Explore the far eastern parts of Bali. First we drive to Tirtagangga, the fabled open-air water palace of a former raja’s retreat. With its fountains, bizarre statues, pleasant cool weather and the constant sound of splashing water, it is one of the prettiest pool complexes in Bali. Continue Karangasem renamed into Amlapura after the 1963 eruption of Gunung Agung, when much of the out-skirts of the town were flattened by the lava flow. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a pleasant place to spend a few hours. Built around a hundred years ago by Anak Agung Gede Jelantik, Puri Agung is the only one of the Amlapura royal palaces open to the public. Within the compound, the highlight is the Maskerdam building with its intricately carved doors and furniture donated by Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands.
The verandah is decorated with photographs and paintings, including one of the last king of Karangasem, who died in 1966. Head up to the mountains surrounding Amlapura and tart a downhill hike hike through a fantastic realm along beautifully sculpted rice terraces and untouched villages. Finally you’ll reach Tenganan, a secluded village of original Balinese settlers. Up to this day, the villagers adhere to a unique blend of Hindu traditions. The place is world famous for its ikat or woven cloth, which is said to be able to keep to protect its owner from disease.