Handara Gate, located in Buleleng Regency, North Bali, continues to hold its reputation as one of the most popular tourist spots for international visitors, particularly those from various Asian countries.
The destination is well-known for its traditional Balinese architectural design framed by lush mountain scenery, making it one of the most photographed locations in the region.
Putu Ngurah Putra Sudarmaya, Marketing Staff at the Buleleng Tourism Office, explained that tourist visitation patterns shift depending on the holiday season.
“If we look closely, most of the visitors to Handara Gate come from Asia, such as China, during the high season. Meanwhile, during the low season, they come from India, like now.” he told Antara in Bali.
Putu explained that many visitors arrive with special preparations to capture the best possible photos. It is common for them to bring specific outfits or costumes that complement the iconic Balinese gate backdrop.
Once at the location, visitors typically wait in line for about five to ten minutes before it is their turn to take photos. This short wait is considered normal due to the site’s popularity, especially during peak hours.
Some tourists even hire personal photographers to ensure high-quality results, while others opt for local photography services available on-site for Rp20,000 per session, a convenient option for those who prefer a simpler arrangement.
Entrance fees to Handara Gate differ based on visitor category. Domestic tourists are charged Rp30,000, while international visitors pay Rp50,000. No time limit is imposed on how long tourists may stay at the site, giving them the freedom to enjoy the atmosphere at their own pace.
Nevertheless, Putu recommends visiting in the morning or before sunset, since the natural lighting during these periods is considered ideal for photography and provides a warm, scenic ambiance.
Quieter Environment
In addition to its visual charm, the tranquility of Buleleng is also a key factor that draws tourists. Putu explained that many visitors choose North Bali precisely because they want to avoid the crowded tourist centers of South Bali.
The quieter environment, combined with lush natural surroundings, gives Handara Gate a more exclusive and relaxing feel for travelers seeking a different kind of experience.
The site’s popularity soared even further during the COVID-19 pandemic after a photo and video posted by a Russian tourist went viral on social media.
Commenting on this trend, Putu noted “Especially with Asians, if there’s a good photo and it goes viral, everyone immediately wants to go there.” This viral phenomenon played a significant role in attracting more Asian tourists to a destination that previously had limited exposure.
Handara Gate is essentially the main entrance to the Handara Golf and Resort Bali, located along the Singaraja–Denpasar main road in Sukasada District.
Its distinctive blend of traditional Balinese architecture and lush mountain landscapes continues to make it a favorite backdrop for social media posts by both domestic and international travelers.
The growing interest in this destination is supported by data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS). Between January and October 2025, the number of Indian tourists increased by 3.25 percent, reaching 603,654 visitors.
Meanwhile, Chinese tourists saw an even more significant rise of 10.15 percent, totaling 1,135,556 visitors. These figures reflect the steady growth of tourism in North Bali, including Handara Gate, and hint at even greater potential in the coming years.
Sources : Antaranews, Metrotv
Feat Image : via AntaraNews/Hreeloita Dharma Shanti