
Bottom line: These three East Bali gems—Heaven’s Gate (Lempuyang Temple, famous for its iconic shot with Mount Agung in the background), Tirta Gangga (the Holy Water Garden), and Taman Ujung (Ujung Water Palace)—are close to each other and perfect for a one-day private car tour. Expect queues at Heaven’s Gate for that perfect photo; arrive early or follow our queue-beating tips.
In East Bali, three nearby spots are perfect for capturing ethereal, stunning photos!
Heaven’s Gate
The first spot is a Hindu temple known as ‘Heaven’s Gate.’ Bali’s Heaven’s Gate went viral for its dreamy photos with the sacred Mount Agung in the background, making it a top Instagram-worthy destination in Bali.
Check out Jay’s travelogue on Heaven’s Gate:
Don’t want to queue for two to three hours? Consider this Bali Attraction: Lahangan Sweet — A Stunning Mount Agung Viewpoint 🌄
Tirta Gangga
The second spot is the “Tirta Gangga Water Palace,” nestled at the foot of the mountain where the famous “Gates of Heaven” sits. Originally named “Tirta Gangga,” it’s also known as the “Ganges Holy Spring Garden” or the “Tirta Gangga Water Palace.” The iconic “Gates of Heaven” in Bali is just about a 20-minute drive from here.
This is a fantastic spot for Instagram-worthy photos. Bring some fish food to have large koi swirl around you, making it look like you’re floating on water—the shots turn out absolutely ethereal!
Check out Xiao Jie’s introduction and his photo recommendations there:
Ujung Water Palace
The third spot is the “Ujung Water Palace,” a water palace built in eastern Bali that feels like an ancient royal ruin secluded from the world. It’s serene, peaceful, uncrowded, and every step reveals a unique view. Come here to snap some distinctive photos!
In the video below, Xiao Jie introduces four popular photo spots here. The video also includes more detailed historical background:
From the majestic views of Mount Agung at the Gates of Heaven, to the fairy-tale-like water palace of Tirta Gangga, and then to the ancient royal ruins of Ujung Water Palace—each place holds its own unique charm and photo opportunities. Whether you’re out for a leisurely stroll or hunting for scenic shots, these three spots will satisfy your travel needs. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture these beautiful memories!

And don’t miss out on visiting Amed and Tulamben in the east! Check out the guide here
More to Eat, Play, and Explore in Ubud

Ubud is the cultural and artistic heart of Bali, drawing countless travelers with its lush rice terraces, serene jungles, and deep-rooted traditions. It's the perfect place to unwind. Whether you're exploring local customs, soaking in natural beauty, or diving into exciting outdoor activities paired with stunning food and scenery, Ubud offers a unique experience that will move you. Want to learn more about Ubud? Click here
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