Lempuyang Temple & East Bali Tour: Gate of Heaven, Water Palaces

Summary

East Bali Day Trip: Lempuyang Temple, Palaces & Beach Escape

You’ll visit East Bali’s highlights—from Lempuyang Temple’s famous gate to peaceful water palaces and a quiet white-sand beach. It’s a mix of culture, scenery, and real local life—all in one relaxed day.

What’s the experience like?

The day started early—our driver showed up right at 8am, big smile and all. The air felt cool as we left the busy streets behind and headed toward the hills. First stop: Lempuyang Temple. Locals call it the "Gate of Heaven" for a reason. You’ll see Mount Agung framed perfectly in the temple’s split gate—if clouds don’t roll in first. Our guide explained a bit about the temple’s history while we waited our turn for photos (it’s popular, so patience helps). Incense drifted on the breeze and you could hear roosters somewhere nearby.

Next up was Taman Ujung Water Palace. I’d never seen so many koi fish in one pond before—kids were tossing bits of bread to them by the bridge. The palace grounds are peaceful, with old stone statues peeking out from tropical plants. After wandering through shady paths, we drove over to Tirta Gangga. The water here is crystal clear and cool; some folks dipped their feet while others tried to balance across stepping stones surrounded by fat orange carp.

By midday, we reached Virgin Beach. It’s less crowded than Kuta or Sanur—just a few warungs selling fresh coconut and grilled fish. I grabbed a sunbed under a blue umbrella and watched local kids play soccer on the sand. If you want to swim or just relax, this is your spot. We headed back around 4pm, tired but happy, sand still clinging to our feet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lempuyang Temple and East Bali Tour

• Pick up from hotel (8:00 AM)
• Visit Lempuyang Temple (Gate of Heaven)
• Visit Taman Ujung Palace
• Visit Tirta Gangga Holy Water
• Relax or swim at Virgin Beach
• Return to hotel (around 4:00 PM)

Top questions

How long does the tour last?

The tour usually runs from 8am until about 4pm, including all stops and travel time.

Is there a dress code for Lempuyang Temple?

Yes, visitors need to wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees—a sarong is recommended.

Can I swim at Virgin Beach?

Absolutely! You can swim or just relax on the sand—there are places to change clothes nearby.

Are meals included?

No meals are included, but you’ll find small cafés and food stalls at most stops if you get hungry.

What’s included

Your hotel pickup and drop-off are covered (just let us know where you’re staying), plus bottled water for the ride and an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort all day.