Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati, known as Ubud Water Palace, is a Hindu temple on Jalan Raya Ubud, dedicated to Dewi Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and the arts. Its lotus ponds frame a path toward carved stone gates and temple buildings, creating a quiet pause in central Ubud. Look closely at the stonework and statues, or take in the water garden from the outer courtyard. The temple is compact, so it fits easily into a walk near Ubud Palace and the Art Market.
A temple for Dewi Saraswati
Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati is dedicated to Dewi Saraswati, the Hindu goddess associated with knowledge, learning and the arts. The temple is also called Pura Taman Saraswati or Ubud Water Palace. It is a place of worship as well as a landmark known for its water garden and carved architecture.
The temple was built in the 1950s under the direction of Ubud’s prince. Local sculptor and architect I Gusti Nyoman Lempad is associated with its design. The carvings of Saraswati and the temple’s stonework connect the visual details of the complex with the goddess it honours.
The water garden and carved stonework
The lotus ponds are the defining feature of the outer grounds. A central walkway crosses the water toward the temple, with ponds on either side. Lotus flowers bloom among the leaves, and the path gives a clear view of the gates and the buildings beyond. The water garden is both the approach to the temple and a prominent part of its design.
Look beyond the flowers to the stone carvings on the gates, temple structures and statues. The main shrine, or padmasana, is noted for its detailed carvings. Fountains feed the pond, and the grounds include carved figures and Barong masks. The complex is small, so a slow circuit and a closer look at the stonework can make the visit more rewarding than a quick photo stop.
Finding the temple and planning a visit
The temple is on Jalan Raya Ubud in the town centre. Its entrance is reached from Jalan Kajeng, just off the main road, and the grounds sit behind Cafe Lotus. Ubud Palace and the Art Market are nearby, so the temple can be included in a walk through central Ubud.
Visitors can explore the outer courtyard and water garden. Access to the inner temple area is not consistently described, so plan around the parts visible from the grounds rather than expecting to enter every shrine. Allow about 30 to 45 minutes to see the ponds, architecture and carvings. If you want a longer pause, Cafe Lotus next door has views toward the temple.
Dress and cultural performances
This is a Hindu place of worship. Cover your shoulders and legs when visiting; sarongs are provided if needed. Follow any instructions at the entrance and treat the temple grounds and people using them with respect.
Traditional Balinese dance performances are held at the temple, with the lotus pond as a backdrop. Kecak and Legong are among the dances associated with performances here, but schedules and ticket arrangements are not established in the information available. Check locally before planning your visit around a show.
FAQ
Where is Pura Taman Saraswati?
It is on Jalan Raya Ubud in central Ubud, reached from Jalan Kajeng. The entrance is behind Cafe Lotus, near Ubud Palace and the Art Market.
How long should I spend at the Water Palace?
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes to walk around the compact grounds, see the lotus ponds and look at the carvings.
What should I wear to the temple?
Cover your shoulders and legs. Sarongs are provided if needed.
Can you see a dance performance at the temple?
Traditional Balinese performances, including Kecak and Legong, are associated with the temple. Check locally for current schedules and ticket arrangements.
