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National Monument (Monas)

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The National Monument of Indonesia, widely known as Monas (Monumen Nasional), is a towering obelisk in Central Jakarta that commemorates the nation's struggle for independence. Commissioned by President Sukarno, construction began in 1961 and the monument was officially opened to the public in 1975. Standing at a height of 132 meters, it is topped with a bronze flame coated in 50 kilograms of gold foil, symbolizing the eternal spirit of the Indonesian people. The design of the monument incorporates the ancient symbols of Lingga and Yoni, representing fertility and universal harmony in Indonesian mythology. Inside the base of the structure is the National History Museum, which features 51 dioramas depicting Indonesia's history from the prehistoric era to the modern day. An observation deck at 115 meters has visitors a panoramic view of Jakarta's sprawling skyline. As the most iconic national symbol, Monas is not only a major tourist attraction but also a central site for national celebrations and political gatherings.

Location: Indonesia
Top sights: National Awakening Museum · Youth Pledge Museum · Museum Taman Prasasti
Nearby: Bogor (14 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	27	28	28	27	27	27	28	28	28	27
Rain mm	353	387	248	197	141	95	89	49	66	134	198	244

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The National Monument Monas is a tower in central Jakarta and can be visited inside. Entry is via the adjacent museum, the observation deck is accessible for a fee.

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Typical hours

Monas is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon, except on public holidays. Exact hours may vary, so checking on site is advisable.

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Photography

Photography is allowed for free outside Monas and in the lobby. On the observation deck, photos are also permitted but without flash or tripod.

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Time needed

A visit to Monas including the ascent to the observation deck takes about 1 to 2 hours. If you also visit the museum in the base, plan at least 2.5 hours.

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Combine with

Monas is located on Merdeka Square, surrounded by important buildings like the National Museum. Combine your visit with the National Museum and the Istiqlal Mosque, just 15 minutes away.

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Getting there

Monas is accessible by TransJakarta bus (Monas stop) or KRL commuter train (Juanda station). From the station it's about a 10-minute walk across Merdeka Square.

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Insider tip

Visit Monas early in the morning to avoid long queues for the elevator. Bring a water bottle as the ascent and observation deck can be exhausting in high humidity.

Geography

Coordinates

-6.17540, 106.82720

Facts

The monument stands at a total height of 132 meters.
The flame at the top consists of 14.5 tons of bronze.
The gold foil covering the flame weighs approximately 50 kg.
The National History Museum features 51 detailed dioramas.
Construction took place in three phases between 1961 and 1975.
The observation deck is located 115 meters above ground level.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Jakarta Cathedral<1 km · NWExplore →

Jakarta Financial District1 km · SEExplore →

Jakarta Old Town (Kota Tua)2 km · SWExplore →

Sea World Ancol2 km · NWExplore →

Ragunan Zoo4 km · EExplore →

Tanjung Priok Port7 km · NExplore →

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah9 km · NEExplore →

Bogor14 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town National Monument (Monas) (15)

National Awakening Museum 🏛 museum

The National Awakening Museum is a historical museum in Jakarta dedicated to the history of the Indonesian independence movement.

🕒 Tu-Th, Sa, Su 08:00-16:00; Fr 08:00-16:30

Youth Pledge Museum 🏛 museum

The Youth Pledge Museum in Jakarta commemorates the historic 1928 youth pledge of allegiance, a milestone in Indonesian history.

Museum Taman Prasasti 🏛 museum

The Taman Prasasti Museum in Jakarta is an open-air museum of inscriptions and gravestones located on a former colonial-era cemetery.

🕒 Tu-Su 08:00-16:00

Tugu Tani 🏺 historical

The Tugu Tani monument in Jakarta was built in honor of the heroes and fighters for Indonesian independence.

Galeri Nasional 🎭 culture

The National Gallery of Indonesia in Jakarta houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art from the country.

🌐 galeri-nasional.or.id🕒 Tu-Su 09:00-16:00🆓

Jakarta Aquarium 🎡 recreation

The Jakarta Aquarium features a fascinating look into the underwater world and aquatic biodiversity within the city.

Harmoni Statue 🏺 historical

The Harmoni Statue is a striking monument in the Jakarta cityscape that commemorates the region's history.

Istana Merdeka 🏰 castle

Istana Merdeka is a significant palace and an important landmark in this city.

Reformasi 🏺 historical

The Reformasi monument is a city landmark commemorating important historical changes.

Sahabat Darat ⛪ religious

Sahabat Darat is a local religious facility for spiritual practices in the city.

Pasar Cideng Thomas 🎭 culture

Pasar Cideng Thomas is a bustling marketplace where local residents of the city shop.

Pasar Genjing 🎭 culture

At Pasar Genjing, visitors can experience the authentic market bustle of this city.

Panser M-8 📍 landmark

The Panser M-8 is an exhibited historical vehicle and a notable attraction of the city.

Masjid Agung Al A’raf 📍 landmark

Masjid Agung Al A’raf is a Muslim place of worship in the Monas National Monument area.

Gereja Bethel Indonesia 📍 landmark

Gereja Bethel Indonesia is a Christian church near the Monas National Monument.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How do I reach the observation deck?

An elevator inside the monument takes visitors to the observation platform at 115 meters height.

Is there a museum inside Monas?

In the base is the National History Museum with 51 dioramas depicting the history of Indonesia.

What are the opening hours?

Usually open daily from 08:00 to 16:00; the monument is often closed on Mondays.

Is Monas located in the center of Jakarta?

Yes, it stands in the middle of Merdeka Square, the heart of the Indonesian capital.

What does the golden flame at the top symbolize?

The flame, coated with 35 kg of gold, symbolizes the immortal spirit of Indonesian independence.

National Monument (Monas): where is it located?

National Monument (Monas) is located in Indonesia.

National Monument (Monas): what is there to see?

Highlights include National Awakening Museum, Youth Pledge Museum, Museum Taman Prasasti.

National Monument (Monas): when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

National Monument (Monas): why is it worth visiting?

The National Monument of Indonesia, widely known as Monas (Monumen Nasional), is a towering obelisk in Central Jakarta that commemorates the nation's struggle for independence.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

National Monument (Monas)

Best time to visit & climate