New Cultural Park Planned for Nusa Penida, Bali’s Emerging Tourism Gem
July 11, 2025 — Leaders in Bali have announced exciting plans to develop a new GWK Cultural Park on the island of Nusa Penida, a rapidly growing tourism destination known for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant marine life. The initiative aims to create a landmark cultural attraction modeled after the original GWK Cultural Park located in Bali’s Bukit Peninsula.
A Vision for the Second GWK Cultural Park
The announcement was made by Regent Nyoman Nuarta of Klungkung, who oversees the local governments of Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. He unveiled his vision during an official visit to the NuArt Sculpture Park in Bandung, sharing details of the ambitious project that could establish the second GWK Cultural Park in the region.
The original GWK Cultural Park is celebrated for its iconic Garuda Wisnu Kencana Statue, Indonesia’s tallest statue, and serves as a living museum featuring cultural performances, art exhibitions, and Bali’s rich heritage. The new park on Nusa Penida is intended to complement and extend the cultural experience offered by the original GWK park.
Unlocking Nusa Penida’s Cultural and Natural Potential
Currently, Nusa Penida’s tourism revolves around its historic temples, royal palaces, and spectacular natural scenery—including famed spots such as Kelingking Beach, Diamond Beach, and Angel’s Billabong. Regent Nuarta emphasized the untapped potential of areas like Puncak Bukit Mundi, which provides panoramic views of neighboring islands Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, as well as Mount Agung on Bali’s main island.
“There is strong interest from investors for this kind of visionary project,” said Regent Nuarta. “Nusa Penida has become a global tourist hotspot, making it an ideal location to establish the second GWK Cultural Park.”
Growing Tourism and New Opportunities
Nusa Penida has seen a significant surge in visitors, with many tourists choosing to stay overnight rather than just making day trips from Bali’s Sanur or Padangbai ports. The ability to easily explore nearby islands Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan adds to its appeal, with each island offering unique cultural experiences.
Among the popular activities is swimming with manta rays within the protected marine area around Nusa Penida—an attraction that highlights the island’s rich marine biodiversity, which also includes turtles and seasonal sunfish migrations. Visitors are encouraged to use responsible tour operators who prioritize ethical wildlife interactions.
Experience the Original GWK Cultural Park This Season
For tourists intrigued by the new cultural park plans, the existing GWK Cultural Park on the Bukit Peninsula remains a must-see destination. Currently, the park is hosting a range of events throughout July and August, including street markets, festivals, live music, and cultural performances.
One highlight is the upcoming Pesta Rakyat (Folk Festival) scheduled for August 17, which has already seen presale tickets sell out quickly. Visitors planning to attend are advised to purchase tickets early, with package options offering better value by providing access to multiple attractions within the park.
Planning Your Visit
Visitors to Bali can purchase GWK Cultural Park tickets onsite or online through the official website. Considering package rates often provides a more comprehensive experience at discounted prices.
As the tourism landscape of Bali continues to evolve, the addition of a new GWK Cultural Park on Nusa Penida promises to enrich the cultural fabric of the island chain while supporting sustainable tourism growth.
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Article sourced from The Bali Sun, July 11, 2025.
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