Concerns Raised Over High Visitor Numbers To Top Bali Cultural Landmark

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There are many landmarks and cultural heritage sites in Bali that are world famous. Whether it be the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple floating on the lake or the iconic Kelingking Beach viewpoint in Nusa Penida, Bali has more than its fair share of bucket list destinations.

There is, however, one spot that has caught travelers’ attention for over a decade.

During the first wave of social media travel content, Bali was the most highly coveted destination of them all. Back then, Canggu was still an off-path backpacker hangout, and Uluwatu was still only really known to surfers.

These early social media content creators had the luxury of experiencing destinations like Campuhan Ridge Walk and Tegalalang Rice Terraces without any crowds, and there was one spot in particular that social media travel content creators really fell in love with, which in turn meant that millions of tourists, travellers, and holidaymakers added it to their itineraries. 

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We are, of course, talking about Sad Kahyangan Lempuyang Temple, also known simply as Lempuyang Temple or by its international name, the Gates of Heaven Temple. This temple is most famous for its entry gates that, on a clear day, offer perfectly aligned views of sacred Mount Agung.

The temple particularly caught the attention of travellers after images that used a simple trick of the lens went viral. By placing a mirror at the bottom of the camera lens and lining the shot up right, it is possible to create a reflection effect, making it look like the gates, the mountain, and the people standing in the shot are floating on water.

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This quickly became one of the most in-demand photo spots in the world, and despite the trend starting more than a decade ago, it shows no sign of slowing down.

In fact, this week, tourism managers at Sad Kahyangan Lempuyang Temple have been experiencing crowds queuing for their moment between the gates. This is an all too common occurrence; frequently, tourists have to wait upwards of 4 hours to take their photo. 

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Speaking to reporters, the Head of Purwayu Traditional Village, who oversees tourism management at the temple, said, “Recently, tourist visits to the Lempuyang Temple selfie spot have been quite busy.”

This is partly because now the rainy season is starting to come to a close, the heavy clouds over Mount Agung are starting to clear, offering more consistent good views of the volcanic peak from Sad Kahyangan Lempuyang Temple and the surrounding area.

He explained that most tourists arrive at the temple gate by shuttle bus from Banjar Kemuda Terminal to the site. Though the vast majority of tourists come to the temple exclusively to take a photo at the gate, some visitors do choose to hike the spiritual path up Bisbis Hill to Lempuyang Luhur Temple itself. Tourists visiting the Gates of Heaven must be aware that, since they are entering the temple complex, temple etiquette applies, including wearing a sarong and sash. 

For the next couple of weeks, the view from Sad Kahyangan Lempuyang Temple may be the closest tourists can get to Bali’s highest peak.

This is because all access to Mount Agung is prohibited to the public, both locals and tourists, until 24th April 2025, in alignment with a series of major Karya Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh (IBTK) ceremonies that will be held at the Agung Besakih Temple.

Besakih Temple, also known as the Mother Temple, is the most important temple in Bali for Balinese Hindus. 

The Karya Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh (IBTK) ceremonies are held in accordance with the traditional Balinese calendar, and as such, both Mount Agung are closed to the public on a regular basis.

The Head of Besakih Traditional Village, Jro Mangku Widiartha, told reporters that the decision was made through a paruman, or meeting with all the caretakers of Pura Agung Besakih.

Information about the closure has also been communicated to hiking guides and travel agents, meaning that tourists and travelers should not even be able to book experiences on Mount Agung during the closure period. Mount Batur remains an option for tourists accompanied by licensed local guides as usual.