Gunung Lebah Temple is a Hindu temple well-known as a travel destination among many Bali travelers. With its tranquil environment, set amidst lush greenery and rice fields, the place is especially known for sitting right on the Campuhan River. The 8th-century temple has unique carvings and architecture and towering shrines in the center. There’s also a gamelan pavilion, where an orchestra is quietly situated to follow along with the ceremonies, and of course, all dance preparations also take place right there.

So, if you’re a couple planning your Bali itineraries, make sure you seriously consider Gunung Lebah Temple as a possible destination. The place is not as popular as the more popular commercial attractions in Bali, so you’ll surely enjoy some quiet time there. Last but not least, it’s a traditional spiritual place of worship—you’re bound to feel energized. 

Still on the fence? Then, jump into the complete and honest guide on Gunung Lebah Temple below, and you’ll learn more about the place in no time. 

30 Sundays Honest Review Process

At 30 Sundays, we are committed to making every couple's holiday special. 

Every sightseeing/activity goes through a rigorous review process, including analysis of online reviews, on-ground visits, and validation by our Operations team. In other words, we bring you the best and most helpful reviews to help you plan your bookings.

Table of Contents:

• Tripadvisor Ratings & Reviews
• What Did Fellow Tourists Like About Gunung Lebah Temple
• What Did Fellow Tourists Not Like
• Pro-tips to Keep in Mind
• Deep-Dive into finer aspects
• Other Things to Do Near
• The Basic Things to Know
• Hotels Near Gunung Lebah Temple  
• Restaurants Close to Gunung Lebah Temple  
• The Final Verdict
• FAQs

Tripadvisor Rating of Gunung Lebah Temple

Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5 (269 reviews)

• Excellent: 120
• Very Good: 114
• Average: 32
• Poor: 3
• Terrible: 0

Many travelers have praised the tranquil environment of the temple, describing it as both serene and calm for the minds of people there. Its architecture and history are other aspects that get praise from visitors, with its river adding another touch of magnificence to the place. It’s no wonder that the Gunung Lebah Temple receives a rating of 4.5 on Tripadvisor, with most people praising it as “Excellent.”

Make no mistakes, though; there are bad reviews for sure. For example, some people disliked the swarm of sellers everywhere, while others hated the high number of tourists there. On the whole, though, the place is well-loved by most travelers, indicating that it’s a gem of a place.

At 30 Sundays, we highly recommend that you visit this place and experience its majestic spiritual beauty for yourself.

What Did Visitors Like About Gunung Lebah Temple?

The visitors to Gunung Lebah Temple loved tons of stuff about the place, but these are the things that stood out:

• Breathtaking Architecture: Visitors are consistently awestruck by the temple's intricate and beautiful architecture. The ornate carvings, traditional Balinese design elements, and attention to detail showcase the skill of local artisans and the rich cultural heritage of the island. 

In particular, its multi-roofed shrines (towering menu) and the temple’s symmetrical layouts show the class of traditional Bali architects. 

• Serene Atmosphere: Many guests highlight the peaceful and tranquil ambiance of Gunung Lebah Temple. Nestled in a valley near two rivers, it has a flavor of calmness, providing a perfect setting for reflection, meditation, or simply enjoying a moment of quiet amidst the bustling energy of Ubud.

• Prime Location: The temple's proximity to the Campuhan River and the famous Campuhan Ridge Walk is a major draw for visitors. Seated right over a hill overlooking the Campuhan Valley, you get to experience a panoramic view of the temple. 

Its strategic location also helps, as it allows tourists to combine their temple visits with other popular attractions in the area, making for a well-rounded Ubud experience.

• Cultural Insights: Gunung Lebah Temple offers valuable insights into Balinese religious history and practices. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to learn about local customs and traditions, deepening their understanding of Bali's spiritual landscape.

You get to see all the ceremonies in real time and experience them in their proper context.

• Photographic Opportunities: The temple's stunning architecture and picturesque setting provide ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Many visitors leave with beautiful memories captured through their lenses. The view of the temple, with the interplay of light and dark carvings and design, leaves you with a sense of wonder about the place. 

It also helps that the place is located in the middle of the valley and rivers, giving you a panoramic view of the Campuhan Valley.

• Natural Beauty: The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and natural beauty, adding to its allure. Surrounded by verdant rice paddies and lush tropical forests, the temple’s harmonious blend of man-made structures and nature creates a truly magical atmosphere that resonates with many visitors.

What Did Visitors Dislike About Gunung Lebah Temple?

Now, as good as the place is, it also has its fair share of complaints. Here are the things that people didn’t like about the place: 

• Limited Public Access: A common complaint is that the temple is often closed to the public, with access restricted to locals for prayer purposes. And it’s not surprising why that is the case. The temple is, after all, a living, breathing place of religious worship, where you can easily find locals performing various ceremonies and celebrations. For this reason, it’s not uncommon to find that certain sections of the temple are often closed to tourists. 

