I had gone through tons of content on things to see in Bali while preparing my itinerary. My idea of a good itinerary was to have a blend of “Instagram-worthy places” along with some “hidden gems”, so that I could quell my FOMO on leaving out trending spots while also exploring new ones which most people weren’t aware of.
It was a singularly difficult task to fit in all the interesting landmarks of Bali in a week, more so when you count in my goal of including both popular and little-known ones. But I believe I was able to pull off the best sights, at least in the case of water palaces.
Water palaces, not to be confused with water temples, were mostly built by royal families and used for ceremonies or relaxation. Featuring the artistic side of Balinese craftsmanship and highlighting its rich culture, these complexes — dotted with lush gardens and elaborate water features — are not religious temples per se but are deeply rooted in spiritual and cultural symbolism.
Here are the three most beautiful water palaces that I visited – the first two catering to the “popular” category, and the third one a “hidden gem” – all of them with their own particular charm:
Pura Taman Saraswati (Ubud Water Palace)
Located in the lane next to the Ubud Palace, lies the beautiful Pura Taman Saraswati, dedicated to Goddess Saraswati – the deity of wisdom, learning, and the arts. While it is not a water palace in the traditional sense, it showcases prominent water features, including a central lotus pond and water gardens. Owing to its central location in Ubud and its proximity to the Ubud Palace, Pura Taman Saraswati is a buzzing tourist hub.
Pura Taman Saraswati, Ubud
As with Balinese temples, one is required to wear a sarong before entering the place. But what amused me was that we were made to wear a full set of clothes, that included a white sarong, a purple wraparound jacket (robe?), and a matching purple and white head gear. It somehow made me feel like I was part of a costume drama set in a theatrical stage.
Hindu deities at Pura Taman Saraswati
To add to the vibe, regal purple and golden chairs in pairs were placed at vantage points for the tourists to sit and click pictures in that royal setting. We saw people waiting for their turn on the chairs, perhaps their minds working up an image of themselves as the king and queen of some fantastical realm. Instagram worthy, for sure!
Tirta Gangga
If the name Tirta Gangga seems familiar to us Indians, it is because the water palace was built to honour the river Ganga, signifying a symbolic and spiritual tribute to the most sacred river in India. Located at Karangasem in East Bali, it features beautifully landscaped gardens, ornamental ponds with quaint European-style bridges over them, fountains, and circular stone pathways that seem to float across koi-filled pools. A magnificent, tiered fountain takes centre stage, surrounded by flowing waters and shoals of colourful fish, while mountains in the distance provides an immaculate set-up.
Tirta Gangga, Karangasem
Remember I had mentioned that this was a popular water palace on my list? It certainly was, teeming with an enthusiastic crowd, seeking that perfect photo angle, as they stepped over stones in flowing dresses, posing mid-water. The area, however, was quite spread out and even with a large crowd, we didn’t feel the congestion or the jostling of eager social media content creators.
Boat ride on a traditional Balinese jukung (wooden canoe)
Pro tip? If you do want that Instagram-worthy picture, you can buy a packet of fish food and get a swirl of brightly coloured koi fishes around you. We also saw a few visitors enjoying boat rides on a traditional Balinese jukung (wooden canoe) in the large central pond, the activity being a short one and chargeable. More photo opportunities were present just outside the place, with stalls offering the tourist experiences of holding exotic reptiles for a price, something which we don’t endorse.
Taman Ujung Water Palace
Some 20 km away from Tirta Gangga lies another water palace – Taman Ujung, undoubtedly my favourite and not quite well-known in the tourist circuit yet.
“I have actually never been here before,” our driver admitted sheepishly as he pulled into the parking spot.
Taman Ujung is a stunning former royal palace situated in Karangasem, East Bali. Reaching the palace in the early hours of the morning, just after a light shower, we were awestruck by the serene lushness of the expansive grounds.
Taman Ujung Water Palace, Karangasem
Built in the early 1900s, the palace complex demonstrates Balinese, Dutch, and Chinese architectural styles with reflecting pools, pavilions, and exquisitely manicured gardens. Once used for royal ceremonies and as a place of retreat, Taman Ujung was partially damaged by volcanic eruptions of Mount Agung in 1963 and a powerful earthquake in 1976 but has since been painstakingly restored.
We passed over an ornate bridge and through a hall, emerging on the other side of the water pool where a long row of steps led uphill. At the top stood a pavilion offering a panoramic view of the water palace, set against the majestic backdrop of mountains and ocean. A sense of timeless grandeur envelopes this beautiful water palace and if you prefer to be away from the throng, then this would be a perfect choice.
A panoramic view of Taman Ujung
So, there you have it – my top three dreamiest water palaces in Bali, each more beautiful than the last, whichever way you wish to look at them! Whether you are drawn to soaking in the rich architecture and admiring the intricately designed layouts, or you are simply chasing that picture-perfect spot that screams ‘Bali’ on your social feed – I promise, you won’t be disappointed. Do visit these wonderful water palaces and let me know which one tops your list!
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