Bali Handara Gate: Iconic pillars for the selfie age

Indonesian Name: Pintu Gerbang Serga

Bali Handara Gate | Image: Oleksandr Pidvalnyi

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    Visit with a tour

    Introduction

    Bali Handara Gate is a popular tourist attraction located in the village of Pancasari in the district of Buleleng, on the island of Bali, Indonesia. It is known for its distinctive Balinese architecture and its beautiful setting in the midst of a pine forest.

    The gate is situated at the entrance to the Handara Golf & Resort Bali, which is a luxury resort located in the central highlands of Bali. The gate is a popular spot for tourists to take photos, as it is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

    The Bali Handara Gate is constructed in the traditional Balinese style, with a thatched roof and intricate carvings. It is painted in bright colors, which adds to its beauty and appeal. The gate is also adorned with colorful flowers and plants, which further enhance its beauty.

    In addition to its beauty, the Bali Handara Gate is also an important cultural and historical site. It is a popular spot for tourists to learn about the culture and history of Bali, and to experience the beauty of the island's natural surroundings.

    Address

    Jl. Raya Singaraja-Denpasar, Pancasari, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali, Indonesia (See on Google Maps)

    Location

    The Bali Handara Gate is located in the village of Pancasari in the district of Buleleng, on the island of Bali.

    Address & Phone Number of Nearest Hospital for Emergency

    The nearest hospital to the Bali Handara 'Gates of Heaven' is the Tabanan Hospital, which can be found at Jl. Raya Tabanan No.11, Tabanan, Kabupaten Tabanan, Bali 82121, Indonesia. The hospital's phone number is +62 361 812318.

    It is recommended to have Bali travel insurance when visiting any foreign country, and to familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital in case of an emergency.

    Three Key Reasons To Visit

    1. Cultural and historical experiences: Bali is known for its rich cultural heritage and there are many opportunities for visitors to learn about and experience the island's culture and history. The Bali Handara Gate, for example, is an important cultural and historical site and offers visitors the chance to learn about traditional Balinese architecture and culture.

    2. To grab an iconic shot: Ok, Let’s face it, this should really be number one. There’s something magical about this shot, in any weather. It might be misty and mysterious, sunny and showstopping or raining and radiant – whatever the conditions you’ll be sure to get a shot that will live large in your lifetime memories.

    3. As a reason to get up early: Because the reality is the queue here can be long to get that shot, so you may as well consider it an incentive to get an early start and then move on to some of the other nearby attractions.

    A Little History

    The gate was constructed as the entrance to the Handara Golf & Resort Bali, which is located nearby. The resort was built in the 1970s and is known for its luxurious facilities and beautiful setting amid a pine forest.

    Despite its relatively recent construction, the Bali Handara Gate is an important cultural and historical site due to its distinctive Balinese architecture and its role as a symbol of the island's culture and history.

    Today, the Bali Handara Gate is a popular tourist attraction and is visited by thousands of people each year. It is a popular spot for tourists to take photos and learn about the culture and history of Bali, and to experience the beauty of the island's natural surroundings.

    What To Expect When Visiting

    When visiting the Bali Handara Gate, visitors can expect to experience the beauty and serenity of the surrounding pine forest, as well as the distinctive Balinese architecture of the gate itself.

    Visitors can expect to find well-maintained gardens and landscaping surrounding the gate, as well as colorful flowers and plants. The gate itself is adorned with intricate carvings, which adds to its beauty and appeal.

    When visiting the Bali Handara Gate, visitors should also expect to encounter other tourists, as it is a popular spot for tourists to take photos and learn about the culture and history of Bali. Visitors are typically welcome to take photos and explore the area but should be respectful of the gate and the surrounding gardens and refrain from disturbing or damaging any plants or other features.

    Photo Opportunities and Tips

    There are many photo opportunities to be found at the Bali Handara Gate, both in front of the gate itself and in the surrounding gardens and landscaping. Some tips for taking photos at the Bali Handara Gate include:

    1. Choose the right time of day: The best time to take photos at the Bali Handara Gate will depend on the type of shot you are looking to capture. If you want to capture the gate in all its glory, with the surrounding gardens and landscaping in the background, it is best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the lighting is softer and more diffuse. If you want to capture more dramatic shots with deep shadows and contrast, visit in the middle of the day when the sun is high in the sky.

    2. Experiment with different angles: The Bali Handara Gate is a photogenic subject, and there are many different angles and perspectives from which to photograph it. Try shooting from different angles and heights to see what works best for your composition. A drone is not necessary to get a good perspective, but recently several shots have been done with a drone and have been eye-catching.

    3. Use a tripod: If you want to capture sharp, well-exposed photos, consider using a tripod to stabilize your camera. This will allow you to use longer shutter speeds, which will help to capture the detail and color of the gate and the surrounding gardens.

    4. Wear something brightly-coloured to bring a splash of colour and make yourself the focal point. The surrounding colours are mostly green, asphalt of the road and grey stone of the gates so bright clothing will make you pop.

    5. Take advantage of the natural light: The natural light in the pine forest surrounding the Bali Handara Gate is beautiful, and can be used to great effect in your photos. Try shooting at different times of day to see how the light changes and how it affects the look of your photos.

