SURROUNDED by extensive pond, Taman Ayun Temple is just like a floating garden. Taman Ayun literally means ‘beautiful garden’ is a royal temple of Mengwi Palace. Established in 1634 as a superb combination of worship place and verdant garden, it is located at Mengwi village, Mengwi Badung. It’s approximately 18 km north of Denpasar.
From the road in front of the temple, visitors must cross a small bridge spanning over the pond. Right after passing the entrance gates, you will encounter a ticket booth and information desk. Having purchased ticket, you can start your visit to this wonderful and unique temple.
In general, space of the temple is divided into three, namely the outermost, middle and innermost courtyard. The outermost courtyard sits a water lily pond and fountain among the vast overlay of lawn. In the eastern part follows a wantilan hall. Visitors can take a rest here after looking around the temple. In the middle of the hall, there are vivid statues or dioramas of people getting involved in cockfighting.
In the middle courtyard lies a long pavilion and kulkul (split drum) tower, where visitor can try to go upstairs. However, it must be done carefully or follow the instruction of the object attendant for safety.
All the shrines including the multi-storied shrines (meru) are located in the innermost courtyard. To observe them, visitors can pass through a pathway outside the temple compound. When wishing to have a break, some gazebos are available connected to the pathway.
