The Bajra Sandhi Monument in Denpasar isdedicated to the history of Indonesia. Learn about the country from itsearliest beginnings to its fight for independence against the Dutch andJapanese. The huge monument is in the shape of a bell, called a “bajra” or“gentra”, used by Hindu priests in religious ceremonies. The main room hasdioramas and carvings that celebrate the country’s achievements.
Despite its traditional appearance,Bajra Sandhi is a modern building. It was built in 1987 and opened in 2003. Themonument is also referred to as the Struggle of the People of Bali and itsdesign is grounded in two main ideas. Yoni is a Hindu symbol for creation andregeneration and is strongly represented, as is the ancient Indian story ofMandara Giri Mountain in Ksirarnawa (milky ocean) about gods and giants who tryto extract Holy Water of Eternity from Mount Mandara. Look for symbols thatrepresent August 17, 1945, the day the Japanese surrendered.
Stand at the bottom of the steps thatlead to the monument to appreciate its size. Bajra Sandhi is 45 metres (148feet) tall and is made up of three floors, eight pillars and 17 gates. Climb upthe tower in the centre of the monument to a viewing platform that looks outover Denpasar. Enjoy 360-degree views then walk back down to the exhibitionroom, where you’ll find temporary exhibits of photographs or paintings.
Stroll through the park that surroundsthe monument. Visit on Sundays when the streets are closed to cars and localscome to exercise or relax in the sun. June and July see the month-long BaliArts Festival fill the park, when there are daily performances, food stalls andarts and crafts.
The Bajra Sandhi Monument is in Renon inDenpasar. Hire a car or take a taxi from Kuta or the international airport. It’sroughly a half-hour drive from Kuta to Denpasar, depending on the traffic. Ifyou’re coming from Sanur, take a bus in the direction of Teuku Umar.
The monument is open every day untillate afternoon. There’s a small fee for admission.
