Gate of Heaven Lempuyang Temple

Gate of Heaven (Lempuyang Temple)

Bali is often dubbed the “Island of the Gods,” and for good reason. Its rich spiritual heritage and breathtaking landscapes make it a dream destination for travelers. Among its many treasures lies the Lempuyang Temple, also known as the Gate of Heaven, a site that captivates visitors with its ethereal beauty and deep cultural significance.

What Is the Gate of Heaven?

The Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple is an iconic split gateway, known as a “candi bentar,” that frames the breathtaking view of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest and most sacred volcano. This dramatic visual effect creates an almost otherworldly ambiance, making it a favorite among photographers and spiritual seekers alike.

The gate symbolizes the transition from the outer world to the spiritual realm, embodying the balance between the physical and metaphysical planes—a central theme in Balinese Hinduism.

History of Lempuyang Temple

Lempuyang Temple, or Pura Luhur Lempuyang, is one of Bali’s oldest and most revered temples. Its origins date back over 1,000 years, and it is one of the Sad Kahyangan Jagad, the six sanctuaries of the world considered pillars of spiritual balance in Balinese culture.

According to local lore, the temple was established by the Hindu god Hyang Iswara and serves as a place to maintain harmony on the island. The temple’s mythological importance is woven into its history, making it more than just a tourist attraction.

Location and How to Get There

Nestled in East Bali, Lempuyang Temple is located on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang, about a two-hour drive from Ubud or Canggu. The journey to the temple takes visitors through lush rice fields, dense forests, and quaint villages, offering glimpses of Bali’s unspoiled beauty.

• Transportation Options: You can hire a private driver, rent a scooter, or join a guided tour for convenience.
• Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.

Opening Hours

Lempuyang Temple is open to visitors from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. However, certain sacred areas within the temple complex are accessible 24 hours a day for prayer and religious activities. This allows devotees to engage in spiritual practices and ceremonies at any time, emphasizing the temple’s significance as a key place of worship for the Balinese Hindu community.

If you’re visiting for tourism, it’s best to arrive during the regular opening hours to give yourself enough time to explore the temple and enjoy the panoramic views. Keep in mind that Lempuyang Temple can be particularly busy during major Hindu festivals or religious ceremonies, and certain areas may be reserved for worshippers during these times.

Entrance Fees

As of this travel guide’s update in September 2024, the entrance fee to visit Lempuyang Temple is IDR 150,000 (around $10 USD). This fee includes access to the temple complex and a sarong to wear while you’re there, as it’s required for all visitors.

What’s even better is that the fee also covers the service of a skilled photographer to capture that iconic shot of you standing at the Gates of Heaven with Mount Agung perfectly framed in the background.

Please note: Please note: The payments must be made in cash, as card payment options may not be available. Also, be prepared for a bit of a wait to get your picture at the Gates of Heaven, but it’s well worth the time for such a memorable experience.

What To See and Do

Lempuyang Temple transcends the realm of stunning visuals and social media fame. It’s a portal to a vibrant spiritual tapestry and a chance to connect with the profound culture of Bali. Here’s how you can transform your visit into a truly enriching experience:

• Photography: Capture the iconic view of Mount Agung framed by the Gates of Heaven. This photo opportunity is world-renowned, but the temple’s surrounding landscape and intricate stone carvings also provide stunning backdrops for your shots.
• Witness the Gates of Heaven Awaken to Dawn: Be among the first to arrive and witness a spectacle that will leave you spellbound. Watch as the first rays of dawn kiss the peak of Mount Agung, perfectly framed by the temple’s celestial gateway. This iconic image isn’t just a photo; it’s a testament to the harmonious blend of nature and spirituality that lies at the heart of Lempuyang Temple.
• Immerse Yourself in Sacred Serenity: Step beyond the realm of the tourist and embrace the temple’s spiritual essence. Participate in a traditional prayer ceremony or simply find a quiet corner to soak in the serene atmosphere. Observe the daily rituals performed by devout Balinese Hindus and gain a deeper appreciation for their faith and traditions.
• Unravel the Temple’s Secrets: The Gates of Heaven are just the beginning. Lempuyang Temple is a sprawling complex, with each corner whispering a story. Venture beyond the iconic landmark and discover the hidden gems – smaller shrines, intricate carvings, and architectural wonders that speak volumes about the temple’s rich history.
• Conquer the Sacred Stairway: For the adventurous soul, a challenging yet rewarding climb awaits. Ascend the 1700+ steps leading to Pura Puncak Lempuyang, the highest point in the complex. The breathtaking panoramic views that unfold from the summit will leave you breathless, making the climb a truly unforgettable experience.
• Unlock the Mysteries of Balinese Hinduism: Curious minds can delve deeper. Hire a local guide or attend a cultural presentation to gain insights into the fascinating belief system of Balinese Hinduism. Learn about the temple’s significance within this rich tapestry of faith and tradition, and gain a newfound appreciation for the cultural significance of Lempuyang Temple.
• Embrace the Local Spirit: The magic of Lempuyang Temple extends beyond its walls. Venture into nearby villages, sample the flavors of Balinese cuisine, and witness the vibrant tapestry of local life. Immerse yourself in the warmth of Balinese hospitality and traditions, creating memories that go beyond the temple grounds.

