At a Glance
- Original name: Taman Ujung (Taman Sukasada)
- Where: Ujung, Karangasem regency, East Bali
- What it is: an early-20th-century royal water palace
- Built: 1909–1921, under Raja Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem
- Time needed: 1–1.5 hours
- Getting there: ~10 minutes from Tirta Gangga, East Bali
Taman Ujung water palace, originally Taman Sukasada, was the ceremonial residence of the kings of Karangasem, built in 1909–1921. It's an ensemble of large pools, bridges, pavilions and colonnades whose architecture blends Balinese, European and Chinese styles. The palace was conceived as a symbol of harmony between people, nature and the divine.
Why Visit
Taman Ujung is about palace architecture, the symmetry of its pools and panoramic views of the ocean and Mount Agung from the hill behind. It's usually uncrowded, so it suits lovers of history, calm walks and photography.
What You'll See
- Large pools with bridges and a main pavilion in the centre.
- A stairway and colonnade on the hill overlooking the ensemble, the ocean and Agung.
- A mix of styles: Balinese candi gates, European arches and stained glass. Visitors are allowed inside the main pavilion to see vintage interiors, royal carved furniture, the king's bed chambers, and historical family photographs from the Karangasem royal family.
History
The palace was badly damaged twice: the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung buried it in hot ash, and the 1979 earthquake finished the destruction. Taman Ujung was later carefully restored and is open to visitors again today.
According to local legend, before the palace was built, the site was occupied by a neglected pond used to drown individuals accused of black magic and witchcraft. To cleanse the area of negative energy, King Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut decided to lay the palace's foundation directly on this pond, completely transforming the land.
When to Visit and What to Know
Best in the morning: soft light and cooler air. The grounds are large — allow time for the climb to the upper colonnade.
- There's a paid entrance and parking.
- It's often combined with the neighbouring Tirta Gangga water palace and Lempuyang temple.
Combine Your Trip
- Tirta Gangga water palace — pools with sacred koi, nearby.
- Lempuyang temple with its "Gates of Heaven."
- Virgin Beach (White Sand) on the east coast.
FAQ
What is Taman Ujung known for? It's the royal water palace of Karangasem (1909–1921), with large pools, bridges and views of Agung and the ocean.
How is it different from Tirta Gangga? Taman Ujung is larger and about palace architecture and pools with a panorama; Tirta Gangga is about fountain gardens and sacred koi. They're easy to see together.
How much time should I allow? About 1–1.5 hours, including the climb to the upper colonnade for the view.
Excursions visiting Taman Ujung
