This Cultural Landmark In Bali Is Gaining Popularity With Tourists

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Bali is one of the most popular destinations in the world for tourists from Australia. In fact, Bali receives more tourists from Australia than any other country.

The ties between Australian tourists and Bali are strong, and holidaymakers from the land down under are always leading the way when it comes to finding the best attractions on the island. 

There are dozens of incredible cultural attractions to visit in Bali. Whether it be Pura Tirta Empul just outside of Ubud, or the Gateway to Heaven Temple in the east of the island, there is plenty to discover in Bali. One landmark, in particular, stands out to tourists in more ways than one. 

The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue at the GWK Cultural Park has seen a steep rising in interest from international tourists.

As ever, Australian holidaymakers have been paving the way for international travelers, and visits to the park are in high demand. 

@sebastian_schieren The wind up there was so strong that I needed 15 attempts for the flight 😅 And this statue is huge! It was quite overwhelming to get so close with the drone 🚁 #drone #fpv #statue #gwkculturalp ♬ Gorgeous Beasts – Ramin Djawadi

Located in the heart of the Bukit, in Ungasan, the GWK Cultural Park is the biggest and most immersive cultural experience on the island.

The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue stands a mighty 121 meters tall and can be seen from far across the island, including the shorelines of Kuta Beach, Seminyak Beach, and Echo Beach in Canggu. 

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The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue is the largest statue in all of Indonesia and took more than 25 years to create.

The statue was first proposed by Balinese artist Nyoman Nuarta in 1989. He wanted to create a statue that encapsulated Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and build a modern landmark that would be of interest to domestic and international tourists alike.

The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue depicts the Hindu god Vishnu riding on his guide, the eagle Garuda. 

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Nuarta’s vision has not only been bought to life, but his dreams have been fulfilled. The GWK Cultural Park is building in popularity after a slow recovery in the wake of the pandemic.

The Operational Director of GWK Cultural Park, Stefanus Yonathan Astayasa, spoke to reporters about the experience at the park. 

Astayasa shared, “Currently, visits are at 3,500 to 5,000 per day. So it has increased by 20 percent.” There is now a healthy 50/50 split, with interest soaring from both domestic and international tourists. He revealed more details about the demographics of tourists visiting the park.

He explained, “For the first place is still Australia, and the second is India.” The third most frequent visitors to GWK Cultural Park are from China. 

@projectplottwist GWK Cultural Park in Bali 🇮🇩 #gwkbali #gwkculturalpark #hinduism #baliactivities #thingstodoinbali #traveltiktok #projectplottwist ♬ original sound – Paige & Sam | Travel Tips

He said that despite increasing demand for visits and rising visitor numbers that health and safety still remain front and center of management’s commitment to guests.

Astayasa explained, “The visits have gone beyond normal. However, for tickets, still use the usual fare. We continue to ensure that all areas are safe to visit because everything is well integrated.”

GWK Cultural Park’s most famous attraction may be the Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue which is a marvel to behold, yet there is so much more to the park than the iconic landmark.

GWK Cultural Park is an authentic and immersive journey into the richness of Balinese culture. 

Visitors can watch traditional cultural performances throughout the day. The shows give valuable insight into the mythologies and beliefs that shape life on the island to this day.

Visitors can sit with traditional leaders and learn about the guiding principles of Balinese philosophies and even observe prayers and blessing ceremonies. 

Leaders in Bali are keen to promote cultural tourism on the island. In the coming weeks, months, and years, tourists to Bali will be encouraged to connect with the island in a more meaningful way.

A visit to the GWK Cultural Park is an excellent way to take an exciting and engaging deep dive into the tradition and customs of the island. 

Entry tickets start at IDR 115,000 per person and include access to the grounds and gardens, cultural performances, and the new museum.