A few kilometres from Amlapura, in eastern Bali, stands the Tirta Gangga water palace. A celebrated resort located in the Karangasem district, in the village of Ababi, it ranks among the most beautiful sites on the Island of the Gods. Perfect for a moment of relaxation and tranquillity, visitors will appreciate its natural surroundings. We recommend this destination to all lovers of peace and serenity!

History

The Tirta Gangga water palace was constructed in 1947 by Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut, the last raja of Karangasem. At that time, the site was a private resort dedicated solely to him and his family. Struck by the eruption of Mount Agung in 1963, the site and water palace were rebuilt anew.

In former times, it was customary for each Balinese kingdom to have its own palace supported by an external water installation or natural setting. This could be a pool, swimming area, park or retreat centre. The Tirta Gangga royal baths were thus annexed to the royal palace of the Karangasem kingdom.

Discovering the Tirta Gangga water palace

The Tirta Gangga royal baths span 12,000 m² and are divided into three sections. The site comprises the lotus pond and fountain, the royal pool and the king's palace.

"Tirta" in Indonesian means "blessed water", and "gangga" means "Ganges". The name of the place thus references the famous river in India, a sacred source for Hinduism. It is therefore a place of great importance to Balinese Hindus.

The Tirta Gangga water garden combines Chinese and Balinese gardening techniques. An eleven-tiered fountain dominates the entire site and exemplifies this blend of styles. It is the centrepiece of the location. Beyond this fountain, several pools display various Balinese and exotic sculptures. Stone slabs at the centre of certain pools create the impression of walking on water.

Afternoon is the best time to visit the palace. You can notably swim free of charge in the royal pool and enjoy a refreshing moment in water that comes directly from Mount Agung. We invite you to bring your swimsuit when visiting the site. If you prefer to stay dry, you can always come to observe the giant koi fish in the pools.

From Denpasar

It takes approximately two hours by road from Denpasar to reach the Tirta Gangga site. Head to the main bus station located near Denpasar International Airport at Ngurah Rai. Buses heading to Tirta Gangga follow the route passing through Sanur, Manggis, Candidasa and Amlapura.

From Ubud

No bus line connects Ubud and Tirta Gangga. You will therefore need to rent a car or scooter, or take a taxi to reach it from there.

Opening hours and admission prices

The Tirta Gangga water palace remains open 24 hours daily. Note, however, that the ticket office is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission fees are 3,100 RP for locals and 20,000 RP per person for foreign visitors. Additionally, if you wish to bring your camera, you will need to pay an extra 1,000 RP.