Many tourists treat Jakarta as an entry and exit point to Indonesia, but if you are passing through the city and have a bit of time to spare, there are a wide range of places to visit. Museums are one of them.

Monas Tower is the most famous monument in Jakarta and stands proud in the city as a symbol of independence in Indonesia. Located Merdeka Square, there’s a gallery where you can learn more about Indonesia’s often tumultuous history. The main draw, however, is a trip to the observation deck at the top of the tower which affords views in all directions across the city.

 

Museum Nasional is the place to consider if you want to know more about Indonesia. It tells the story of the history, art, culture, geography and ethnology of this country. Has been in operation since 1868, the museum is separated into different galleries that include collections like early Indonesian ceramics and Hindu art through the ages.

 

National Gallery of Indonesia is one of the best museums in the city highlighting 2,000 pieces of Indonesian artwork. For those art lovers, this is not to be missed as it will take you on a colourful journey through different regional pieces. There’s also a separate section dedicated to foreign collections and you will find paintings, ceramics, photographs and sculptures.

 

The Textile Museum is one of the less-visited museums in Jakarta but it is well worth the trip if you are interested in learning more about traditional Indonesian weaving and fabric painting techniques. The museum has over 2,000 different pieces on show including famous Indonesian batik items and you can see vintage textiles as well as newcomers to the art scene. There are a range of antique looms on display as well as a lovely garden which houses plants used to make dyes for the fabrics.

 

Museum Bank Indonesia is not one of the best-known museums in the city but it is certainly one of the most enjoyable. It sits in the headquarters of a former bank which has been lovingly restored and tells the story of Indonesia’s currency from past times until the present. There’s a section that takes you through the story of the financial crisis that hit in 1997.