Category Archives: Indonesia

Some of the Best Cultural Sights One Should Not Miss to Explore in Bali

Called the Island of the Gods, Bali is one top tourist destination in the world that evokes thoughts of a paradise. Besides its tropical treats, the island nation is renowned for its unique culture all over the world with a rich collection of temples, palaces, theaters and museums. Let’s take a look at some of the best cultural attractions of Bali:

Uluwatu Temple

One of the six key temples that are believed to be Bali’s spiritual pillars, Uluwatu Temple is a Balinese Hindu sea temple that draws the attention with its stunning location. It is perched on top of a steeped cliff approximately 70 metres above sea level, and thus, graces the western

Uluwatu Temple

coast of the island. One can spend a beautiful day here delighting in a beautiful sunset, stunning views of the waves of the Indian Ocean and daily Kecak dance performances held at an amphitheatre close to the temple apart from exploring Balinese architecture, ancient sculptures and traditional-designed gateways.

Tanah Lot Temple

Epitomising Bali as the romantic island, Tanah Lot is a rock formation with a temple called Tanah Lot Temple which is cherished for its natural beauty. It is an iconic sea temple with a stunning backdrop of the vast blue and history dating back to the 16th century. Located some Tanah Lot Temple300 metres offshore, it is one great place to learn about Balinese mythology. Visitors will have to walk through a number of Balinese market-format souvenir shops to reach the temple. There are some restaurants as well on the mainland cliff tops.

Ubud Royal Palace

One of the gorgeous royal palaces in Ubud, a royal town, Ubud Royal Palace serves as a cultural repository of arts, dance and literature. The well-preserved Balinese architecture of the palace and a stunning garden setting are a treat for sore eyes. The palace has beautiful walkways Ubud-Royal-Palacewhere visitors can have a perfect leisure time and click pictures. Every evening, the performances with gamelan and percussive orchestras are hosted here. This place is quite popular among Balinese arts’ lovers as one of the main sites to view traditional dance performances.

Elephant Cave

Also known as Goa Gajah, Elephant Cave is a significant Hindu archaeological site that also serves as a Buddhist temple, carved in stories and sacred figures. This place got its name as Elephant Cave due to its close proximity to the Elephant River. There is a large bathing pool that is believed to cleanse the soul and ward off evil spirits. The menacing entrance to the cave appears like a demonic mouth that is claimed to represent the Hindu earth god Bhoma by some and to belong to the child-eating witch Rangda from Balinese mythology by others.

Besakih Temple

The largest, holiest and the most important temple of Hindu religion in Bali, Besakih Temple is located on the slopes of the highest mountain of Bali, the Mount Agung. Built on six levels, the tBesakih Templeemple is an extensive complex of 23 separate but related temples including the largest and the most important, Pura Penataran Agung. There are more than 70 religious ceremonies held every year that are attended by Hindu devotees from all over the world.

5 Unique Natural Attractions in Bali, Indonesia

Bali is among the most popular destinations in the far east. Indonesia’s top draw when it comes to tourism, Bali attracts holidaymakers all round the year mainly for its superb beaches,

Baliinteresting culture, beautiful temples, and a wide assortment of natural treasures. Here are some of the less spoilt attractions in Bali if you would like to go off the beaten path when holidaying here.

Mount Batur

For one of the best sunrises of your life, a trek to the top of Mount Batur, a 1,717 meters tall active volcano is highly suggested. A two hour trek to the top usually begins in the wee hours. Once you get there you will find the amazing views of the serene Lake Batur, magnificent Mount Agung, and the mesmerizing landscape to be truly worth the hike. There are two starting points for the trek and you can hire a guide to help you make your way up.

Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls

Having been discovered recently, these stunning waterfalls in north Bali near the Munduk village have become quite popular among tourists visiting this part of the island. Your entry ticket to this waterfall actually provides you access to a couple of other beautiful waterfalls that are great for swimming as well as photography. There are several attractions to explore in North Bali and Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls in the farther north would be an ideal addition to your itinerary for some great adventure in Bali.

