Imagine a place that offers us the cultural experience, the Hindu mythological connection, the magnificent beauty of the Indian Ocean, the grandeur of the sculptor, and traditional Balinese dance forms —- Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, a must-visit on the Bali Tour.
This is where the soul of Bali resides. The Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park has an impressive 122-metre-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(a magical drink) to free his mother from cruel slavery —- One of the best performances at the park.
This massive Garuda Wisnu Kencana sculpture and the park in Bali took 28 years to complete. So let’s dive into the world of Garuda which transports us into the world of Hindu Mythology.
- Regular Entrance Fee: ₹613.80/- per person
- Buggy Shuttle Service: ₹213.52/- per person
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park Timings: 9 AM to 9 PM
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park Facilities: Washroom, parking, restaurants, cafes, and gift shops.
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park Address: Uluwatu St, Ungasan, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80364
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Best Things To Do In Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park Bali
1. Admire The Architecture 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.
2. Enjoy The Balinese Dance At The Amphitheatre
The mesmerising Kecak dance is native to Bali and has a rich history associated with it. The dance is performed with fire and haunting chants. This dance form is performed at the Garuda Wisnu Kencana cultural park every day.
3. Watch Animated Adventure With Your Kids
If you have kids travelling with you even so if you are a fan of animated movies this section is definitely for you. A delightful animated movie takes young minds on a journey with a spirited young Garuda.
4. Ride On A Segway
If you have missed the ride on the Segway, you have missed a major part of the GWK Cultural Park in Bali. 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 the unique experience in Bali.
5. Explore 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. Shop handicrafts and home decor items, sizzling beach wear, tribal jewellery, and much more from this trendy souvenir shop at Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park in Bali.
6. Enjoy The Best Flavours At Beranda
Obviously, how can you leave a place without tasting the delectable flavours of Bali restaurants? Beranda an appetising cafe with its authentic flavours is the best place to take a break and indulge in the Balinese flavours.
7. 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 marvellous clothing with intricate work that gives you a feeling of belonging to the place.
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Best Time To Visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
- The best time to visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is from April to June.
- The best time during the day to visit is at the time of the exciting cultural performances and events,(usually after 4 in the evening) which will only enhance your experience.
- You may want to avoid the peak noon time to visit the park as these are the rush hours which would hamper your tranquillity and serenity and also avoid the harsh sun.
How To Reach Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Wondering how to reach Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park in Bali? The Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is located in the Bukit Peninsula of Southern Bali, in a place called Ungasan.
By Taxi:
- Once you reach Ngurah Rai International Airport, you can hire a taxi to reach GWK Cultural Park in Bali.
- The park is around a 10 to 15-minute drive from the Airport.
By Bike
- If you want to travel by bike, you can rent one.
- But remember you need to have a driving license.
By Self Driving
- Drive south from Kuta along Ngurah Rai Bypass.
- When you get to Jimbaran, turn towards Uluwatu.
- As you go uphill towards Ungasan, you'll easily spot GWK on your left side of Jalan Uluwatu (road).
- From Kuta Bali, it takes around 25-30 minutes to reach GWK Cultural Park.
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park Highlights
1. Statue
The major attraction of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is the Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue with a height of 122 metres; the tallest in the Indonesian main cultural and religious centre.
2. Cultural performances
The sprawling 60-hectare GWK Cultural Park in Bali draws visitors from around the globe and provides a glimpse into Bali’s fascinating heritage through carefully planned and executed cultural performances, legendary folklore tales, and dramatic cinematic presentations.
3. 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 soothing your soul with its serenity.
- Timings: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
11 AM: Welcome Dance: The Sekar Jepun dance is a greeting dance performed by a group of female dancers dressed in traditional yellow costumes.
Noon: Honeybee Dance: Enjoy the captivating beauty of the Oleg Tamulilingan and Jauk Keras dances.
1 PM: Bali Culture And Colours: You can experience the colours of Bali through various other dance forms and the bright and vibrant attire of the dancers.
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.
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.
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 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.
Description Of The Garuda Vishnu Statue
The statue was designed by Indonesian sculptor and artist Nyoman Nuarta. The Garuda Vishnu statue is 121 metres high rendering the statue even higher than the Statue of Liberty in the United States and Christ the Redeemer. The statue is made from copper, brass, stainless steel, and concrete weighing 4,000 tonnes. The crown of Lord Vishnu is covered with golden mosaics.
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.
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History Of The Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
The proposal for the construction of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Park was put up on the table in the year 1990. While one group was in favour of the construction of the park the other religious group opposed its construction as they believed that the massive structure could disrupt the spiritual balance of the Island and it was constructed for commercial purposes. At last, the proposal was finalised and the park was constructed purely for tourism purposes and to exhibit the rich culture and heritage of Indonesia.
The statue took 28 years to complete and was inaugurated on 22nd September 2018 by Indonesian President Joko Widodo.
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Tips For Visiting Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
- Wear comfy shoes for walking.
- Bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Try catching the cultural performances.
- You can also go on a buggy shuttle from the entrance to the Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue.
