The Bajra Sandhi Monument stands in Renon, Denpasar, at the centre of a large lawned park. Its form copies the bajra, the bell that Hindu priests use when reciting mantras. The monument honours the Balinese people's struggle through their history. Inside, 33 dioramas trace Bali's past from early times to the years after independence, with English translations. Climb to the top for views over Denpasar, then walk the park. Walking the grounds is free, while the museum inside charges an entry fee.
Why the monument was built
The monument was built in 1987 and opened in 2003. It commemorates the struggle of the Balinese people through their history, including their resistance to Dutch colonial rule, which began on the island in 1906.
The design links to Hindu philosophy. Its height is 45 metres, and its dimensions are said to recall Indonesia's declaration of independence on 17 August 1945.
The dioramas inside
The exhibits are a series of 33 dioramas. They cover the island's past from prehistoric times up to the independence period, and they include the Majapahit era and the wars against Dutch and Japanese invasion. The figures are crafted to a high level of detail, and each scene comes with an English translation.
Register in the guest book before you start. Scanning the barcodes next to each exhibit brings up more information on that scene. Some stairs connect the displays, so visitors who have trouble with steps should plan the route before entering.
The building and the top
The structure follows the Tri Mandala principle of Balinese architecture. It has three zones: Utama Mandala, the main building at the centre; Madya Mandala, the inner courtyard around it; and Nista Mandala, the outer courtyard. Decorative elements from Balinese Hindu design appear across the building, including a pool that surrounds the monument.
A spiral staircase leads to the top. From there, the views are 360 degrees across Denpasar. Many visitors stay on the roof for a while and watch the city and any school groups visiting the site.
The park and the surroundings
The monument sits in the Lapangan Niti Mandala Renon, also called Puputan Renon, a large square with green lawns, fountains and trees. Locals use the park for jogging, cycling, basketball and football. Until the pandemic, a car-free day was held here every Sunday.
Renon is the administrative centre of Denpasar. The Governor's office sits nearby, and the Bali Arts Festival opens with a parade in front of the monument, usually in June.
The exhibits commemorate a painful period in the island's history. Keep your voice low inside the galleries and treat the displays with the same care you would give any memorial.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, the museum inside charges an entry fee, and foreign visitors pay much more than locals. Pay at the booth at the entrance and check the current rate there. You can walk around the park and see the outside without going in.
Can you go to the top of the monument?
Yes. The top is reached by stairs, including a spiral staircase, and it gives views over Denpasar in every direction. If stairs are a concern, check the route before you go in.
How many dioramas are there?
There are 33 dioramas, with English translations. Some have been missing or under renovation at times, so check which are open when you visit.
Is the monument suitable for children?
Yes. The large green lawn gives children room to run around, while parents can relax on the grass nearby.
Where is the Bajra Sandhi Monument?
The address is Jl. Raya Puputan No.142, Renon, Denpasar Selatan. It stands in front of the Bali Governor's office.