Kanto Lampo Waterfall

Around half an hour drive from Ubud, the mighty Kanto Lampo is one of the most scenic waterfalls in Bali. Hidden in the midst of lush forest with clear water gushing down the beautifully cascaded rocks, Kanto Lampo is a great place for an escape to nature. A five minutes descent from the parking lot leads you to the waterfall but not before it has taken you through the beautiful rice terraces and a trek of rocky steps. Try to reach the waterfall as early as possible, because the place starts to get quite busy around noon.

Hidden Canyon, Beji Guwang

A natural wonder of Bali, the Hidden Canyon of Beji Guwang is a sacred and extremely mystic canyon that features spectacular rocks carved by the Beji river that flows through this canyon. The place is 15 km from Ubud and 14 km from Denpasar city. It is recommended for first timers to hire a guide for the moderately difficult trek through the canyon. Do not forget to bring trekking sandals or water shoes, swim wear, and a dry bag.

Angel’s Billabong

Angel’s Billabong, one of the most photographed spots in Bali is located on the charming Nusa Penida island. It is a natural infinity pool with crystal clear water through which you can see the amazing rock formations at the bed of the pool. The hues of the pool change throughout the day with the changing position of the Sun and it’s always a sight you would admire. Just make sure that you are visiting the pool during low tide.

Five major events to discover Balinese culture and tradition

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Apart from the captivating nature, beaches, sunshine and ancient archaeological sites, Bali also draws the attention with some fantastic festivals, cultural events and celebrations that take place all throughout the year.

Here are five major upcoming festivals and events you can be a part of when visiting Bali:

Ubud Food Festival

One of the most anticipated culinary festivals in Indonesia, Ubud Food Festival is here to treat food lovers from all corners of the world. This three-day culinary event is a celebration of diverse Indonesian cuisine, local produce and innovative chefs. This year, the event is scheduled from 26th April to 28th April. Visit here with your family and friends and explore various live cooking demonstrations, workshops, food tours, markets, movie screenings and live music.

Semarapura Festival Klungkung

An event that aims to promote the district of Klungkung for tourism, Seemarapura Festival attracts art and culture lovers from all around. Visitors can learn about the culture of Klungkung through a number of cultural performances, art and culinary competitions and small exhibitions that take place throughout the festival. The five day event begins 28th April and would last until 2nd May. Visitors can be a part of the lively activities at the fest all throughout the day starting from 7:30 am till 11 pm.

Pesta Kesenian Bali

A month long Bali Arts Festival that takes place every second Saturday in June till the second Saturday in July, Pesta Kesenian Bali festival is an annual celebration of Balinese culture. Another aim of the festival is to promote Indonesia as a major tourist destination. You can enjoy various literary competitions, handicraft exhibitions, traditional dance performances and other cultural activities throughout the festival.

Tenganan Festival

Tenganan Festival is held during Usaba Sambah, a temple ceremony in Tenganan Pegringsingan Village, one of the ancient villages of Bali. The festival mainly focuses on the tradition of ” Perang Pandan” or Pandaus War, and is a huge ritual dedicated to God Indra, the Hindu god of war and the sky. This year, the festival is scheduled from 22nd June to 25th June. During the event you will find houses decorated beautifully, girls boarding a large wooden swing, a special arena that is established for Tenganan men to perform the ritual of duelling as part of the celebration.

Bali Kite Festival

One of the most mesmerising of all the festivals and events in Bali, Bali Kite Festival is an annual international kite festival celebrated in Padang Galak area of Sanur Beach. This competitive tournament takes place between the months of July and August, and is a way for the people to thank the Hindu Gods for the year’s harvest. Traditional colourful kites are flown for a communal dance by teams from the villages of Denpasar; and the teams comprise 70-80 people, each with its own Gamelon band, flag bearers and flyers. You can have a great time with your family attending this lively cultural event that is going to take place from 15th August to 18th August this year.

