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The National Monument, or Monas (Monumen Nasional), is one of Jakarta’s most iconic landmarks. Standing at 132 meters (433 feet), Monas is a towering symbol of Indonesia's struggle for independence. The monument is located in the heart of Jakarta, within Merdeka Square, and it is a prominent feature of the city’s skyline. The National Monument is not just a structure; it is a symbol of the spirit and resilience of the Indonesian people, representing the country’s long and hard-fought journey to independence from Dutch colonial rule. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Indonesia and is a must-see for anyone visiting Jakarta.
The National Monument is centrally located in Jakarta, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city. If you are traveling by car or taxi, you can reach the monument by heading towards Merdeka Square. The monument is situated near major roads like Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan, and it is surrounded by other important landmarks in the city. If you prefer public transportation, the nearest TransJakarta Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) station is "Monas," which is a short walk from the monument. You can also take the commuter train (KRL) to the Gambir station, which is just a 10-minute walk from the National Monument. Ride-hailing services like Gojek or Grab are also convenient options for reaching Monas directly.
Jakarta experiences a tropical climate, and the weather around the National Monument is generally hot and humid throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 89°F). Jakarta has two seasons: the rainy season (from November to March) and the dry season (from April to October). The dry season is typically the best time to visit Monas as the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities. If you plan to visit during the rainy season, be prepared for heavy showers and bring an umbrella or raincoat. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast before your visit, especially if you plan to go up the monument for a panoramic view of Jakarta.
The National Monument is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Visitors can explore the park surrounding the monument at any time during these hours, but the ticket counter for the monument itself closes at 4:00 PM. It’s important to note that the monument and its surrounding park can get crowded on weekends and public holidays, especially in the late morning and afternoon. To avoid the crowds and to enjoy a more peaceful experience, it’s best to visit early in the morning. If you wish to visit the top of the monument, make sure to arrive early enough to get in line, as it can take some time to access the elevator for the ride to the top, especially during peak hours.
The National Monument is famous for its historical and cultural significance. It was built to commemorate Indonesia’s fight for independence from Dutch colonial rule and to honor the struggles and sacrifices made by the Indonesian people in achieving independence. The monument was inaugurated on August 17, 1975, Indonesia’s Independence Day, and it remains one of the country's most important national symbols. Its iconic flame-shaped gold sculpture at the top represents the spirit of freedom and independence. Aside from its historical value, the monument also offers panoramic views of Jakarta, making it a popular tourist destination. It is located in the heart of the city, within Merdeka Square, and is surrounded by government buildings, parks, and museums, further enhancing its prominence.
Entry to the National Monument park is free of charge, so visitors can freely walk around and explore the area. However, to access the monument’s observation deck at the top, visitors are required to purchase tickets. The ticket prices are relatively affordable, with different pricing for adults and children. As of recent reports, the general entry fee for the monument is around IDR 20,000 (approximately USD 1.30) for adults, and a discounted fee is available for students and children. The ticket grants access to the monument’s base as well as the elevator ride to the observation deck, where you can enjoy spectacular views of Jakarta. Additional fees may apply if you wish to visit nearby attractions, such as museums or exhibitions within the complex.
The National Monument was conceived during the presidency of Sukarno, the first president of Indonesia, as a symbol of the nation's independence. Construction began in 1961 and was completed in 1975. The monument was designed by the Indonesian architect Soedarsono and stands on the site of a former colonial building. The design of the National Monument is a striking blend of modernist and traditional Indonesian architectural styles. The base of the monument features a large plaza, and the obelisk-like structure rises to 132 meters, topped by a golden flame that symbolizes the country’s enduring spirit of independence.
At the base of the monument, there is a museum that tells the story of Indonesia’s struggle for independence. The museum houses various historical artifacts, dioramas, and photographs that illustrate key events in the country’s history. The observation deck at the top of the monument offers 360-degree views of Jakarta and is an ideal spot for taking photos of the city’s skyline and landmarks.
There are several activities you can enjoy while visiting the National Monument:
