Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple — Attraction in Kecamatan Abang

Arrived at 5.30 am on a Monday at the carpark. Bought entry and busticket.

Drove up with the bus for 5 minutes in the dark. (Not so scary. I have a steong fear of heights but just looked down on my hands and not outside. It was pretty ok, not super scary.)

Short queue upstairs directely where the bus stops to get the queue number (fot the photo) and sarong (1 minute max). Got there the queue number 22 at 5.40 am.

you have to wait there as your first laminated number will be called out soon after and exchanged to a paper number. Some people did not show up straight away so their number got passed on. As it seemed three wheren't there we got number 19 instead of 22 without asking.

Be aware they only call yournumber once otherwise they pass it on and you have to queue again.

We walked then the steep way up for around 8 minutes when it was open at 6am.

they only start making the Fotos when it gets a bit brighter. Maybe 6.15. So queue number 1 to 3 may be a bit dark but still fine already.

we waited then from photo start at 6.15 am. And our own potoshooting was finished at 6.48am.

During that short wait (30 mins) we enjoyed watching the sunrise bathing Mount Agung in a soft blush. Alone for this the journey was worth. The view is stunning.

have in mind your allowed 3 positions already beforehand as you only get short time to make sure nobody need to wait too long. I really appreciate this as people sometimes get too crazy and obsessed in their pic-making. Few pics are really enough and this way everyone will get a chance.

After the photoshoot we enjoyed a kopi and Coconut in thr rooftopcafe (no seperate entryfee, only need to otder something)

the bus back departed straight after we reached it as they where already some people in. No waiting here either. The others also just waited 2 mins.

drive down - just close your eyes. The guys go very carefully around the corners and don't speed. We felt safe always. As said I am very scared and found it still ok. Would do it again.

as written from others there is otherwise not a lot to see except you enjoy this kind of swing, boat, platform fake-flower photo thingy which we don't. So I cannot tell more about that.

"Short/not short": very worth a trip if you want a nice familyphoto to frame. (Even if you are - as we- not in social media. Kt is a nice picture to frame. "Lake" is a mirror as we knew before. All is very structured and organized which I very much appreciated!!!!! (No people cutting queues and else as of the number system. Very nice!) Tipping for the photographer can but you don't get forced at all. Make sure you hear them calling your number once at the "sarong-pick up/queue number getting-place" and also at the "photo space". They will not call you more than once. (We saw someone going down and up again and looking very sad as they needed a new queue number which meant by that time hours more of wait. arrive before 5.30am. Then you can get a nice photo with minimal wait and a great sunset during that...

I will give you ALL the details.

We arrived at 5:30am. The shuttle will take you up before 6am but first entry to the temple is at 6am. You pay for the shuttle, $45k IDR return. As soon as you get off the shuttle, you will be given a number. We were number 72 at 6am arrival. They will ask if you came with a driver, always say yes! If you don’t, they will not give you a number and make you wait forever. You then pay entrance, $55k IDR. Bring CASH!

Our wait time was around 1hr 30 or so, not too bad. Those arriving at 7:30 had numbers of 200+ with an estimated 3 hour wait time. If you arrive first though, the sun is still down until around 6:30 so it’s better to have maybe numbers 30+.

After paying entry, you will be given a sarong included in your price. You can pick the colour you want. Then you can enter the temple. It’s basically a photo shoot. There’s someone who will take pictures with you phone (and mirror to create pond effect - there is NO pond in real life). There’s also someone with a speaker phone directing.

They will call the numbers one by one. You have 4 photos each and then 4 photos with your group (couple, family etc). So for instance, I took 4 photos, then 4 with partner then he took 4. The end. You have very little time so make sure to practice practice practice before you take the stage. Everyone is watching so it can be quite intimidating!!

You cannot do yoga poses, kiss or lift up if your feet are about your waist. If you’re fast you can maybe achieve 5 photos. Our group jump shot was terrible so they’re not amazing at those, but they will turn on burst mode.

You can take photos with the steps. One line is for pictures ON the steps but we gave up after barely moving in 30 mins (people take their time here!). There’s a shorter line for the middle steps but you cannot step on these! You will be told off if you try. The line to the right is entry to the prayer area. If you pay a donation you can enter here to join the locals.

Around 7am there was a lot of locals walking through the gate to the prayer area. This stalled photography for quite some time but it’s very beautiful to see.

If you don’t want to wait hours for your photo, you can take the shuttle back down and explore the town. You will need to pay again for a shuttle back up but it’s half price apparently. Just make sure you come back with plenty of time. Alternatively you can view the back of the gate by walking around. You can get a nice shot here by tipping the local, you just don’t have the volcano view as you can see in my picture.

There are fees at all the toilets, around 5kIDR I believe. I recommend popping into a cafe and having a refreshment and using the free facilities.

It’s a very steep incline up to the temple which may be difficult for some people. The temple itself isn’t super impressive, but the gate view is what makes this temple special. It’s an odd experience being such an organized photoshoot but the photos are gorgeous. Decide if it’s...

Lempuyang Temple, one of Bali's oldest and most revered temples, is a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of stunning natural beauty and profound spiritual significance. Located on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang in East Bali, it's famous for its iconic "Gates of Heaven," which perfectly frame the majestic Mount Agung volcano in the distance.

The journey to Lempuyang is an experience in itself, taking you through the island's lush, green landscapes. Upon arrival, you'll find a temple complex that is more than just a single photo-op. It's a series of seven temples spread across the mountainside, offering a spiritual ascent for those who choose to make the challenging climb. The most popular spot, and the reason many people visit, is the main temple with its famous split gate. The breathtaking view and the "water reflection" photo that has become so popular on social media are the main draw. It's worth noting that the reflection is a clever trick created by a local photographer using a mirror under the camera lens—but don't let that deter you! The result is truly magical and the view of Mount Agung is spectacular on a clear day.

Tips for Your Visit:

Go Early! To avoid the crowds and the infamous long queues for the photo opportunity, I highly recommend arriving as early as possible. Aim for 5-6 AM to catch the sunrise and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere before the buses of tourists arrive. The early morning light also creates the most beautiful and atmospheric pictures.

Token System for Photos: Be aware that there is a token system in place for taking pictures at the famous gate. You will receive a token with your entrance ticket, and you'll wait for your number to be called for your photo session. This system helps manage the crowds and ensures everyone gets a turn. Dress Appropriately: As a sacred site, you are required to dress modestly. Sarongs are provided or available for rent at the entrance. While the "Gates of Heaven" photo is a fantastic souvenir, the real magic of Lempuyang Temple lies in its serene beauty and spiritual ambiance. Take the time to appreciate the intricate Balinese architecture, the stunning views, and the sacred energy of this incredible place. It's an unforgettable experience that goes beyond a...