Lies on the slope of Mount Lempuyang and overlooks the magnificent Agung Volcano scenery. Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple is a huge temple complex that should be on everyone’s bucket list. In total there are seven temples with an ascending stair to get to the next temple.
Adorns by a Hindu colossal gate, Lempuyang Temple has been a hit for a while now. Thanks to some photo tricks, people are now aware of this temple. Aside from guaranteed breathtaking photos background. The temple is one of the sacred sites in Bali.
The location that far away from the city and built at 2.000 meters above sea level. In addition, the temple possesses a breathtaking mountain view. Another advantage for tourists who fancy nature and a slightly peaceful ambiance. Presumed as the first and oldest temple in Bali. Penataran Agung Lempuyang temple has a significant role in Bali culture and religion. The shrine is built during the Hindu-Buddhist era on the island.
Lempuyang Temple along with Besakih and Ulun Danu Batur Temple is among the top 3 list of prominent temples. By all means, its role is frequently written in ancient Bali manuscripts. Lempuyang Temple is also believed as the manifestation of the Hindu God name Iswara, the light of God. That is to say why the temple is vibrant with its ceremonial rituals.
Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple Entrance Fee
If previously visitors could explore the temple and give donations. Now for international visitors, the entrance fee is Rp55.000. The admission ticket doesn’t include a sarong, prepare Rp10.000 for the rent or bring one. Besides the entrance ticket, now to get to the temple visitors will have to park their private vehicles in the parking area. Then continue with the shuttle bus which cost another Rp50.000 for a return trip.
| Lempuyang Temple Entrance Fee | |
| International visitor | Rp55.000 |
| Sarong rent to cover knee and shoulder | Rp10.000 |
| Shuttle bus return trip | Rp50.000 |
Read: Tirtagangga Water Palace & Top Things To Do.
Lempuyang Temple Opening Hours
Sunrise and sunset is the perfect time to capture the beauty of Mount Agung. To avoid the heat when exploring the temple, go early in the morning. The temple opens every day except on Nyepi from 6 AM to 6 PM.
| Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple Opening Hours | |
| Monday-Sunday except for Nyepi Day | 06:00 – 18:00 WITA |
Nearby: Guide To Explore Karangasem Water Palace, Taman Ujung Soekasada.
Lempuyang Temple Ritual
Due to its remote location and the amount of effort to reach the temple. In the beginning, Lempuyang Temple has never been a famous spot for tourists. Despite the fact, that it is the oldest shrine on the island. Besakih Temple always overflows with visitors. But when it comes to the ritual and ceremonial. Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple is always packed with locals.
In Lempuyang temple, tourists will have a bigger chance to see religious ceremonies. After all, the temple is believed as the first Hindu Temple in Bali.
Religious Practice
From time to time the same advice has been passed through Balinese generations. That at least once a year, a Hindu Balinese should go to Lempuyang Temple. The life guidance passed in the local belief is not just a sole tradition.
The advice to visit Lempuyang Temple is strongly suggested in an old Hindu manuscript. Praying and worship in the Lempuyang temple is obligatory for Balinese Hindu people. The Balinese will be facing serious consequences for disobeying it.
The locals believe that by praying to the God in Lempuyang temple – asking for a blessing, in return, they will achieve blissfulness in life. It will avoid any disputes in family and society. God will even grant people wish such as to live a long life.
For people that begin to learn or dedicate life to science and society. A blessing in Lempuyang Luhur temple believed will sort out any problem in their way. It will then be easier for them to achieve their goals. By all means, this is a reason why Balinese people working in the government go to the temple at least once a year.
Penataran Agung Temple & Gate To Heaven
The famous gate Candi Bentar with a feature of Balinese architecture is hard to miss. The gate is officially dubbed as the tourist’s favorite spot. A soared Balinese gate with a perfect slit and overlooks the magnificent Mount Agung. To point out, this is the spot for a flawless photoshoot in the temple. Candi Bentar is also the gate to the first temple.
3 picturesque staircases to the top of the temple. A spacious lawn with 3 dragons flanked on every side of the staircase. The entrance gate to the temple is inevitable not to notice. Snap and admire the colossal gate before entering the temple.
The dragon statue on every side of the stair has an essential philosophy. That is to ward off negative energy and protect people from the demon spirit. Going up to the temple, guests can join the locals to meditate, bring an offering and pray. And at the end make sure to get a blessing from the priest.
Read: The Sacred Mount Agung, A Hike to the summit
Telaga Mas Temple
To get to the next holy destination, temple visitors can choose to walk. Otherwise, simply ride a motorbike service. The locals will offer to take the guest to Telaga Mas temple for Rp10.000 – Rp20.000. There is a small stall selling mineral water, coffee, and tea along the way. Enjoy the tropical green forest and warm hospitality while sipping a hot drink.
A serene atmosphere along the way followed by chirping birds. There are even monkeys in the way. Upon reaching the temple enjoy the tranquil environment. It will certainly take the pilgrim to a reposeful moment. Telaga Mas temple is just a fifth of the entire journey before reaching Lempuyang Luhur Temple.
Lempuyang Temple Visitors Guideline
The main temple lies at the top of Mount Lempuyang. And there are 1.700 stairs to climb to get to the top of the temple. For temple visitors that intend to go to the main temple, spare at least 5 hours to explore the entire area. For a shorter temple tour spare at least 1.5 hours. And make sure to wear the most comfortable walking or running shoes.
In a brief visit time, tourists could see the phenomenal gate to heaven. It is the first temple with a grand dragon staircase. The temple itself is a sacred site. Make sure to dress modestly, and cover the knee and shoulder. Bring a sarong or visitors could simply rent it at the entrance gate.
Guests are not allowed to take off the sarong while inside the temple. As well as showing affection like kissing, hugging, and sitting in the dragon statue. Be careful with monkeys and watch out for personal belonging. As the temple itself is surrounded by lush green forest. There’s quite a chance to bump into a pack of wild monkeys.
Planning to explore the entire temple or meet the locals on the way up. While it takes effort, remember to be moderate and respectful. The locals walking in Lempuyang Temple are coming to pray. Devoting each of every step to pilgrimage and blessing from God.
See: Guide To Explore The Largest Temple In Bali, Besakih.
Facilities
Toilets and parking spaces are available on the premises. However, prepare small notes of Rp5.000 to pay for using the toilet. Small cafes and modest food vendors are available near the ticketing area. On the contrary, there is no ATM machine near the tourist spot. So it’s best to prepare enough cash for paying the entrance ticket and sarong rent.
See: Bali Airport, Public Transportation Guide & Airport Transfer.
How To Get To Lempuyang Temple
The temple is located in the Karangasem, the east part of the island. To point out, it’s quite far from the south area like Kuta. It will take 3-4 hours to drive from Kuta or Seminyak area to get here. However, tourists coming from Ubud are already halfway through the trip. At this point, it cut half the driving time to 2-2.5 hours.
Unfortunately, until now there is no public bus that departs from South Bali to Lempuyang temple. That is to say, the only option is to go by a private vehicle like a car or scooter. The price range for a private car with a driver range from Rp600.000 to Rp800.000 for 10 hours. However, the price doesn’t include the entrance fee for tourist spots.
On other hand, renting a scooter and self-drive will cost around Rp50.000 to Rp100.000 depending on the scooter type. Avoid online booking unless it comes with a fabulous reputation. From the Lempuyang temple parking area, visitors then have to continue the trip by a shuttle bus which cost Rp50.000 for a return trip.
See: Bali Tourist SIM Card, Provider, Internet Package & Price.
Lempuyang Temple Location & Address
The oldest Lempuyang Temple location is at Jl. Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Abang, Karangasem, Bali 80852.