5 of the Most Beautiful Archaeological Sites in Bali

Along with beautiful beaches and rich cultural traditions, Bali is popular for its ancient archaeological sites reflecting traces of the old Hindu civilisation.

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If you are holidaying in Bali and would like to take a break from the beaches and astonish the history buff in you, you can explore these prominent, ancient archaeological sites:

Gunung Kawi

Snuggled amidst the picturesque, natural landscape of Tampaksiring, Gunung Kawi is a lovely temple and funerary complex built in 11th century. Consisting of 10 rock-cut shrines, it is where the local Hindus visit and pay homage to their gods and ancestors. It overlooks the Pakerisan River and to reach it, you will pass through beautiful rice terraces and lush foliage. Portraying the mystique of ancient legends and long lost tales of the forgotten Balinese kings, this archaeological site attracts many history buffs from all corners of the world.

Goa Gajah

Also known as Elephant Cave, Goa Gajah was built in the 9th century as a meditation site near Ubud. One of the major attractions of Ubud, it is where you can learn about the history of the region and explore distinctive, appealing sites. The relic-filled courtyard, central meditation cave, rock-wall carvings and a pool are all terrific attractions to explore in Goa Gajah.

Ulun Danu Beratan

Situated on the shores of Lake Bratan in the mountains close to Bedugul, Ulun Danu Beratan is a floating temple and a popular scenic landmark. Built in 1633, the place saw offering ceremonies to the Balinese lake, water and river goddess Dewi Danu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Goddess Parvathi, the 11-storey pelinggih meru is a sight to behold in the temple.

Pura Kebo Edan

Famed as the “Temple of the Crazy Buffalo”, Pura Kebo Edan is situated in Pejeng Village of Tampaksiring. This temple is popular among tourists as well as locals for its 3m-high statue called the “Giant of Pejeng”. It got its name from one of the most legendary ancient local figures, Kebo Edan, and attracts visitors with a number of century-old statues including the most prominent Ciwa Bhairawa statue that features the shape of a male human body, and is considered a true portrayal of God Shiva.

Yeh Pulu

With the stunning natural setting of Batulumbang village in Bedulu, Yeh Pulu is a fascinating archaeological site housing the longest sequence of rock relief panels in Bali. The 25m-long range of carvings imprinted into a rock face are a treat for the explorers whereas the fresh air and green paddies make it an ideal relaxing spot for all. A walk through a lush forest trail, freshwater springs and rice fields takes you to this site. The carvings, representing the Hindu gods and the mythological wayang or shadow puppet characters, appeal to all.

The Beautiful Bali Promises Many Delightful Experiences

The most popular place to visit in Indonesia, Bali is known all over the world, for being the perfect holiday destination. People visit here from all parts of the world to witness the beautiful landscapes and to enjoy the warm hospitality that includes of luxury stays, terrific spa treatments and exotic food and drinks. Here, have a look at some of the best things you can do in Bali.

Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu-Temple

Situated 250 feet above the Indian Ocean, this temple is one of the most spectacular places you will ever visit. It literally means the rock on the top. Devotees and tourists visit here from all over, to admire the artistic architecture and historical value of the place. The walk up to the temple is tricky and one needs to be really careful where they step. It is a hike in itself and visitors can have a great time here.

Kintamani and Mount Batur

One of the highpoints of your trip to Bali is going to be the live volcano sighting. It is a popular trek and people from across the world become a part of this once in a lifetime experience. The road downhill will lead you to naturally occurring hot springs which are a famous highlight of this area as well. There are three main villages in the locality namely Batur, Kintamani and Penelokan. Batur Caldera Lake is an amazing place to spend some time with friends and family.

