Handara Gate Triumphs Over Lempuyang Gate
Handara Gate in Bali, widely recognized as an Instagram hotspot, is actually the entrance to a golf resort. Nestled among towering mountains and natural lakes, the scenery here is majestic and impressive.
1. WHY IS HANDARA GATE MORE POPULAR THAN LEMPUYANG GATE?
Handara Gate:
- Shorter Wait Times: You typically only need to wait about 15 minutes during off-peak times and around 30 minutes during peak season to take photos.
- Different Views: While Lempuyang offers views of a volcano, Handara boasts views of lush forests.
- Easier Access: The route to Handara is slightly shorter and has fewer winding turns compared to Lempuyang.
- Flexible Photo Time: There are no strict time limits for taking photos at Handara, unlike Lempuyang.
- Aesthetic Differences: Both gates feature similar temple architecture, but Handara Gate is black, while Lempuyang Gate is light-colored.
Lempuyang Gate:
- Long Wait Times: You might have to wait 2-3 hours, which can be exhausting. To avoid long waits, arrive before the opening time, around 5 AM.
- Professional Photography: Many professional photography teams are present, often using mirrored effects to create striking images that may not always reflect reality.
- Short Photo Sessions: The time allowed for taking photos is usually limited to about 5 minutes. The pressure from the long line of waiting visitors can make the experience less comfortable.
- Consider Handara: If you prefer not to wait long, Handara is a great alternative.
2. WHERE IS HANDARA GATE?
Handara Gate is located in the Bedugul area, north of Ubud, about a two-hour drive from Ubud by private car. Depending on your preference and convenience, you can choose to travel by car or motorbike.
- Car Rental: Renting a car can cost around 950,000 IDR per day. Given the distance to Handara, hiring a car with a driver is more convenient. You can also visit other tourist spots like Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, Wanagiri Hidden Hill, Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces on your trip.
- Motorbike: If you are staying near Handara, traveling by motorbike can be a reasonable option. However, if you’re coming from Ubud, it will be a long and tiring journey. Motorbike rental usually costs about 100,000 IDR per day.
3. ENTRY FEE TO HANDARA GATE
The entry fee to Handara Gate is relatively high, at 30,000 IDR per person (approximately 50,000 VND), and does not include a photographer’s service like at Lempuyang.
You can purchase tickets at the ticket booth in front of the gate, but make sure to have cash in Indonesian Rupiah, as this is the only accepted form of payment.
Notably, the gate is open 24/7 because it is near the main road and has no operating hour restrictions, so you can visit anytime you like.
4. PHOTO TIPS AT HANDARA GATE
To capture stunning photos, women might choose to wear flowing, colorful dresses that stand out. Since the gate is near the main road and the parking area, you won’t need to walk far.
Bringing a small, flat hand mirror can help you take creative selfies or pose easily and flexibly.
Additionally, remember to bring water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun while exploring and taking photos at Handara Gate.
In conclusion, Handara Gate offers a majestic backdrop and more accessible photo opportunities compared to Lempuyang Gate. Its convenient location, shorter wait times, and flexibility make it a favored spot for visitors looking to capture Bali’s stunning temple architecture amidst breathtaking natural scenery.
