Tirta Gangga

Magnificent Water Palace in eastern Bali

The Tirta Gangga royal water garden is a calm hideaway in the Karangasem regency of East Bali's eastern highlands. It was created in 1946 under the reign of the late monarch of Karangasem, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem, on the south-eastern slope of the island's highest summit, Mount Agung (1887-1966).
The exquisite water gardens, which are owned and maintained by the royal Karangasem family, comprise 1.2 hectares of pools, ponds, and fountains surrounded by carefully mowed lawns with stepping stones, elaborate statues, and tropical gardens. Following the catastrophic hot showers of volcanic ash from the Mount Agung eruption in 1963, it underwent a series of renovations.

Tirta Gangga's Highlights

The first thing you see as you enter the site is a pond with rows of guardian figurines carrying cudgels neatly arranged. Polygonal stepping stones that allow visitors to 'explore' the pond are also laid out in a logical order. The ancient and enormous golden carp can be seen up close in the clear and shallow ponds. The central tall fountain is located behind the first pond and features guardian statues at its base. This 10-meter-high fountain features 11 tiers and a lotus-shaped apex. Spouting water cascades down the levels, creating a pleasant and relaxing scene. The springs are behind a huge banyan tree on a higher terrain to the right of the site's entry. Locals regard the water as holy, and it is used in religious ceremonies as well as as a source of drinkable water for daily use.

Tirta Gangga's water features

Two clear pools can be found at the lower level of the water source. Visitors are welcome to swim in one of them, which functions as a public wading pool. The pools are made of sandstone and natural materials, and feature a design that harkens back to the old days. The pools' various floor depths allow people of all ages to enjoy them. Swimming is restricted in the big pond on the complex's southern side, which is stocked with enormous golden carp and other large fish. Two bridges connect the pond's sides, each with intricate mythological Balinese dragon statues on either side.

It's interesting to learn about Tirta Gangga.

Tirta Gangga is a popular stop on tour itineraries to Bali's east coast. A minor entrance fee is charged, which goes toward the site's upkeep. It may appear crowded on some weekends because it is a popular resort for both locals and visitors. Aside from the numerous little warung booths outside of the main site and near the parking area, Tirta Gangga also has accomodation and a restaurant, including the Tirta Ayu Hotel & Restaurant, which is located right beyond the main fountain.