    What Visitors Say They Liked About Visiting

    Visitors to the Bali Handara Gate generally have positive things to say about their experience. Many visitors appreciate the beauty and serenity of the surrounding pine forest, as well as the distinctive Balinese architecture of the gate itself.

    Many visitors also enjoy the opportunity to learn about the culture and history of Bali, and appreciate the gate's role as a symbol of the island's cultural heritage. The well-maintained gardens and landscaping surrounding the gate are also often mentioned as a highlight of the visit.

    Overall, visitors to the Bali Handara Gate tend to have a positive and enjoyable experience,

    What Visitors Say They Did Not Like About Visiting

    It is not common for visitors to the Bali Handara Gate to report negative experiences. However, some visitors may find the crowds at the gate to be a bit of a drawback, as it is a popular spot for tourists to take photos and can get quite busy at times.

    Overall, it is rare for visitors to the Bali Handara Gate to have negative experiences or to report disliking their visit. Most visitors tend to have positive and enjoyable experiences and appreciate the opportunity to learn about the culture and history of Bali and to experience the beauty of the island's natural surroundings.

    How accessible is it for the elderly, children and those who are disabled?

    The Bali Handara Gate is generally accessible for elderly visitors, children, and those who are disabled. The gate is located at the entrance to the Handara Golf & Resort Bali, which is a luxury resort that is equipped with modern facilities and amenities. The resort is accessible by car or by taxi, and there is ample parking available for those who are driving.

    The gate itself is located at ground level and is easily accessible, with a flat, paved surface leading up to it. The surrounding gardens and landscaping are also flat and easy to navigate, making it easy for visitors of all ages and abilities to explore the area.

    It is worth noting, however, that the Bali Handara Gate is located in a rural area and may not be as easily accessible for those with mobility impairments as more urban areas. If you have mobility issues and are planning to visit the gate, it may be a good idea to plan your visit in advance and to consider hiring a private driver or using a wheelchair-accessible vehicle to get around.

    Overall, the Bali Handara Gate is a relatively accessible destination, and most visitors should have no difficulty exploring the area. However, as with any destination, it is always a good idea to plan ahead and to be aware of any accessibility issues that may affect your visit.

    Safety Tips When Visiting

    Bali is generally a safe destination for tourists, and visitors to the Bali Handara Gate should not encounter any major safety issues. However, as with any destination, it is always a good idea to take some basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Some safety tips for visiting the Bali Handara Gate include:

    1. Stay alert: Stay aware of your surroundings and be alert to any potential dangers. Keep an eye on your belongings particularly if you are putting belongings down on the side of the road to take photos.

    2. Protect yourself from the sun whilst your queue for photos: The sun in Bali can be intense, particularly during the middle of the day. Wear sunscreen and a hat and stay hydrated to avoid heat stroke or sunburn.

    3. Respect local customs: Bali is a culturally and religiously diverse place, and it is important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of any local rules or customs that you should follow. Posing for photos in skimpy clothing in this location is not advised.

    4. Use common sense: Use common sense and good judgment when visiting the Bali Handara Gate and the surrounding area. Be cautious when exploring the area and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

    Overall, the Bali Handara Gate is a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists, and most visitors should have no major safety issues. However, it is always a good idea to take basic precautions and to use common sense to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

    Typical Amount of Time to Allocate for a Visit

    The typical amount of time to allocate for a visit to the Bali Handara Gate will depend on your interests and what you hope to see and do while you are there. Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour at the gate, taking photos and exploring the surrounding gardens and landscaping.

    If you are interested in learning more about the culture and history of Bali, or if you want to spend more time exploring the area, you may want to allocate more time for your visit. The Handara Golf & Resort Bali, which is located nearby, also offers a range of activities and amenities, including golf courses, spas, and restaurants, which may be of interest to some visitors.

    Overall, it is a good idea to plan your visit to the Bali Handara Gate in advance and to allocate enough time to see and do the things that interest you. Keep in mind that the gate is located in a rural area, and you may need to allow extra time for travel to and from the gate if you are staying in a more urban area.

    Food and Drink Options Nearby

    There are several small convenience stores and warungs selling a variety of snacks and beverages, including local fruits and juices in the area. Many of the local ‘warung’ restaurants in the area offer vegan and vegetarian options, as well as traditional Indonesian dishes.

    Conclusion

    If you're planning a trip to Bali and are looking for unique and memorable experiences to add to your tour itinerary, the Bali Handara Gate should definitely be on your list! This beautiful and distinctive gate is located in the midst of a pine forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

    Overall, the Bali Handara Gate is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Bali. It is a beautiful and photogenic spot that offers visitors the chance to learn about the culture and history of Bali and to experience the beauty of the island's natural surroundings. Whether you're looking to take stunning photos, relax and unwind, or learn about the culture and history of Bali, the Bali Handara Gate is a must-see destination that you won't want to miss!

    Discover more destinations in Central Bali


    Simon St John

    Editorial Team
    Hi, I’m
    Simon St John, Baligram’s writer. I am a published Author of travel guide books and a Travel Writer. I have visited Bali more than 35 times over a 25-year period. I share my passion for Bali’s nature, culture, and adventure in this travel guide. I welcome your feedback and ideas!
    Read about Simon and about Baligram.

    https://baligram.me
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