From ancient wonders to modern marvels, monumental statues have always captured humanity’s imagination, leaving us in awe of their sheer scale. Speaking about sheer scale, what is the current biggest statue in the world? The answer is the iconic symbol of Bali, the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) statue. If you want to know more about it, follow this guide that explores why Bali’s magnificent GWK statue is considered one of the world’s largest, alongside a brief look at other global giants, and invites you to experience its grandeur firsthand.
What Defines the “Biggest Statue in the World?”
The meaning of “biggest” isn’t always just about vertical height, it can also refer to:
- Total Volume/Mass: In order to achieve the desired sheer scale, a giant statue usually requires a sheer amount of material used. These materials add up the total volume/mass of the statue.
- Width/Span: The width/span measurement is included when measuring the “biggest” statue as well. This is especially relevant for statues with outstretched elements like wings and arms.
- Combined Structure Height: The part that is measured is not only the main statue, but also the supporting parts like the base/pedestal.
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Statue: Bali’s Colossal Contender for “Biggest Statue in the World”
The Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) statue in Bali is not merely a landmark; it’s a monumental achievement that truly stands as one of the world’s largest. This statue stands at a magnificent height of 121 m (397 ft) from its base to the crown of Lord Vishnu including its 46 m pedestal. This makes GWK ranks as the tallest statue in Indonesia as well as the 4th tallest statue in the world.
Other than being an impressively tall statue, the GWK statue is the world’s widest statue as well. This is due to the Garuda’s immense wingspan that reaches 64 m (210). This vast horizontal dimension contributes significantly to its overall “biggest” impression, making it a true marvel of engineering and design. IT also required intricate construction involving thousands of copper modules and mosaic tiles, making it a monumental piece of art and engineering.
Other Global Giants: A Glimpse at the World’s Tallest Statues
While GWK statue holds unique records, it shares the global stage with other awe-inspiring colossal statues:
- Statue of Unity (India)
India’s Statue of Unity is the undisputed tallest statue in the world located in Kevadia, Narmada District, Gujarat State, India. This statue honors Indian politician Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel who fought for the independence of India alongside Gandhi. It approximately stands at a staggering height of 182 metres (597 ft), making it the current highest statue in India as well as in the world.
- Spring Temple Buddha (China)
Spring Temple Buddha, also known as the Zhongyuan Buddha, is currently the tallest Buddha statue in the world. It measures about 153 m (502 ft) including its lotus throne and pedestal. This statue can be found in Foquan Temple, in the Zhaocun township of Lushan County, Henan, China.
- Laykyun Sekkya Buddha (Myanmar)
This symbol of Myanmar which also depicts Buddha reaches 116 m (381 ft), making it one of the tallest in Southeast Asia. Located at Khatakan Taung, near Monywa, Sagaing Division, this statue was commissioned by Chief Abbot Ven. Nãradã. Its construction began in 1996 and completed in 2008.
Experience the Scale: visit GWK Cultural Park in Bali
Seeing the GWK statue in person is an entirely different experience than viewing photos online. Its monumental presence, especially when considering its unique width, is truly breathtaking. GWK offers a one-of-a-kind attraction where you can admire and experience the statue from a new perspective, the Top of the Statue Tour. This tour which takes you to the 9th and 23rd floor of the GWK statue allows you to truly grasp its sheer scale.
Each floor offers different attractions. The 9th floor is where you can find a museum showcasing various dioramas, art installations, and memorabilia about the statue’s history. As for the 23rd floor, thai is where you’ll be able to witness the panoramic vistas of Bali which include the Jimbaran area, Kuta Beach, Seminyak Beach, Bali Mandara Toll Road, Melasti Beach, Nusa Dua Area, and the Ngurah Rai Airport. This floor also provides you with thrilling glass floors, glass lift, and the best spots for photography.
Beyond the statue, the park offers other captivating attractions, some of the must-experience one is our new BarAong Show, Kecak Garuda Wisnu Kencana, and many other Balinese cultural performances that are performed daily at the Amphitheater and Lotus Pond. Other attractions not to miss when you’re visiting the park include enjoying art exhibitions at Asana Artseum and dining with spectacular views at Jendela Bali the Panoramic Resto. This wide-range of attractions makes GWK the ideal one-stop tourist destination.
Plan Your Visit to GWK: Witness a World Wonder!
Purchase the GWK Regular Entrance Ticket + Top of The Statue Tour (Ultimate Package) for a complete experience. Here are the benefits included in your Ultimate Package:
- Regular Entrance Ticket to GWK Cultural Park
- Guided tour to 9th & 23rd floor of Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue (where the glass thrills await!)
- Refreshment drink at Jendela Bali Restaurant
- Entrance to ASANA Artseum (The First Thematic Museum and Photo Studio in Bali)
- Balinese Cultural Performances at Amphitheater stage (from 11 AM-3 PM)
- Watch animation movie “Petualangan Garuda Cilik” at Garuda Sineloka Mini Cinema (30 minutes duration, start from 10.30 AM-7.30 PM)
- The ticket is valid for the whole day! Free entry and exit to the GWK area (by requesting a stamp at the exit gate)
Don’t just read about the biggest statue in the world, come and experience one of its most impressive contenders, the GWK statue, firsthand! Secure your tickets to GWK Cultural Park and to witness this monumental experience and enjoy the exclusive Top of the Statue Tour!