The complex of bathing pools known as Tirta Gangga was built by the water-loving Anak Agung Anglurah, the last raja of Karangasem, who also built the grand water palace of Taman Ujung. Tirta Gangga means ‘Water of the Ganges’ and this exotic, holy water temple rests on the site of a sacred spring emerging from under a banyan tree on the slopes leading up to Mount Agung. The fabled maze of spine-tinglingy cold water pools and basins, spouts, tiered pagoda fountains, moss encrusted statues, stone carvings and lush gardens, is a serene and mellow place, showcasing a blend of Chinese and Balinese architectural styles. The neighbouring rice terrace scenery is nothing less than spectacular.
