When you think of Bali, most people probably picture beautiful beaches, stylish cafes, and mystical temples.
However, in East Bali, there’s a special tourist spot that’s a bit different, full of tranquility and healing.
I don’t really have an image of East Bali…
That’s where today’s introduction, “Tirta Gangga,” comes in.
Tirta Gangga, a beautiful water garden built in the former Karangasem royal palace, is also known as the “Water Palace” for its fantastical landscape, and it deeply moves all who visit.
This time, I’ll give you a complete guide to the charms of Tirta Gangga, covering everything from its history and highlights to access methods and nearby tourist information!
If you’re planning a trip to Bali, be sure to use this as a reference to create unforgettable memories!
Tirta Gangga: The Beautiful Water Garden of East Bali
What is Tirta Gangga? | Bali, Indonesia Tourist & Instagram Spot
Tirta Gangga is a water garden located in the Karangasem Regency of East Bali.
“Tirta Gangga” means “Holy Water of the Ganges” in Sanskrit, and it is considered a very sacred place for Hindus.
Item
Details
Name
Tirta Gangga
Location
Karangasem Regency, East Bali
Built
1946
Features
Water garden, bathing pools, fountains, ponds, sculptures
Visiting Hours
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee
Adult Rp. 50,000, Child Rp. 25,000
Tirta Gangga Overview & Basic Information
Tirta Gangga was built in 1946 by the last king of the Karangasem Kingdom, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut.
The king dreamed of making a pilgrimage to the sacred Ganges River, a dream he could not fulfill. It is said that he instead created this water garden in his own palace, inspired by the holy waters of the Ganges.
Highlights of Tirta Gangga: A Fantastical Landscape of Ponds, Fountains, and Sculptures
Tirta Gangga | Bali, Indonesia Tourist & Instagram Spot
Tirta Gangga is a beautiful garden where ponds of various sizes, fountains, and traditional Balinese sculptures blend in harmony.
You can spend a peaceful and healing time strolling through the vast grounds, listening to the sound of water and the chirping of birds.
Main Highlights
Main Pool: The spacious main pool at the center of Tirta Gangga is surrounded by stone statues and fountains, creating a fantastical atmosphere.
Stepping stones are placed in the pool, and you can actually walk across them.
The water is cool and so crystal clear that you can see your feet.
Bathing Pools: Behind the main pool, there are bathing pools where you can purify yourself with the holy water.
You must wear a sarong (waistcloth) when bathing.
Fountains: Various large and small fountains are set up throughout the garden, creating a refreshing sound of splashing water.
Sculptures: Traditional Balinese sculptures are placed everywhere in the garden.
There are sculptures with various motifs, such as Hindu gods and mythical creatures from Balinese legends, which are enjoyable just to look at.
Tirta Gangga | Bali, Indonesia Tourist & Instagram Spot
Recommended Times to Visit
Early Morning: With fewer tourists, you can quietly enjoy the garden’s atmosphere.
The water garden illuminated by the morning sun is exceptionally beautiful.
Evening: A beautiful time of day when the sky, dyed by the sunset, contrasts with the water garden.
Rainy Season: During the rainy season, the water level rises, allowing you to see a more powerful version of the water garden.
How to Get to Tirta Gangga
From Bali’s main tourist areas like Kuta or Seminyak, it takes about 3 to 3.5 hours by car to reach Tirta Gangga.
Indonesian Phrases to Learn Before Visiting Bali
Learning a few numbers and greetings in Indonesian will make your trip there even more enjoyable.
Yes! It’s hard to choose, but… Choosing souvenirs is fun!
Indonesian National Instant Noodles / indomie | Indonesian SouvenirHatten wine, wine from Bali | Indonesian SouvenirYavabali Cashew Nuts | Indonesian SouvenirTolak Angin | Indonesian SouvenirKapal Api drip coffee | Indonesian Souvenirellips hair oil | Indonesian Souvenir
East Bali Tourist Guide! How to Get to Tirta Gangga: A detailed explanation of how to get to Tirta Gangga and information on surrounding tourist spots.
