Statues are not merely three-dimensional art pieces. They are powerful symbols of history, myth, and national pride. One of the countries where you can find some of the most famous and prominent statues is Indonesia. This country is rich with a wide-range of monumental and artistic sculptures, ranging from historical figures to revered deities. In this guide, we will share our top 10 famous statues in Indonesia, with a special focus on the magnificent Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) statue in Bali and the reasons why it is a must-visit destination.
Indonesia’s Top 10 Famous Statues
1. Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Statue, Bali
First on the list we have the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Statue located within the GWK Cultural Park, Ungasan, Bali. This is a colossal statue depicting the Hindu god Vishnu riding his mythical bird companion Garuda, a modern masterpiece and Bali icon. With its impressive height of 121 m, it is currently the tallest and largest statue in Indonesia.
The special thing about this statue is that it allows you to ascend to its upper levels (the 9th and 23rd floor) with the Top of the Statue Tour. Within the park, there are also other exciting attractions such as the BarAong Show, Kecak Garuda Wisnu Kencana, and 10+ Balinese cultural performances.
2. Monumen Selamat Datang, Jakarta
The name of this statue, “Monumen Selamat Datang” means “Welcome Monument” in Indonesia. This statue is a famous landmark located in the heart of Jakarta that welcomes visitors all around the world.
3. General Sudirman Statue, Jakarta
This one is a prominent statue that honors one of Indonesia’s national heroes, General Sudirman. He was honored for leading the resistance against colonial forces.
4. Sura and Baya Statue, Surabaya
The city of Surabaya’s iconic statue, the Sura and Baya statue, depicts the battle between a shark (sura) and a crocodile (baya). This legend of the sura and baya is the origin of the city’s name.
5. Tugu Pahlawan Statue, Surabaya
Next, we have Tugu Pahlawan Statue or “Heroes’ Monument” located in Surabaya. This towering monument commemorates the Battle of Surabaya, a pivotal event during the Indonesian National Revolution.
6. Jalesveva Jayamahe Monument, Surabaya
This one is a statue that depicts an male Indonesian Navy officer in a ceremonial uniform with a sword. He is shown looking out at the sea as if he was challenging it which represents the Navy’s constant readiness.
7. Buddha Statues, Borobudur
Some of the must-see things if you’re visiting Central Java are the Buddha statues at Candi Borobudur in Borobudur, Central Java. This temple area holds a collection of over 500 statues, including those seated inside the 72 perforated stupas.
8. Jesus Buntu Burake, Tana Toraja
One of the tallest statues of Jesus Christ in the world, standing at approximately 40 m (130 ft) tall. This statue perched majestically on the top of Buntu Burake hill.
9. Slepping Buddha Statue, Mojokerto
Another impressive Buddha statue aside from the ones in Borobudur is the Sleeping Buddha Statue in Mojokerto. This gilded reclining Buddha statue, one of the largest in Southeast Asia.
10. Martha Christina Tiahahu Statue, Ambon
Last but not least, we have the statue dedicated to Martha Christina Tiahahu, a heroic young woman from Maluku. She was honored for her service fighting against the Dutch colonial forces in the 19th century.
Experience GWK’s Top of the Statue Tour
The park’s main and must-experience attraction is the Top of the Statue Tour. This tour takes you to ascend to the upper levels of the GWK statue, specifically to the 9th and the 23rd floor. Each floor offers different attractions:
- 9th floor: On this floor, you can find a museum showcasing various dioramas, art installations, and memorabilia. Experiencing the attractions on this floor allows you to deepen your understanding about the history of the making of the GWK statue which stands at an impressive height of 121 m.
- 23rd floor: This floor is the best viewpoint in Bali. From GWK statue’s height, you can see stunning panoramic views of different places in Bali which includes the Jimbaran area, Kuta Beach, Seminyak Beach, Bali Mandara Toll Road, Melasti Beach, Nusa Dua Area, and the Ngurah Rai Airport. Additionally, this floor serves as an iconic photography spot as well.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of ascending the GWK statue, choose the Ultimate Package (Regular Entrance Ticket + Top of the Statue Tour). This ticket includes:
- Regular Entrance Ticket to GWK Cultural Park
- Guided tour to 9th & 23rd floor of Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue
- Refreshment drink at Jendela Bali Restaurant
- Balinese Cultural Performances at Amphitheater stage (from 11AM to 3PM)
- Watch animation movie “Petualangan Garuda Cilik” at Garuda Sineloka Mini Cinema (30 minutes duration, start from 10:30 AM to 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)
Plan Your Visit to GWK Cultural Park!
While Indonesia is home to many famous statues, the GWK statue stands out as a symbol of the nation’s ability to blend ancient mythology with modern engineering. Visiting GWK is an essential experience in Indonesian art, culture, and monumental masterpieces. Ready to see one of the world’s most impressive statues in person? Experience the grandeur of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana and take the incredible Top of the Statue Tour yourself! Book your visit and witness this monumental masterpiece today!