Where is Lempuyang Temple?
Lempuyang Temple is located in Tista Village, Karangasem Regency. It is situated in the eastern part of Bali and stands at the top of Bibis Hill. The distance from the center of Bali (commonly considered as Denpasar or Ubud) to Lempuyang Temple is approximately 70 kilometers.
Panorama view of Lempuyang Temple
How to Get to the Gate of Heaven in Bali?
To start the journey to Lempuyang Temple, there are several transports you can choose from the Bali center to here.
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Taxi or Ride - Hailing Service: fee can be based on the distance, around 300,000 IDR per route.
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Public transportation: fee would be lower than but schedules may be less convenient.
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Motorbike rental: 50,000 IDR (~ 3.23 USD) - 200,000 IDR (~ 12.91 USD) per day.
Tourists rent motorbikes for Lempuyang trip
Significance of Lempuyang Temple
Lempuyang Temple is locally known as Pura Luhur Lempuyang. It is one of Bali’s oldest and most highly regarded Hindu temples.Furthermore, this place is one of the six holiest places of worship on the island.
Monkey in Lempuyang Temple
Lempuyang Temple is a favorite destination for tourists who like mountain climbing. Because of its location at an altitude of 1,175 meters above sea level. To reach the temple at the top of the mountain, you must go through more than 1,700 steps. On the way, you can see long-tailed monkeys living in the surrounding area.
More than 1,700 steps to reach the top of the mountain
If your purpose is just to take a photo at Bali’s paradise gate, you just need to climb a few steps from the ticket gate. As you stand at the gates of heaven, you can gaze at the wonderful panorama. You'll find it not only a temple but also a profound connection to the heart and soul of Bali.
Tourist takes the best photo here
A multi-tiered shrine in Lempuyang named Tirta Pingit is nested among bamboo clusters. The temple priest (Pemangku) usually cuts a piece of bamboo to receive holy water. This water is then offered to perform rituals. Interestingly, the bamboo continues to grow despite being regularly cut.
Every June, at Lempuyang Temple people organize the Piodalan Festival to show respect and make offerings to the gods. The festival gathers many monks,nuns, Hindus and many tourists. If you want to admire Bali’s traditional religious rituals, come during this time.
Piodalan Festival in Lempuyang Temple
For a comprehensive look, don't miss our post on Bali travel guide!
Tips
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Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM.
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Entrance fee: 100.000 IDR (~ 6.45 USD).
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Visit during the early morning or late afternoon.
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You must dress discreetly and behave politely to show respect to the gods.
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If you want to observe or take a photo of rituals, don’t get too close.
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Do not step over or step into the small boxes of offerings scattered throughout the temple.
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The best time to capture the sunrise picture is 6:30 AM and 6:30 PM for sunset shots. You should arrive 30 minutes early to avoid crowds.
In concluding our exploration of Lempuyang Temple, we find out the spirituality that makes this destination a must-visit. Hopely, my brief information about location, transportation, significance and tips may help you build a perfect journey. If you prefer a package tour around Bali, contact New Asia Tours on the website.
