Lempuyang: the Gates of Heaven and the climb above them
A split gate framing Mount Agung, and for the devoted, a long stairway climb to a temple in the clouds.
- Area
- East
- Start from
- Amed or Sidemen
- Distance
- about 2.5 hours from Ubud
- Time needed
- 1 day
- Best season
- Dry season for clearer views of Agung
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Transport
- Car to the temple car park; shuttle up the hill
- Tickets & rules
- Donation/ticket; sarong required
Why go
Pura Lempuyang is one of the oldest and most sacred temple complexes in Bali, a series of temples climbing Mount Lempuyang. The lowest courtyard has the famous split gate, the 'Gates of Heaven', which frames Mount Agung on a clear morning.
The gate has become an Instagram icon, with a long photo queue. But the real experience lies above: a long stairway through forest past several more temples to the summit temple, Pura Lempuyang Luhur. It's a pilgrimage climb, steep and humid, with monkeys along the way.
From the top, if the clouds allow, you look over the whole of East Bali.
The story
Lempuyang is counted among the sad kahyangan jagad, the six most important temples protecting Bali, and its origins are believed to predate many other Balinese temples.
It's considered one of the directional temples, guarding the east of the island, and is associated with the god Iswara.
Pilgrims traditionally climb to the top in silence and in respectful clothing, and there are strict customs about behaviour on the mountain.
Getting there
Drive to the temple area near Karangasem. Local shuttles take visitors from the car park up to the lower temple.
A suggested plan
- 05:30Arrive early for clearer views of Agung and a shorter queue.
- 06:30Visit the lower temple and the gate.
- 07:30Start the climb to the upper temples if you're fit; allow several hours return.
- AfternoonRest at Tirta Gangga on the way back.
Where to stay
Amed, Sidemen or Tirta Gangga.
Good to know
- The well-known 'water reflection' in gate photos is made with a mirror under the phone, not a lake.
- Bring water and snacks for the climb.
- The climb is long and steep; know your limits.
- Behave respectfully; this is an active, very sacred site.