Bajra Sandhi Monument – Uncovering the monumental Balinese history

Bali is one of the most admirable island destinations for many people around the world and the island is called God’s heaven for a reason. An Indonesian Archipelago, Bali attracts tourists from different parts of the world and for reasons umpteen! From its list of unending paradisiacal beaches, exotic temples, terraced rice fields, picturesque sunsets, brilliant landscapes, abiding and gigantic monuments, there is so much to experience in this stunning island paradise! One such historic monument to explore is the Bajra Sandhi Monument.

Going to Bali feels like going on an unceasing adventure – there is an attraction to suit every soul! Experience surfing, meditation, trekking, delicious food & amazing nightlife. Certain places in Bali have been influenced by tourism, with beachside cafes, hipster bars, and modern restaurants. Other areas are still quite remote, maintaining their uniquely Balinese history and charm. 

Bali is also well known for its history and culture. Bali has more than 2000 temples and 9 monuments and each of them hosts unique ceremonies and celebration. For history lovers, Bali has some of the most interesting monuments which give the visitors an insight into Balinese history. Monuments in Bali comprise stunning structures dedicated to the past, deities and more. Its amazing architecture, age-old traditions, pioneering art galleries are a treat to its visitors. Monuments in Bali portray some of the best kept heritages of Southeast Asia. If you’re looking to plan a trip to experience the culturally rich and historic monuments, make sure Bajra Sandhi Monument is part of your list and Bali tops your bucket list!

History of Bajra Sandhi Monument

A visit to Bali is incomplete without a visit to Bajra Sandhi Monument. Not only is the monument known for its marvellous architecture, but Bajra Sandhi is also the monument signifying the struggle of the Balinese people to pay respect to their heroes. It is a symbol of the preservation of the soul’s struggle for the Balinese people from generation to generation. It features a monument with artefacts, dioramas and murals to show the history of the Balinese people and offers a panoramic view of the entire city.

The monument has interesting bits of history associated with it. The Bajra Sandhi Monument was inaugurated in the year 2003, and it memorializes the oppression that the Balinese people faced in the past. The monument is situated in front of the Governor’s Office of the Province of Bali, which is also in front of the Bali Provincial Parliament Building. The construction was made following the ‘Tri-Mandala’ principles that dictate that the building should have three sections; the Utama Mandala, the Nista Mandala, the Madya Mandala.

Architecture of Bajra Sandhi Monument

Each section is adorned with dioramas that depict Bali’s struggles under Dutch colonialism, its Hindu heritage, its royal lineage, and more. Right at the entrance, the Balinese architecture which is loaded with philosophical meanings of Hinduism and symbols of independence will astonish you and will make your jaw drop. The monument has 17 steps on the main entrance to the Bajra Sandhi Monument and it has 8 majestic poles inside the monument which are 45meters high that symbolises the Independence day of Bali which was 17th August 1945. The Bajra Sandhi Monument is a prominent and remarkable landmark in the city of Denpasar.

The name Bajra Sandhi itself is because the shape of the monument resembles the Bajra or clapper that is used by Hindu priests when chanting mantras during religious ceremonies. The monument, which was built on a land area of ​​13.8 hectares with a building area of ​​4,900 square meters, was designed by Ir Ida Gede Yad in 1981 and began to be built in 1987 on the initiative of the former Governor of Bali, Ida Bagus Mantra and was only inaugurated 16 years later on 14 June 2003 by President Megawati Soekarno Putri. In addition to enjoying tranquility around the monument, on the first-floor, visitors can enjoy various historical photos that tell the story of the struggle of the Balinese people in expelling invaders and also historical photos that speak about the kingdom of Bali in the past. Photos that are still black and white, can take us to the past.

Besides, there is a lake known as navel lake in the building and is filled with fish. Furthermore, on the second floor, 33 dioramas describe Bali in the prehistoric times, the royal era, the war and post-independence. The diorama explanation uses three languages, namely Indonesian, English and Balinese.

Entertainment at Bajra Sandhi Monument

History is considered to be a boring subject, but Bajra Sandhi Monument breaks the stereotype. Balinese people use the green square of the monument every day to cycle, jog, exercise, play football, or do yoga. Until late morning, the park is filled with people dedicated to their morning fitness routines. You can see people using the green square park for pre-wedding photoshoots owing to its scenic views. To make it even more exciting, in August 2016, the ground space was reconstructed into the IAM Bali Interactive 3D trick-art museum space, full of fun murals where you can make fun poses to add to your collection of holiday pics. This 3D museum is a complete treat to kids and family.

How to reach Bajra Sandhi Monument

Bajra Sandhi Monument is easily accessible and it is situated on the main road in the strategic area, which is set right in the centre of the Puputan Renon.
You can commute by taxi or hire a scooter. But most of the tourists prefer hiring an 8hrs car disposal combo in their Bali itinerary which will help them to cover other monuments too.
If you are staying in Sanur, it only takes 15 minutes by car with a 5.5-kilometre distance.
However, if you are staying in Kuta or Seminyak, then it will take 30 minutes by car and with 11 kilometres distance. Pickyourtrail app, your virtual guide will help you spot on the best restaurants and hotels in and around the city during your trip.

Opening Hours

Bajra Sandhi Monument is open for public access daily but it is closed on government holidays.
– Monday to Friday, from 08:30, Am – 04:30 Pm
– Saturday & Sunday, from 10:00 Am – 04:30 Pm

Entrance Fees

The entrance fee at Bajra Sandhi Monument is IDR 30,000 for adults and IDR 15,000 for a child. The same ticket applies for both the museums.

Bali is going to be a delightful experience for you filled with history, culture, scenic beaches and lush green mountain experience.  If you are fascinated by architecture or want to experience the Balinese history and culture all that you have to do is book your Bali holiday packages and explore Bajra Sandhi Monument along with other unique experiences that Bali offers. What are you waiting for – go ahead and plan your vacation with Pickyourtrail and book your magical Bali island itinerary already!