Taman Gili Klungkung

Taman Gili Klungkung

About Taman Gili Klungkung

Written by the Bali Saku Raba local team · Last verified September 2026

Taman Gili Klungkung: Bale Kambang in Semarapura

Taman Gili is a historic water garden in the former Puri Agung Klungkung complex in Semarapura, Bali. Its best-known feature is Bale Kambang, a pavilion that appears to float in the middle of a pond. Taman Gili stands beside Kertha Gosa, the former royal meeting and justice pavilion, so the site should be understood as part of Klungkung’s royal history rather than as an ordinary public park.

Taman Gili and Bale Kambang in Klungkung
Taman Gili with Bale Kambang in the centre of the pond; Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons.

The word “gili” refers to a small island or piece of land surrounded by water. The pond, reflections, open pavilion, carved details, and traditional roof forms create one of the most distinctive heritage landscapes in eastern Bali.

History of Taman Gili and Bale Kambang

Taman Gili is believed to be as old as Kertha Gosa and once formed part of the Klungkung royal environment. The early Bale Kambang was lower and had fewer pillars, and it is described as having served as a headquarters for royal guards. After the political changes and conflict of the early twentieth century, the surviving complex was restored and adapted.

Historic Taman Gili and Kertha Gosa complex
The historic Taman Gili and Kertha Gosa setting; Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons.

The present building reflects restoration as well as older royal architecture. This is why visitors should read the site as a layered historical place, not assume that every current detail is unchanged from the pre-1908 palace.

Architecture of the Floating Pavilion

Bale Kambang is an open pavilion set within the pond. Its solid foundations create the visual impression of a floating house. Pillars, steps, roof tiers, carvings, water, and garden space show how Balinese architecture connects function, symbolism, and landscape.

Bale Kambang pavilion at Taman Gili
The floating-house pavilion at Taman Gili; Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons.

Walk around the permitted areas to see how the pavilion changes from different angles. Reflections vary with weather and water maintenance. Do not climb fences, sit on architectural elements, or enter restricted sections for a photograph.

Wayang Ceiling Paintings

The ceiling of Bale Kambang is known for traditional wayang paintings. The Klungkung Cultural Heritage E-Museum explains themes connected with astrology, the Pan Brayut story, and Sutasoma by Mpu Tantular. Look carefully and use official explanations rather than guessing the identity or meaning of every figure.

Traditional art detail at Taman Gili
Traditional artistic detail in the historic complex; Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons.

Taman Gili, Kertha Gosa, and Klungkung Palace

Taman Gili and Kertha Gosa are complementary parts of the same heritage setting. Kertha Gosa was associated with royal meetings, visitors, and the settlement of disputes, while Taman Gili provided the water garden and pavilion landscape. The 1908 Puputan Klungkung transformed the palace area, leaving the surviving structures as important witnesses to Klungkung’s history.

Kertha Gosa pavilion near Taman Gili
A historic pavilion in the Taman Gili and Kertha Gosa complex; Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons.
Klungkung Palace complex and water garden
The relationship between pavilion and water landscape; Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons.

Location, Coordinates, and Visitor Planning

Taman Gili is in Semarapura, Klungkung Regency, near Kertha Gosa, Museum Semarajaya, and Puri Agung Klungkung. The verified Taman Kertha Gosa/Taman Gili coordinates are -8.5355721, 115.4033338. Use the specific attraction name in your map application because the city centre is broad.

Opening hours, ticket prices, access to Bale Kambang, and photography rules can change because of maintenance, ceremonies, and management decisions. Confirm current information at the official counter. Morning or late afternoon is usually more comfortable for walking and photographing the pond.

Responsible Heritage Travel

Do not touch paintings, carvings, walls, or collection objects. Keep rubbish out of the pond, keep voices low, and follow staff instructions when areas are closed. Give space to local ceremonies and ask permission before photographing people or cultural activities. Drone use requires permission.

FAQ

Is Taman Gili the same as Kertha Gosa?

They are adjacent parts of the same historic complex. Taman Gili refers to the water garden and Bale Kambang, while Kertha Gosa is the former meeting and justice pavilion.

What does Bale Kambang mean?

It means a floating house or pavilion, referring to the building’s setting in the middle of the pond.

How long should I allow?

Allow around 45–90 minutes for Taman Gili, and more time if visiting Kertha Gosa, Museum Semarajaya, and the palace remains.

What to See & Do at Taman Gili Klungkung

Historic water garden in Semarapura
Bale Kambang pavilion in the pond
Wayang ceiling paintings
Part of the former Klungkung royal complex
Near Kertha Gosa and Museum Semarajaya

What to Know Before You Go

Coordinates -8.5355721, 115.4033338
Duration Allow around 45–90 minutes
Etiquette Do not touch paintings or heritage structures
Nearby Kertha Gosa, Museum Semarajaya, and Puri Agung Klungkung

What Our Guests Say

Real Guest Reviews

Reviews reflect our overall Bali tour service quality.

