Handara Gate, located in the northern part of Bali, is one of the most iconic and I think one of the most photogenic buildings on the island. I think many of you have seen photos of this magnificent gate on the internet and social media and admired it just like me. Handara Gate was one of the places I wanted to see the most before my trip to Bali and in this article I would like to answer your questions about this place. I can say that Handara Gate is much more than just a photo frame and now I would like to tell you about the history, cultural importance and unique experiences that this unique structure offers to visitors.
Where to find Handara Gate?
Handara Gate is located in the northeast of Bali Island, in the Bedugul district. I can say the following about this region. Gunung Agung mountain, one of the highest volcanic mountains in Bali, is located here and Handara Gate is located at the foot of this mountain. The Bedugul region, which stands out with its cool air and impressive nature, also includes Lake Bratan, one of Bali’s most famous lakes. Handara Gate sits in the middle of this magnificent landscape, commanding a spectacular view, and combined with the lush green forests, mountains and meadows around it, it created a magnificent postcard-perfect atmosphere for me.
History and Meaning of Handara Gate
Handara Gate has a structure that reflects the traditional architecture of Bali and I have seen this architecture in almost all parts of the island. This is a typical Balinese architecture and designed in the “Candi Bentar” style, which is identified with Hindu temples. If you ask what Candi Bentar means; it is an architectural structure consisting of half walls located on both sides of a temple and symbolizing a spiritual transition for those who enter the structure. Handara Gate is one of the most beautiful examples of this architectural style.
Throughout my trip, I saw that temples in Bali are generally designed to be in harmony with nature. Handara Gate, as a structure that integrates with the surrounding mountains and forests, has become a symbol that blends nature and spiritual values. The road in front of the gate looks like a mystical passageway that carries me to another world. Before I came here, I had read that people called this place the “Path of Peace”. Now I realize once again how right they were.
How to get to Handara Gate?
Handara Gate is located approximately 2-3 hours away from Kuta and Seminyak, the tourist centers of Bali. I generally stayed in Sanur during my Bali trip and used Poyto.com for transportation. Poyto.com offers daily tours to the temples in Bali apart from Personalized Bali Tours. You can also choose these as extra daily tours on your Bali trip. Also, it is best to set off in the morning to go to the Bedugul area, as it offers a cooler and more peaceful environment.
Another point to be aware of before you set off is that the area is sometimes under heavy traffic. For this reason, your journey may take a little longer than planned, just like my trip. However, despite all the difficulties, the view I saw when I reached the Handara Gate made me forget all the difficulties I had experienced and I only had to enjoy the moment.
Handara Gate and its legendary view
I was so mesmerized by the harmony of the Handara Gate with the surrounding nature that I can still find peace even when I think about those moments over and over again. The large area in front of the gate is covered with lush green grass and the view of the high mountains and forest in the background is mesmerizing. If you have a passion for photography, I would definitely recommend coming here early in the morning. I was a bit late due to traffic, but if you come early in the morning, you can see the intoxicating fog layer as it disappears towards the top of the mountains.
There are various hotels and resting spots around Handara Gate. You can choose to stay overnight here or spend a few hours in the surrounding areas, taking photos of the scenery or just meditating and listening to the sounds of nature.
Taking Photos at Handara Gate
Before I arrived, I realized that Handara Gate has become one of the most photographed buildings in Bali. This unique structure creates a mesmerizing composition with the mountain view visible through its high walls. I chose to take a short walk into the jungle after a few photo shoots and I highly recommend you to do the same. This mystical environment after the “Path of Peace” will be so good for your soul that you will take that peace with you when you leave this place.
When I looked at the photos taken by photographers and social media users before I came here, Handara Gate was just an image of the atmosphere reflecting a dream world, but now I see that it is not just a photo frame. The foggy and mystical atmosphere unique to the region, its harmony with nature, its silence, traditional Balinese decorations on the gates, traditional architecture and all, every detail, you should definitely come here on your trip to Bali.
Other Places to Visit Around Handara Gate
There are many different places and natural beauties to visit around Handara Gate. As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, Bedugul is home to Lake Bratan, one of Bali’s most famous lakes. On the edge of the lake is the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, which looks like it is floating in the elliptical shaped lake. The Ulun Danu Bratan Temple is one of Bali’s most popular tourist spots and is a point of visit near the Handara Gate.
There are also several hiking routes and mountain scenic trails for those who want to explore the area. I’m a big fan of hiking in nature. You can also take nature walks on the trails and observe the magnificent vegetation of the region.
The Best Time to Visit Handara Gate
You can actually come to Bali at any time of the year, but between November and February, you can generally see occasional showers from time to time. Due to the climate in Bali, there are also sudden rain showers in the summer months. The best time to visit Handara Gate is definitely early in the morning, as I have mentioned in several points of this article. The area is generally calmer in the morning and offers a more peaceful atmosphere for those who want to be in touch with nature. Also, the northern region of Bali offers a cool climate year-round, so it’s an ideal escape for those looking to escape the summer heat.
If you want to avoid the crowds, you may prefer to visit on weekdays, especially in the morning. However, Bali’s popular tourist areas can often be busy, so it’s worth planning according to the time of day before heading to Handara Gate.
Handara Gate, Bali’s Legendary Beauty
Handara Gate is a unique place that combines Bali’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. This fascinating gate is not only a tourist attraction, but also an experience integrated with nature where you can feel the mystical atmosphere of Bali. If you are planning a trip to Bali, Handara Gate should be on your list of must-see places. The tranquility, the photographs and the natural beauties here will make you return from Bali with unforgettable memories.