About Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Tirta Gangga Water Palace is a former royal water palace located in Ababi village, Abang, Karangasem, East Bali. Built in 1948 by King Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem, it features tiered fountains, ornamental pools, stone statues, and gardens fed by natural springs. Damaged by the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung and later restored, it is notable for its Balinese architectural design, sacred spring water, and scenic setting among rice terraces.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore a landscaped complex of clear spring-fed pools, tiered fountains, stone bridges and stepping stones over water, statues of mythical figures, and manicured gardens with views of surrounding rice fields. The lower public swimming pools allow bathing, while upper palace areas offer photo spots, pavilions, and shrines. The site is compact and walkable, with pathways, small bridges, and viewpoints throughout.
Key highlights
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Spring-fed tiered pools and 11-tiered fountain (Nawa Sanga)
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Stepping stones across the upper pond for photography
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Ornamental statues and Balinese stone carvings
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Public swimming pools fed by natural holy spring
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Royal pavilions and gardens with rice terrace views
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Sacred spring source considered holy in Balinese Hindu tradition
History of Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Built in 1946-1948 by Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem, the last King of Karangasem, as a royal retreat and water palace. The complex was largely destroyed by the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung and subsequently restored. It reflects the late Karangasem kingdom's architecture and royal water management traditions.
Culture & Context
The palace is built around a sacred natural spring considered holy (tirta) in Balinese Hindu tradition, used for purification and religious ceremonies. Its design blends Balinese and Chinese architectural elements, with statues and fountains symbolizing Balinese cosmology, and remains an important cultural and spiritual site for the local community.
Route
| By air |
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