5.0
from 24 Google reviews
RussiaKudo90

RussiaKudo90

Google Review

5

I’m happy to leave this review because I know Made personally, and I can honestly say he’s one of the best guides and kindest people you’ll meet in Bali. What makes him special isn’t just his deep knowledge of the island – though that alone is impressive. He knows all the hidden gems, the best times to visit popular spots, and always has interesting stories behind every temple and rice terrace. But more than that, he genuinely cares about the people he’s with. He doesn't treat it like a job; he treats it like he's showing his own friends around his home. I’ve seen how he goes out of his way to make sure everything runs smoothly, how he checks in on comfort and safety, and how he handles any little issue with a smile. He's reliable, patient, and incredibly warm-hearted. If you're looking for someone who will not only show you beautiful places but also make you feel welcome and looked after – Made is your guy. I truly hope this comment helps him, because he absolutely deserves more recognition. Thank you, Made, for being the amazing person and guide that you are! 🙏🇮🇩

2 weeks ago
Leah Davidson

Leah Davidson

Google Review

5

The Best Tour Guide in Bali! We honestly couldn’t recommend Made enough! From start to finish, he was absolutely fantastic and went above and beyond to make our trip around Bali so special. Before we even arrived, Made’s communication was amazing. He helped us plan our whole trip, gave us fantastic advice and recommendations, and really took the time to understand what we wanted to see and do. He made everything so easy and stress-free for us. Throughout our trip, Made looked after us incredibly well. He picked us up, took us to all the different places we wanted to visit, and even showed us some amazing places we probably wouldn’t have found ourselves. His knowledge of Bali is incredible — he knew so much about every place we visited and was always happy to explain things and answer our questions. What really stood out to us was how kind, caring and genuine Made was. He didn’t just feel like a tour guide; we genuinely felt like we were being looked after by a friend. He always made sure we were comfortable, safe and enjoying ourselves, and nothing ever felt like too much trouble. Everyone in his team was also absolutely fantastic. They were friendly, professional and made us feel so welcome throughout our trip. Made played such a huge part in making our Bali holiday so memorable. If you’re looking for someone who is reliable, knowledgeable, kind and genuinely cares about giving you the best possible experience, we would 100% recommend him. Thank you so much, Made, for looking after us and helping us have such an amazing time in Bali. We’ll definitely be recommending you to anyone visiting Bali — and hopefully we’ll see you again one day! ❤️🇮🇩

3 weeks ago
Max Maxvik

Max Maxvik

Google Review

5

Excellent, the driver is responsible, punctual, drives well, knows a lot of places to relax, the sights of Bali, speaks Russian, English and Chinese well.

A month ago
Софья Меркулова

Софья Меркулова

Google Review

5

Очень советую Мади в качестве гида. Он организовывал нам тур на Нусу Пениду, у него много друзей, который организуют вам все что угодно за очень выгодную плату. Мади очень дружелюбный и улыбчивый человек, он знает русский язык, поэтому с ним можно разговаривать и узнавать многое про Бали. Я его всем советую в первую очередь, он может показать вам весь остров и организовать туры на другие соседние острова и вулканы. Спасибо ему большое, нам очень понравилось с ним проводить время. Советуем вам выбрать именно его за его труд, старания и доброжелательность Мади, спасибо тебе ❤️

7 months ago
GEDE BMTHAMV

GEDE BMTHAMV

Google Review

5

Thanks a lot

7 months ago
Валерия Келейникова

Валерия Келейникова

Google Review

5

Thank you for a great day in Ubud, Madi 🙏🏻 We really enjoyed our cozy and interesting trip)

A year ago
Р М

Р М

Google Review

5

No written review.

A year ago
Bakhtiyar Azagov

Bakhtiyar Azagov

Google Review

5

Thank you for hospitality! We enjoy our travel in Bali with you Excatly Mr Burteh! He is best tour guide and driver in Bali. Mr Murteh is local, thats why he has to much information about Bali Perfect