Know Before You Go

Before visiting Lempuyang Temple, it’s important to be prepared for both the spiritual significance of the site and the physical journey. Here are a few essential tips to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience:

• Dress Modestly: Lempuyang Temple is a sacred place, and respectful attire is mandatory. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered, and it’s a good idea to bring a sarong and sash. While they are often provided at the temple entrance, having your own makes things easier, especially when visiting multiple temples in one day.
• Be Prepared for a Hike: Reaching Pura Lempuyang Luhur, the highest temple in the complex, requires climbing 1,700 steps. The path is moderately challenging, especially in hot weather. Be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. Taking breaks along the way is encouraged—there are smaller temples to explore on the way up.
• Respect Temple Etiquette: Like all temples in Bali, Lempuyang Temple has its own customs. Maintain a respectful tone and behavior at all times. Do not touch any sacred objects or shrines. Photography may be restricted in certain areas, especially during ceremonies. Note that menstruating women are traditionally not allowed to enter the temple as a mark of respect to the sacredness of the site.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning is the best time to visit Lempuyang Temple. The weather is cooler, and you’ll have fewer crowds to navigate, allowing for a more peaceful experience. Moreover, the views of Mount Agung, visible through the iconic “Gateway to Heaven,” are often clearer during this time, before clouds gather later in the day. Visiting around sunrise or sunset also offers stunning lighting for photography.
• Local Customs: You’ll likely encounter locals making offerings or conducting prayers during your visit. These are important religious rituals, so give them space and remain respectful. Taking photos of ceremonies or worshippers should only be done with permission, as these moments are deeply personal and spiritual. It’s also a good opportunity to learn more about Balinese Hinduism if you engage in respectful conversation with locals.

7 Temple in Lempuyang Temple

Lempuyang Temple was built for a worship of Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa in his manifestation as Dewa Iswara who is known as the protector of the east. This temple, which is located at an altitude of 1,175 meters above sea level, is known to have one of the most beautiful views in Bali with the iconic Mount Agung as a backdrop. Lempuyang Temple is located in the bisbis hill area and Lempuyang Temple also consists of seven temples located at various heights, usually Hindus before going to the top, they will pray in the temples on the route to Lempuyang Luhur Temple. The peak of the seven temples is as follows

