# National Museum of Indonesia — Jakarta, Indonesia

> Founded in 1778 by the Batavian Society of Arts and Sciences, the National Museum of Indonesia is one of the oldest in Southeast Asia. The bronze elephant gifted by King Chulalongkorn of Siam in 1871 gives it its nickname Gedung Gajah, the Elephant Building.

## Visitor facts
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
- Admission: Rp15,000 standard adult admission
- Address: Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No.12, Jakarta Pusat 10110, Indonesia
- Time needed: 2–3 hours
- Official website: https://www.museumnasional.or.id/
- Facts verified: 2026-06-30

## Highlights
- Garuda Pancasila — Sultan Hamid II · 1950
- Bhairava Statue — Singhasari period · 13th century
- Sumba Ikat Textiles — Sumba weavers · traditional
- Borobudur Reliefs (casts) — Sailendra dynasty · 9th century

## FAQ
**Why is it called Gedung Gajah?**
Because of the bronze elephant statue presented by King Chulalongkorn of Siam (Thailand) in 1871, which still stands at the entrance.

**Is it next to the National Monument?**
Yes — it sits on the western side of Merdeka Square, opposite Monas.

**How long should I spend at National Museum of Indonesia?**
Plan 2–3 hours for the highlights. Add time for temporary exhibitions, the museum shop, and café.

**What is National Museum of Indonesia best known for?**
Founded in 1778 by the Batavian Society of Arts and Sciences, the National Museum of Indonesia is one of the oldest in Southeast Asia. The bronze elephant gifted by King Chulalongkorn of Siam in 1871 gives it its nickname Gedung Gajah, the Elephant Building. Key highlights include Hindu-Buddhist statuary from Central Java, Ethnographic galleries on Indonesian peoples, Treasure Room of royal gold and jewellery.

**How do I get tickets for National Museum of Indonesia?**
Rp15,000 standard adult admission Tickets are usually available on the day, but booking online saves queue time in peak season. Official site: https://www.museumnasional.or.id/

**Why is it called Museum Gajah?**
An elephant bronze statue stands in front of the museum — a gift from King Chulalongkorn of Siam in 1871. Locals call it Museum Gajah (Elephant Museum) after this landmark.

**Is the Garuda Pancasila the original?**
The museum displays the original design and a prominent example of the Garuda Pancasila — Indonesia's national emblem adopted in 1950. Sultan Hamid II of Pontianak designed it.

**Can I combine with Monas?**
Yes — the National Monument (Monas) is a 10-minute walk away. Both are in the Merdeka Square area and combine well on a Jakarta cultural day.


Source: https://worldmuseumguide.org/museums/national-museum-of-indonesia/ — World Museum Guide, independent and ad-free.