Bali Marine Park and Safari

This is the perfect day out activity with your friends and family. Exploring the wildlife on the island in the best way possible, you can try the safari that takes you through dense 60-acre forests where you witness a host of animals in their natural habitat such as Himalayan bears, African Hippos, Indian White Tigers, ostriches, baboons, zebras, camels and so on. Similarly you will also be able to witness aquatic animals.

Ubud Art Market

Indonesia is famous for its art and handicrafts and you shouldn’t leave without admiring some of them and maybe even taking some home. The Ubud Art Market is known to have an amazing display of local paintings, wall hangings, jewellery, silk scarves and bags. Apart from being a proud owner of such fine work of local artists, you can also help spread the word about them to the world.

Goa Gajah

This beautiful archaeological site remains the must visit site here. It is a meditational cave, with fountains and bathing pools here. The sculptures in the cave and the inscriptions on the walls are majestic and people visit from all over the world to appreciate them.

Top things to explore in Indonesia

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Comprising of 17,000 magnificent islands and several tiny islets, Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world. Famed for its tranquil beaches, quasi-active volcanoes, hidden reefs, cascading waterfalls and tropical mountains, this stunning coastal paradise is an ideal holiday destination in the Far East. Blessed with the best of nature’s wonders, this beautiful island is packed with numerous fascinating attractions and interesting things to do. Those of you heading to Indonesia on your next holiday, here is a list of things the island has in store for you:

Beaches

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Lying between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, Indonesia is blessed with some of the most pristine and stunning beaches in the world. Ideal to enjoy the best of sun, sand and surf, these beaches are a major highlight and a prominent attraction in the country. Nusa Dua beach, Kuta beach, Senggigi Beach, Plengkung Beach, Pangandaran Beach, Parangtritis Beach, Dreamland Beach and Parai Tenggiri are few of the best known beaches on the island. Surfing, scuba diving, snorkelling, rafting, sea walking, flyboarding, kitesurfing and wakeboarding are among the popular water sports on the island.

Attractions

Preserving the treasures of prosperous cultural past, attractions in Indonesia are outrightly amazing and fascinating at the same time. Whether it is the ancient architectural wonders or prominent temples or Chinese pagodas or the volcanic mountains, each site and structure on the island is beautiful in its own unique way. Lake Toba, Ubud Monkey Forest, Mount Rinjani, Mount Merapi, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Mount Batur, Garuda Wisnu Kencana, Kawah Putih, Semeru, Tangkuban Perahu and Ancol Dreamland are a few of the must visit attractions on the island. With the top of the volcano blown off and the crater emitting continuous white smoke, Mount Bromo is simply an astonishing attraction in Indonesia.

National Parks

Whether it is the king of lizard (Komodo Dragons) or the smallest buffalo (Anoa) , the Sumateran Tiger or Merak, the Javan Rhinoceros or Orangutan or Kijang or sea turtles, Indonesia is home to a vast population of birds and animals including a few endangered ones and a perfect heaven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Komodo National Park, Ujung Kulon National Park, Bogani Nani Wartabone National Park, Kerinci Seblat National Park, Way Kambas National Park, Tanjung Puting National Park and Lorentz National Park are few of the most popular national parks and wildlife preservation sites in Indonesia.

Temples

templesFeaturing a long cultural and traditional history, Indonesia is home to some of the largest and oldest Hindu temples. Preserving the legacy of an era bygone, these temples in the island are a major attraction among tourists. Borobudur, Plaosan, Sewu, Candi Jawi, Penataran, Surawana, Mendut, Pawon, Sojiwan and Batu Jaya are few of the prominent temples and Buddhist sites in Indonesia. The architecture and design of most of these structures is quite fascinating. Pura Besakih is the most ancient temple in the country.

