Explore Bali: 7 Things to Do at Garuda Wisnu Kencana for First Timers

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Bali, best known as the Land of the Gods, has captured the hearts of many visitors for its outstanding natural beauty. Among the enchanting culturally recognized sites is the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, or GWK Cultural Park, in Kuta. 

The Garuda Wisnu Kencana is one of the largest statues in Bali, demonstrating the country's magnificent culture to the eyes of global visitors. With a height of 121 meters, the grand statue is a representation of the Hindu God Vishnu riding his Garuda. 

Nyoman Nuarta, a renowned Indonesian artist, was commissioned to build the Garuda Wisnu Kencana in 1989. The construction was finally completed after 25 years of arduous process. 

Thanks to its captivating charm, the cultural park has attracted many visitors. Here are the seven things to do at Garuda Wisnu Kencana, whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning Bali traveler. 

Things to Do at Garuda Wisnu Kencana

1. Attending a Music Concert 

Attending a music concert is one of the most exciting things to do at night in Garuda Wisnu Kencana. A number of popular music events such as Soundrenaline, Djakarta Warehouse Project, and Dreamfields Festival have been held at GWK Cultural Park. 

Garuda Wisnu Kencana's vast area has several venues that can accommodate up to 40,000 people for selected music concerts. Each venue is equipped with an impeccable sound system, providing an exceptional concert experience for the visitors. Indulge yourself in the festivity of favored music concerts accompanied by the majestic Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue. 

2. Watch Traditional Dance Performance

Balinese Kecak Dance, famous for its mystical dance, attracts the attention of tourists from all over the world. GWK Bali's Amphitheater regularly holds a show of Balinese Kecak Dance and it has amassed a number of visitors including foreigners and locals. 

Balinese Kecak Dance was originally a ritual performed mainly on the island of Bali. In practice, the dance has evolved into a sublime show. Coupled with eerie chants, the majestic fire dance is the most anticipated part of the show. 

Apart from the Balinese Kecak Dance, there is another traditional performance of Legong Dance waiting to be seen. It's highly recommended as one of the things to do at Garuda Wisnu Kencana. 

Legong Dance was reserved as a royal court performance in the past. Only members of the royal family were allowed to attend. Today, visitors of all backgrounds are welcome to enjoy the show at GWK's Jendela Bali. 

3. Watch Animation at Garuda Cinema 

Another thing to do at Garuda Wisnu Kencana is to watch the award-winning short animation at Garuda Cinema. The film "Garuda Cilik" won the Citra Cup Award in the category of short animated film in FFI in 2015. 

4. Dining in Beranda

One of the best things to do at Garuda Wisnu Kencana is to immerse yourself in the culturally exceptional cuisine of Bali. Beranda Restaurant has a deep touch of Bali's exotic beauty presented in a modern way.

5. Stroll Around 

Covering an area of about 60 hectares, GWK Cultural Park offers an exquisite sight in the landscape of enchanting Bali. Every spot is a representation of Balinese cultures, the perfect place to immortalize the panoramic scene in photographs. 

6. Ride Around 

Garuda Wisnu Kencana has a well-known Segway motorbike rental area visitors can use to enjoy the evening. An affordable price is offered at the place's opening hours, starting from 10:00 to 22:00 local time. 

7. Shop Local Heritage 

Browse through Kencana Souvenir Shop to find the local heritage and bring home a selection of many Balinese exotic keepsakes including alluring sculptures. 

GWK is always crowded with visitors, most of them checking their list of things to do at Garuda Wisnu Kencana. 

Indonesia.travel | gwkbali.com

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