Bali Handara Gate | Bali

Bali Handara Gate – In Detail

Location: Bedugul Highlands, Pancasari Village, Buleleng Regency, North Bali
Altitude: Around 1,200 meters above sea level
Geographic Context: Nestled between lush mountains, misty forests, and volcanic landscapes, near Lake Beratan and Ulun Danu Temple

Overview and Symbolic Meaning

Name:
“Bali Handara Gate” refers to the Candi Bentar (split gate) entrance of Handara Golf & Resort Bali. Although not a religious temple gate, it has become one of the most photographed landmarks on the island, thanks to its grand scale and iconic Balinese architecture framed by tropical highland scenery.

Symbolism:
Traditional candi bentar gates represent the cosmic division between the outer secular world and the sacred inner space. Though this particular gate does not lead to a temple, it maintains the aesthetic and symbolic role of spiritual transition in Balinese design.

Design and Architecture

Gate Style:

Candi Bentar, a Balinese split gate formed by two tall structures mirroring each other

Decorated with carved stone reliefs, following the traditional style used at temples and palaces

Material:

Volcanic stone with dark grey tones, weathered naturally by mountain mists and moss

Gives an ancient, timeless look despite being relatively modern in origin (built in the 1970s along with the resort)

Scale and Proportion:

Towering gate structures rise symmetrically over a paved road

The road beyond the gate stretches into the forested hills, visually enhancing the feeling of entering another realm

Backdrop:

The gates are framed by dense greenery, tall coniferous trees, and often soft clouds or mist that settle in the mornings

Distant ridges and mountain peaks create dramatic depth

Cultural and Photographic Importance

Though originally just the entrance to a golf resort, the Handara Gate has evolved into a cultural photo icon, especially with the rise of Instagram tourism in Bali.

Photographic Features:

Symmetry: The gate’s mirror-like form and vanishing road provide natural symmetry for portraits and framing

Lighting: Mist and cloud create mystical ambiance, especially in the early morning

Reflection Trick: Some photographers use a smartphone glass or mirror below the camera to simulate a water reflection effect

Spiritual Feel:
While not sacred in the religious sense, the design borrows heavily from Hindu-Balinese cosmology, evoking the essence of peace, balance, and gateway symbolism.

Practical Information

Entry Policy:

The gate belongs to Handara Golf & Resort Bali

Open to the public for photography and brief visits

Photo Access Fee:

IDR 30,000–50,000 per person (~$2–4 USD)

Ticket issued at a small booth at the entrance

Fee includes access to the gate area only, not the full resort or golf course

Opening Hours:

Daily, approx. 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Staff is present for ticketing and managing queue

Peak Hours:

9:00 AM to 2:00 PM is the busiest time, especially with tour groups

Visitors often line up for individual photo sessions

Best Visiting Time

Ideal Time:

6:30 AM – 8:30 AM: Cool mountain air, golden morning light, fewer people, and possible mist

Late afternoon (4:30 PM – 5:30 PM): Softer light and smaller crowds, but weather may be more unpredictable

Avoid:

Midday if seeking solitude or professional photos; lighting becomes harsh and queues are longest

Nearby Attractions

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: Just 10 minutes south, a major water temple on Lake Beratan

Bali Botanical Garden (Kebun Raya Bali): Nearby, offering forest walks, canopy views, and plant conservatories

Twin Lakes Viewpoint (Danau Buyan & Danau Tamblingan): Around 25–30 minutes northwest with breathtaking lookouts

Wanagiri Hidden Hills: Another famous photo spot with swings, nests, and viewing platforms

Visitor Tips

Attire: No religious dress code, but modest clothing is appreciated out of respect for the location and culture

Props: Bring a scarf, umbrella, or traditional fabric for photo creativity

Tripod/Helper: If you're alone, tripod photography is allowed or resort staff may assist

Weather: Due to its highland location, weather can shift quickly-carry a rain jacket or umbrella

Summary

Bali Handara Gate is a perfect example of how a secular location, through Balinese architecture and stunning natural surroundings, can embody deep spiritual aesthetics. Though not a temple, its majestic gate, set against misty mountain peaks, offers a symbolic entrance to tranquility and natural harmony. Whether you come for the iconic photo or the serene atmosphere, Handara Gate captures a side of Bali that balances both tradition and modern expression.