Tirta Gangga is an extravagantly decorated water garden located in East Bali, spread over 1.2 hectares of crystal water pools, natural koi ponds, and surrounding tropical gardens. Previously, these grounds were part of the ancient royal palace of the Karangasem kingdom, which was later turned into an ornamental garden features with bathing pools, ornate fountains, stone carvings of ancient deities, stepping stones, and breezy pavilions.
The name ‘Tirta Gangga’ alludes to the holy river Ganga in Hinduism and bears of great significance for the Hindu heritage of the Balinese people. Some pilgrims could be found at the site who carry back the springwater in pots bearing its spiritual value. The central attraction of the garden is an impressive eleven tiered fountain that spouts water in many gorgeous cascades. There are many impressively carved stone figures holding cudgels that are scattered around the beautiful gardens, mostly of ancient Hindu deities.
Visitors can easily get to the middle of the pond by following the polygonal stepping stones that trace the paths. Swarms of large red carp and koi fishes can be seen wandering in the clear waters, and you can feed them from your own hands too! On the other side, a couple of elegantly carved Balinese dragon statues seem to be the sentinels of a connecting bridge between the two sides of the pond! Capture Insta-worthy pictures and soak in the interrupted calm at this historic garden of East Bali.