1. Penataran Agung Temple (Gate of Heaven): Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple is located on a hillside, access is not that difficult to reach and you don’t need to climb the 1700 stairs, because to climb the 1700 stairs is only to get to the existing Lempuyang Luhur Temple at the top of the hill. The first temple you will visit is Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple, this place is most often visited by tourists because there is a gate with a very beautiful view of Mount Agung. This place is often known as the Gate of Heaven, where many tourists take photos at the gate with a photo service. services that take photos with a very instagrammable mirror effect. Because there are so many tourists enthusiastic about taking photos, the queue here is very long, it is recommended to come in the morning where there are not so many queues. Above the gate there is the Penataran Agung Temple where Hindus will pray here before heading to the next until they reach the Lempuyang Luhur Temple which is located at the top of Bisbis Hill.
2. Telaga Emas Lempuyang Temple: The second temple to visit, the Telaga Emas Temple, is a Beji Temple of Ida Batara Lempuyang Luhur. This temple functions as a place for healing or self-purification for devotees who want to go to Lempuyang Luhur Temple. It is a fountain where the water comes from water seepage at the top of Mount Lempuyang and the water is stored in a lake, where in this place there is a lake which is inhabited by thousands of gold colored frogs, these frogs can only be found in this place and are not spread to other areas, The uniqueness of this frog is that when it sounds at the same time it is similar to the sound of a bird chirping, you will be confused about distinguishing between a frog’s voice and a bird’s voice. The name gold is taken from the golden frogs found in this lake.
3. Telaga Sawang Lempuyang Temple: The third temple which is mentioned is the Telaga Swang Lempuyang Temple which is the beji or petitan temple of Ida Batara Mpu Genijaya which is located in Lempuyang Madya Temple, the Telaga Swang Temple is a water fountain that comes from water seepage from the top of Mount Lempuyang which towards the south, where the water seepage is collected in a lake which is used as a place for water bathing or bathing. Where this place functions as a place to clean oneself or purify oneself before heading to Lempuyang Madya Temple. The unique thing about this place is that the lake water never dries up even in the dry season, and in this lake there are ponds and frogs, where the frogs here are black, almost the same size as the golden frogs found in the Telaga Emas temple, the only difference here is that the color is black.
4. Lempuyang Madya Temple: The fourth temple to visit is Lempuyang Madya Temple, this temple is included in the category of Dang Kahyangan Temple. Regarding the status of those who are worshiped (worshipped) by Hindus at the temple, they are convinced that they are Ida Batara, Empu Agenijaya and Empu Manik Geni. Where, Empu Agenijaya had seven brothers, including Mpu Kuturan, Mpu Baradah and Mpu Semeru. Meanwhile, the existing mostgih include the mostgih bebaturan linggih Batara Empu Agenijaya and Empu Manikgeni, Gedong Tumpang Siki (one), two and three, Manjangan Saluang, Sanggar Agung, Bale Pawedaan, and Bale Pesandekan.
5. Puncak Bisbis Lempuyang: The fifth temple to visit is Puncak Bisbis Lempuyang Temple, which is a temple located in the Bisbis hill area, and Hindus pray here before heading to the top of Lempuyang Luhur, this place is often used as a resting place for Hindus, they will rest here for a moment while enjoying the very beautiful view with expanse of green forest, cool air and cool atmosphere making this place ideal for resting before continuing to the next temple.
6. Pasar Agung Lempuyang Temple: The sixth temple to visit is Pasar Agung Lempuyang Temple which is located in the middle of Bisbis Hill or precisely under Lempuyang Luhur Temple. It is a holy area where many Hindus will pray here before heading to Lempuyang Luhur Temple. With very beautiful and natural views around it, the atmosphere is very cool.
7. Lempuyang Luhur Temple: The seventh or last temple to visit is Lempuyang Luhur Temple. This temple is the most sacred and is located at the top of Bisbis Hill at an altitude of 1,174 meters above sea level. To reach this place you need very good stamina because you will climbing 1700 steps, along the way you can enjoy the natural, cool views and see several groups of monkeys in this place. Hindus believe that the one who resides at Lempuyang Luhur Temple is Dewa Iswara, namely the manifestation of Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa as the ruler of the east.

Lempuyang Temple Dress Code and Visitor Etiquette

As a sacred site, Lempuyang Temple requires visitors to adhere to certain customs:

• Wear a sarong and sash, which can often be rented at the entrance.
• Avoid wearing revealing clothing.
• Respect ongoing ceremonies and avoid loud behavior.

Balinese culture places great emphasis on respect, so following these guidelines enhances both your experience and the preservation of the temple’s sanctity.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

In Balinese Hinduism, Lempuyang Temple is regarded as a place of worship and spiritual cleansing. Devotees come here to pray for protection, prosperity, and inner peace. Rituals such as offering flowers, incense, and chanting mantras are common sights, adding to the temple’s spiritual atmosphere.

Visitors are encouraged to participate respectfully or simply observe to gain a deeper understanding of Balinese culture.

The Iconic Photo Spot

You’ve probably seen the viral photos of visitors standing between the gates, their reflection perfectly mirrored by what appears to be a pool of water. The “reflective” effect is actually a clever trick involving a small mirror, adding an enchanting touch to the already stunning scene.

• Photography Tips:
  1. Arrive early to avoid long lines.
  2. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full view of the gate and Mount Agung.
  3. Be patient—the best shots often require some waiting.

