Tirta Gangga

History and Evolution: From a Sacred Garden to a Public Destination

The name "Tirta Gangga" originates from two words: Tirta, meaning holy water, and Gangga, referring to the sacred river in India. Built in 1946 by the last King of Karangasem, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem, this place initially served as a royal family retreat and a place of worship.

Historically, the site was almost completely destroyed by the devastating eruption of Mount Agung in 1963. However, through meticulous restoration by the local government and the royal family, Tirta Gangga was revived without losing its authentic value. Its evolution from a private garden to a public tourist attraction makes it a symbol of the cultural resilience of the Karangasem people.

Unique Recreational Experience: Walking on Water

One of the main attractions that makes Tirta Gangga unique is its main pool filled with thousands of large koi fish. Above this pool, there is a neatly arranged series of octagonal stepping stones. Visitors can walk on these stones, as if walking on the water's surface, surrounded by lively koi fish.

Feeding the koi fish is the most popular recreational activity. Visitors can purchase fish food at the entrance and interact directly with the golden and orange fish that will gather when fed. This moment often becomes a favorite photographic subject due to the clear water background and artistic guardian statues.

Family Facilities and Activities

Tirta Gangga is designed as a family-friendly recreational spot. Here are some facilities and activities that can be enjoyed:

1. Public Bathing Pool (Swimming Pool): On the upper side of the complex, there is a swimming pool whose water comes directly from the natural Rejasa spring. The water is very cold, clear, and chlorine-free, providing a different kind of freshness compared to typical modern swimming pools.

2. Eleven-Tiered Water Tower (Nawa Sanga): This ten-meter-high structure is the visual gravitational center of Tirta Gangga. The tower symbolizes reverence for the guardian deities of the cardinal directions in Balinese Hindu belief.

3. Open Gardens: The areas around the pools are filled with neatly trimmed green lawns, beautifully arched small bridges, and lush flower gardens, perfect for a relaxed family picnic.

4. Local Culinary Delights: Around the parking area and within the complex, there are rows of restaurants serving Karangasem specialties like Sate Lilit and Ayam Betutu, allowing visitors to enjoy a culinary tour after a tiring exploration.

Cultural Significance and Role for the Community

For the local community, Tirta Gangga is more than just a recreational spot. The Rejasa spring that flows here is considered sacred and is used for religious ceremonies in the surrounding temples. The existence of this tourist attraction is also a major economic driver for the residents of Ababi Village. The community is actively involved as guides, souvenir vendors, and sanitation managers, thus maintaining the sustainability of the creative economy in Karangasem.

The architecture of Tirta Gangga reflects the philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, which is the balance between humans and God (through temples and holy water), humans and nature (through gardens and pools), and humans with each other (through inclusive public spaces).

Entertainment and Visual Aesthetics

Besides the beauty of the water, Tirta Gangga is a paradise for sculpture lovers. Along the pools, stand statues of wayang characters and deities, intricately carved. These statues not only serve as decoration but also as an educational element about Balinese mythology for both foreign and domestic visitors.

As the sun begins to set, the reflections of the water tower and statues on the pool's surface create a dramatic scene. The golden light reflecting on the water makes the entire complex look like a fairytale land, offering soul-soothing visual entertainment.

Visitor Information and Best Time to Visit

To get the maximum recreational experience at Tirta Gangga, here are some tips to consider:

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is in the morning, around 08:00 to 10:00 WITA. During this time, the air is still cool, the sunlight is not too harsh for photos, and the tourist crowds are not yet too dense.
• Attire: Wear comfortable clothing for walking. If you plan to swim in the spring-fed pool, don't forget to bring a change of clothes and toiletries.
• Etiquette: As this place holds spiritual significance, visitors are encouraged to maintain politeness, not to throw trash into the pools, and to respect areas used for prayer.

Tirta Gangga stands as a testament to the grandeur of past architecture that has successfully adapted to modern recreational needs. With its soothing water, strong history, and local hospitality, this place is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a calmer, greener, and more magical side of Bali in Karangasem.