The New Face of the National Museum: Reopened and Revitalized

Exciting news for history buffs! The National Museum has reopened, exactly one year after the unfortunate fire at the end of 2023. The blaze affected not only the building but also damaged hundreds of priceless artifacts housed in the rear of Building A.

Over the past year, the museum has undertaken a comprehensive restoration, focusing on repairing damaged rooms and preserving affected collections. Along with these restorations, new facilities have been introduced, giving the museum a fresh, inviting look that promises a richer experience.

Curious about the updates at the National Museum, fondly called the “Elephant Museum”? Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you on your next visit.

A Deeper Look at the National Museum

Nestled in the heart of Jakarta, the National Museum sits just steps away from the iconic National Monument (Monas). Building A, which opened to the public in 1868, boasts over 150 years of history!

The museum’s vast collection showcases Indonesia’s heritage, with exhibits spanning prehistoric artifacts, cultural relics, and ethnographic treasures from the nation’s many ethnic groups.

So, why the nickname “Elephant Museum”? It stems from the bronze elephant statue at the entrance, a gift from King Chulalongkorn of Siam (modern-day Thailand) during his visit in 1871.

What’s New at the National Museum?

Following the fire, the National Museum has reopened with new collections and engaging activities. Here’s what you’ll find on your next visit:

Repatriated Artifacts

One of the most significant additions is the repatriation collection, a trove of historical objects returned to Indonesia after years abroad.

Located on the ground and first floors of Building B, this collection includes paintings, terracotta pieces, ancient manuscripts, and jewellery from across Indonesia. Look out for items once owned by Prince Diponegoro!

Immersion Room (Imersifa)

The Immersion Room, though not brand new, brings a fresh experience to the museum.

Using advanced video projection, sound, and interactive effects, this room lets visitors immerse themselves in historical events, making it feel as though they’re part of the action. For 10 minutes, you’ll be captivated by rich visual displays.

The immersion screenings happen hourly, so check the schedule and pick up a special ticket to experience it firsthand.

Paras Nusantara

Another unique feature is “Paras Nusantara.” Using facial scanning technology, visitors can discover insights into their origins, race, and ethnicity.

Stand before the screen, and within moments, a camera captures your face and matches it with one of 78 paintings by Raden Pirngadi titled Paras Nusantara.

You can try this feature for free, but for IDR 10,000, you can print a unique photo blending your face with Pirngadi’s artwork. The painting collection is in Building A, close to the Paras Nusantara feature.

Honoring the Museum’s History Post-Fire

As a tribute to its history, the museum has preserved sections impacted by the fire.

In an exhibit titled “Menabuh Nekara Menyiram Api,” visitors can see remnants of the fire’s aftermath, including burn marks, affected artifacts, and a timeline detailing the restoration process, complete with acknowledgments of those who played a role in the recovery efforts.

Extended Hours for Your Weekend Visit

The National Museum welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, opening at 8:00 AM. It’s closed on Mondays and national holidays.

During the week (Tuesday to Thursday), the museum closes at 4:00 PM, but on weekends (Friday to Sunday), you can explore until 8:00 PM, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely weekend visit!

National Museum Ticket Prices

Despite its extensive facilities and impressive collections, tickets to the Indonesian National Museum remain very affordable.

For Indonesian citizens, there are two ticket options: one for children aged 3-12, priced at just IDR 15,000, and one for adults at IDR 25,000. For foreign visitors, entry is IDR 50,000.

If you’re planning to experience the Immersion Room (Imersifa), you’ll need an additional ticket for IDR 35,000, on top of the general entrance fee. Tickets can be purchased through travel apps or directly at the museum.

Understanding the Difference Between the National Museum and the National Monument

It’s easy to see why people might mix up the National Museum and the National Monument (Monas) since both are iconic sites in Jakarta. However, they serve very distinct purposes!

The National Museum, fondly known as the “Elephant Museum,” is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage. Inside, you’ll find an array of artifacts, traditional clothing, and ethnographic treasures showcasing the nation’s diverse history.

In contrast, the Monas is a grand symbol of Jakarta’s pride, featuring a modest museum with dioramas that illustrate Indonesia’s fight for independence. But don’t forget, Monas isn’t the National Museum!

Since these landmarks are just across from each other, why not plan a visit to both on your next trip to central Jakarta?

Explore Jakarta with TRAC Car Rental

Make the most of your Jakarta adventure with a rental car from TRAC. With a variety of vehicles to choose from, TRAC offers safe, comfortable transportation across the city.

Whether you’re visiting the National Museum or exploring other must-see destinations, TRAC ensures a smooth, reliable ride for you and your travel companions.

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You can book your rental directly on TRAC’s website or through the TRACtoGo app. Simply download TRACtoGo from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, install, and register to access TRAC’s full range of services.

In addition to car rentals, TRAC also offers bus rentals, airport shuttles, and curated travel packages. Remember to enter your promo code to take advantage of available discounts.

Stay connected with TRAC to receive the latest travel tips and updates! Follow us on Instagram @trac_astra, Facebook at TRAC-Astra Rent a Car, and Twitter (X) @TRACastra.

Whatever the track, just use TRAC!