There are plans to open a second cultural park, Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK-2), on Nusa Penida. The project was announced by the regent of Klungkung district, Nyoman Nuarta, during a visit to the NuArt Sculpture Park in Bandung.
The site was chosen in the Puncak Bukit Mundi area, which offers views of Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Mount Agung. The new complex is intended to complement the existing GWK park on the Bukit Peninsula, home to a 122-meter statue of Vishnu on Garuda — the tallest sculpture in the country.
The regent hopes to attract private investment and turn GWK-2 into the cultural center of the archipelago. The idea emerged amidst a tourism boom: Nusa Penida already welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, with more and more staying on the island for several nights.
Currently, tourists visit for the beaches of Kelingking, Diamond Beach, and Angel's Billabong, as well as for diving with manta rays in the local marine reserve. The new park aims to expand the cultural offerings of the island.
While preparations are ongoing, visitors can enjoy the first GWK park. In summer, it hosts concerts, fairs, and festivals; the next major event is the Rakyal Party on August 17th in celebration of Indonesia's Independence Day. Tickets are more affordable in packages and are available online or at the entrance.
You can add one right now!