Nestled in the rice paddies of eastern Bali, on the site of a sacred spring, the last rajah of Karangasem Regency built his weekend retreat, an elaborate water palace with a view of the ocean to the distant east and Mount Agung to the north.

Today, the palace has ben restored to its preconceived splendor with funds from the government and a family foundation, and visitors can stay on the grounds at the Tirta Ayu villas. Tirta Ayu Villas, within the Water Palace complex, consist of individual bungalows that serve as sleeping quarters for guests, family members and servants. A separate bungalow hold the reception area and a covered outdoor restaurant serving excellent food in a beautiful setting.

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Holy water and veiled green

The last king of East Bali had two beautiful water-palaces layed out during his reigning period. By the eruption of the Gunung Agung in 1963, which involved earthquakes throughout the east region, the palaces were largely destroyed. In recent years however, they both have been renovated and rebuilt.

Tirtagangga Water Garden

On the slope of the Gunung Agung amidst ricefields you will find Tirtagangga. The water-palace is situated around a natural well of which the water is held to be holy. Five water-basins, fountains and statues from hindu-culture rend the gardens the atmosphere of an open air museum. And whether it is on the account of the water or not, with an abundance of veiled green and blossom the gardens breathe a serene quietness that borders upon spirituality.

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A holiday on Bali will take your breath away and stimulate all your senses — even some you didn’t know about. Invigorating and calming at the same time you will not want to leave this mystical island. Here’s what I loved about being here.

Top Ten Things to do in Bali and Lombok

1. Replenish your soul at Uluwatu resort at the south western tip of Bukit Peninsula - you will be lulled to sleep at night by the same waves that rock Dreamland - you will never rest more deeply. This sacred spot is an enchanting jewel - the bungalows cling to a cliff
with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. For lovers, surfers, poets, and solo explorers.

2. Take a surf lesson on Kuta Beach. Even if you don’t stand up - feeling the wave under you is divine. Don’t miss it.

3. Flex you flirt muscles on Gili Trawangan - this friendly island is filled with locals and foreigners who look you in the eye and laugh with you - white sugar beaches seduce you to stay longer - and the peace is hard to beat. No motorcycles, cars, or engines of any kind. Nirvana.

4. Scuba diving - get certified - get wet - get down under and do it! Swim with a big turtle and you will know bliss. On Gili Trawangan go to Manta Dive - they are wonderfully professional and authentically personable. The staff and owners want you to have fun and see the world beneathe us. It’s gorgeous!

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