East Bali Gate of Heaven, Water Palaces & Beach Tour with Lunch

Summary

Explore Lempuyang Temple, water gardens and a quiet beach in East Bali

You’ll wander through Lempuyang’s Gate of Heaven with Mount Agung looming behind you, feed koi at Tirta Gangga’s royal pools, explore quiet corners of Ujung Water Palace, and finish on soft sand at Virgin Beach — all with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the cool air up at Lempuyang Temple — not cold exactly, but just enough to wake you up after the drive from Ubud. Our driver, Ketut, handed me a sarong and grinned when I tried to tie it myself (I failed). The steps felt endless but somehow everyone was smiling, maybe because the view at the top really does something to you. Mount Agung looked unreal through the Gate of Heaven — like someone painted it there. People took turns for photos; some were serious about their poses, others just laughed at the wind messing up their hair. I didn’t expect to feel so calm standing there with all those strangers.

Tirta Gangga was next — I could smell incense and wet stone before we even got out of the car. The koi fish in the ponds are huge and bright; kids tossed food pellets and squealed when the fish splashed. Our guide explained how this used to be a royal bathing spot (he pointed out where the king would sit). We wandered across those stepping stones that zigzag through the water. My feet slipped once — not very graceful — but nobody seemed to care. Lunch nearby was simple: nasi campur with spicy sambal that made my nose run a bit. Good kind of burn though.

After lunch we drove to Ujung Water Palace. It’s quieter than Tirta Gangga, more open space and fewer people taking selfies. The old buildings have these faded carvings and you can see where time’s worn down the stone lions by the pond. There was a breeze off the water that made everything feel slower. Last stop was Virgin Beach — white sand, blue water, little warungs selling coconuts. I sat under an umbrella watching local kids play soccer near the shore while some tourists tried snorkeling (not sure they found much). By then I’d stopped checking my phone completely.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore East Bali Highlights

• Visit Lempuyang Temple (Gate of Heaven)
• Tour Tirta Gangga Water Palace
• Explore Ujung Water Palace
• Relax at Virgin Beach

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Ubud to East Bali attractions?

The full-day tour covers Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga, Ujung Water Palace, and Virgin Beach in one day with private transport from your hotel.

Is lunch included on this East Bali tour?

Yes, an Indonesian lunch is included at a restaurant near Tirta Gangga during the tour.

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

No, sarongs are provided as part of your entrance at Lempuyang Temple.

Are entry fees included in this Gate of Heaven tour?

All entrance fees for temples and attractions are included in your booking.

Is this East Bali tour suitable for children or infants?

Infants can join using a pram or stroller; small children must sit on an adult’s lap in transport.

Does this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?

Yes, private car pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included.

Can I swim at Virgin Beach during this tour?

You’ll have free time at Virgin Beach for swimming or relaxing on the sand.

Who leads this East Bali day trip?

An English-speaking local driver-guide accompanies you throughout the day.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned car with an English-speaking driver-guide who handles all entrance fees along the way; you’ll also get bottled mineral water plus a traditional Indonesian lunch near Tirta Gangga before heading back in comfort after Virgin Beach.