Bigger than the Statue of Liberty, taller than Christ the Redeemer—meet Patung Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK), Bali’s colossal masterpiece that touches the clouds! Standing 121 meters tall, this breathtaking statue is one of the tallest in the world, depicting the mighty Hindu god Vishnu riding his legendary mount, Garuda. But this isn’t just another statue—it’s a symbol of Balinese culture, perseverance, and epic artistry.
The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue is inspired by Hindu mythology, where Garuda, the mythical eagle, helps Lord Vishnu protect the world. According to legend, Garuda agreed to serve Vishnu in exchange for freeing his enslaved mother. Today, their bond represents loyalty, courage, and the balance of nature—core values in Balinese tradition.
Building this giant was no easy task! Designed by renowned Balinese sculptor Nyoman Nuarta, the project began in 1997 but faced delays due to financial and political hurdles. After years of dedication, the massive 4,000-ton statue was finally completed in 2018, proudly towering over Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park (GWK Park) in South Bali.
Some cool facts about its construction:
✅ Made from 754 modular bronze and copper pieces
✅ Built to withstand earthquakes and strong winds
✅ Stands on a pedestal 46 meters high, making the entire monument taller than Big Ben
🌄 Epic Views: Perched on a hill, GWK Park offers stunning panoramic views of Bali’s coastline.
🎭 Cultural Performances: Watch traditional Balinese dances and live theater at the park.
📸 Iconic Photo Spot: Get up close with this jaw-dropping giant for the ultimate Instagram shot.
🌅 Sunset Magic: As the sun sets, the statue glows beautifully against the evening sky.
Patung Garuda Wisnu Kencana is more than a statue—it’s a cultural icon, a work of art, and a testament to Bali’s rich heritage. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or just someone looking for an unforgettable sight, GWK is a must-visit.
Mona Vijay
3 months agoBali brings us back our glorious past. There are so many Hindu temples here and they reflect our heritage and culture. It feels so nice to be there and be able to enjoy visiting various temples. And the beauty of the Indonesian culture is that all these temples still exist and people from different faiths visit them. We went to Garuda Wisnu Kencana and it was amazing. Looking forward to more such trips!
Bulent Daglar
2 months agoSpare 2hours to visit this monument. Apart from the noisy city, this place is very calming. Shopping center is very good. Art galery and the cafe within art gallery are must see places. Avocado coffee was marvelous. High recommeded spots.
siddarth reddy
5 months agoGaruda Wisnu Kencana is simply magnificent. The statue is an incredible work of art, towering and intricately detailed, making it a must-see landmark. The park itself is beautifully maintained, with plenty of areas to explore and learn about Balinese culture and mythology. It’s an inspiring and impressive place that showcases the talent and heritage of Indonesia. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Bali.
I Alif Siregar
2 months agoGaruda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) in Bali is a must-visit destination that combines cultural richness with stunning views. Its location is easy to access, making it convenient for travelers staying in popular areas like Kuta or Jimbaran. The massive Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue is truly breathtaking, surrounded by beautifully maintained grounds and scenic vistas of Bali. With affordable entry fees, GWK offers excellent value for a cultural and visual experience. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a picturesque spot to explore, this attraction is definitely worth your time.
Kim Leng, Tee
5 months agoThe statue is astounding.. Please note that u gotta buy a separate ticket to access the top of the statue, only via guided tours. Do note that grab and Gojek only picks up at the shuttle point. Defo worth the trip… rem to bring sun screen too..