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Tirta Gangga

Tourist SpotGardenEast BaliPhotogenic
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Tirta Gangga

Tourist SpotGardenEast BaliPhotogenic

A garden known as the "Water Palace," famous for its stepping stones.

Built in the mid-20th century as a royal retreat for the Karangasem Kingdom of East Bali, this 'Water Palace' derives its name from the sacred Ganges River, meaning 'Water from the Ganges.' It features pools and fountains fed by a natural spring from the foothills of Mount Agung, stone statues of saints, and a striking corridor of stepping stones arranged geometrically across the water. It served as a resting place for royalty and a sacred bathing site for locals. The design uniquely blends traditional Balinese architecture with Chinese and European influences. The morning light shimmering on the water, schools of colorful koi carp swimming gracefully, and scattered offering petals create a serene rhythm. The stepping stones are a popular, often crowded photo spot, and navigating them politely with others is part of the experience.

History and Royal Philosophy

The gardens were created in 1946 by the last King of Karangasem, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut. It is said the king himself participated in the design and construction alongside architects and laborers. However, it was severely damaged by the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung. It was later restored to its present beauty over many years by the local community. The garden reflects the Balinese Hindu Cosmology, with its three-tiered structureโ€”the world of gods, the world of humans, and the world of demonsโ€”symbolically represented through the layout of its fountain towers, ponds, and lower pools.

Culture and Water Worship

In Bali, water is considered sacred, a holy substance that purifies all things and nurtures life. The water from Tirta Gangga's spring is held in such high regard that it is used in ceremonies at surrounding temples. The stone statues of deities and animals placed around the ponds are not mere decorations; they narrate Hindu mythology and signify the area's status as a sanctuary. Feeding the koi carp is a popular activity, which also holds meaning as part of an offering to the gods. If you listen quietly to the sound of the water, you may feel the Balinese people's deep reverence for nature.

Highlights (What to See!)

The most famous feature is the pathway of stepping stones across the pond. You can take magical photos that look as if you are walking on water. Balancing your way across to take a photo with the central 11-tiered *Meru* (multi-roofed shrine) is a classic shot. Further in, there is a bathing area (swimming pool) where you can purify yourself in the cold, holy spring water (swimwear required, separate fee). The view from the elevated ground overlooking the entire complex is also fantastic, perfect for capturing the geometric layout of the gardens.

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Basic Information

  • ๐Ÿ“AddressJl. Abang-Amlapura, Ababi, Abang, Karangasem, Bali 80852
  • โฐHours06:00 AM โ€“ 7:00 PM
  • ๐ŸšซClosedOpen daily (Closed for Nyepi)
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐAdmission FeeForeigners: Adult 90,000 IDR / Child 45,000 IDR (Garden entrance)
  • ๐Ÿš—Access
    • About a 2-hour drive from Ubud
    • Easy to combine with other East Bali sights (like Lempuyang Temple)
๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ View on Map
Tirta Gangga | Balitra | Complete Bali Travel Guide