spot. It’s true what they say: you might wait an hour or more, but watching clouds drift around Mount Agung behind those stone gates made it feel worth it. The air up there is cooler, smells faintly of incense and wet moss. A woman in front of us tried to teach me how to say “terima kasih” properly; Li laughed when I butchered it.

Afterwards we headed down to Tirta Gangga Water Palace — all koi fish and old stone steps, sunlight flickering on the water. I bought some fried bananas from a vendor outside (still warm, slightly oily fingers). Last stop was Virgin Beach; not many people around except a couple grilling fish under palm trees. The sand really is white here — not perfect white, but soft and hot underfoot. We just sat and listened to waves for a while before heading back west as the sky started to turn pinkish-orange behind us.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — East Bali Waterfalls and Temples

• Visit Kanto Lampo Waterfall
• Explore Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple and Gate of Heaven
• Tour Tirta Gangga Water Palace
• Relax at White Sand Virgin Beach

Top questions

How long does the Bali day tour take?

The tour lasts a full day, covering about 220 km with stops at four main sites before returning to your hotel.

Is hotel pickup included in this Bali waterfall & temple tour?

Yes, hotel pickup with a private driver is included in your booking.

Do I need to bring anything special for the tour?

You should bring changing clothes, towel, hat, camera, sunglasses, insect repellent, sunblock and cash for personal expenses.

How crowded is Lempuyang Temple’s Gate of Heaven?

The Gate of Heaven can be very crowded; wait times for photos range from 1–4 hours depending on visitor numbers.

Are entrance fees included in this Bali day trip?

Yes, all entrance fees and donations are covered by your driver during the tour.

Can I swim at Kanto Lampo Waterfall?

Yes, you can swim in the natural pool area at Kanto Lampo Waterfall.

Is lunch provided on this Bali private tour?

No lunch is included; however there are food vendors at some stops where you can buy snacks or meals.

What level of fitness do I need for this tour?

You should have at least moderate physical fitness due to walking and uneven surfaces at some sites.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup by private car with an English-speaking driver, bottled water throughout the journey, all entry fees and donations (including sarong rental at Lempuyang Temple), plus shuttle transport up to the temple itself before returning comfortably to your hotel in the evening.