Garuda Wisnu Kencana
Patung Garuda Wisnu Kencana
Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) is a colossal statue in southern Bali depicting the Hindu god Vishnu (Wisnu) riding his eagle mount Garuda — a powerful symbol in Indonesian national identity, where Garuda is the national emblem. At 121 metres tall (30 metres more than the Statue of Liberty), it is the third-tallest statue in the world. The statue was designed by Balinese artist I Nyoman Nuarta and took over 20 years to complete, requiring 754 tonnes of copper and brass over a steel framework. It sits within a 240-hectare cultural park on the Bukit Peninsula, 200 metres above sea level, and is visible from as far as Kuta beach 20 km away. The cultural park surrounding the statue includes open-air theatres, temple courtyards, restaurants, and regular Kecak dance performances. Open daily, entry fees apply.
✨ Historical Significance
Why Garuda Wisnu Kencana Matters
Ranked #47 among the world's top 100
The third-tallest statue in the world at 121 metres and Indonesia's most important cultural monument, depicting the national symbol of Garuda. A pillar of Balinese Hindu cultural identity.
Built
1997–2018 (inaugurated 22 September 2018)
Location
Indonesia
Annual Visitors
3 million
Coordinates
-8.8103°, 115.1676°
📅 Plan Your Visit to Garuda Wisnu Kencana
Best Season
Dry Season (Apr–Oct)
Recommended months: May to September
Temperature
Average: 27–33°C (80–91°F)
Visit Duration
Recommended: 1–2 hours
Entry Fee
$2–$10 USD
Dress Code
Generally no strict dress code. Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Some monuments have specific entry requirements.
Getting There
Located in Bali, Indonesia. Reach Bali by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Bali center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
📍 Location of Garuda Wisnu Kencana
Bali, Indonesia · -8.8103°N, 115.1676°E
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Garuda Wisnu Kencana
Arrive early or visit near closing time for the best photography without crowds.
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Carry small bills for entrance fees and donations.
Language: Indonesian. Learn basic greetings in the local language — locals appreciate the effort.
Best time to visit: May to September. Visa on arrival available for many countries.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Garuda Wisnu Kencana
Everything you need to know before visiting Garuda Wisnu Kencana.
1Where is Garuda Wisnu Kencana located?
▼
Garuda Wisnu Kencana is located in Bali, Indonesia. GPS coordinates: 8.8103°S, 115.1676°E. It is ranked #47 in our Top 100 World Monuments list.
2When was Garuda Wisnu Kencana built?
▼
Garuda Wisnu Kencana was built in 1997–2018 (inaugurated 22 September 2018). The third-tallest statue in the world at 121 metres and Indonesia's most important cultural monument, depicting the national symbol of Garuda. A pillar of Balinese Hindu cultural identity.
3What is the best time to visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana?
▼
The best time to visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana in Indonesia is during May to September. This is the Dry Season (Apr–Oct) when weather is most comfortable for sightseeing, with average temperatures of 27–33°C (80–91°F).
4How much does it cost to visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana?
▼
Entry fees for Garuda Wisnu Kencana are approximately $2–$10 USD. Prices may vary by season and nationality. Check the official website for current rates.
5How long should I spend at Garuda Wisnu Kencana?
▼
Plan to spend 1–2 hours at Garuda Wisnu Kencana. Take time to appreciate the architecture and historical significance.
6What should I wear when visiting Garuda Wisnu Kencana?
▼
Generally no strict dress code. Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Some monuments have specific entry requirements.
7How many people visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana each year?
▼
Garuda Wisnu Kencana receives approximately 3 million visitors per year, making it one of the popular monuments in Indonesia.
8How do I get to Garuda Wisnu Kencana?
▼
Located in Bali, Indonesia. Reach Bali by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Bali center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
9Do I need a visa to visit Indonesia?
▼
Visa on arrival available for many countries. The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Indonesia is in the UTC+7 to UTC+9 timezone.
🗺️ Explore More Sites
← Previous in ranking
#46 Stone Mountain
Georgia, United States
Next in ranking →
#48 Christ the King
Almada, Portugal
🏳️ More in Indonesia
🎯 Nearby Attractions
- •National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta
- •Local museums and cultural centers in Bali
- •Traditional markets and local cuisine near Bali