2025 East Bali Trip Review: A Look at Lempuyang, Tirta Gangga & Tulamben

So, you’re thinking about a trip to East Bali, and honestly, that’s a fantastic idea. It’s actually a completely different world from the packed streets of Seminyak or Canggu. This part of the island, you know, feels a bit older and has a certain kind of calm about it. We’re going to talk about a pretty classic trio of spots for a day trip in 2025: Tulamben for its underwater world, Lempuyang Temple with its famous gates, and the truly peaceful Tirta Gangga water palace. Basically, it’s a day packed with culture, nature, and some pretty unforgettable sights. This particular trip is seriously something else, and it tends to show you a side of Bali that’s a little more traditional and, in a way, more profound.

Diving into the Deep Blue at Tulamben

Alright, so first up is Tulamben, and its main draw is, of course, the USAT Liberty shipwreck. The crazy part is that you literally don’t even need a boat to get to it. You just walk off the pebbly shore and, like, it’s right there. The water is often surprisingly clear, and almost as soon as your head goes under, you see this massive, dark shape taking form. For first-time wreck divers, it’s honestly perfect because it’s not too deep and is incredibly accessible. The ship itself is just covered in corals and all sorts of marine life, more or less becoming a natural part of the ocean floor over time. It’s pretty much an apartment complex for fish, you know?

Even if you’re not a certified diver, snorkeling here is still incredibly rewarding. The top parts of the wreck are, sort of, just a few meters below the surface, so you can see a whole lot from up there. You’ll definitely spot schools of jackfish swirling around, maybe a shy turtle nibbling on some coral, and literally thousands of smaller, brightly colored fish going about their business. The sound is different underwater, you know? It’s just the sound of your own breathing and the soft crackle of the reef. At the end of the day, it’s a very peaceful and kind of humbling thing to see how nature has so completely taken over this man-made object.

I mean, floating over a World War II shipwreck that’s now teeming with life is a pretty powerful feeling. It’s an experience that really sticks with you.

As a matter of fact, the vibe in the town of Tulamben is very laid-back. It’s all about diving and relaxing. There aren’t any big clubs or fancy boutiques; it’s just a few local warungs serving up some really good, simple Indonesian food. It’s a bit of a throwback, which is actually really refreshing. So, after your dive or snorkel, you can just sit back with a cold drink and look out over the water, feeling pretty good about the whole situation. It’s a very simple kind of happiness, really.

Standing Between the Gates of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple

Next up is Pura Lempuyang, which, you know, has become world-famous because of Instagram. The main attraction is, obviously, the “Gates of Heaven” that perfectly frame Mount Agung in the background on a clear day. Getting there is a bit of a trek, as it’s one of the highest and most sacred temples in Bali. You actually have to take a shuttle bus up a very steep hill just to get to the main entrance. You’ll also need to wear a sarong, which is just a sign of respect, and you can rent one there for a tiny fee if you don’t have your own. Seriously, the whole process is quite organized, to be honest.

Now, about that famous photo. It’s important to know that there isn’t actually a lake in front of the gates creating that perfect reflection. I mean, the secret is a local photographer who uses a small mirror under your phone’s camera lens to create the effect. It’s actually a pretty clever and creative solution! You give a small donation, hand over your phone, and they snap a bunch of amazing shots for you. The queue can be incredibly long, sometimes two or three hours, so you really, really need to be prepared to wait. By the way, while you wait, it’s a good time to just soak in the spiritual feeling of the place, which is honestly quite strong.

Beyond that one photo spot, the temple complex itself is very beautiful and has a deep sense of peace about it. There are other sections to explore, and the air just feels different up there—cleaner and, like, charged with some kind of energy. You’ll see local Balinese people coming to pray and leave offerings, and it’s a pretty good reminder that this is a living, breathing place of worship, not just a tourist spot. To be honest, showing respect by being quiet and dressing modestly is the most important thing you can do here. It’s their sacred ground, after all.

Walking on Water at Tirta Gangga

Alright, our last stop on this East Bali tour is typically Tirta Gangga, which translates to “Water from the Ganges.” It’s a former royal water palace, and it is seriously one of the most serene and pretty places you’ll see. It was built in 1946 by the last Raja of Karangasem, and it’s basically a maze of pools, fountains, and stone carvings. The coolest part, you know, is the large pond where you can walk across a path of stone platforms, feeling like you’re walking on water. The giant koi fish swimming all around you are just incredible, and they’re definitely not shy.

You can buy fish food at the entrance, and the moment you toss some in, the water just explodes with orange and gold as the fish all swarm together. It’s a pretty fun thing for anyone, and it makes for some really dynamic photos. Unlike Lempuyang, Tirta Gangga feels more like a place to just wander and relax. You can find a shady spot to sit, listen to the sound of splashing water from the many fountains, and just let time slow down a little bit. It’s a place that just invites you to be still, you know?

There are also two swimming pools on the grounds where you can actually take a dip in the cool, clear spring water. So, you might want to bring a swimsuit just in case you feel like a refreshing swim. The water is believed to be holy and is used in temple ceremonies, so it feels kind of special to swim there. At the end of the day, Tirta Gangga is the perfect, calming end to what can be a very long and busy day of exploring. It just has this gentle quality that helps you recharge before the long drive back.

Making the Most of Your East Bali Day

So, a day trip covering these three spots is absolutely amazing, but you have to be ready for a really long day. East Bali is quite far from the main tourist hubs in the south, so there is a lot of time spent in a car. Honestly, starting your day before sunrise is pretty much a must if you want to beat the worst of the crowds, especially at Lempuyang Temple. Having a private driver is probably the best way to do it, as they know the roads and can help you manage your time effectively.

Here are just a few simple thoughts on making the day go smoothly:

• Start Super Early: I mean, we’re talking like a 4 or 5 AM start. It’s tough, but seeing the sunrise on the way and getting to the temple before the masses is so, so worth it.
• Dress Smart: You’ll need a sarong for the temple. Also, comfortable shoes are a great idea. Light clothes are good for the heat, but maybe bring a light jacket or scarf because it can be a bit cooler up in the mountains.
• Pack the Essentials: You should definitely bring water, some snacks, sunscreen, and your camera. A portable power bank for your phone is also a pretty smart thing to have, especially with all the photos you’ll be taking.
• Manage Your Hopes: Sometimes Mount Agung is hidden by clouds. That’s just nature, right? The temple is still a really beautiful place even without the iconic view. It’s more about the experience anyway.
• Bring Some Cash: Anyway, having some small Indonesian Rupiah on hand is good for entrance fees, sarong rentals, donations, food, and drinks from local stalls.

Read our full review: East Bali: Lempuyang, Tirta Gangga & Tulamben Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (East Bali Tour Booking)