The Lempuyang Temple is a magnet for tourists, attracting them to explore and unravel Indonesian culture’s majestic stories and legends. Tucked away quite far from the bustling area of Kuta and Seminyak, the temple offers a serene escapade for family and friends. Most importantly, it is home to your spiritual rejuvenation, not to mention the breathtaking natural beauty it holds. So, be ready to explore the best things to do and see at Lempuyang Temple with detailed information in this listicle. This blog will take you on a journey into and beyond the mystical aura of the Lempuyang Temple.
Touring Lempuyang Temple The Right Way: Things To See And Do
From the iconic gates to the views of amazing mountain peaks, let’s discover what makes Lempuyang Temple so famous. Here is the list of things to do and see when here.
1. Visit The Gateway Of Heaven
Located on the verdant slopes of Karangasem, the holy Hindu temple known as Lempuyang Temple is surely one of Bali’s highest religious spots. The temple is a popular site worth seeing while visiting The Island of Gods because of its serene settings, the gorgeous Gate of Heaven and the pleasant, highland air. This is a brilliant opportunity to start the journey and take some Gate of Heaven Lempuyang Temple photos.
The Temple’s “Gate of Heaven” is a worldwide attraction that draws tourists from all over the world who are hoping to take the ideal picture. This elaborate gate provides a breathtaking backdrop for the beautiful Mount Agung. Given that the image conveys a feeling of entering a celestial world, the “Gate of Heaven” moniker seems appropriate. The Gate of Heaven Lempuyang Temple photos definitely do not do justice to its beauty.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Things to do: Photoshoot, sightseeing
Must Read: Agung Rai Museum Of Art
2. Embrace The Serenity Of Tirta Gangga
Lempuyang Temple is surrounded by a plethora of other breathtaking sites. Take a short step tour and visit the religious spot called Tirta Gangga. Located to the southwest, Tirta Gangga is a garden with a koi fish pool where a number of elaborate statues are seen standing elegantly above it.
Derived from the renowned Ganges River in India, the name was selected out of respect for the global Hindu population. The ruler of the Karangasem Kingdom at the time, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem Agung, constructed it in 1946. This is a good place to get away from the scorching city heat. If you wish to take a dip, bring your costume.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Things to do: Pray, photoshoot, sightseeing
3. Watch The Sunrise At Lahangan Sweet
Another location that has grown to be a popular tourist destination is to the north of Lempuyang Temple. Perched atop a large tree in Bunutan Village, Lahangan Sweet is a tiny overlook with a broad vista. Seeing the sunrise from this vantage point will always be a special memory, especially with Mount Agung’s front covered in clouds, adding to the already amazing vista.
Lempuyang Temple can be reached in two ways. To go to Amlapura City from Denpasar, follow Jl. Along the route, Prof. Dr Ida Bagus Mantra passed Keramas Beach, Bali Safari & Marine Park, Bias Tugel Beach, and Candidasa Beach. The temple is located here, in the northern part of the city, on Mount Lempuyang’s eastern slope.
Duration: 2 hours
Things to do: Watch the sunrise, photography
Suggested Read: Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati
4. Learn About The History And Legends Of Lempuyang Temple
An important thing to do at Lempuyang Temple is to know and realise its historical and cultural value. Lempuyang Temple was supposedly established in the eleventh century AD by Mpu Kuturan, a holy man associated with King Udanya’s court. It predates the majority of Bali’s Hindu places of worship. Like all the other “Pura Sad Kahyangan” temples (the six sanctuaries of the world), it was constructed to safeguard the Balinese people and help them follow religious teachings to the letter.
According to legend, Mount Batur, Mount Rinjani and Mount Agung were formed when a fragment of the sacred mountain, Mount Mehru, was transported to Bali and split into three pieces. But some pieces remained, and those formed all the connecting mountains, including Mount Lempuyang. The locals believe these mountains are flesh gods watching over the island.
Duration: 1 hour
Things to do: Understand the historical value of the temple
5. Marvel At The Temple Architecture
There is a lot to see when it comes to temple architecture. Every temple on the mountain complex, totalling seven, is arranged at a distinct altitude. This facilitates the spiritual transition from the world of this life to the higher regions inhabited by divine entities. The metaphorical “Gates of Heaven” represent the relationship that exists between the divine and the natural world. There are spiritual narratives on walls. These include Balinese and Hindu legends depicting the struggle between good and evil. The dedication of the artists who created these sculptures for the temples is depicted in the carvings that adorn the walls and entrances.
The Balinese believe the island’s waters have purifying properties, which is why the spring at the centre of this compound is highly important. As one renews their souls, they can cleanse their bodies in the inner sanctuary. The temple’s design is also oriented to correspond with the stars, reflecting our position in the universe. It makes space for the heavenly energy to interact with this planet.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Things to do: Sightseeing, Guided Tour, Photography
Suggested Read: Campuhan Ridge Walk
6. Try An Innovative Photography Approach
Lempuyang Temple has become an absolute paradise for those who enjoy taking pictures. With its famous “Gate of Heaven” and expansive views from higher temples, this complex of temples offers many chances to capture the spirit of Bali’s spiritual resonance and natural grandeur. Lempuyang Temple is a photographer’s dream come true because of its vivid colours, fine architectural details and breathtaking scenery. Reaching the higher temples offers you nothing less than breathtaking panoramic views.
The verdant vistas, terraced rice fields and far-off horizons form a stunning mosaic when viewed from these elevated vantage points. Each photo you take is a monument to the epic attraction of Bali’s eastern vistas, and the camera glass becomes your canvas as you try to capture the breathtaking expanse before you. Gate of Heaven frames the magnificence of Mount Agung, is a work of architectural beauty and is an amazing spot to capture some creative photos.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Things to do: Photography
Further Read: Offbeat Places in Bali
While this blog tried to cover everything you can do at the Lempuyang Temple, there is much more to explore across and nearby. The only way to do full justice to the esteem of this temple is to visit it yourself and see it in person. So, plan your trip to Bali and acknowledge the ethereal beauty of the Lempuyang Temple. It is all worth it!
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Cover Image Source: Shutterstock
Frequently Asked Questions About Lempuyang Temple
What does the name Lempuyang mean?
The terms 'lempu' and 'hyang' are thought to have inspired the temple's actual name. 'Hyang' denotes God, whereas 'lempu' indicates light. Consequently, the name Lempuyang Temple refers to a God who shines brightly. The temple's name is apt given that it is situated on the eastern side of the island, where one can witness the stunning sunrise every morning via the Gate of Heaven.
What is the Lempuyang Temple entrance fee?
Lempuyang Temple entrance fee is around 100,000 IDR entry fee per person. Although it may seem a bit pricey, this does come with the assistance of a private photographer who can help you capture the ideal Instagram moment of the Gates of Heaven.
What are the Lempuyang Temple opening hours?
The temple is often visited by travel enthusiasts during sunrise. Hence, the opening hours remain at 7:00 am every day, offering travellers a chance to get the best sunrise shots.
What are the Lempuyang Temple timings?
The Lempuyang Temple timings are from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. However, it is open for 24 hours and seven days a week for the Puja.
What is so special about Lempuyang Temple in Bali?
There are many reasons that make you wonder why you haven't visited the Lempuyang Temple in Bali. Besides its unique high-rise location, the famous Gates of Heaven entrance and the world-class architecture make this temple a famous spot.
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