Exploring Lempuyang Temple Complex

Lempuyang Temple is more than just the famous gate. It is part of a larger complex of six temples spread across the mountain. Reaching the main temple requires climbing over 1,700 steps, a challenging but rewarding trek.

• Highlights of the Complex:
  • The Dragon Stairs: Intricately designed staircases leading up to the temple.
  • Panoramic Views: Stunning vistas of East Bali and beyond.
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: A serene escape from Bali’s bustling tourist hubs.

Best Times to Visit Gate of Heaven

Timing is everything when visiting Lempuyang Temple. The best periods are:

• Season: The dry season (April to October) for clear skies.
• Time of Day: Early morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
• Special Events: Hindu festivals, which showcase the temple’s cultural vibrancy.

How To Book A Tour With Us

• Please fill up the Tour Booking form
• We will reply as soon as possible after receiving your Tour Booking
• If the Tour Booking doesn’t work, please send us an email directly to this email:[email protected]
• Or send us a message via WhatsApp at this number +62831151992999

Challenges and Tips for Visitors Gate of Heaven Lempuyang Temple

The trek to the main temple can be physically demanding, especially in Bali’s tropical climate. Here are some tips:

• Bring Water: Stay hydrated throughout the climb.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Sturdy footwear is a must for the rocky path.
• Prepare for the Heat: Sunscreen and a hat can help protect you from the sun.

Nearby Attractions

Extend your journey by exploring other gems in East Bali:

• Tirta Gangga Water Palace: Just a short drive from Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga is known for its tranquil pools, fountains, and lush gardens. This water palace offers a peaceful setting for relaxation and photography.
• Besakih Temple: Known as Bali’s “Mother Temple,” Besakih is the largest and holiest temple complex on the island. Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, it offers a spiritual experience alongside breathtaking views.
• Tenganan Village: One of Bali’s oldest and most traditional villages, Tenganan is home to the Bali Aga community, known for its unique customs and double ikat weaving. It’s a perfect spot to learn about Bali’s indigenous culture.
• Goa Lawah Temple: Famous for its bat-filled caves, Goa Lawah is an important Balinese temple. It’s a key site for religious ceremonies and offers a fascinating glimpse into Balinese Hindu rituals.
• Taman Ujung Water Palace: A beautiful palace surrounded by water and landscaped gardens, Taman Ujung is ideal for a peaceful walk and photography, with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
• Amed Beach: Known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life, Amed Beach is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing. The area also offers a glimpse into the local fishing village culture.
• Tukad Cepung Waterfall: Tucked inside a cave, Tukad Cepung Waterfall is a hidden gem. The light beams streaming through the cave entrance create a magical scene, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.

The Role of Social Media

Social media has played a significant role in popularizing Lempuyang Temple. While this has increased its fame, it has also raised concerns about over-tourism. Visitors are encouraged to practice sustainable tourism by respecting the site and its cultural significance.

Local Stories and Myths

Balinese folklore adds a mystical layer to Lempuyang Temple. It is said that those with a pure heart will find the climb easier, while others may face challenges. This belief underscores the spiritual essence of the temple and its connection to personal introspection.

Sustainability and Tourism Impact

To preserve its beauty, local authorities and communities are implementing measures such as waste management programs and visitor education initiatives. As a traveler, you can contribute by minimizing your environmental footprint and supporting local businesses.

FAQs

1. What is the significance of the Lempuyang Temple in Balinese culture?
   Lempuyang Temple symbolizes spiritual balance and serves as a place of worship for Hindu devotees.
2. Is there an entrance fee to visit the Gate of Heaven?
   Yes, there is a small donation or entrance fee, which helps maintain the temple.
3. How long does it take to explore the temple complex?
   Depending on your pace, it can take 2-4 hours to explore the temple and complete the trek.
4. Are there any guided tours available?
   Yes, many local guides and tour companies offer packages that include transportation and cultural insights.
5. What should I bring for a trip to Lempuyang Temple?
   Essentials include water, sunscreen, a sarong, comfortable shoes, and a camera for capturing the views.

Conclusion

The Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple is more than just a photo spot—it’s a gateway to Bali’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking stunning views, spiritual renewal, or simply a memorable adventure, this temple has something to offer every visitor.

Tags: Bali Temple, Gate Of Heaven At Pura Lempuyang, Karangasem Places of Interest, Lempuyang Temple Gate Of Heaven, Pura Lempuyang Temple

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