Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park: Dive Into The World of Bali Culture

This place in Bali is where the soul of Bali resides. The Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park has an impressive 122-meter-high statue of God Wisnu riding on the mythical bird Garuda. The statue is based on the epic Mahabharatha and tells the story of the connection of Lord Wisnu with the Garuda, a bird-like creature, seeking the holy elixir of divinity, Tirta Amerta, to free his mother from cruel slavery. The god Wisnu, who holds the Tirta Amerta, is moved by Garuda’s sincerity and agrees to help him in return for Garuda’s service as his trusted mount. This is the one performance of the day that should not be missed. 

This massive Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue and the park took 28 years to complete. So let’s dive into the world of Garuda with Bali Tour Packages that transport us into the world of  Hindu Mythology. 

Description of the Garuda Vishnu statue

Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue in Bali depicts lord Wisnu riding Garuda. In Hindu mythology, Lord Wisnu is seen as the protector of the Universe, while his trusted companion, the mighty eagle-like Garuda represents loyalty and selfless devotion. Kencana means gold, and both are adorned in crowns of gold mosaic. The Garuda is also the national emblem of Indonesia and represents freedom. The statue of Lord Wisnu can be seen holding different items in his hands, including a lotus flower, mace, conch, and discus.

History of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park

The statue took 28 years to complete and was inaugurated on 22nd September 2018 by Indonesian President Joko Widodo.

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Reasons why you should visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park

• Statue

The major attraction of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is the Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue in Bali. With an immense height of 122 meters, this is the tallest statue in Indonian and the main cultural and religious center.  The statue depicts lord Vishu the protector of the World with the mythical creature Garuda riding Lord Vishnu on his back. It’s not only the towering height of the statue that strings the visitors but the grandeur of the statue and its connection with the religion and tradition that gives a glimpse of Indonesian culture. 

• Cultural performances

The sprawling 60-hectare cultural park draws visitors from around the globe and provides an alluring glimpse into Bali’s fascinating heritage through carefully planned and executed cultural performances, legendary folklore tales, immense sculptures, and dramatic cinematic presentations. Various cultural performances take place at the park theatre throughout the day which binds the travelers with the culture of Indonesia. 

• Natural Beauty

Garuda Wisnu Kencana cultural park is the ultimate place to witness the thrilling paranomic view of Bali from a hilltop.  The statue overlooks the Indian Ocean and at this height, you can feel the crazy winds gushing through your hair and tantalizing your soul with its serenity. The park is a 60-hectares land and is surrounded by lush greenery and parks that are well-maintained 

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Things to do in Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park

• Admire the architectural marvel of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Statue

The statue with its magnificent height and religious significance is an architectural wonder. You cannot miss the intricate details of the statue that are carved with immense precision. Having a glimpse of the statue is the first and foremost thing that you will do on your arrival at the park. This fascinating statue celebrates the famous Hindu mythological god Garuda’s quest for the elixir of life. 

• Be Entertained by the Balinese dance at the Amphitheater

The mesmerizing Kecak dance is native to Bali and has a rich history associated with it. The dance is performed with fire and haunting chats. This dance form is performed at the Garuda Wisnu Kencana cultural park every day. This dance performance captivated the tourists with its connection to Balinese tradition and watching the traditional dance moves is the best thing to do in Bali.

• Watch Animated Adventure with Your Kids

If you have kids traveling with you even so if you are a fan of animated movies this section is definitely for you. Keeping in mind that the kids too need to be taught about the Gods and various mytholigies related to them “Garuda Cilik,” a delightful animated movie, takes young minds on a journey with a spirited young Garuda. This heartwarming short film was the winner of the prestigious Citra Cup Award for Best Short Animated Film in FFI 2015 and beautifully illustrates an essential cultural belief in Bali. This is going to be the best part of the park for the kids after roaming around the park.

• Explore the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Park with a ride on a Segway 

If you have missed the ride on the Segway, you have missed a major part of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana cultural park. To completely explore the park and dive into its beauty have a ride either by renting a bike cycle or in Segway and this will be surely unique experience in  Bali. You can visit the lotus pond by Segway which is an open area that hosts cultural events and concerts and has a capacity of 7,500 people at a time. 

• Take a part of Bali from Souvenir Shop

Well, shopping in Bali is everyone’s joy and here at the souvenir shop, you can take a piece of Bali with you. From handicrafts and home decor items to sizzling beach wear, tribal jewelry pieces, and much more to count on you can buy from this trendy souvenir shop at Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park in Bali.

• Entice taste buds with Flavours at Beranda

When in Bali, eat what Bali eats. Obviously, how can you leave a place without tasting the delectable flavors of Bali restaurants? Beranda an appetizing cafe with its authentic flavours is the best place to take a break and indulge in the Balinese flavours. 

• Strike a Pose in Traditional Balinese Attire

How about donning yourself in traditional Balinese attire and striking a pose for a memorable picture? Isn’t it exciting? This studio offers a chance for visitors to get in touch with the attire of Bali and dress up like one. They have marvelous clothing with intricate work that gives you a feeling of belonging to the place. Create this memory for a lifetime. 

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Cultural Performances

11 AM: Welcome Dance

The Sekar Jepun dance is a greeting dance performed by a group of female dancers dressed in traditional yellow costumes. You will also be able to experience the Kebyar Duduk dance, which is a difficult dance form. Balinese dance forms are known for their elegant gestures and complexity. 

Noon: Honeybee Dance

Enjoy the captivating beauty of the Oleg Tamulilingan and Jauk Keras dances. The Oleg Tamulilingan dance represents a honeybee buzzing around a lovely flower, whereas the Jauk Keras dance depicts an old ruler dominating his kingdom with great determination. The moves of the Jauk Keras dance represent the king’s bravery as he defeats his enemies. 

1 PM: Bali culture and colors

You can experience the colors of Bali through various other dance forms and the bright and vibrant attire of the dancers. You will be able to enjoy Kebyar Duduk dance which is the most difficult dance form in Bali. 

2 PM: Participate in Angklung

This time, you can have an opportunity to shake your legs with the dancers and try to imitate their movements. You can also play angklung a bamboo instrument, you just need to shake the instrument with the music. 

3 PM: Mythological story

This session revolves around a mythical creature in Balinese Hinduism, depicted in the form of a lion with golden hair and a golden crown. The Barong dance tells the story of the Barong living in the deep jungle of Bali and playing with a mischievous monkey

5 PM: Joged Bumbung

Joged Bumbung is a traditional dance form that was passed on to and by the Balinese farmers in ancient times, and this dance form is typically performed after the harvest season.

6 PM: The Lotus Pond

This is the most appealing performance of the day. By this time the crowd is gathered and that is when the story of the Garuda Vishu statue is being told. 

The story is told through the famous dance performance of the Kecak dance of Bali and Ogoh-ogoh and a giant puppet representing the mythical creature Garuda. The story of Kecak Garuda Wisnu Kencana is based on the Mahabharata tale and tells the story of Garuda, a bird-like creature, seeking the holy elixir of divinity, Tirta Amerta, to free his mother from cruel slavery. The god Wisnu, who holds the Tirta Amerta, is moved by Garuda’s sincerity and agrees to help him in return for Garuda’s service as his trusted mount. This is the one performance of the day that should not be missed.

The best time to visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park

How to reach Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park

The Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural park is located in Ungasan. This park is around 10-to 15-minute drive from the Bali International Airport and 25-25 minute drive from Kuta Bali, the major town near it.