Towering over Bali, the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) statue is not merely a landmark; it’s a colossal achievement steeped in fascinating stories. This iconic symbol of both Bali and Indonesia depicts the Hindu god Vishnu riding his companion Garuda. It embodies the themes of freedom, loyalty, and the balance between humanity and nature which are deeply rooted in Balinese culture and philosophy. This magnificent statue located in GWK Cultural Park, has an interesting history that will surely leave you in awe. Through this guide, dive into the GWK statue facts to uncover the hidden depths, artistic mastery, and sheer scale of one of the world’s most impressive monuments.
9 Astounding GWK Statue Facts You Need to Know
1. Fourth Tallest Statue in the World (and Bali’s Crown Jewel)
The GWK statue stands at an impressive height of 121 m tall, making it the 4th tallest statue in the world. Its sheer scale dominates Bali’s landscape and made it obtain its status as the tallest statue in Indonesia.
2. The Widest Statue in the World
Other than having an impressive height, the GWK statue also holds the record for being the widest statue in the world. This record is due to the colossal span of Garuda’s wings.
3. Wingspan Rivaling a Commercial Aircraft
This statue’s enormous wingspan spreads at an awe-inspiring width of 64 m wide. This awe-inspiring wingspan is akin to the width of a commercial aircraft.
4. Garuda’s Wings: Symbols of Power and Freedom
The GWK statue depicts the Hindu God Vishnu riding his companion Garuda, a mythical bird in Hindu mythology (mount of Vishnu). The wings, as the most outstanding part of the GWK statue, represent power and freedom.
5. A Handmade Artistic Navel
This masterpiece in the form of a sculpture is handmade, making it such a monumental human achievement. The creation of this statue involved intricate craftsmanship and dedication of many capable artists and sculptors.
6. The Green Hue: Patina, Not Moss
The green color on the GWK statue is not due to moss, but patina (a natural oxidation of copper/bronze alloys). This green color is a desired effect for monumental sculptures, adding a sense of age and depth needed for its aesthetic appeal. Patina can also protect the statue from deteriorating.
7. Decades in the Making: From Sketch to Completion
The creation of the GWK statue is a long journey. The first sketches of the statue were made in 1989 and its construction started in 1997 However, the construction stopped for a while in the late 1900s and resumed in 2012 under the continuation of PT Alam Sutra Realty Tbk. Finally, the construction was finally completed in 2018.
8. Visitors can Ascend the Statue
There’s also a thrilling attraction inside of the GWK statue., the Top of the Statue Tour. Visitors can go up to the 9th and 23rd floors which offers an internal perspective. On the 9th floor, there’s a museum showcasing various dioramas, art installations, and memorabilia. You’ll have the opportunity to deepen your understanding about the history of the GWK statue’s creation.
9. Breathtaking Panoramas from the Top
On the 23rd floor, you’ll have the best spot to view the beauty of Bali from above. The views include the Jimbaran area, Kuta Beach, Seminyak Beach, Bali Mandara Toll Road, Melasti Beach, Nusa Dua Area, and the Ngurah Rai Airport. Other than scenery viewing, this floor also provides the best spots for photography.
Why Visit GWK Cultural Park?
- Architectural Wonder
GWK Cultural Park is the only place where you can witness one of the world’s largest and most intricate statues, the GWK statue, firsthand. In this place, not only can you view the statue up close, but you can also have the opportunity to learn about its history.
- Cultural Significance
Explore a park dedicated to preserving and showcasing Balinese culture and mythology. The park’s main attraction, the GWK statue showcases Balinese culture by serving as a symbol of balance between humanity and nature. Other than that, there are also cultural attractions such as the BarAong Show, Kecak GWK, and 10+ many other traditional Balinese dances that tell and preserve different Balinese folklores.
- Panoramic Views
Enjoy breathtaking vistas that span the entire southern Bali region. GWK Cultural Park offers the best viewpoint to do this activity, from on top of the GWK statue. From the 23rd, you will be able to see the Jimbaran area, Kuta Beach, Seminyak Beach, Bali Mandara Toll Road, Melasti Beach, Nusa Dua Area, and the Ngurah Rai Airport.
- Full experience
Beyond the statue, the park offers cultural performances, art exhibitions, and dining options. There are over 10 cultural attractions that include the BarAong Show, Kecak GWK, Tari Sekar Jepun, Tari Sekar Nirwana, Tari Joged Bumbung, and many others that are performed daily. Except for the BarAong Show, experiencing these cultural attractions doesn’t require an additional fee as it’s already included in the general admission ticket.
Within the park, there is also an excellent dining option, Jendela Bali the Panoramic Resto. Located on top of a cliff, you’ll be able to have your meal accompanied by stunning views of Bali landscape. The restaurant’s menu ranges from Indonesian to international cuisines that are served with a 5-star presentation.
Plan Your Visit to GWK Cultural Park: Get Your Tickets!
GWK statue is a symbol of Indonesian artistry, perseverance, and cultural heritage. Its awe-inspiring nature reinforced by its many fascinating GWK statue facts makes it a truly remarkable work of art worth-visiting. Ready to explore these incredible GWK statue facts in person? Buy your tickets and seize your chance to witness Bali’s colossal masterpiece.