Discover the Rich Heritage at the National Museum of Indonesia
Explore Indonesia's rich history and culture at the National Museum of Indonesia, a must-visit for every traveler in Jakarta.
A brief summary to National Museum of Indonesia
- Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No.12, Central Jakarta City, Gambir, Jakarta, 10110, ID
- +62213868172
- Visit website
The National Museum of Indonesia, often referred to as the Museum Gajah due to its iconic elephant statue at the entrance, is a premier cultural institution that stands as a testament to the nation's rich and diverse heritage. Located in the bustling city of Jakarta, the museum houses an extensive collection of over 140,000 artifacts, ranging from prehistoric times to the modern era. Visitors can journey through Indonesia's history and culture as they explore various exhibits, including ancient ceramics, textiles, and traditional weaponry, all meticulously curated to provide an insightful perspective on the archipelago's past. The museum's main hall features impressive displays of stone sculptures, ancient relics, and an array of ethnographic artifacts that represent the diverse cultures spread across Indonesia's numerous islands. Each section of the museum is designed to tell a story, highlighting the unique traditions and histories of Indonesia's many ethnic groups. The museum not only serves as a space for education and preservation but also as a venue for cultural events, exhibitions, and workshops, making it a vibrant part of Jakarta’s cultural landscape. For tourists, the National Museum of Indonesia offers a unique opportunity to delve into the country's past and gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural richness. It is advisable to allocate ample time to fully explore the various galleries and enjoy the beautiful architecture of the building itself, which blends traditional Indonesian elements with modern design. The museum is conveniently located near several other attractions, making it an ideal starting point for a day of discovery in Jakarta.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Don’t miss the guided tours, which provide deeper insights into the exhibits.
- Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events during your visit.
- Take your time exploring the outdoor gardens, which are often overlooked but beautifully maintained.
- Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the extensive collection and exhibits.
Getting There
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TransJakarta Bus
If you're near a TransJakarta bus stop, take the bus heading towards the 'Kota' or 'Blok M' route. Get off at the 'Gambir' bus stop. From there, it's a short walk. Head east on Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan, then turn left onto Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat. The National Museum of Indonesia will be on your right at No. 12.
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Commuter Line Train
Take the Commuter Line train to 'Gambir' station. Once you exit the station, walk towards Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan. Continue walking east and turn left onto Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat. Walk straight for about 10 minutes, and you will arrive at the National Museum of Indonesia at No. 12.
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Walking
If you are already in the Gambir area, you can walk to the National Museum of Indonesia. Start from the Gambir train station and head towards the east on Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan. After about 500 meters, turn left onto Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat. The museum will be on your right side after a short walk.
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Ride-hailing Service (e.g., Gojek or Grab)
Open your ride-hailing app and set your destination to 'National Museum of Indonesia, Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No.12, Gambir'. The driver will take you directly to the museum. Make sure to check the traffic conditions, as they can vary throughout the day.
Attractions Nearby to National Museum of Indonesia
- Monas Dancing Fountain
- Arjuna Wijaya Statue
- Museum Taman Prasasti
- Thamrin Fountain
- Taman Pandang Istana
- Monas
- National Monument
- Museum Sejarah Nasional
- Jakarta City Hall
- Kawasan Wisata Kuliner Pecenongan
- GPIB Immanuel Jakarta
- National Gallery of Indonesia
- Istiqlal Mosque
- Sky Deck Sarinah
- Jakarta Cathedral
Landmarks nearby to National Museum of Indonesia
- Chulalongkorn de Grote - Rama V, erfgoedpad in Batavia
- Noxious Vortex Pusat
- Tjokin-Kjokoe Djawa - Spaarbureau Djawa in Batavia
- Nederlandsch-Indische Levensverzekerings en Lijfrente Maatschappij
- Little India (குட்டி இந்தியா/India Kecil)
- Stasiun Juanda
- Patung Dr GSSJ Ratulangi
- Yuyun Palace
- Galeri Indonesia Kaya
- BARTELE GALLERY - Jakarta, Indonesia
- Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta