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The statue Garuda-Wisnu-Kencana
On the Bukit peninsula in the south of Bali is one of the highlights of the island. The Garuda-Wisnu-Kencana Cultural Park has been home to the oversized Garuda-Wisnu-Kencada statue since 2018. The statue is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
The name suggests the Hindu god Wisnu and so the park is also dedicated to this deity. The Hindu god Wisnu is also known as Vishnu and is considered the supreme being and protector of the universe in Vishnuism, a mainstream of Hinduism. He is depicted on the statue with his riding horse, together with the mythical eagle Garuda. In Indonesia, the Garuda is a symbol of freedom and against any oppression. Kencana, on the other hand, stands for gold. Crowns of gold mosaics decorate eagle and deity.
Inside, an elevator takes visitors to an observation gallery on the 8th floor. The gallery offers outdoor and indoor areas, from which a wonderful view of the park opens. For those who are not afraid of heights, it goes even further up to the 20th floor. To allow visitors to see inside the statue, both floors and walls here are made of glass.
The cultural park Garuda-Wisnu-Kencana worth seeing
It is not only the statue that acts like a magnet to visitors. It is also the dreamlike nature combined with fairy-tale gardens, impressive sculptures and enchanting cultural events that brings visitors from all over the world here year after year. The park is divided into different areas.
The amphitheater stands for the cultural area
Daily demonstrations of Balinese dances take place. Or the characteristic sound of the Rindik instruments floats over the area. Barong Keri’s dance takes you to the world of the Walederi kingdom and the Garuda Wisnu Ballet revives the epic of Garuda.
Other dances such as the Nusantara Dance, the Fire Dance or the Balinese Parade bring the history of Bali and its traditions back to life.
Lotus Pond in the center of the park
Powerful shows another venue in the Garuda-Wisnu-Kencana Cultural Park – Lotus Pond. Framed by steeply rising limestone walls, a wide square stretches out. The fantastic backdrop also inspires with tremendous acoustics during concerts. Stairs continue from Lotus Pond to Garuda Plaza.
Garuda Plaza
The exceptionally large statue of Garuda dominates the plaza. Combined with the view of Lotus Pond, this is the most popular photo spot for brides and grooms.
Plaza Wisnu in the sunset
Elevated on a hill, this is the perfect place to experience one of Bali’s paradisiacal sunsets. Nestled on the hill and under shady trees, the “Sacred Well” Parahyangan Somaka Giri emits magical powers.
Hindu priests design ceremonies around the offerings of devout Balinese to cure them of diseases.
Colorful and exotic – the Indraloka garden
The idyllic surroundings are considered a sanctuary to the Hindu god Indra. This heavenly garden is dedicated to the king of the gods.
Activities at Garuda Wisnu Kencaca Cultural Park
For almost every vacationer, extensive shopping is part of the vacation fun. A souvenir store covering an area of 700 square meters promises a bombastic shopping experience. From Balinese sculptures to fancy beachwear and silver jewelry, visitors will find interesting souvenirs.
To cover the long distances within the park, buggy shuttles(golf carts), segways and scooters are available for rent.
Boredom does not arise even with children. The Garuda Cinema runs a comic book movie every 30 minutes throughout the day.
There are three restaurants, kiosks and small stores in the park, and two cafés for a rest in between.
A cultural park for everyone
The offer of worth seeing and changing events appeals to everyone. Nature lovers will be delighted mainly by the exotic flora and the beautifully landscaped gardens. Photo enthusiasts have thousands of unique subjects and history buffs get up close and personal with Balinese history and culture.
Info and web links for further reading
- Official website of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
- Further information for visiting the cultural park
Conclusion
The entire project cost 26 million euros. This is money well spent, and not just for tourism. The inhabitants of Bali also benefit from this and, among other things, maintain their history and present their traditions in this place.
A vacation in Bali should definitely include a visit to the Garuda-Wisnu-Kencada Cultural Park.
Helpful addresses and contacts
VISIT INDONESIA TOURISM OFFICER
Hanauer Landstr. 184 – 60314 Frankfurt
Tel.: 0049 (0)69 – 17 53 71-048
Fax: 0049 (0)69 – 17 53 71-049
Web: www.tourismus-indonesien.de
Bali Tourism Board
Tourist information in Denpasar, Indonesia
Jl. Raya Puputan No.41, Panjer,
Kec. Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar,
Bali 80234
Indonesia
Phone: +62 361 235600
www.balitourismboard.or.id
balitourismboard@gmail.com
