Water Palace
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Water Palace

4.6
·154 reviews·Timișoara, Romania

Iconic water palaces in Bali, offering serene gardens, tiered pools, and intricate royal architecture. A glimpse into Bali's rich history and spiritua...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds for peace

CrowdLow
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Water Palace

Water Palace

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds for peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic water palaces in Bali, offering serene gardens, tiered pools, and intricate royal architecture. A glimpse into Bali's rich history and spiritual beauty.

4.6
(154 reviews)

"Stunning palace and beautifully restored, giving a hint of the potential of many other palaces."

Vertical photo
TIP

Sarong Included! :kimono:

Don't worry about bringing a sarong; it's usually included with your ticket price. :admission_tickets:

Go Early for Serenity 🌅

Arrive at opening to experience the tranquility before the main tourist groups arrive. :iphone:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 154 reviews

Type

Historical Landmark

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tirta Gangga Royal Pools

Tirta Gangga Royal Pools

East Bali

Explore the iconic tiered pools, stepping stones, and lush gardens of this former royal palace.

Saraswati Temple

Saraswati Temple

Ubud

Admire the lotus ponds and intricate carvings dedicated to the goddess of knowledge and arts.

Koi Fish Ponds

Koi Fish Ponds

Tirta Gangga

Watch the vibrant koi fish swim in the crystal-clear waters, a peaceful and mesmerizing sight.

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Planning Your Visit

Sarong & Respectful Attire

A sarong is required for entry and is usually included with your ticket. Dress modestly to show respect for this sacred site. Avoid revealing clothing.

Timing is Key for Tranquility

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the serene atmosphere. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the crowds for peace
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer visitors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🪷 Ubud Water Palace 🦢 Everything you need to know : It’s a must to wear a sarong before entering the palace, and the sarong rental is included in the ticket price. If you’d like professional photos taken around the palace, that comes at an extra cost, which we didn’t opt in for. The palace is centered around the Saraswati Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and learning. While visit...
tejasri_creates
71 likes • 1.4K views

Sarong Included! :kimono:

Don't worry about bringing a sarong; it's usually included with your ticket price. :admission_tickets:

Go Early for Serenity 🌅

Arrive at opening to experience the tranquility before the main tourist groups arrive. :iphone:

POV: You found a beautiful water palace in Bali all to yourself 🤩 Did you know that there is another water palace in East Bali close to the famous Tirta Gangga? I saw some pictures from here during my research and was surprised to find it completely empty when we visited! The area is pretty big with lush green gardens, beautiful gazebos, and tranquil ponds along with the water palace, so make s...
travelwithcg
906 likes • 16.4K views
Is the Ubud Water Palace (Saraswati Temple) worth visiting? ⬇️ We were kind of shocked since most blogs recommended the water palace as one of the 5 best temples to see in Ubud! 👎 The temple was very disappointing and is a tourist trap! The entry to the water palace is $5. They make you wear traditional temple clothes. You cannot really enter the temple as it is a private property. You can only ...
curiouspassports
44 likes • 4.7K views

Watch Your Step! :athletic_shoe:

Be mindful of the stepping stones in the water features; they can be slippery.

Professional Photos Extra :camera_with_flash:

If you want professional photos, be prepared for an additional fee. :moneywithwings:

Water Palace 🐠 .. located in the Eastern Bali region of Karangasem. Translating to “Water of the Ganges,” Tirta Gangga is a sacred site known for its tranquil and natural beauty. Built in the early 20th century by the royal family of Karangasem, it served as a retreat and bathing place for the kings 👑 The palace features a series of intricate pools, fountains, and beautiful gardens. 🪷 Its main ...
travel_onstrangerock
353 likes • 2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Sarong Included! :kimono:

Don't worry about bringing a sarong; it's usually included with your ticket price. :admission_tickets:

Go Early for Serenity 🌅

Arrive at opening to experience the tranquility before the main tourist groups arrive. :iphone:

Watch Your Step! :athletic_shoe:

Be mindful of the stepping stones in the water features; they can be slippery.

Professional Photos Extra :camera_with_flash:

If you want professional photos, be prepared for an additional fee. :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(154 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the stunning beauty and meticulous restoration of the water palaces, highlighting their intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. Some find the Ubud Water Palace a bit disappointing and touristy, while Tirta Gangga is consistently lauded for its tranquil gardens and iconic pools.

"Stunning palace and beautifully restored. Gives you a hint of the potential of many other palaces in Timisoara when fully restored"

Tobias Gehrke

"landmark you can't visit"

draco _

"Nice architecture, aweosme from the inside."

Dumitru Anton

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Beautifully restored
Tranquil gardens

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Ubud palace disappointing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tirta Gangga Water Palace is located in East Bali. The easiest way to get there is by hiring a private driver or joining a guided tour from popular areas like Ubud or Seminyak. Scooters are also an option for independent travelers. Instagram+1

The Ubud Water Palace, also known as Saraswati Temple, is centrally located in Ubud, making it easily accessible on foot from many accommodations and attractions. TikTok

If you plan to visit multiple water palaces like Tirta Gangga and Ujung, hiring a driver for the day is the most efficient method. Instagram

Public transport is limited and not very convenient for reaching Tirta Gangga. Hiring a car with a driver or a taxi is highly recommended. Instagram

Yes, Tirta Gangga is often visited alongside other East Bali attractions like the Lempuyang Temple (Gate of Heaven) or Taman Ujung Water Palace. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for Tirta Gangga Water Palace is typically around 25,000 to 50,000 IDR per person. Prices can vary slightly. Instagram+1

No, a sarong is usually included with the entrance ticket at most water palaces, including Tirta Gangga. It's required for entry. TikTokInstagram

Water palaces like Tirta Gangga are generally open daily from around 8 AM to 6 PM, but it's always best to check current hours before your visit. Instagram

Some visitors find the Ubud Water Palace disappointing and consider it a tourist trap with a $5 entry fee, while others appreciate its beauty. Instagram

While there are bathing pools, swimming might be restricted or only allowed in designated areas. Respect the signage and local customs. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The iconic stepping stones across the main pool, the ornate statues, and the lush gardens offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the reflections in the water. Instagram+1

Professional photography is generally allowed, but if you want dedicated professional photos taken by staff, there's usually an extra charge. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more serene atmosphere. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in sacred sites and royal palaces. It's best to check local regulations and obtain permission if necessary. Instagram

Be respectful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography. Some areas might have specific rules, so observe local guidance. Instagram

🎫 💧 Onsite Experience

You can stroll through the gardens, admire the architecture, feed the koi fish, and explore the bathing pools. It's a place for relaxation and appreciation of beauty. Instagram+2

The Ubud Water Palace can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist hours. Visiting early or late can offer a more peaceful experience. Instagram

Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. A sarong is mandatory and usually provided with your ticket. TikTok

Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. Some water palaces may have small cafes or warungs nearby for refreshments. Instagram

Tirta Gangga is known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful scenery, making it ideal for a peaceful and relaxing visit. Instagram+1

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