

Handara Gate is one of the most photographed landmarks in Bali. You have likely seen photos of this breathtaking, symmetrical stone gateway framed by misty green mountains all over Instagram. This towering Balinese split gate is set in the cool, misty highlands of Bedugul, roughly 1.5–2 hours from Ubud or South Bali. Handara Gate is not a temple; it is the entrance to Handara Golf & Resort Bali, built in the 1970s!
This guide covers everything about the Handara Gate, Bali, from ticket prices and the best time to visit to activities and tips to make your road trip worth the drive.
Detail | Information |
| Location | Pancasari, Bedugul Regency, North Bali, Indonesia |
| Best known for | Iconic Balinese split-gate photos |
| Entry fee | Around IDR 50,000 (approx. ₹457) |
| Opening hours | 6:00 AM–7:00 PM |
| Best time to visit | 6:00 AM–8:30 AM |
| Time required | Around 30–60 minutes |
| Best for | Photography, couples, families and scenic stops |
| Distance from Ubud | Around 45 km |
| Recommended transport | Private car, scooter or day tour |
| Drone photography | Permission may be required; check with staff. |
Note: Prices can change; verify the current rate before visiting.
The Handara Gate is located in the north-central highlands of Bali, Indonesia. Specifically, it sits in Pancasari Village within the Sukasada district of the Buleleng Regency.
The landmark serves as the grand entrance to the Handara Golf & Resort Bali. It is positioned directly along the main highway that connects the popular southern tourist hubs to northern coastal towns like Singaraja.
With so many stunning temples and viewpoints in Bali, you might be wondering why thousands of travellers make the long journey into the Bedugul highlands just to see a resort entrance. Here is why Handara Gate should be on your Bali tour packages.
1. A Picture-Perfect Photo Stop: Handara Gate’s iconic Balinese split-gate design makes it one of North Bali’s most recognisable photo spots. The symmetrical architecture and mountain scenery create a striking backdrop.
2. Beautiful Mountain Scenery: Set in Bali’s cool highlands, the gate is surrounded by lush forests and misty mountains. Early mornings are especially scenic when fog adds an atmospheric touch.
3. Escape Bali’s Coastal Heat: The high-altitude location is cooler and less humid than southern Bali, making Handara Gate a refreshing stop during a road trip.
4. Easy to Add to a Day Trip: Handara Gate is close to popular North Bali attractions, including Ulun Danu Beratan. Pairing them makes the long drive to the highlands more worthwhile.
The Handara Gate Bali entry fee for international visitors is around IDR 50,000 per person (approximately ₹457) for a standard gate visit and photo stop. Photography packages and additional services may have separate charges.
Experience | Indicative Price | Notes |
| Standard Entry | Around IDR 50,000 (₹457) | Gate visit and short photo stop |
| Photography Packages | Varies | Depends on the type and duration of the shoot |
| Drone Photography | Additional fee may apply | Confirm permission and charges with staff before flying a drone |
| Pre-Wedding Photography | Varies | Advance arrangements may be required |
Tip: If you are visiting Handara Gate for a few holiday photos, the standard entry is generally enough. Additional arrangements may be needed for drone photography, professional shoots or pre-wedding sessions.
Note: Entrance fees, photography charges and drone policies can change. Confirm the latest rates and requirements directly with the attraction before visiting.
Handara Gate is open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. For cooler weather and fewer crowds, visiting early in the morning is recommended.
Day | Opening Hours | Crowds |
| Monday–Sunday | 6:00 AM–7:00 PM | Usually busier later in the day |
| Nyepi | Closed | Bali observes a complete shutdown |
Handara Gate is more than a quick photo stop. Take time to enjoy the mountain scenery, explore the Balinese architecture and pair your visit with nearby North Bali attractions.
Here are some of the best things to do in Handara Gate, Bali:
The first activity is usually taking the signature photo between the towering split gates. Visitors can try different angles and poses, with the green highlands creating a natural backdrop.
The area around Handara Gate has a cooler, quieter atmosphere than many parts of Bali. Travellers can spend a few minutes enjoying the misty hills, greenery and fresh mountain air.