Understandably, this can be disappointing for tourists who arrive hoping to explore the temple grounds.

• Commercialization: Some visitors express disappointment at the presence of food stalls and commercial activities within the temple premises. They see this commercialization as detracting from the spiritual atmosphere of the site.

• Overcrowding: During peak tourist seasons, the temple can become crowded, losing its charm and peaceful ambiance. This mass tourism impact is a concern for those seeking a more authentic and tranquil experience. 

Add in the nearby souvenir stores and local businesses, and those looking for an authentic, spiritual experience can sometimes feel out of place.

• Maintenance Issues: Several visitors note that the temple appears run-down and not well-maintained in certain areas. There are reports of wear and tear in some sections of the temple, which has put some visitors off about their travel here. 

This lack of upkeep can detract from the overall experience of the visitors to this place.

• Challenging Access: Some visitors may find the steep paths and numerous steps leading to and within the temple difficult. The temple is located in a hilly area, so it requires walking on steep paths and uneven areas.

For people with mobility issues and problems, this can be a bit of pain and spoil the overall enjoyment of the trip.

• Pushy Staff: Some tourists report negative experiences with intrusive priests or aggressive sales tactics, which can create an uncomfortable atmosphere and detract from the spiritual experience. 

Similarly, some visitors also had the same complaints against the local vendors, who can get quite pushy in promoting their services and products. 

Pro-Tips to Keep in Mind While Visiting Gunung Lebah Temple

Now that you’ve some brief idea about the place, it’s time to get into some details. Below, we have covered some secret hacks, things that will help you make the most out of your trip: 

• Exercise caution when descending to the river, as the path can be slippery. The descent can be especially tricky after a heavy day of rainfall. So using handrails and using quality, hiking shoes is highly recommended.

• Parking at the temple can get seriously hectic and chaotic, especially during peak rush hours. To avoid this kind of headache, consider parking your vehicle near the local school, which is only a short walk away from the temple so that you can avoid parking difficulties near the temple.

• Be aware that the temple is primarily used as a place of worship rather than a tourist destination. Although tourists are always welcome, please don’t be surprised if you find certain sections of the temple inaccessible during a religious ceremony. To ensure you visit at the right times, make sure you inquire about the correct timings from local authorities or local guides beforehand. Generally, it’s recommended to avoid visiting during early mornings or late afternoons, as they tend to be preferred timings for religious ceremonies.  

• Since this is a real temple, dressing modestly is really a no-brainer. In practice, this means you should be covering your shoulders and knees and be prepared to wear a sarong (often provided at the entrance). Make sure you avoid wearing things that are flashy or glittery, as they really stand out from the overall aura of the place. 

• Remember, the Gunung Lebah Temple is a site of great religious significance and culture for the people there. So, it’s important that you respect and observe the local customs and behaviors. Even if you don’t like something done a certain way, show patience and respect.

• Again, since the place is situated on top of a hill, maintaining a moderate level of fitness and physique will go a long way to help you navigate the steep steps and pathways comfortably. Taking relevant breaks, and staying hydrated throughout your journey, will also go a long way to helping your journey.

Deep-Dive into finer aspects of Gunung Lebah Temple

Here’s our deep dive to help you learn all you need to know about Gunung Lebah Temple: 

Is It Overcrowded at Gunung Lebah Temple?

Gunung Lebah Temple is generally less crowded than many other popular attractions in Bali. Visitors often report a peaceful experience, especially during non-festival days and in the early morning hours. That’s because most tourists tend to look over this temple in favor of more well-known sites, which contributes to its relatively uncrowded atmosphere. 

This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a more serene and authentic temple experience in Ubud.

Is Gunung Lebah Temple Expensive?

While Gunung Lebah Temple is not particularly expensive, some visitors have reported issues related to pricing and fees. For example, there have been instances of persistent sarong sellers despite sarongs being included in the ticket price. Some visitors mentioned being overcharged on entry or asking for excessive donations. 

It's advisable to be aware of the official entrance fee—you can confirm it beforehand from local guides or relevant guides—and to politely decline any unnecessary charges or pressure to make additional donations.

How Is the Local Staff at Gunung Lebah Temple?

The local staff at Gunung Lebah Temple generally receives positive reviews from visitors. Many tourists describe the locals and staff as friendly and welcoming. Guides and priests are often praised for their knowledge and accommodating nature. The temple caretaker is frequently mentioned as helpful, providing traditional dress for visitors and allowing photography. 

Staff and volunteers are also noted to be actively involved in the temple's reconstruction efforts, demonstrating their dedication to preserving this important cultural site.

Is It Couple-Friendly?

Gunung Lebah Temple is frequently mentioned as an excellent destination for couples. Many reviewers who visited as part of a couple report having a positive experience. The serene and majestic location provides a romantic backdrop for couples to explore together. 

