Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) is a cultural park located in Bali, Indonesia. The park is named after the Hindu god Vishnu, who is often depicted riding on the back of Garuda, a mythical bird creature. The park is home to a large statue of Garuda and Vishnu, which stands at a height of 120 meters (394 feet), making it one of the tallest statues in the world.
The construction of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue began in 1997 and was completed in 2018. The statue was designed by the Balinese artist Nyoman Nuarta, and is made of copper and brass. The statue is meant to symbolize the harmony between humans and nature, and the importance of preserving the environment.
In addition to the statue, the Garuda Wisnu Kencana cultural park features a variety of cultural performances, exhibitions, and activities. Visitors can explore the park's many gardens, watch traditional Balinese dances and music performances, and participate in workshops on Balinese arts and crafts. The park also offers a range of dining options, including traditional Balinese cuisine.
Garuda Wisnu Kencana is a popular tourist destination in Bali, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to see the impressive statue and experience Balinese culture.
Special beauty at Garuda Wisnu Kencana
There are several features at Garuda Wisnu Kencana that make it a unique and beautiful destination in Bali:
- The Garuda and Vishnu statue: The centerpiece of the park is undoubtedly the stunning Garuda and Vishnu statue. The 120-meter-tall statue is an impressive sight to behold, and visitors can admire it up close from various vantage points around the park.
- The park's natural surroundings: The Garuda Wisnu Kencana park is set amidst beautiful natural surroundings, with lush gardens and rolling hills. The park's many paths and trails offer visitors a chance to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
- Traditional Balinese architecture: The park's buildings and structures are designed in traditional Balinese style, with intricate carvings and ornate details. Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture as they explore the park.
- Cultural performances: Garuda Wisnu Kencana is also a hub for traditional Balinese culture, with regular performances of dance, music, and other cultural activities. Visitors can witness these performances and learn more about the rich cultural heritage of Bali.
- The sunset view: The park offers a breathtaking view of the sunset over the ocean, making it a popular spot for visitors to watch the sun go down over the horizon.
All of these features combine to make Garuda Wisnu Kencana a truly special and beautiful destination in Bali.
Transportation to Garuda Wisnu Kencana
There are several transportation options available to reach Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) in Bali, Indonesia. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Private car or taxi: This is the most convenient and comfortable way to get to GWK. Visitors can hire a private car or taxi from their hotel or from a taxi stand. The ride takes around 30 minutes from popular tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, or Nusa Dua.
- Public transportation: Visitors can take a public bus from Denpasar or other major cities in Bali to the Garuda Wisnu Kencana bus stop. From there, it's a short walk to the park entrance.
- Motorbike or scooter: Visitors can rent a motorbike or scooter from one of the many rental shops in Bali and drive to GWK. This is a popular option for those who prefer to travel independently and have some experience driving in Bali.
- Group tours: Many tour operators offer group tours that include transportation to GWK. This is a good option for those who want to combine a visit to GWK with other popular tourist destinations in Bali.
No matter which transportation option visitors choose, they are sure to enjoy the beautiful scenery and cultural experiences that Garuda Wisnu Kencana has to offer.
Services Fee in Garuda Wisnu Kencana
Visitors to Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) cultural park in Bali, Indonesia are required to pay an admission fee to enter the park. The current admission fee is IDR 175,000 (approximately USD 12) for adults and IDR 125,000 (approximately USD 9) for children. Children under the age of 3 are admitted free of charge.
In addition to the admission fee, there are some additional fees for certain services and activities within the park. Here are some examples:
- Cultural performances: Some of the cultural performances, such as the Kecak Dance and Balinese music performances, may require an additional fee. The fees for these performances vary depending on the type of performance.
- Segway and ATV rides: Visitors can rent Segways or ATVs to explore the park. The rental fees for these activities range from IDR 75,000 to IDR 250,000 (approximately USD 5 to USD 17) per person.
- Food and beverages: There are several restaurants and cafes within the park that offer a variety of food and beverages. Prices for food and beverages vary depending on the restaurant and menu items.
- Souvenir shops: Visitors can purchase souvenirs and gifts from the park's souvenir shops. Prices for souvenirs vary depending on the item.
It's worth noting that some of the services and activities within the park may be subject to change, so it's best to check with the park's official website or information desk for up-to-date information on fees and services.
Tips for Traveling in Garuda Wisnu Kencana
If you're planning to visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) in Bali, Indonesia, here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes: The park is quite large, with many stairs and walking paths, so it's important to wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are suitable for walking.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat: Bali can be quite hot and sunny, so it's important to protect your skin from the sun. Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat to help you stay cool and comfortable while exploring the park.
- Plan your visit in advance: The park is quite large and there are many activities and performances to see, so it's a good idea to plan your visit in advance to ensure that you can see everything you want to see. You can check the park's official website for information on schedules and events.
- Bring cash: While there are some ATMs and credit card machines within the park, it's a good idea to bring some cash with you for things like food, souvenirs, and other activities that may require cash payments.
- Be respectful of local customs: Garuda Wisnu Kencana is a cultural park that celebrates Balinese culture and traditions. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as dress codes and behavior during cultural performances.
- Enjoy the sunset view: One of the highlights of a visit to GWK is the stunning view of the sunset over the ocean. Be sure to plan your visit so that you can experience this breathtaking sight.
By following these tips, you'll be able to fully enjoy your visit to Garuda Wisnu Kencana and experience the beauty and culture of Bali.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) is a cultural park in Bali, Indonesia that celebrates Balinese culture and traditions. The park is home to many cultural performances, sculptures, and art exhibits, as well as beautiful gardens and stunning views of the ocean. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as Segway rides and ATV tours, and sample traditional Balinese food at the park's restaurants and cafes. To make the most of your visit, it's important to plan ahead, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and be respectful of local customs. With its unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty, Garuda Wisnu Kencana is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Bali.