Handara Gate Bali

From the very beginning, Handara Gate has been a stunning Balinese Candi Bentar, or split gateway, characterised by the splitting of the heavenly from the earthly walks of life. It was first inaugurated as the entrance of the Handara Golf & Resort Bali, which made the whole complex reflect the Balinese philosophy and traditional design of the sacred world or peaceful space. The mountain high, located in the Bedugul highlands of northern Bali, near Pancasari village in the Sukasada district, is surrounded byп lush forests, rolling hills, and cool mountain air, a refreshing contrast to Bali's coastal heat.

The stone pillars are rising high and show lovely carvings and symbolic Balinese motifs, thus forming a scene with eternity that lasts and appeals to photographers, couples, families, and culture lovers. The site's popularity went through the roof as it became a darling of social media, where it was no longer just a quiet entrance but instead, a destination that had been on countless Instagram feeds and travel itineraries.

Iconic Split Gateway Architecture: This remarkable structure of two pillars not only exemplifies the traditional Balinese cultural design but also provides a great opportunity for taking unforgettable travel pictures.

Scenic Highland Setting: The church is situated in the cool, green Bedugul highlands, and the scenery of emerald hills and blue skies is really enchanting for the place's visual appeal.

Photography Paradise: No matter if you are using a smartphone or a professional camera, the gate is very likely the most photographed area in Bali.

Cultural Symbolism: The gateway, which is not a temple, nevertheless, reveals the spiritual and architectural practices of the Balinese.

Golf & Resort Access: Apart from photos, the beautifully crafted gate opens access to the classy Handara Golf & Resort, which is famous for its first-rate golf course.

Comfortable Temperate Climate: The altitude of the hilly area lowers the temperature and makes it comfortable; it is a significant contrast to the heat of Bali's coastal areas.

• Location: Pancasari Village, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
• Best Visiting Hours: Sunrise – Late Afternoon
• Suggested Duration: 1–3 hours

Nearby Attractions & Day Trips

• Ulun Danu Beratan Temple – A scenic water temple set on Lake Bratan.
• Wanagiri Hidden Hills – Elevated viewpoints over twin lakes with swings and lookout spots.
• Bedugul Botanical Garden – Peaceful gardens and lake views.
• Twin Lakes Buyan & Tamblingan – Natural lakes surrounded by rainforest and hiking routes.

Day-Trip Tip: Combine Handara Gate with Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Wanagiri Hidden Hills for a full day of highland culture, lakeside views, and iconic photo stops.

• From Ubud: ~1 hr 10 min – 1 hr 30 min by car or taxi.
• From Canggu: ~1 hr 15 min by car or ride-share.
• From Kuta: ~1 hr 30 min – 1 hr 45 min by private transport.
• From Denpasar: ~1 hr 20 min to 1 hr 40 min by taxi or rental.

There is no direct public transport to Handara Gate, so hiring a private car, taxi, or ride-share is the most convenient way to get here. Roads are well-signposted, and most drivers are familiar with the route through the Bedugul highlands.

• Sunrise & Early Morning: Ideal for soft light, fewer crowds, and misty mountain views.
• Dry Season (May–September): Generally clearer views and more predictable weather.
• Wet Season (October–April): Lush greenery, occasional mist, and unique lighting effects for dramatic photos.

Pro Tip: Arriving around sunrise not only ensures fewer people in your photos but also gives you cooler temperatures and stunning light patterns across the hills.

• Entrance Fee: Around IDR 30,000–50,000 per person for access to the photo area of the gate, payable in local currency.
• Photography Ticket: This ticket allows you to queue and take photos right in front of the gate structure, often for a limited time per group.
• Parking: There is parking available for cars and scooters near the gate area, sometimes with a small fee.
• Resort Access: If you are a guest at the Handara Golf & Resort Bali, access to the gate for photos may be included.

Capture Iconic Travel Photos: This is the main draw, line up for that classic shot framed by towering stone pillars and lush hills.

Enjoy the Highland Scenery: Take in the cool mountain air and scenic natural landscapes surrounding the gate.

Admire Balinese Architecture: Observe the traditional Candi Bentar design up close and appreciate its cultural symbolism.

Take a Short Walk Around the Grounds: Explore paths near the gate for different angles and views of the highland scenery.

Visit Nearby Highland Lakes: After photos, head to Lake Bratan or Twin Lakes for more scenic and cultural experiences.

Relax and People-Watch: Sit back, enjoy the calm atmosphere, and watch visitors interact and photograph.

Combine with Golf & Resort Experience: If you’re staying at the Handara Golf & Resort, enjoy the scenic golf course, dining, and leisure facilities.

• Early Morning – 6:00 AM to 8:30 AM: Arrive for sunrise → Capture photos at the iconic gate → Enjoy morning mist over hills.
• Mid-Morning – 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM: Take a scenic walk around the highlands → Grab a coffee or snack nearby.
• Late Morning – 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM: Visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple → Take lakeside photos and explore the shrine complex.
• Afternoon – 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM: Head to Wanagiri Hidden Hills → Try swings and viewpoints over twin lakes.
• Late Afternoon – 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM: Explore Bedugul Botanical Garden → Relax amidst flora before sunset return.

Handara Gate Bali has gone through a major change from being just an entrance to a resort to becoming one of the most photographed and loved places in Bali. Tourists of all ages find it hard to resist the gate for its combination of typical Balinese architecture, green mountains and great picture appeal. If you are after perfect travel photos, going through Bali's highlands or just enjoying calm and beautiful surroundings, then this place is going to give you a cultural and visual experience that is impossible to forget.

1. Capture the timeless and legendary photograph at the entrance with the mountain in the background. 
2. Discover the nearby sceneries for a different type of stunning landscape photography. 
3. Go to the temples and lakes that are close by to obtain a variety of cultural experiences. 
4. Take a leisurely walk in the pleasant and refreshing highland weather. 
5. Mix the trip with highland things to do, such as Hidden Hills or botanical gardens.

Handara Gate Bali is more than just a popular photo spot; it’s a timeless symbol of Bali’s natural beauty and architectural heritage, making it a must-visit in any well-planned Bali package. Set amid the cool Bedugul highlands, the iconic split gate offers a rare combination of dramatic landscapes, cultural elegance, and serene mountain views. Whether you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or cultural explorer, visiting Handara Gate delivers a visually stunning and emotionally memorable experience. Its classic design, misty surroundings, and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the best places to capture Bali’s essence in a single frame.