National Monument (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is National Monument?
What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: School-age kids get wide lawns for kites, a deer pen, diorama storytelling and a free mini-train, yet long elevator waits and scarce indoor play zones lower comfort during hot or rainy hours.
Positives:
- Free park entry: Merdeka Square grounds and many attractions like the train and deer enclosure are free.
- Central location: Near Transjakarta BRT and MRT stations for easy, air-conditioned access.
- Paved walkways: Smooth paths allow strollers or small scooters for younger kids.
Challenges:
- Long elevator lines: Observation deck queues grow after 09:00; wait can exceed 30 minutes.
- Afternoon rain risk: Tropical showers often start around 14:00; pack light rain gear.
What is National Monument?
- A 132-meter obelisk that commemorates Indonesia’s independence, rising from central Merdeka Square
- A granite and marble structure topped by a gold foil–coated flame symbolizing the nation’s enduring spirit
- A base complex housing a museum with bas-relief panels portraying pivotal moments in Indonesian history
What is so special about National Monument for with kids?
- Feed and learn about tame deer in a safe enclosure
- Fly kites and play lawn games on wide open grass fields
- Ride a free tourist train for a fun break between walks
- View 51 detailed historical dioramas in the underground museum
- Take a high-speed elevator to an observation deck for city views
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to explore plaza, museum, feeding area and snack break without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in National Monument
Deer enclosure visit:
Children see and feed tame deer in the southeast corner of Merdeka Square.
Tip: Bring small carrots or lettuce; feed under supervision.
Kite-flying on the lawns:
Use open grass fields to fly kites, play frisbee or light football.
Tip: Buy a colorful kite nearby (≈Rp 50 000–100 000) and go before wind dies at midday.
Free Monas tourist train:
Hop on the mini-train that loops around the monument grounds.
Tip: Board at the food-court area; it gives kids a fun rest between walking.
Diorama museum tour:
Explore 51 life-sized dioramas of Indonesian history below ground.
Tip: Buy tickets at the tunnel entrance; kids enjoy spotting details in each scene.
Observation deck ride:
Take the elevator 115 m up for a 360° view of Jakarta’s skyline.
Tip: Arrive by 08:00 to beat the line; best for kids age 7+ due to elevator space.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to National Monument
- Start at opening: Arrive at 08:00 to enjoy cooler temperatures and shorter lines.
- Bring refillable bottles: Water refill stations are available near park entrances.
- Use free train: Let kids ride the train when legs get tired; it circles the main plaza.
Reviews of National Monument
The Local Lens
A must-visit for anyone in Jakarta! Monas is an incredible monument commemorating Indonesia's struggle for independence. The museum at the base is very informative, filled with engaging dioramas that walk you through the country's history. Climbing to the top offers a fantastic panoramic view of the entire city. Truly a powerful symbol of national pride and resilience.
Ali Q Al-Mandhari
National Monument (Monas) is a powerful symbol of Indonesia’s fight for independence. Standing tall at 132 meters, it features a golden flame at its peak and Italian marble cladding, designed to evoke national pride. Inside, the museum brings history to life with 50+ dioramas highlighting key moments like the colonial era, the declaration of independence, and early struggles. Climbing to the obs...
Appreciated Images
To start my driver told me this was free to enter. I thought you only pay to go to the top, but no you pay for entry regardless of if you go to the top. I also thought I would be dropped off at the monument, but the way it is set up you have quite a walk from drop off to entry. Even getting to the monument I had to walk to the other side to find the entrance across the street and take stairs leadi...
Lyda Hak
Vast public space for public gatherings, parade and such similar events. Good place to chill, jog, run and walk for exercise. So big that one, not the locals, can easily lose his or her sense of direction.
Yuhng Yeap
The iconic landmark of Jakarta. I visited it during the weekends and it can get pretty crowded. To access the observation deck, foreigners will have to pay 55k, which includes a Jakarta city card that will be used when accessing the elevator. The card can later be used in various facilities in Jakarta too. They limit the number of visitors that can access the observation deck each hour, so you wi...
When is the best time to visit National Monument (Jakarta, Indonesia)?
Visit early morning to avoid midday heat and short afternoon showers; rainy season peaks Nov–Mar.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Observation deck tickets (4×₩15 000) | IDR 60,000 |
| Diorama museum tickets (4×₩5 000) | IDR 20,000 |
| Kite purchase | IDR 75,000 |
| Snacks at Lenggang Jakarta | IDR 120,000 |
| Deer feeding carrots/lettuce | IDR 20,000 |
| Total Estimated | IDR 300,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of National Monument
Address: Merdeka Square, Jalan Lapangan Monas, Gambir, Kecamatan Gambir, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10110, Indonesia
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About National Monument
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+62 21 385304010 BEST nearby Activities
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