Food

A perfect blend of traditional and modern flavours, Indonesian cuisine is simply a delight. Prepared using exotic ingredients and natural spices, food in the island is definitely a must try. Sambal (hot sauce or paste typically made from a mixture of a variety of chilli peppers), Satay (dish of seasoned, skewered and grilled meat, served with a sauce), Bakso (Indonesian meatball), Soto (soup mainly composed of broth, meat and vegetables), Gado-gado (salad of slightly boiled, blanched or steamed vegetables and hard-boiled eggs, boiled potato, fried tofu and tempeh), Nasi Uduk (Indonesian Betawi style steamed rice cooked in coconut milk dish), Ayam goreng (dish of chicken deep fried in coconut oil), Bakmi goreng (spicy fried noodle dish), Rawon (beef black soup) Opor ayam (Mie ayam are) a few of the dishes that you must try on the island.

Shopping

Whether it’s antiques or art, jewellery or paintings, carved jewellery or woven and dyed fabrics or stone carvings or masks and ceramics, Indonesia is a shopper’s paradise. Featuring an array of exclusive handmade goods and items, shopping in the island is a major highlight. Although there are several big malls in the country, shopping at Pasar (traditional markets) is a unique experience. Also, you can try on your bargaining skills with the merchants and craftsmen in these markets. Sanur Night Market (Pasar Malam Sindu), Gianyar Night Market, Kuta Art Market, Garlic Lane and Taman Sari Market are few of the popular night markets on the island.

Festivals

Featuring diverse religions and customs, Indonesia is a country packed with ceremonies, festivals and cultural events. Celebrated round the year and offering a glimpse to the rich cultural legacy of the country, all festivals are celebrated with a great pomp and show. Independence Day of Indonesia, Bau Nyale Fishing Festival, Toraja Funeral Ceremony, Waisak, Bali Arts Festival, Bau Nyale Fishing Festival, Asmat Cultural Festival, Baliem Valley Festival, Nyepi and Galungan are among the popular festivals in the country. Besides the traditional festivals, the island also hosts a range of contemporary music events and shows throughout the year.

Culture

Home to diverse religions and traditions from across the world, Indonesia is a cultural melting pot. From Buddhism to Hinduism to Islam to Christianity to Confucianism, the country has equal tolerance for all religions. From religious practices to music and dance and from theatre to festivals, everything about Indonesia’s culture is fascinating. Minangkabau Tari Piring (plate dance), martial arts, paintings, sculptures and architecture in the country beautifully highlight the cultural aspect of the island.

Top Rated Natural Attractions in Indonesia

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Straddling the equator and flaunting a fabulous melange of traditions and modernity, Indonesia is truly a traveller’s delight. Blessed with the best of the Mother Nature, this fascinating tropical paradise has rich wildlife, incredible rainforests, magnificent corals, stunning beaches, volcanic mountains, and underwater caves. Read on to learn about some of the country’s most interesting natural attractions.

Raja Ampat Islands

Popularly known as ‘The Crown Jewel of the Bird’s Head Seascape’, Raja Ampat is a famous Indonesian archipelago.  With a location between Pacific and Indian Ocean, the beautiful island is famous for its pristine beaches, intriguing caves, lush mangroves and hidden lagoons. With over 540 different types of corals, 1000 coral fishes, over 700 different types of molluscs, and mantra rays and epaulette sharks living near the coast, Raja Ampat is among the top diving and snorkelling destinations in the world.

Komodo National Park

Located between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores, Komodo National Park is home to over 5000 giant and endangered lizards and a variety of marine animals including blue whales, sperm whales, seahorses, manta rays and octopuses. Not surprisingly, scuba diving remains a popular activity among the visitors here. But the biggest attraction at the Komodo National Park is certainly watching the largest lizards stroll on the coast!

Mount Bromo

Spread across a massive 800 square kilometres, Mount Bromo is a striking, active volcano. Located in a vast plain called the “Sea of Sand’, this mountain is one of the most visited tourist attractions in East Java. You can visit the mountain from the nearby village of Cemoro Lawang. Thereon, you can walk to the volcano. It can take your around 50 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for an organised jeep tour, which could include a few interesting stopovers.

Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra

Comprising three famous national parks namely Gunung Leuser National Park, Kerinci Seblat National Park and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra tops the list of most visited places on the island. Designated the UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004, it is home to an estimated 10,000 plant species, more than 200 mammal species, 580 bird species, and reptiles and amphibians. The critically endangered Sumatran orangutans, Sumatran elephants and leatherback turtles are big hits with the tourists.

Tanjung Puting National Park

Established in 1982 and designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1977, Tanjung Puting National Park is another popular attraction for nature lovers in Indonesia. Located on the coast of Java Sea, the park is known for being home to orangutans, clouded leopards, civets, cavort, darting kingfishers and regal hornbills, wild boars and sambar deer. Also, Tanjung Puting is home to different species of crocodiles, dozens of snakes, and frogs.

Best Loved Natural Attractions in Indonesia

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From active volcanic mountains and cascading waterfalls to peaceful lakes, Indonesia is blessed with the best of Mother Nature. For those of you heading to this paradise of a holiday destination, here is a list of must visit natural attractions in Indonesia.

Gili Islands, Lombok

Located slightly off the coast of Lombok, Gili Islands is a famous archipelago comprising of three tiny islands. With miles and miles of stunning white sand beaches, aqua blue ocean water and attractive corals, this island is one of the best places to indulge in water sports and enjoy the stunning vistas of the surrounding landscapes. Snorkelling, swimming, surfing and diving are among the popular adventure activities here. Guided boat tours are available on demand. Offering a taste of authentic Indonesian cuisines on the island are popular restaurants and shacks.

Raja Ampat Islands, West Papua

Generally referred to as ‘The Crown Jewel of the Bird’s Head Seascape’, Raja Ampat is a traveller’s paradise. Comprising of over 1000 tiny islets off the coast of New Guinea, the popular island is home to beautiful beaches, attractive corals, hidden lagoons and spooky caves. You can enjoy numerous water sports and adventure activities here, including snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking and surfing. Bird watching and dolphin spotting are most enjoyed here. Don’t forget to pick some interesting gifts and souvenirs from the nearby markets.

Bunaken Marine Park, North Sulawesi

One of the best places to experience underwater marine life, Bunaken Marine Park is a must visit attraction in Indonesia. First established in 1991, this beautiful reserve today is home to over 39 species of corals, and different types of fishes, mollusc and reptiles. Diving and snorkelling are the best way to discover the underwater marine life. Guided submarine and boat tours are available as well.

Komodo National Park, Nusa Tenggara Timur

First established in 1980 for wildlife protection and preservation, Komodo National Park is one of the most famous national parks in Indonesia. Located right in the heart of the archipelago, the reserve is home to a wide range of komodo dragons along with numerous other animals and birds. Besides spotting these endangered dragons, you can enjoy numerous activities like kayaking, diving and trekking. Safari tours to the interiors of the park and guided island tours are also popular.

5 Reasons You Should Visit Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Comprising of over 1500 small islands, cays, and shoals, Raja Ampat is a popular Indonesian archipelago.

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Often considered one of the best reef areas in the world, the isle is known for its pristine beaches, attractive corals, intriguing caves and beautiful hidden lagoons. Here are top five reasons why you should visit the beautiful Raja Ampat.

Beaches

Featuring miles and miles of beautiful golden-yellow sand, it is the beaches and tiny islets that promise a terrific time to the tourists. Corals and lagoons definitely add to the beauty of the island. There are several small shacks and eateries that serve a range of sumptuous delicacies to guests. Few nestaway and wooden guesthouses are available as well.

Snorkelling

Nestled amidst the Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean, Raja Ampat is one of the best destinations to enjoy the wondrous marine lifestyle. As the waves and ocean currents off the coast of West Papua are low, conditions here are favourable for snorkelling and underwater diving. There are special diving schools and dedicated instructors who train tourists. Apart from exploring the underwater aquatic animals, visitors here enjoy swimming and other adventure activities.

