Tirta Gangga is a park that was originally built as the royal water park of Karangasem Kingdom. This park is relatively young compared to many water temples in Bali.
Although initially only intended for the Karangasem Royal Family, Tirta Gangga is fully open to tourists nowadays, local and foreign ones. This place can be a refreshing and relaxing destination, especially for a family vacation.
Location
Tirta Gangga is situated in Karangasem Regency, in the eastern part of Bali. The distance from Denpasar is approximately 75 kilometers and can be reached by road for about two hours. Administratively, this park is located in Ababi Village, Abang District, Karangasem Regency. This Water Park is quite close to Pura Luhur Lempuyang and various beaches such as Amed and Tulamben Beaches.
History
This park was built by the King of Karangasem; Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem, the construction began in 1946. Initially, this park was built as a part of the Karangasem Royal Palace. Throughout its history, this park has undergone many restoration and renovations.
The biggest restoration was carried out after the great volcanic eruption of Mount Agung in 1963. Volcanic hot ash from Mount Agung destroyed many parts of this water park.
Garden area
The total area of the Tirta Gangga Park is around 1.2 hectares, divided into three levels. The highest level is where the spring originates, from under a banyan tree. The middle level is the swimming pool, while the lowest level is an ornamental pool equipped with fountains and lots of golden carp fish.
All ponds in this park have clear natural water. The surrounding community even considers the springs in this park as a source of holy water used for religious ceremonies.
Beautiful pools
Visitors can swim in the pool at the second level. This pool is constructed using traditional design and will remind you of the distant past. All materials used are natural ones such as sandstones. This pool has different depths so that every one of all ages can enjoy it.
The pool at the bottom is an ornamental pool filled with lots of golden carp and other large fish. In this pool, there is a series of polygonal stepping stones that allow you to explore all parts of the pond. Be careful when skipping these steps. Feeding the fish is also fun because they will immediately come to you when they realize you bring them snacks.
Sculptures and fountains
The fish pond in this garden is decorated with many statues holding Gada (cudgel). In addition, there are also fountains in some parts of the pond that provides a soothing shower. The tallest fountain has is 10 meters high with 11 tiers of showers with lotus shapes at the top.
Tirta Gangga can be an attractive tourist destination if you are visiting East Bali. Not only this place is highly refreshing, but Tirta Gangga is also a very instagenic park with pools that have a unique traditional design.