The temple's peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it ideal for couples seeking a cultural and spiritual experience in Bali.

Is It Family-Friendly?

Gunung Lebah Temple is generally considered family-friendly. It's located in an area that caters well to families, and many visitors report enjoying their visit with children. The temple can be incorporated into a family trekking activity, adding an educational and cultural element to a day out. 

However, parents should be mindful of the steep steps and pathways, which might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

How's the Food at Gunung Lebah Temple?

Food options at Gunung Lebah Temple are limited and have received mixed reviews. Some visitors have noted the presence of a beef and chicken burger stall inside the temple premises, which some find inappropriate for a religious site. 

It's generally recommended that you plan your meals outside the temple complex to enjoy more authentic and varied Balinese cuisine in nearby Ubud.

Other Activities to Do Close to Gunung Lebah Temple

Here are your top options for things to do near Gunung Lebah Temple:

1. Campuhan Ridge Walk: This scenic hiking trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is just a stone's throw away from the temple.

2. Ubud Art Market: Explore local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs at this vibrant market located in the heart of Ubud.

3. Ubud Monkey Forest: Visit this nature reserve and temple complex, home to hundreds of playful macaques.

4. Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Admire the iconic Balinese rice paddies, a short drive north of Ubud.

5. Yoga and Spa: Indulge in a yoga class or spa treatment at one of Ubud's many wellness centers.

6. Ubud Palace: Explore this historical royal residence and catch a traditional dance performance in the evening.

7. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): Discover this ancient archaeological site featuring intricate stone carvings.

The Basic Things to Know About Gunung Lebah Temple

You have a good idea about Gunung Lebah Temple by now, but you still need a view from the top. Here’s everything that you need to know to get the basics right:

Location of the Activity & How to Get There from Key Areas

Gunung Lebah Temple is located in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia. Here are the approximate distances from major locations:

• Ubud Center: 1 km (5-minute drive)
• Seminyak: 35 km (1-hour drive)
• Kuta: 38 km (1 hour 15-minute drive)
• Nusa Dua: 45 km (1 hour 30-minute drive)
• Uluwatu: 50 km (1 hour 45-minute drive)
• Jimbaran: 40 km (1 hour 20-minute drive)
• Sanur: 30 km (1-hour drive)

Here are the different ways to get to the place:

• From Ubud: The temple is within walking distance from central Ubud. You can also take a short taxi ride or rent a scooter.

• From Seminyak/Kuta/Nusa Dua: Hire a private driver or take a taxi for a more comfortable journey. Alternatively, you can rent a scooter, but be prepared for a longer ride.

• From Uluwatu/Jimbaran: A private car or taxi is recommended due to the distance. You can also join a guided tour that includes Ubud attractions.

• From Sanur: Take a taxi or hire a private driver. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Grab or GoJek for a convenient trip.

Entrance Fee

The entrance fee for Gunung Lebah Temple is typically around 30,000 IDR (approximately 2 USD) per person. This usually includes a sarong, which is necessary to wear on the temple premises. However, fees are always subject to change, so it's best to check current prices upon arrival.

Timings of Gunung Lebah Temple

The temple is generally open from sunrise to sunset (around 6 AM to 6 PM). However, as we said above, it's an active place of worship so certain areas may be closed to tourists during prayer times or religious ceremonies. 

It's therefore advisable to check with your hotel or a local guide for the most up-to-date information on accessibility.

Hotels Near Gunung Lebah Temple

Here are your top options to pick near Gunung Lebah Temple:

Restaurants Near Gunung Lebah Temple

No travel is complete without delicious food. So, here are your top picks for great foods near Gunung Lebah temple:

The Final Verdict

So that’s Gunung Lebah Temple for you in a nutshell. Arguably one of the most important Hindu temples in the history of Bali, the temple is located in an area of tranquillity and greenery that naturally pulls people on the lookout for a quiet, reflective trip.

Travelers from around the world have praised this place for its ancient architecture and history, with many appreciating the open nature of priests and the local staff.  At 30 Sundays, highly recommend you keep the temple on your Bali checklist—it’s an offbeat destination with a rich history and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions
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Does Gunung Lebah Temple have any special ceremonies or rituals?

Yes, Gunung Lebah Temple is frequently used for various religious ceremonies, including traditional Balinese rituals and offerings that honor the temple’s spiritual significance.

Is there an entrance fee to Gunung Lebah Temple?

Generally, there is no fixed entrance fee to visit Gunung Lebah Temple. However, it is customary in Balinese culture to make a small donation upon entering the temple. This donation helps support the temple’s maintenance, upkeep of its surrounding areas, and the preservation of its cultural and religious significance.

Where is Gunung Lebah Temple located?

The temple is located in Ubud, Bali, surrounded by lush jungle and rice terraces, making it a picturesque and tranquil site.