Narmda Park offers a rich insight into the dynastic history of Lombok and has religious significance dating back to the origins of Hinduism.
The name Narmada is taken from the children of India’s holy Ganges River which, according to the scriptures, is a point of origin of the Hindu religion. Hinduism is integral to the colourful history of Lombok which today has a substantial minority Hindu community.
Narmada Park dates back to the rule of Lombok of King Anak Agung Gde Ngurah Karangasem, from the eastern Balinese kingdom of Karangasem. In 1866, the palace of the king at Cakranegara founded the parks and gardens of Lingsar, Mayura and Narmada.
The parks became cool, seasonal relaxation places for the royal family and were adorned with shrines and palaces. Narmada Park became known as the dry season palace, for in the summer the king, his family and royal advisers and servants would leave Cakranegara to enjoy the cool, natural and panoramic environment of the six-hectare Narmada Park.
Within the park, only 10 kilometres east of Mataram city, four complexes of functional buildings and areas were developed for the convenience and enjoyment of the royal visitors. One complex provided accommodation; another was dedicated to bathing; a third was designed for worship; and the fourth complex was of gardens.
Each building in the accommodation complex was made of clay and red brick, constructed without cement, and was defined by its surrounding grounds.
At the northern entry gate, the walls of Gapura Temple feature panels carved in relief which detail the concept for the establishment of the temple, explained through carved symbols representing the significance of figures including the human, clergy, cattle, caves, beetles and butterflies.
Carvings on other parts of the temple walls depict significant Hindu characters and scenes including the God Hanoman and the battle with the Goddess Sinta.
Cool and fresh, Narmada Park is located on a plateau where the fertile soil and natural spring water from sacred Mount Rinjani produce excellent fruit and other crops.
Source:enchanting-lomboksumbawa.com
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