Water Palace Wonder: A Guide to Tirta Gangga Water Temple in Bali
Indonesian Name: Pura Tirta Gangga
Tirta Gangga Water Temple, Bali | Image: AJ Project Photo
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Introduction
Tirta Gangga Water Temple, otherwise known as Pura Tirta Gangga, is a Hindu temple found in the eastern part of Bali in the Ababi village, located in the Karangasem district. This site is widely known for its stunning gardens, fountains, and pools. It displays a combination of Balinese and Chinese architecture, and is devoted to Dewa Tirta, the god of water. This temple has become one of the holiest spots on the island.
Address
Jalan Raya Abang Desa Adat Jl. Raya Tirta Gangga, Ababi, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia. (See on Google Maps)
Location
Tirta Gangga Water Temple is located in the eastern part of Bali in the village of Ababi, in the district of Karangasem. The temple is about 60 km from the capital city of Denpasar and is easily accessible by road.
Address & Phone Number of Nearest Hospital for Emergency
The nearest hospital is Hospital Karangasem, located at Jl. Raya Candidasa No.36, Abang, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80852, Indonesia. Phone: +62361-230136.
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Three Reasons to Visit Tirta Gangga Water Temple
1. The Picturesque Gardens: Famous for its botanical beauty, Tirta Gangga Water Temple is home to a wide range of delightful plants, including frangipani, lotus and hibiscus. Not to mention the various fish species swimming in its ponds, such as koi and tilapia.
2. The Splendid Pools and Fountains: The temple boasts 11 extraordinary pools and fountains, each with its own special design and significance. Visitors are encouraged to take a dip in the hallowed waters in order to purify their mind, body and soul.
3. The Historical Significance: As an important site of worship for Dewa Tirta, the god of water, Tirta Gangga Water Temple gives visitors an insight into the unique culture of Bali through traditional practices and rituals that are performed regularly at the temple.
History, Myths and Legends
The Tirta Gangga Water Temple was built in 1948 by the late King of Karangasem, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem. He was known as a great water resources developer who was devoted to promoting development and sustainability in his kingdom. It is believed that the temple has healing powers making it a popular pilgrimage site. In addition, it is said to have been visited by the god of water, Dewa Tirta, who is said to have blessed the area with his presence. The temple also plays an important role in Balinese ceremonies and festivals such as Galungan and Kuningan. Here people offer prayers and seek blessings from Dewa Tirta.
The temple features lush gardens, various pools and fountains which are all connected with an intricate system of canals. The 11 pools are reserved for different purification rituals and contain holy water believed to have special healing powers. The main pool is located at the entrance of the complex and is a popular place for devotees to bathe and seek blessings in order to cleanse their soul.
There are several local legends associated with the Tirta Gangga Water Temple including one which states that rats living in the surrounding area were once transformed into golden fish which then inhabited the sacred pools of Tirta Gangga. To this day visitors can still spot some golden colored fish swimming in its waters.
Another legend claims that one day another temple will be constructed on top of Tirta Gangga, making it even more spectacular than it already is.
What To Expect When Visiting
Visitors can expect to see beautiful gardens, ponds, and fountains. They can also expect to see traditional ceremonies and rituals taking place at the temple, as well as locals and tourists alike taking dips in the sacred pools to purify their bodies and souls. Visitors should also expect to see a lot of fish, including koi and tilapia, swimming in the ponds.
Photo Opportunities and Tips
If you're looking for some fantastic photo ops, Tirta Gangga Water Temple is the place to be. From its colorful gardens and ponds to the incredible fountains, there is always something interesting to capture on camera. Be sure to time your visit to match with local ceremonies and rituals, or the waves of locals and tourists taking a dip in the sacred pools. To get the best shots, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when you won't be overwhelmed by bright sunshine. It might also be a good idea to bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare and bring out the beautiful colors of the plants and water.
What Visitors Say They Liked About Visiting
The Tirta Gangga Water Temple is often praised for its lush gardens, ponds, and fountains. Visitors also appreciate the cultural importance of the temple, particularly when traditional rituals and ceremonies take place. People also often remark on how peaceful and serene the atmosphere is within the temple walls.
What Visitors Say They Did Not Like About Visiting
Some visitors have reported that the temple can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Additionally, some visitors have mentioned that the entry fee to the temple can be quite high.
How Accessible is it for The Elderly, Children and Those With Mobility Issues?
Tirta Gangga Water Temple is located on a hillside and requires climbing a number of steps to access the temple. However, they do have ramp and stair lift that can assist the visitor but there are also natural stones path that can make it difficult for some people with mobility issues. It's not ideal for elderly or children with mobility issues but it can be manageable with assistance.
Safety Tips When Visiting
Visitors should be aware that the temple is located on a hillside and the steps can be slippery, especially when wet. Visitors should also be aware of their surroundings, as there are a lot of fish in the ponds and they should avoid feeding or disturbing the fish. It's also important to be respectful of the local customs and customs of the temple.
Typical Amount of Time to Allocate for a Visit
Visitors can expect to spend about 1-2 hours exploring Tirta Gangga Water Temple.
Food and Drink Options Nearby
There are a number of restaurants and warungs (local food stalls) located near Tirta Gangga Water Temple, offering a variety of local and international cuisine. Visitors can also find a number of small shops selling souvenirs and traditional Balinese crafts in the nearby area.
Conclusion
Tirta Gangga Water Temple is an attractive and restful spot that offers tourists a taste of the cultural legacy of Bali. The temple is renowned for its attractive gardens, ponds, and fountains, and it is an architectural tour-de-force blending Balinese and Chinese designs. Additionally, visitors can observe traditional ceremonies and rituals happening at the temple, giving them a peek into the spiritual and religious convictions of the Balinese people. Despite the fact that the steps are steep and the temple can get crowded, it's an extraordinary destination that offers much to its visitors.
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