A year ago
Elena Toroshniak

Elena Toroshniak

Google Review

5

Нам повезло, что знакомы с Маде. Это самый добрый и искренний человек на Бали

A year ago
Vit Mit

Vit Mit

Google Review

5

Путешествие на Бали – это всегда погружение в мир красоты, духовности и уникальной культуры. Но по-настоящему раскрыть душу острова, прочувствовать его магию можно только с опытным и увлеченным проводником. Нам в этом невероятно повезло – мы встретили Маде! Маде – не просто гид, он настоящий хранитель традиций и наследник балийской культуры. Он открыл нам не только знаменитые достопримечательности, но и тайные уголки острова, поделился своими знаниями о древних обычаях и верованиях. Благодаря Маде мы смогли: * Почувствовать энергетику священных храмов: Маде рассказал нам об истории и значении каждого храма, помог правильно провести церемонии и почувствовать связь с духовным миром Бали. * Погрузиться в атмосферу балийской деревни: мы побывали в гостях у местных жителей, познакомились с их бытом, попробовали традиционные блюда и даже приняли участие в мастер-классах по ремеслам. * Насладиться природными красотами: Маде показал нам живописные рисовые террасы, вулканы, водопады и секретные пляжи, где можно было отдохнуть от шума и суеты. Но самое главное – Маде подарил нам незабываемые эмоции, искреннее общение и теплоту. Он отвечал на все наши вопросы, учитывал наши пожелания и создавал атмосферу настоящего приключения. Мы безгранично благодарны Маде за это удивительное путешествие! Он помог нам открыть для себя настоящий Бали – остров Богов, красоты и гармонии. Если вы планируете поездку на Бали, обязательно обратитесь к Маде – он сделает ваше путешествие незабываемым!

A year ago
Галина Бардымова

Галина Бардымова

Google Review

5

Мадэ очень классный, дружелюбный и общительный, интересно рассказывает) Ждет когда нужно, в общем, очень приятный) рекомендую Можно обо всем договориться) если будет дождь, он сопровождает с зонтиком)

A year ago
Инна Звездина

Инна Звездина

Google Review

5

Спасибо большое, мы объехали за один день все прекрасные пляжи 😍 Остались очень довольны и будем рекомендовать друзьям 🙏🏻✨

A year ago
ЖАННА

ЖАННА

Google Review

5

Хотим от всего сердца поблагодарить нашего гида Маде. Наше путешествие по Бали было незабываемо! Благодаря вам мы познакомились с этой чудесной страной! Нас не только возили по районам, но и рассказывали историю Бали❤️ мы чувствовали себя в полной безопасности и полную заботу о нас. Благодарим и до встречи вновь на Бали🫶🏻

A year ago
Карина Ревазян

Карина Ревазян

Google Review

5

Veryyyy good

A year ago
Влад Хайбулин

Влад Хайбулин

Google Review

5

No written review.

A year ago
細野佳代子

細野佳代子

Google Review

5

No written review.

A year ago
Alex Alex

Alex Alex

Google Review

5

Очень рекомендую этого русскоговорящего балийца! 👍 Экскурсии с ним - это просто супер! 🤩 Он не только рассказывает интересные факты об острове и показывает самые красивые места, но и делится местными фишками, о которых не прочитаешь в путеводителях. 😉 Он очень внимательный и отзывчивый, с ним легко и приятно общаться.

A year ago
Евгений Ширшин

Евгений Ширшин

Google Review

5

Маде добряк!) очень внимательный, и профессиональный гид! Уже много лет дружим с ним! Провез по всем уголкам прекрасного Бали! Хорошо говорит на русском и английском языках! Аккуратно водит машину! Очень адекватные цены на экскурсии!! Знает все вкусные и красивые места! Поможет со всеми вопросами на Бали, такие как аренда скутера, или аренда жилья! Встретит и проводит в аэропорт, если вы с ребенком то у Маде прекрасные дочки которые с удовольствием побуду няней!)) Всем рекомендую это агенство!!

A year ago
Сергей Милых

Сергей Милых

Google Review

5

No written review.

A year ago
Denise

Denise

Google Review

5

Made did an amazing job as a guide! Comfortable pick-up & drop-off, safe driving, very friendly & helpful, explained a lot while driving & visiting the spots. He knows a lot and is happy to answer any questions! He also brought local fruits for testing! Amazing day, thank you so much! 🙏🏼🫶🏼🧡

A year ago
Stijn Heerze

Stijn Heerze

Google Review

5

Really nice and kind guide. Knows a lot about Bali. Also a very good driver.

A year ago
Juliette Bos

Juliette Bos

Google Review

5

Very nice driver, good communication and good service. Perfect!

A year ago
Nengah Negare

Nengah Negare

Google Review

5

This company is the best, good driver and pofesional guide, i am very enjoy visiting Bali island 👍👍👍

A year ago
Ni Kadek Kardiasih

Ni Kadek Kardiasih

Google Review

5

Sakuraba give me best service treveling in bali. Thakyou very much for guide bali sakuraba

2 years ago

Visit Taman Gili Klungkung with a Trusted Bali Guide

Tell us your travel dates, group size, and any special requests — we'll plan a seamless private tour that includes Taman Gili Klungkung and more of Bali's best.

Trusted Bali Travel Company Experienced Private Drivers in Bali Custom and Flexible Bali Itinerary International Traveler Friendly Service