Bung Karno Park: Educational and Recreational Tourism in the Heart of the City

Amid the hustle and bustle of Singaraja city, Bung Karno Park stands as a refreshing green oasis while offering a profound touch of history. The park not only provides beautiful scenery and fresh air but also serves as a space to commemorate the life journey of Bung Karno, the first President and proclaimer of Indonesia’s independence. Its combination of natural beauty and historical value makes it an attractive destination for both local and international visitors.

Bung Karno Park is one of the iconic tourist destinations in Buleleng Regency, Bali, combining educational and recreational elements. Covering an area of 22,016 m² (2.20 hectares), this park offers various unique attractions that blend history, culture, and ecology. Located in Sukasada District, precisely on Jl. Jelantik Gingsir, the park is easily accessible from the Singaraja-Denpasar route.

Cultural Performance Stage (Source: Personal Collection)

The construction of Bung Karno Park took four years, starting in 2017 and completed in 2021. Although the construction was finished, the park's official inauguration was held on Wednesday, March 30, 2022. This lengthy construction process demonstrates the local government of Buleleng's commitment to creating a meaningful and high-quality public space.

The development of Bung Karno Park is closely tied to the history and connection of Bung Karno with Bali, especially Buleleng. Bung Karno's mother, Ida Ayu Nyoman Rai Srimben, was originally from Singaraja, giving this place deep historical value. The initiative for its construction was spearheaded by the Regent of Buleleng, Putu Agus Suradnyana, with the aim of creating a monument to honor Bung Karno’s legacy while paying tribute to his family’s origins.

The main icon of this park is an 8-meter-tall statue of Bung Karno that stands majestically at the front of the park. This statue is the work of an artist from Bantul, Yogyakarta, named Rinta Ivanda. The base of the statue is adorned with reliefs depicting the life of Bung Karno’s mother, Ida Ayu Nyoman Rai Srimben. The presence of this statue symbolizes respect for the history of Bung Karno’s family.

Cultural Performance Stage (Source: Personal Collection)

The park is designed with a theme of ecology and history based on culture. In addition to serving as a recreational spot, it also functions as an educational space through its reliefs and dioramas narrating Bung Karno’s life journey. One of the main features is a dedicated area for plants vegetation used in Balinese ceremonial offerings. Here, visitors can learn about various types of plants and their significance in Balinese culture.

Bung Karno Park is equipped with various facilities that ensure visitors’ comfort. These include a dancing fountain that enhances the beauty of the park with rhythmic water sprays, a jogging track perfect for morning or evening exercise, and a cultural performance stage that hosts various art and cultural events. Additionally, there are park benches providing a relaxing space under the shade of lush trees, a spacious parking area, kiosks selling local crafts, clean toilets, waste disposal facilities, drainage, and garden lights for illumination.

Bung Karno Park (Source: Personal Collection)

As a green open space with a focus on history and ecology, Bung Karno Park offers an educational and recreational experience. Visitors can enjoy the park’s serene atmosphere while learning about Bung Karno’s history and Balinese culture. There is no entrance fee, making it accessible to everyone.

Bung Karno Park in Singaraja is a perfect destination for family outings, education, and relaxation. With its combination of historical, cultural, and ecological attractions, the park serves as a testament to honoring Bung Karno and Bali’s cultural heritage. If you are in Buleleng, Bali, don’t miss the opportunity to visit this park and enjoy its beauty and significance.

Bung Karno Park (Source: Personal Collection)

In addition to its historical and ecological appeal, Bung Karno Park also serves as a hub for community activities and events. Local artists and performers often use the cultural stage to showcase traditional Balinese dances and music, enriching the cultural atmosphere of the park. Seasonal events such as cultural festivals and educational workshops make the park a lively and engaging space for all age groups.

The park’s location in the heart of Sukasada also makes it a strategic spot for promoting local tourism. Visitors to Bung Karno Park can easily explore nearby attractions, such as traditional markets and temples, providing a comprehensive cultural experience. The park not only preserves the legacy of Bung Karno but also acts as a bridge connecting Bali’s rich history with its vibrant present, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Buleleng.