Balinese Peterhof: why is the Taman Ujung so different from all Balinese palaces?
Taman Ujung is located in the Karangasem area and is one of its most important attractions. The area is a large garden with pools and buildings where the royal family used to live. This is one of the most beautiful places for photo shoots and walks. The spacious park is immersed in greenery and aromas. Many beautiful and unusual plants grow here. For example, we have seen pomegranate, soursep, mango and kiwi growing. Fallen frangipani flowers are scattered along neatly manicured paths. Along the perimeter of Taman Ujung there are many gazebos where you can have a picnic with a stunning view.
History of the Palace
Construction began in 1901 by order of King Gusti Bagus Gelantik. At that time, on the site of the pools, there was a lake, in which, according to legend, the warlocks of the island were drowned. The architects were the German Van Den Hentz and the Chinese Lotho Ang. It was this cooperation that gave the palace such an unusual look for Bali: three cultures mixed here at once: European, Chinese and Balinese. The appearance of the complex is very uncharacteristic for Bali: instead of the usual black rock, you can see snow-white walls and European motifs here. The construction was completed in 1921 and half a century later it was badly destroyed by the eruption of the Agung volcano. The reconstruction of Taman Ujung was completed only at the beginning of the 20th century.
Taman Ujung Territory
The palace complex is divided into 3 levels:
- — demon world
- — human world
- — world of the gods
The lower level has many sculptures, a lotus flower fountain and a fish pool. On the middle one there are also swimming pools, and on the top one you can see the residence of the king and the houses for his guests.
During the construction of the complex, the architects were able to position the buildings in such a way that each had a stunning view. But only when you rise to the upper level you will see the endless blue ocean in the background.
In the center of the park there is a recreation room for the royal family. You can get into it by walking along a beautiful bridge. The building was conceived as a place where the king of Karangasem would be able to receive foreign delegations. It impresses with its decor: skillfully carved patterns on stone, stained glass windows, household items and photographs of members of the royal family. Gifts from representatives of European states, for example, furniture that the rajah received from the British royal family, also became part of the interior.
Prices and opening hours
The cost of entrance tickets for tourists: 75,000 rupees for adults and 50,000 rupees for children. On site there is paid parking (5000 rupees) and a small warung where you can eat. Taman Ujung is open daily from 7am to 7pm. We recommend arriving early, when the sun is not yet so hot, or before closing time, to enjoy the amazing view and take a photo at sunset.
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