Tirta Gangga is a former royal palace in Eastern Bali, Indonesia, about 5 kilometers from Karangasem, near Abang. It is noted for its water palace, owned by Karangasem Royal. Tirta Gangga literally means water from the Ganges and it is a site of some reverence for the Hindu Balinese. Strictly, the name refers to the water palace built in 1948 by the Raja of Karangasem, Anak Agung Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem. It is, however, the name widely used to refer to the general area which includes the water palace and the lush rural areas around.
Tirta Gangga water palace is a maze of pools and fountains surrounded by a lush garden and stone carvings and statues.
The one hectare complex was built in 1946 by the late King of Karangasem but was destroyed almost entirely by the eruption of nearby Mount Agung in 1963. It has been lovingly re-built and restored and has an air of authentic royal magnificence. The centrepiece of the palace is an eleven tiered fountain and there are many beautiful carvings and statues adorning the gardens. The area around Tirta Gangga is noted for its rice paddy terraces.
Entering the site, the first thing that comes into view is a pond where rows of guardian figures holding cudgels are neatly arranged. Also, polygonal stepping stones which enable visitors to ‘tour’ the pond are set out in order. This allows viewing the old and relatively large golden carp from up close in the clear and shallow ponds. Behind the first pond is the central towering fountain, again featuring guardian statues at its base. This 10m high fountain has eleven tiers with a shape of a lotus at its tip. The spouting water splashes down the tiers to make a cooling effect and a soothing sight.
The springs are located at a higher ground to the right of the entrance of the site, under a large banyan tree. The water is considered holy by the locals and is used during religious ceremonies, as well as a source of potable water. At the lower level of the water source are two clear pools. One of them serves as a public wading pool and visitors are welcome to swim here. The pools have a design that harks back to the olden days, consisting of sandstone and natural materials. Different floor depths enable all ages to enjoy the pools.
The grand 100 sqm pond at the southern side of the complex is filled with large golden carp and other large fish, and swimming is prohibited. Two bridges connect the sides of the pond, which feature ornate mythical Balinese dragon statues at its sides.
Good to Know about Tirta Gangga
Tirta Gangga is a convenient stopover along tour itineraries to Bali’s eastern region. Its main entrance and large parking area is easily spotted from the main Amlapura Road.
The site is open to the public and a small entrance fee applies which goes towards maintenance. It is a favourite retreat and some weekends may seem a bit crowded. Besides the many small warung stalls outside of the main site and around the parking area,
Tirta Gangga also boasts accommodation facilities and a restaurant, as well as the Tirta Ayu Hotel & Restaurant – located just behind the main fountain. Tirta Ayu features a menu that offers a combination of international dishes, through a variety of salad choices, vegetarian delights, mouth-watering desserts and pastries. It also offers a selection of wines, ice-cold beers and exotic cocktails. Guests here dine alfresco, with open views to the beautiful water gardens and fountains.
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