Bajra Sandhi Monument 🇮🇩

Located in Denpasar, Indonesia, right in front of the Bali Governor's Office, the Bajra Sandhi Monument stands as a powerful tribute commemorating the struggles of the Balinese people throughout history and honoring heroes like I Gusti Ngurah Rai, I Gusti Ketut Jelantik, and I Gusti Ketut Pudja. Built across 13.8 hectares of land, its striking architecture was designed by Ir. Ida Bagus Gede Yadnya to symbolize Indonesian Independence Day (August 17, 1945) through its 17 entrance gates, 8 main pillars, and a towering 45-meter height.

You will notice its shape resembles a bajra, the bell used by Balinese Hindu priests, incorporating sacred elements like the Jar of Amertha and a surrounding pool symbolizing Ksirarnawa. Inside on the second floor, you can explore 33 paintings and sequentially arranged dioramas depicting Balinese history from prehistoric times to independence. Highlighted dioramas detail the history of the Bali Aga tribe, the Battle of Puputan Klungkung, Puputan Badung, and the dissemination of the 1945 proclamation.

It is also famous as the annual site for the Balinese arts festival parade.

What to see at Bajra Sandhi Monument

• 33 historical dioramas depicting events from prehistory to Indonesian independence
• Unique architecture shaped like a traditional Hindu priest's bell (bajra)
• Symbolic design featuring 17 entrance gates, 8 main pillars, and a 45-meter height
• Commemorative monument honoring Balinese heroes who fought Dutch colonialism
• Annual host site for the Balinese arts festival parade

Visiting tips

Follow the dioramas on the second floor clockwise to view Balinese history chronologically from prehistory to independence.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Bajra Sandhi Monument is easy to reach on Denpasar’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Bali Museum and Holy Spirit Cathedral. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Denpasar travel guide.