The Candi Bentar, or traditional split gate, is worth seeing up close. Visitors can observe its intricate stonework and distinctive Balinese design while learning more about the island's architectural style.
After photographing the main gate, travellers can take a short walk around the surrounding grounds. Different viewpoints offer photos of the gate, greenery and highland landscape without having to spend much extra time.
Handara Gate is easy to include in a North Bali sightseeing route. Travellers can continue to attractions such as Lake Bratan, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple or the Twin Lakes on the same day.
Those staying at Handara Golf & Resort can extend the experience by exploring the golf course, dining options and leisure facilities around the property.
Planning tip: Don't confuse Handara Gate with the famous Heaven Gate at Lempuyang Temple. Handara Gate is in Bali's northern highlands and is particularly known for its lush, misty setting.
Handara Gate is one of Bali’s most recognisable photo spots, but there are a few angles worth trying beyond the standard front-facing shot.
The best time to visit Handara Gate is early morning, between 6:00 AM and 8:30 AM, when the weather is cooler, crowds are lighter, and the soft light is ideal for photos.
Time | What to Expect | Best For |
| 6:00 AM–8:30 AM | Cooler weather, softer light and fewer visitors | Best overall time |
| 8:30 AM–10:00 AM | Visitor numbers gradually increase. | Good for photography |
| 10:00 AM–3:30 PM | Busiest period and stronger sunlight | Typically busier and brighter |
| 4:00 PM–6:30 PM | Potentially quieter, with softer light | Alternative time for a visit |
Early morning is the best choice for travellers who want a quieter experience and better conditions for photography. Arriving soon after the gate opens at 6:00 AM can help avoid the larger crowds that arrive later in the morning.
Tip: Check the weather forecast before visiting, as conditions can change quickly in Bali's highlands.
Handara Gate is located along the Jl. Raya Singaraja–Denpasar highway in Pancasari, Bedugul regency, North Bali. You can reach it by private car, scooter or a North Bali day tour.
A private car with a driver is the most comfortable option, especially for families and groups. A full-day private car with a driver may cost around IDR 500,000–700,000 (₹2,675–3,780), depending on the vehicle, duration, route and inclusions.
Scooters are suitable for experienced riders who want more flexibility. Rentals generally cost around IDR 80,000–150,000 (₹430–₹810) per day. The route is paved but includes steep climbs and winding sections. Carry a rain jacket, as weather in the Bedugul highlands can change quickly.
Starting Point | Approx. Distance | Approx. Travel Time |
| Ubud | ~45 km | 1.5–2 hours |
| Canggu/Seminyak | ~55–60 km | 2–2.5 hours |
| Kuta/Sanur | ~65 km | 2–2.5 hours |
| Munduk | ~18 km | 30–45 minutes |
Tip: Start early to avoid heavier traffic and allow extra time for the mountain roads, especially during rainy weather.
The cost depends on the entry fee, transport and any nearby attractions you choose to visit. Flights and accommodation are not included in this estimate.
Expense | Approx. Cost |
| Handara Gate entry | Around IDR 50,000 (₹457) |
| Transport from Ubud | Around IDR 300,000–600,000 (₹1,635–₹3,270) |
| Transport from South Bali | Around IDR 500,000–900,000 (₹2,725–₹4,905) |
| Nearby attractions | Around IDR 50,000–300,000 (₹275–₹1,635) |
| Food and drinks | Around IDR 50,000–150,000 (₹275–₹815) |
Prices are indicative and can vary by season, vehicle type and attraction. Confirm the latest entry fees and transport rates before visiting.
For a separate Bali holiday budget, a 5–6 day trip from India can include flights, accommodation, local transport, food and activities. The total cost varies based on travel dates, hotel category and itinerary, so it is better covered as a separate Bali trip cost section rather than as part of the Handara Gate entry guide.

Both gates offer a memorable photo experience, but they fit different Bali itineraries. Handara Gate is a shorter photo stop in the highlands, while Lempuyang Gate is part of a temple visit that can take considerably more time.
Key Point | Handara Gate Bali | Lempuyang Gate of Heaven |
| Best For | Quick photos and a relaxed stop | Temple visit and iconic gate photos |
| Time Needed | Around 30–60 minutes | Several hours, depending on queues and temple visit |
| Waiting Time | Usually shorter | Can be longer during busy periods |
| Difficulty | Easy access | More walking and stairs |
| Crowds | Can be busy during peak hours | Often busy, especially at popular times |
| Photo Type | Mountain and highland backdrop | Temple gate and mountain views |
| Travel Effort | Convenient for a North Bali itinerary | Requires more travel time, depending on your starting point |
| Overall Experience | Scenic photo stop | Temple and cultural experience |
Which one fits your itinerary? Choose Handara Gate if you want a quick photo stop while exploring North Bali. Choose Lempuyang Gate if you want to include a temple visit and have more time in your itinerary.
Handara Gate Bali is worth adding to your itinerary if you enjoy scenic mountain landscapes, photography and short, easy-to-plan attractions. Handara Gate works best as a short photography and sightseeing stop during a North Bali road trip. Allow around 30–60 minutes for the gate itself, then combine it with nearby attractions such as Ulun Danu Beratan, Banyumala or Wanagiri if you have more time.
A: Handara Gate is famous for its traditional Balinese split-gate design and dramatic mountain backdrop. It has become a popular photography spot in Bali, especially for the symmetrical gate view surrounded by the green Bedugul highlands.
A: No. Handara Gate is the entrance to Handara Golf & Resort Bali. Although it has a traditional Balinese architectural style similar to temple gates, it is not a place of worship.
A: The standard photo-entry fee is currently reported at around IDR 50,000 (approximately ₹457) per person. Fees and photography packages can change, so confirm the current rate before visiting.
A: Handara Gate is generally open from around 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. Opening hours can change, so check before your visit.
A: Early morning, around opening time, is a good option for cooler weather, softer light and potentially shorter queues. Morning mist is possible in the highlands but depends on the weather.
A: Most visitors need around 20–40 minutes, including time for the photo queue. You may need longer during busy periods.
A: Handara Gate is located at Handara Golf & Resort Bali in Pancasari, Buleleng Regency, in the Bedugul highlands of northern Bali.
A: The easiest option is a private car or driver, following the route towards Bedugul and Pancasari. You can also travel by scooter if you are comfortable with Bali's longer mountain routes and road conditions.
A: Handara Gate is roughly 1.5–2 hours by car from Ubud, depending on traffic and road conditions.
A: Yes. The main photo spot can develop queues, particularly later in the morning and during busy periods. Arriving early can help reduce waiting time.
A: Yes. You do not need to play golf to visit the gate as a photography stop. The gate is a popular visitor attraction in its own right, separate from playing on the golf course.
A: Drone use and professional photography may require separate permission and additional fees. Since Handara Gate is within a golf resort, confirm the current rules with the resort staff before bringing a drone or arranging a professional shoot.