East Bali

Pura Lempuyang: the "Gates of Heaven" and how to actually see it

MyBroBali Travel Guide · 5 min read

Pura Lempuyang is one of Bali's oldest and highest temple complexes, spread across the slopes of Mount Lempuyang in Karangasem, East Bali. Most visitors know it from a single image: a temple gate perfectly framing Mount Agung, with what looks like a still lake in front of it. That "lake" is actually a mirror held under the camera lens — a clever trick that's become part of the experience itself.

What you're actually visiting

The photo spot everyone comes for is at Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang, one of seven temples in the complex, and the lowest one on the route. You don't need to climb the full mountain to get the iconic shot, which is good news if you're short on time or not up for a long trek.

Beyond the photo, the temple itself is a working place of worship, so modest dress (sarong and sash, usually provided or rented at the entrance) is required, and it's worth taking a few minutes to appreciate the carved stone gates and the mountain backdrop without a phone in front of your face.

Best time to visit

Arrive early — ideally before 8am. Mount Agung is frequently covered in cloud by mid-morning, and the queue for the mirror photo grows quickly as tour buses arrive. An early start also means softer light for photos and a noticeably cooler climb.

What to expect at the photo spot

• There's usually a short wait for the mirror photo, managed by a local attendant
• A small donation or fee is customary for the mirror service
• Bring a sarong-friendly outfit — shorts are fine underneath
• The gate itself is smaller in person than it looks in photos, which surprises most first-time visitors

Getting there

Pura Lempuyang is roughly a 1.5–2 hour drive from South Bali (Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu), so it's usually combined with other East Bali stops like Tirta Gangga or Taman Ujung to make the most of the drive. Public transport doesn't really reach the temple, so a private car and driver is by far the easiest way to visit — especially for an early start.