Bali has been the most evocative and sought-after tourist destination in Indonesia that people desire to jet off to. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Bali is the ultimate destination for every kind of traveler as the island appeals through its natural beauty. Its gorgeous tropical beaches, looming volcanoes, and lush terraced rice fields soothe serenity. However, no trip to Bali would be complete without immersing yourself in the island’s cultural side to get a healing balm for your mind and soul – and the best place to do so is in Ubud, especially Ubud Palace!
Set amidst the valley, with terraced rice fields, beautiful tropical rainforest, and a stream that runs from one end to the other, you will find Ubud – the cultural heart of the Island that steals the hearts of both domestic and international tourists. The serenity, creativity, and spirituality that commingles with the people who live in this town, becomes the center of tourist attractions that will give you incredible cultural and spiritual experiences.
Ubud is home to many historical museums and galleries, unique traditions, and handmade handicrafts. One of the places you need to make a stop when traveling in Ubud is Ubud Palace, also known as Puri Saren Agung. Located in the heart of downtown Ubud, this modest palace has been the home of Ubud’s royal family since the late 19th century and has witnessed the triumph of the Kingdom of Ubud. This palace is now an important historical landmark in Bali and functions as a museum and center of Bali's traditional arts.
The palace has beautifully crafted buildings with high aesthetic value. The walls and doorways have a distinctive design carved in stone, and of course, there is also a temple inside the palace. You can wander around, explore the buildings and items, and pay heed to the details of every object of the Balinese traditional cultures there – or take some shots for your Instagram as well! The palace is also equipped with an auditorium and a banyan tree as a shelter during the daytime.
If you are keen to immerse yourself more and continue the cultural experience, you can watch the traditional Balinese dance performance at night which lasts around 1.5 hours. The Palace starts to open from 08.00 AM – 06.00 PM, while the traditional dance performance starts from 07.30 PM – 09.00 PM.
Distance from Ngurah Rai Airport: 36 Km / 80-Minute Drive
Distance from Ubud Center: 0 Km / 0-Minute Drive
Taman Ujung ‘water palace’, with its complete and official designation of Taman Sukasada Ujung, is located in the village of Seraya in Karangasem Regency. It's the sister site of Tirta Gangga, also built by the late king of Karangasem. The complex consists of various large pools and historic structures set against a backdrop of Mount Agung and the eastern shoreline.
The site suffered near devastation by showers of hot ash following the eruption of Mount Agung in 1963 and also weathered an earthquake in 1979. Restoration efforts throughout the decades helped it on its way to its current splendor, and it continues to appeal to both locals and visitors.
The Taman Ujung complex has a combination of Balinese and European architecture throughout 3 large ponds connected by long, elegant bridges and pathways. The physical features and superb mountainous backdrop to its north, and sea to its southwest, make it a favorite location for pre-wedding and artistic photographers.
The name Ujung means ‘extremity’ in Indonesian, and it often makes it easy for locals to describe its location as being one of the island’s largest historical landmarks and places of interest in the easternmost part of the island.
The whole park covers about 10 hectares of land roughly 11 km southeast of Karangasem’s capital Amlapura. Its foundations were first laid out in 1919, under the rule of Raja I Gusti Bagus Djelantik, who was best known by his noble title, Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem.
The complex underwent a series of expansions and pool additions around the single existing pool, which served not as a royal bathing place, but instead as a site for the punishment of accused proponents of black magic or Balinese witchcraft, known as pangiwa and leyaks.
This pool was known as Kolam Dirah and was said to have been built during the rule of the previous raja of Karangasem, dating back to 1901. The Dirah pool is located in the southeast corner of the current layout and takes its name from the witch queen of the Calonarang legend.
Two ensuing pools were built, adding to the Dirah pool, as well as several resting pavilions, the raja’s meditation quarters, and the Taman Gili floating pavilions. The complex then shifted purpose to serve as a retreat and a place to welcome dignitaries on their visit to the Karangasem kingdom.
In 1921, during the Dutch occupation of Indonesia, Taman Ujung became officially open to the public and became known as a royal water garden complex.
Combinations of Balinese and European architecture are evident through its ornate pillars, statues, and garden and pool features. And much of its scenic appeal owes to the blend of manmade structures amid natural panoramas.
To the southeast is a hilly range known as Bukit Bisbis, and in the south is the namesake Ujung Beach with its blue horizon. An expanse of verdant rice paddies lies to its east, while in the west is residential housing.
To the northwest of Taman Ujung is a collection of cottages meant for overnight visitors. The Pura Manikan temple can be found within the grounds of Taman Ujung. Here, a revered water spring is used by devotees and pilgrims.
A highly popular lookout and vantage point at Taman Ujung is at one of the warak pavilions built on an eastern hill, accessible with a 5-minute drive uphill from the site.
Distance from Ngurah Rai Airport: 78 Km / 120-Minute Drive
Distance from Ubud Center: 58 Km / 100-Minute Drive
Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Taking pictures as much as we can, is one of the to-do lists during our holiday. Bali certainly has a lot of places you can visit for this. For those of you who have a passion for the world of photography, come to the Tirta Gangga Water Palace, Karangasem. This attraction is very suitable for you who want to channel your hobby of photographing.
Tirta Gangga Water Palace was built in 1948 by Raja Karangasem, Anak Agung Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem. The purpose is to be built as a bathing place for the king and his family. Previously, only the king and his family could enter the Tirta Gangga Water Palace. Over time, the Tirta Gangga Water Palace began to be opened to the public and became one of the favorite tourist attractions in Karangasem.
Upon entering the location of the Tirta Gangga Water Palace, the first thing you’ll see is two large ponds filled with ornamental fish the size of an adult's hand. The first pool on the east side is decorated with statues lined up. You can walk along the pond by walking on solid rock arranged neatly like a path. Well, this pool is a favorite photo spot for visitors. You can take a selfie with the background of the statues in the pool.
Not far from here, there is a park with a 10-meter-high water tower. This water tower has steps like the roof of a temple. The water in the Tirta Gangga pond comes from a sacred water source and is used for traditional ceremonial activities. In the western pond, there is a small bridge which is also usually used as a background photo.
The pond on the west side is the most spacious. Well, another way to enjoy the Tirta Gangga Water Palace is by paddling the canoe around this pool. Yes, because of the extent of the pool, a boat or djoekoeng is needed for visitors who want additional entertainment. In addition, there is also a swimming pool for the public. The swimming pool at the Tirta Gangga Water Palace is perfect to visit after taking pictures. Don't forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes!
The beauty of the location and the uniqueness of the building make tourists feel at home at the Tirta Gangga Water Palace. The calm and peaceful atmosphere is very suitable as a place to relieve fatigue from daily life activities. If you want to take pictures, visit Tirta Gangga Water Palace in the morning or evening. At noon, this water park will be crowded with visitors.
Distance from Ngurah Rai Airport: 83 Km / 130-Minute Drive
Distance from Ubud Center: 64 Km / 110-Minute Drive