Taman Ujung
Taman Ujung
A garden palace overlooking the sea. A legacy of the eastern kingdom, blending Balinese decoration with European style.
Taman Ujung, stretching along the coast overlooking the Lombok Strait in East Bali, is the magnificent ruin of a royal retreat from the Karangasem Kingdom, also known as a 'Water Palace.' Its name means 'Garden at the End.' Construction began in 1909 by the last King of Karangasem. The vast grounds feature several large ponds, with palaces and pavilions built to look as if they are floating on the water. While based on traditional Balinese architecture, it features a unique style reflecting the king's international sensibilities, incorporating European influences in its arched bridges and pillars, and Chinese details in its intricate designs. From the main building on the hill, one can see the entire garden, the blue sea beyond, and the sacred Mount Agung. It is a place to enjoy the stunning views once savored by royalty and the tranquil atmosphere filled with the sound of water.
History: Royal Splendor and Rebirth from Disaster
Taman Ujung was built by the King of Karangasem, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut, as a place for relaxation and to receive guests, with assistance from Dutch and Chinese architects. However, this splendid water palace suffered extensive damage from volcanic ash during the 1963 Mount Agung eruption and an earthquake in 1976, leaving it in ruins for a long time. Later, a restoration project supported by the World Bank and the local government began, and its former glory was restored in the early 2000s. Its history is a story of the natural forces that shaped East Bali and the human effort to preserve cultural heritage for the future.
Architecture: A Hybrid of Balinese and Western Styles
The most fascinating aspect of this palace is its brilliant fusion of traditional Balinese aesthetics with contemporary European architectural styles. The concrete arched bridges and the design of the main building's pillars are clearly Western, yet the roof shapes and the carvings of Hindu myths on the walls are distinctly Balinese. This can be seen as an expression of the Karangasem Kingdom's pride and determination to maintain its own culture, even during the Dutch colonial period. The space, where different cultural elements harmonize without feeling out of place, creates a uniquely original beauty.
Visiting Tips and Etiquette
The grounds are vast with little shade, so a hat, sunscreen, and drinking water are essential. There is no set visiting route, but it's best to start with the 'Bale Karang' pavilion in the middle of the pond and the 'Bale Kambang' (Floating Pavilion) at the end of a long bridge. As these are historical structures, be careful not to touch or damage the carvings. The location is also extremely popular for pre-wedding photoshoots, so you may encounter couples in beautiful attire.
Highlights (What to See!)
The most stunning view is from the colonnade at the highest point of the complex. From there, you get a panoramic view of the geometrically arranged ponds and buildings, with the Lombok Strait stretching out in the background. On a clear day, you can also see the majestic form of Mount Agung. From the middle of the long bridge crossing the pond, you can capture beautiful photos of the 'inverted palace' reflected on the water's surface. Visiting on a calm, windless day will reward you with a more perfect, symmetrical landscape.
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