East Bali: Lempuyang temple, Tirta Gangga, Taman Ujung

If you’re planning a trip to Bali and want to see some of the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, this full-day tour of East Bali might just be the perfect fit. It offers a well-paced journey through stunning landscapes, sacred temples, and beautifully designed water gardens—all within a budget-friendly price.

What we love about this experience is how it combines culture with natural beauty. The visit to Lempuyang Temple, renowned for its “Gateway to Heaven,” is a highlight that many travelers cherish. Pair that with Tirta Gangga’s water gardens, famous for their koi-filled pools and intricate carvings, and Taman Ujung’s blend of Balinese and European architecture, and you’ve got a picture-perfect day.

A possible consideration is the long waiting times at Lempuyang Temple, which can stretch up to three hours during peak periods. That’s a lot of patience for a photo, but many say it’s worth it for that iconic shot. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate cultural sites, scenic views, and don’t mind an early start or some waiting if they’re chasing that perfect picture.

If your goal is to see authentic Bali away from the crowded beaches, and you’re comfortable with a full-day outing, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially good for those who value value for money, as the price covers transportation, a private guide, and all fees, making it a straightforward, hassle-free way to explore the east coast.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $38 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with included transportation and guide service.
• Cultural & Scenic Highlights: Visits to Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga, and Taman Ujung showcase Bali’s spiritual and architectural richness.
• Comfortable Transport: Private car, driver, petrol, and parking fees are included, ensuring smooth travel without extra costs.
• Long Waiting Times: Be prepared for potential lengthy lines at Lempuyang Temple, especially for photos.
• Flexible & Private: The tour is designed for private groups, allowing personalized attention and flexibility in timing.
• Good for Photographers & Culture Seekers: The stops are perfect for capturing stunning photos and learning about Bali’s spiritual sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Overall Experience

This tour is designed to give a day’s worth of diverse sights—from sacred temples to lush gardens—without overwhelming you. The 10-hour schedule is tight but manageable, with an early pickup around 8–9 am, making the most of daylight hours. The promise of a private car and driver means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, which enhances the experience significantly.

Transportation and Guide

Traveling by private car is a major advantage. It ensures a comfortable ride, flexible timing, and the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off from your hotel or one of five designated locations. The driver also acts as a guide, sharing insights about each site—a plus for those curious about Bali’s cultural background. According to reviews, drivers are friendly and helpful, which can turn a simple sightseeing trip into a more engaging experience.

Visiting Taman Ujung

The day begins with a visit to Taman Ujung, a lesser-known gem often overshadowed by Tirta Gangga but equally impressive. Its blend of Balinese and European architecture offers a unique perspective on Bali’s historical links with the Dutch and other colonial influences. We loved the way the gardens are laid out around reflective pools, with views of the surrounding rice paddies and hills. It’s a peaceful spot with fewer crowds, perfect for wandering and taking photos.

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Tirta Gangga

Next, we head to Tirta Gangga, famous for its iconic pools inhabited by Koi fish and ornate stone carvings. The water gardens are exquisitely maintained, and the tranquil atmosphere invites visitors to relax and enjoy the lush surroundings. Many travelers, including those in reviews, appreciate the opportunity to see and photograph the vibrant koi and intricate statues. It’s a place to slow down and savor Bali’s gentle beauty.

Lempuyang Temple

The final major stop is Lempuyang Temple, famous for its “Gate to Heaven”. The view of Mount Agung through the gate is a stunning backdrop, making it a favorite for social media shots. However, as reviews mention, the waiting time for a photo can be lengthy, sometimes up to three hours during busy periods. One traveler noted that “sometimes the waiting time is 3 hours, with us it was 1 hour and we also found that too long,” so plan accordingly.

Despite the crowds, many agree the experience is worth it, especially if you arrive early or during less busy times. The temple itself is a sacred site, and visitors should be respectful of the customs and dress code (cover shoulders and knees).

Tirta Gangga & Taman Ujung: The Water Palaces

Both Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung are photogenic, offering opportunities for stunning captures of traditional architecture set amidst lush gardens. Tirta Gangga’s water features and Koi ponds create a serene backdrop, while Taman Ujung’s European-style buildings add a touch of historical elegance. We loved how both sites offered different vibes—Tirta Gangga’s peacefulness versus Taman Ujung’s architectural grandeur.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Timing: Starting early helps avoid some crowds, especially at Lempuyang.
• Waiting Time: Be patient for Lempuyang’s photo spots.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and sun exposure.
• Money & Documents: Bring cash for souvenirs or snacks; carry your passport or ID for site access.
• Weather: Check the forecast; these sites are outdoors and can be affected by rain.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers consistently praise this tour for value and beautiful sights. One mentioned, “everything was perfect, our driver was friendly, and the tours were magnificent,” highlighting the overall satisfaction. Another appreciated the authentic experiences like having lunch at a local spot suggested by the driver, adding a more personal touch.

However, the long wait times at Lempuyang are noted as a potential downside, with some guests spending hours just to capture that quintessential photo. Still, many agree the scenic views and cultural sites make it worthwhile.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This East Bali day trip offers a well-rounded peek into Bali’s spiritual and artistic heritage. It’s a fantastic choice for photo enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those seeking a peaceful escape from busier tourist areas. The inclusion of private transport and a guide makes it a hassle-free way to explore without the stress of organizing logistics yourself.

If you’re on a budget but want a meaningful experience, the $38 price tag for a full day of sightseeing is quite reasonable. The tour’s pacing and stops are designed to maximize the best parts of East Bali—serene temples, royal water gardens, and charming architecture—without rushing through.

That said, if you’re uncomfortable with waiting or have limited mobility, the crowds at Lempuyang might be less appealing. Also, for those who prefer more flexibility or off-the-beaten-path adventures, this tour is more structured and popular.

In all, this experience offers genuine value, beautiful sights, and a taste of Bali’s spiritual core. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want an authentic glimpse of Bali’s eastern coast, with the convenience of a guided, all-inclusive day out.

FAQs

What is included in the price of $38?
The fee covers the private car, driver as your guide, petrol, driver fees, and parking fees. Entrance fees to sites are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with a flexible starting time between 8 am and 9 am depending on availability.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You might want to bring cash for lunch or snacks, and the driver may recommend authentic local eateries.

Where does the tour pick up from?
You can choose from five pickup locations: Sidemen, Sanur, Amed Beach, Candidasa Beach, or Ubud Palace.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s not recommended for people over 70 years old or those over 140 kg (309 lbs). It’s also best to wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

This full-day exploration of East Bali combines stunning scenery, cultural richness, and convenience at a reasonable price. Whether you’re snapping photos at Lempuyang, wandering peaceful water gardens, or soaking in scenic views, it’s a trip designed to give a well-rounded taste of Bali’s eastern charms.

You can check availability for your dates here: