LEMPUYANG TEMPLE

Lempuyang Temple, also known as Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang is one of the oldest and most visited temples in Bali by locals and tourists alike. Sitting at an altitude of 1175 meters, Lempuyang Temple invites visitors to admire the stunning views of Mount Agung through the ‘Gate of Heaven,’ which you reach only after climbing the 1700 steep stairs.

Being one of the ‘Sad Kahyangan Jagat,’ Pura Luhur Lempuyang is believed to be one of the six most sacred temples of Bali sitting atop Bisbis hill 1175 meters above sea level. Divided into three areas, the temple complex comprises ‘Jaba pisan’ (the outer sanctum), ‘Jaba Tengah’ (the middle sanctum) and ‘Jero’ (the main inner sanctum). The courtyard of the temple also features several meru towers and pelinggih shrines each dedicated for the worship of different gods and local deities.

Upon climbing 1700 steps at the eastern side of the temple complex, you will be greeted by the breathtaking views from the ‘Gate of Heaven.’ As you make your way up, admire the scenic beauty of the surroundings and notice long tailed macaque monkeys who live in the vicinity of the temple. Lempuyang temple is a must-visit place while traveling to Bali due to its captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage.

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Highlights

• Located approximately 1200 meters above sea level, Lempuyang Temple is one of the six sacred pillars of Bali.
• The temple offers breathtaking views of Mount Agung and surrounding scenic beauty especially from the ‘Gateway of Heaven’.
• Admire the sculptures of Nagas and characters of Ramayana including Arjuna, Yudhistira and Bhima.
• Learn about the rich cultural heritage of Bali on your visit during the Piodalan festival as you explore the temple’s age-old architecture and interact with the local people and priests.

How To Reach

Location: Jl. Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia

Pura Lempuyang, situated 88 KM to the east from the Bali Airport, is easily accessible from the entire Bali. You can easily reach the Lempuyang temple via Jl. Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra, in under 2 hours and 15 minutes (depending on the traffic) by hiring a taxi or driving a car.

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Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Pura Lempuyang Temple depends on the kind of experience that you enjoy. If you prefer to explore the temple in a peaceful manner and enjoy the tranquility of the place, sunrise is the best option. However, you should visit the temple during the golden hour before the sun sets in order to catch a breathtaking view through the ‘Gateway of Heaven’.

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Other Essential Information

History of Lempuyang Temple:

Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang is one of “Sad Kahyangan Jagat” that translates to six sanctuaries of the world, that are believed to be the holy pillars of Bali. The Balinese beliefs suggest that the six holiest places are the central essence of the island and are mounted to offer spiritual stability to Bali.

The temples of Lempuyang mountain combined together are referred to as Pura Kahyangan Padma Bhuwana. Each of the temples within the Pura Kahyangan Padma Bhuwana remarked every of the eight overriding directions. The Lempuyang temple guides the eastern direction and the color white which is related to the supreme Balinese power, Ishwara.

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Structure of Lempuyang Temple:

The compound of Pura Lempuyang is segregated into three parts: the outer sanctum of the temple, the middle sanctum and the inner principal sanctum. The front of the outer sanctum is adorned with candi bentar cut up gate which is further beautified with white paint. Several Balinese pavilions are positioned within the outer sanctum. There is a separate pavilion in the courtyard, that is known as the bale kulkul which houses the drum which is used to call people for prayer.

The front to the center sanctum has three paduraksa portals (three stairways) which are also painted with white paint. You will find that the imperative door of the central stairway is always closed except during one of the main festivals of Bali, the biannual piodalan festival.

Besides, the uppermost inner sanctum is believed to house the supreme sacred courtyard of the Balinese temple. The courtyard is the home to various meru towers and pelinggih shrines which are dedicated to distinct important deities of Bali.

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Places to visit near Lempuyang Temple:

1. Tirta Gangga Water Palace: Locally known as Taman Tirta Gangga, this is one of East Bali’s primary attractions. A former water palace of the Karangasem empire, the place features exquisite fountains, stone carvings, fish ponds, gardens, etc.

2. Amlapura: A quaint village which treats the visitors with scenic views of its lush green beauty and panoramic sights of the volcanic mountains is Amlapura. You can enjoy the lip-smacking local food while strolling through the magnificent streets of the town. The place provides you with various options of interesting places you could visit such as the Bali Chocolate Factory among others.

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Tips for Visiting Lempuyang Temple:

Here are Some Tips for Visiting Lempuyang Temple:

1. You must wear a sarong while visiting the temple and make sure your knees and shoulders are covered.

2. You must respect the decorum and privacy of everyone in the temple while clicking pictures for yourself.

3. This temple is considered one of the six sacred places in Bali so try and be respectful or you may end up upsetting the local people.

4. The most photogenic spot among all the seven temples in the complex is at the first temple.

5. No drones are allowed within the complex.

6. Wear comfortable clothes as it takes about four hours to complete the entire tour of the temple complex.

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