Lempuyang Temple, Bali
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Lempuyang Temple - by devilito huang on Google
Description
Lempuyang temple complex is located in eastern Bali, north of Amlapura, and is considered one of the "six sanctuaries of the world", the holiest places of worship on the island. The main temple there is Pura Lempuyang Luhur, it is also the highest at 1,175m above sea level on Mount Lempuyang. The main temple is nicknamed "The Gates of Heaven" and has become a star attraction in Bali with the rise of social media thanks to that one shot of the Gate with Mount Agung in the background and a water-like reflection (a mirror is used actually); to the point that lines form to enter in the morning, despite the remote location of the temple.
Access & Transport
The temples are 10km north of Amlapura and 13km south of Amed in northeast Bali. From Ubud, it is a 2h drive (65kms) and from Kuta-Seminyak 2h30 (85kms).
Instructions & Recommendations
We would suggest going there if staying either in the Amed or Candidasa area. Early morning can be extremely busy so late afternoon might be better to avoid the crowds and queuing up.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral. It is not obvious what the fees are used for and there is a clear case of behaviours being corrupted by the smell of money.
Conclusion
The temples along the slopes of Gunung Lempuyang theoretically make for a very scenic visit; unfortunately over the last few years the entrance system has turned from free with optional donations, to IDR10k, etc. to IDR 70k plus a shuttle system lightening you up by another IDR45k so that you have the right to queue up to get that Insta shot... Whether or not it is worth it depends on how badly you want that picture, but we can only advise travellers to think twice before encouraging such practice.
Key positive
Photogenic Gate at the main temple
Scenic setting
Key negative
Turned into a tourist scam
Time consuming to get to
Suitability
No religious denomination restrictions. Not accessible to wheelchair users because of the various flights of stairs.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:2h 15m
est. visit time:1h
Monday07:00 - 17:00
Tuesday07:00 - 17:00
Wednesday07:00 - 17:00
Thursday07:00 - 17:00
Friday07:00 - 17:00
Saturday07:00 - 17:00
Sunday07:00 - 17:00