​Garuda Wisnu Kencana

 

• Address: Jalan Raya Uluwatu, Ungasan, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80364, Indonesia
• Opening hours: Daily 09:00 - 21:00(Closed on Monday)
• Adult ticket: Approximately IDR 100,000 (approximately £5)

 

Attraction introduction and historical background

The centerpiece of the GWK Cultural Park is the 122-meter-tall statue depicting the Hindu god Vishnu riding the mythical eagle Garuda. The statue was designed by the famous artist I Nyoman Nuarta and took 28 years to complete in 2018. The statue symbolizes loyalty, freedom and Indonesia's national spirit.​

 

The park covers an area of about 60 hectares and contains multiple cultural exhibition areas, including the Divine Eagle Plaza, Lotus Pond and Amphitheatre. Visitors can enjoy Balinese traditional dances, folk tale performances and large-scale cultural activities here.

 

Things to do in Garuda Wisnu Kencana

1. Enjoy Balinese traditional performances

Dances and performances (such as Kecak fire dance, Barong dance, etc.) performed every day in the open-air theater show the beliefs and stories of the Balinese people.

 

2. Visit the statue of Vishnu and the Condor

This 122-meter-tall statue is one of the tallest Hindu god statues in the world. It is an iconic landmark of the park and a holy place for taking photos.

 

 3. Explore art and cultural exhibitions

Visit the Asana Art Museum and Cultural Gallery to appreciate Indonesian traditional and modern art works, and learn about Wisnu mythology and Balinese religious culture.

 

4. Photograph spectacular landscapes and architecture

The entire park has an open terrain, and you can overlook the panoramic view of South Bali from a high place. It is a paradise for photography lovers.

 

5. Taste local food

Savor authentic Indonesian and Balinese cuisine at the on-site Beranda Restaurant or Jendela Bali, with garden or ocean views.

 

6. Shopping for souvenirs

Pick up handicrafts, souvenirs, traditional clothing or accessories at the cultural shops and take away a piece of Balinese cultural memories.

 

 7. Segway travel experience

Want to easily navigate the entire park? You can choose to rent a Segway and play while walking with less effort.

 

 

How to get Garuda Wisnu Kencana

Self drive or rent a car (recommended)

• From Kuta: Approximately 15 kilometers, drive time approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
• From Ubud: Approximately 46 kilometers, approximately 1.5 hours drive.
• From Denpasar: Approximately 20 kilometers and a drive of approximately 45 minutes.​

*It is recommended to use navigation apps such as Google Maps or Waze to avoid traffic jams during peak hours.​

Taxi or ride-hailing service

• Taxi: Taxi fare from Kuta to GWK is approximately IDR 250,000.
• Ride-hailing: Using apps like Grab or Gojek, the cost is around IDR 100,000 to IDR 150,000, depending on departure point and traffic conditions.​

 

Motorcycle or electric scooter

If you like to travel independently and have driving experience, you can consider renting a motorcycle or electric scooter. Rental rates typically range from IDR 100,000 to IDR 300,000, depending on the rental company and car model. ​Make sure to wear a helmet and have an international driving license. In addition, traffic conditions in Bali may be complicated, so please drive with caution.​

Public transportation (Trans Sarbagita)

The GWK Cultural Park is located within the routes of the Trans Sarbagita bus system. ​You can take a bus from Kuta or Denpasar to Nusa Dua and get off at GWK station. The fare is approximately IDR 3,500. It takes about 10 minutes to walk from the bus station to the park entrance.​

Walking or biking (ideal for short trips)

If you live in Ungasan or Jimbaran near the park, walking or biking are great options. ​It is about 1.5 kilometers from the center of Ungasan village to GWK and takes about 20-30 minutes to walk. There are signboards along the way to facilitate navigation.

 

Best time to visit

Best season: Dry season (May to October)

• Advantages: Sunny weather and low humidity make outdoor activities such as watching performances, visiting statues and park attractions more comfortable.
• Avoid the rainy season (November to April): Although it is possible to visit, rainfall may affect the viewing experience, especially open-air performances.

 Best time period: 9 am to 12 noon

Moderate sunshine: the temperature is relatively cool

 

Surrounding attractions

1. Uluwatu Temple

Distance: About 30 minutes by car
Highlights:

• Hindu temple built on a cliff by the sea
• Extremely spectacular at sunset
• There is a Kecak fire dance show every night (which can be used as a comparison with the GWK show)

Recommendation: Visit in the evening + return after watching the Kecak dance

 

2. Jimbaran Beach

Distance: about 20 minutes by car
Highlights:

• There are many famous seafood barbecue restaurants
• Dining on the beach in the evening and watching the sunset is unique

Suitable for: Couples, families

 

3. Dreamland Beach

Distance: About 20 minutes by car
Highlights:

• Facing the Indian Ocean, the waves are big and suitable for surfing
• White sand mixed with rocks, unique scenery

Recommendation: Bring a swimsuit and wear sunscreen

 

4. Padang Padang Beach

Distance: About 25 minutes by car
Highlights:

• Known for the movie "Eat Pray Love"
• Small but beautiful beach, suitable for snorkeling and sunbathing

Disadvantages: The entrance is relatively hidden and requires a flight of steps.

 

5. Bukit Peninsula

Including areas: GWK, Uluwatu, Jimbaran, etc. all belong to this area
Features: Beautiful natural scenery. It is a famous highland coastline area in Bali. It has concentrated attractions and is suitable for in-depth day trips.

 

6. Bali Spa and Yoga Center

Such as: The Yoga Barn or local spa
Recommendation: Get a massage or spa to relax after visiting GWK to relieve hiking fatigue

 

Visiting suggestions

1. Book Tickets in Advance
Purchase tickets online to avoid long queues and ensure availability during peak seasons.

2. Choose the Best Time to Visit
Visit between 9:00–12:00 or 16:00–18:30 for cooler temperatures, great lighting, and cultural performances.

3. Dress Comfortably
Wear lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes. Bring a hat and sunscreen due to the tropical climate.

4. Must-See Attractions
Don’t miss the 122-meter Garuda Wisnu statue, panoramic viewpoints, and cultural exhibition spaces.

5. Watch Cultural Performances
Check the schedule for daily performances such as the iconic Kecak dance and traditional music shows.

6. Bring Water and Snacks
Carry water and light snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your visit.

7. Respect Local Customs
Stay quiet in religious areas, follow signage, and avoid touching or climbing on statues.

8. Consider Guided Tours
Hire a guide or join a tour to learn the background of the statue and deeper meanings of the cultural displays.