Dam Oongan: The Mysterious Death Bridge in Bali

APRIMITIVEPLACE – Dam Oongan is one of the most famous haunted places in Bali. It is located in Jalan Noja Saraswati Gg. Ayung No.20, Tonja, Denpasar Utara, Kota Denpasar, Bali. It is said that the dam often claims victims every year, and the victims will appear if the master wills it.

There are several versions of the story about the origin of Dam Oongan. The first version says that the dam was built during the reign of King Airlangga. At that time, there was a severe drought in Bali. King Airlangga ordered his people to build a dam to irrigate the rice fields. However, in the construction process, many workers died from falling from heights or being swept away by the river current.

The second version says that the dam was built during the Dutch colonial era. At that time, the Dutch used forced labor from the local population to build the dam. Many workers died from exhaustion or were killed by the Dutch.

No matter which version is true, Dam Oongan has become a silent witness to the many lives that have been lost. It is said that the spirits of the victims still haunt the area around the dam and often appear to people who visit there.

Here are some of the mysterious stories that are often told about Dam Oongan:

  • The story of a man who saw a ghost

A man was walking around Dam Oongan at night. At that time, he saw a figure of a woman standing on the riverbank. The woman was wearing traditional Balinese clothing and her face was very beautiful. The man then approached the woman and asked her to talk. However, when he got closer, the woman disappeared.

  • The story of a group of young people who got lost

A group of young people were playing around Dam Oongan at night. However, they got lost and could not find their way home. They decided to spend the night near the dam. That night, they heard strange noises and saw mysterious figures. They were terrified and ran away from Dam Oongan.

  • The story of a woman who died in an accident

A woman was riding a motorbike around Dam Oongan. However, she accidentally hit a rock and fell into the river. The woman died from drowning. It is said that the woman’s spirit often appears around the dam and asks for help from passers-by.

Of course, the mysterious stories about Dam Oongan are just myths. However, this does not prevent people from believing and avoiding the place.

Dam Oongan has become a popular tourist destination in Bali, especially for fans of horror stories. Many people come to Dam Oongan in search of a mystical experience. However, there are also people who come to Dam Oongan to honor the spirits of the victims who have died.

In 2019, the Denpasar City Government transformed Dam Oongan into Taman Lila Ulangun. The park is equipped with various facilities, such as a jogging track, flower garden, and sports field. However, the mysterious aura of Dam Oongan is still felt today.

Here are some tips for you if you want to visit Dam Oongan:

  • Avoid visiting Dam Oongan at night. At night, the atmosphere around Dam Oongan becomes more deserted and dark. This makes you more vulnerable to seeing or hearing things you don’t want to see or hear.

  • Do not go alone. It is best to visit Dam Oongan with friends or family. This will make you feel safer and more comfortable.

  • Wear comfortable and closed-fitting clothing. This will protect you from the weather and insects.

  • Be polite and respectful. Dam Oongan is a sacred place for many people. Therefore, it is important to be polite and respectful when you are there.

If you want to visit Dam Oongan, it is best to be careful and follow the tips above.