Nature

Staying in those tiny wooden huts, and waking up to the sound of the waves and the early morning musical melody created by the birds is an experience of a lifetime. Spending some time away from the glitz and glamour of the city, under nature’s ambit is something much loved by the visitors. There are not many fancy restaurants on the island, but there are several small shacks and cafes serving authentic cuisines prepared by the natives.

Welcoming locals

Although a little secluded, Raja Ampat is one of the most welcoming islands in the Indian Ocean. Featuring a long history of tribal invasion, it is home to some of the oldest aboriginal communities and native population. Festivals and celebrations in the remote villages of Arborek and Sawingrai offer an insight into the popular traditions and customs of the islands.

Souvenirs

Since there are no big gift shops here, seashells, pebbles and sometimes pearls are among the valuable collectables on the island. Available in different colours, shapes and sizes, seashells remain the top choice of many tourists. When the ocean current and waves are high, white pearls can sometimes be seen scattered on the beaches. If nothing is available, click some beautiful pictures of the island and the surrounding landscape for your friends, family and yourself!

A Guide to Popular Museums in and Around Jakarta

Located on the Northwest coast of the island of Java, Jakarta is the beautiful capital city of Indonesia. A former trading port of the Kingdom of Sunda, the city is known for its long, rich history and diverse culture.

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Preserving a major chunk of Portuguese and Dutch colonial history, Jakarta is home to numerous museums and cultural sites. For those of you willing to learn more, here is a list of popular museums in and around the city.

National Museum of Indonesia

Located in central Jakarta, National Museum of Indonesia is one prominent attraction in the city. Also known as the ‘Elephant Museum’, the museum is known for honouring Indonesia’s history and heritage for over two centuries. Officially opened in 1778, the museum today features a collection of over 61,000 anthropological artefacts and over 5000 artefacts dating back to the early colonial period. Hindu Buddhist sculptures, inscriptions, ceramics and other relics are among the popular collectables here. Skeletons of Homo sapiens and tools used by them are displayed at the museum.  Excursions to the museum are organised from different parts of the city.

Maritime Museum

Situated in the old Sunda Kelapa harbour area, Maritime Museum is another famous museum of Indonesia. Established in 1977, it originally served as a warehouse for the Dutch East India Company. Today, the structure is known for displaying models of fishing boats and other maritime objects dating back to the colonial era. Ship models and cannons used by the Dutch, Indonesian Navy maps, and pictures of voyages taken up by famous personalities are among the few collectables displayed at the museum. Although exhibitions and workshops are not regularly organised but a small stroll around the site helps tourists understand the maritime history of Indonesia.

Bank Mandiri Museum

Located in the Old Town, Bank Mandiri Museum is a famous economic museum in Jakarta.  Established in 1998 by Bank Mandiri, the preservatory is known for featuring a collection of banking items dating back to the early colonial period. Popular collectables at the museum include old currency notes, accounting machines, bond documents, cheques, security documents, coins, safes and cash counters. Some of the old stocks documents are also put on display.

Jakarta History Museum

Popularly known as ‘Fatahillah Museum’ or ‘Batavia Museum’, Jakarta National Museum is one of the oldest museums in the city. Located in the Old town, it is known for featuring objects and items dating back to the early 16th century. Built in 1710, the museum today has a collection of over 23000 objects and other historical artefacts. Maps, paintings, sculptures, furniture and ceramics are among the popular collectables at the preservatory.  The replica of Tugu inscription is the prized possession of the museum.

Wayang Museum

Dedicated to puppetry, Wayang Museum is a famous museum in Jakarta. Originally built in 1640, it is known for featuring a wide collection of numerous wayang from countries like Thailand, China, Vietnam, France and India. Wayang kulit, wayang golek, sculptures, gamelan sets and paintings are among the popular items displayed at the museum. The plate marking the tombstone of Jan Pieterszoon Coen and Budaixi puppet are the most valued collectables here.