Karangasem, East Bali
Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven)
Bali's most photographed temple — the iconic 'Gates of Heaven'
Pura Lempuyang Luhur is one of Bali's six most sacred temples and the source of the island's most famous photograph — the split candi bentar gate framing a perfect reflection of Mount Agung in the water tray below. Set at 1,175 metres in the Lempuyang hills, the sacred complex comprises seven temple compounds on a steep jungle slope, culminating in the summit temple with sweeping views over east Bali.
Highlights
- ✓The 'Gates of Heaven' reflection photo — Bali's most Instagrammed image
- ✓Seven temple compounds along a 1,700-step pilgrimage route
- ✓Summit temple at 1,175 m with panoramic east Bali views
- ✓Resident long-tailed macaques along the pilgrimage route
- ✓Water-tray reflection created by photographers at the base gate
Visitor FAQ
How long is the queue for the Lempuyang Gates of Heaven photo?
1–3 hours on peak days (July, August, weekends). Arrive before 7am for a 20–30 minute wait. The photo is staged by a local photographer; the water tray and tripod are set up for you — bring IDR 50,000 for the photo service.
Can you climb all seven temples at Lempuyang?
Yes, but it requires completing 1,700 steps in approximately 3–4 hours round trip. Most visitors only visit the first gate for the reflection photo. Full pilgrimage is an all-day undertaking starting before dawn.
How far is Lempuyang from Ubud?
About 60 km east of Ubud, roughly 1.5–2 hours by car. Often combined with Tirta Gangga water palace (30 minutes away) for a full day trip from Ubud or the south coast.
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