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Lempuyang Temple

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Lempuyang Temple

TempleTempleEast BaliPhotogenic

A mountain temple complex, famous for its iconic "Gates of Heaven."

Known globally as the "Gates of Heaven," Lempuyang Temple is actually a complex of several temples scattered along the slopes of Mount Lempuyang in East Bali. The most famous spot is the *Candi Bentar* (split gateway) at the lowest temple, Pura Penataran Agung. The view of Mount Agung, Bali's highest peak, perfectly framed by this gate, became an international sensation on social media as the 'gateway to heaven.' However, this temple is fundamentally one of the most sacred places in Balinese Hinduism, counted as one of the *Sad Kahyangan* (six sanctuaries of the world) that protect the island from evil. The path up the mountain is a pilgrimage route from the secular to the sacred world, symbolizing purification. While photo lines grow, rules are being established to protect its serenity as a place of worship. Being at a high altitude, the weather changes quickly, and the gates shrouded in mist only enhance its mystique.

History and Pilgrimage

Its origins are thought to trace back to ancient mountain worship, even before Hinduism arrived in Bali. It is a holy site tied to the island's creation myths and, for the Balinese, who believe deities reside in mountains, it is a crucial place of prayer alongside Mount Agung. The complex consists of seven temples from the base to the summit, and visiting all of them requires a strenuous trek lasting several hours. While the lower temple alone offers a deeply sacred atmosphere, those with the stamina to visit the upper temples can experience a more profound level of devotion.

Culture and Belief

The split gateway symbolizes the division of one world into two, and passing through it represents the transition from the profane to the sacred. The composition framing Mount Agung visually represents the Balinese form of worship: praying toward the mountain where the gods dwell. The famous 'reflection photo' is actually a trick shot created by photographers using a mirror, but this may not be unrelated to the cultural motif of the 'mirror' reflecting this world and the next. Visitors are required to wear a *sarong* (waist cloth) to cover their legs out of respect.

Highlights (What to See!)

Taking a photo at the 'Gates of Heaven' usually requires getting a queue number early in the morning and waiting for a long time. Plan for significant delays. While waiting, take time to admire the three staircases (symbolizing the gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva) and the dragon sculptures. The central staircase is reserved for the gods, so visitors must use the stairs on the left or right. From the temple grounds, you can see a spectacular view not only of Mount Agung but also of the East Bali coastline and even Lombok Island. If the air is clear, be sure to enjoy the surrounding scenery.

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Basic Information

  • ๐Ÿ“AddressJl. Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Abang, Karangasem 80852
  • โฐHours07:00 AM โ€“ 5:00 PM (Expect long queues for photos)
  • ๐ŸšซClosedOpen daily (Closed for Nyepi)
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐAdmission FeeForeigners: Entrance approx. 100,000 IDR + Shuttle approx. 50,000 IDR
  • ๐Ÿš—Access
    • About a 30-minute drive from Tirta Gangga
    • Shuttle required from parking lot to temple area (approx. 50,000 IDR round trip)
๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ View on Map
Lempuyang Temple | Balitra | Complete Bali Travel Guide