East Kalimantan (Kaltim) is not only famous for its natural beauty but is also rich in history and culture, as reflected in its various historical museums.
Visiting these museums can be a unique way to enjoy your vacation while gaining knowledge.
6 Historical Museums in East Kalimantan
From royal relics to in-depth ethnographic collections, here are six museums in East Kalimantan offering an unforgettable educational travel experience.
1. Tuah Himba Wood Museum
Located at the Panji Sukarame Reservoir in Tenggarong, Kutai Kartanegara, Tuah Himba Wood Museum presents a collection that introduces the distinctive arts and culture of the Kutai and Dayak peoples.
With an entry fee of only Rp5,000 per person, you can enjoy a variety of unique horticultural collections, including various native plants from East Kalimantan.
The museum also features video facilities that provide information about the local timber industry, offering deeper insight into the significance of wood in the local culture.
2. Mulawarman Museum
Mulawarman Museum is a must-visit destination for history lovers. Situated on Tepian Pandan Panji Street, Tenggarong, this museum was once the palace of the Sultanate of Kutai Kartanegara.
Mulawarman Museum houses over 5,000 collections, including historical artifacts, artworks, and items once used by the sultans.
Walking through this museum takes you back in time, allowing you to experience the grandeur of the Kutai Sultanate that once thrived in this region.
3. Sandurengas Museum
For those interested in relics from the sultanate era, Sandurengas Museum is the right destination.
Located on Keraton Pasir Belengkong Street, Paser Regency, the museum is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM WITA (until 3:00 PM on Fridays).
Inside, there is a collection of musical instruments, ancient currency, and various artifacts that reflect past glories.
The museum also includes ample parking facilities and a classic mosque, adding to its appeal for religious tourism.
4. Museum of Struggle (Merah Putih)
Want to learn more about Indonesia’s struggle? The Museum of Struggle, also known as Merah Putih Museum, is located in Sanga-Sanga Dalam, Kutai Kartanegara, and offers a complete documentation of the historic Merah Putih events.
Inside, visitors can view a collection of historical items related to the national struggle.
This museum honors those who fought for independence, inspiring visitors to remember and appreciate the sacrifices of the heroes.
5. Batiwakkal Museum
Batiwakkal Museum, located on Manunggal Street, Gunung Tabur, Berau Regency, is a replica of the Gunung Tabur Palace, once the seat of power of the Berau Kingdom.
The museum houses a variety of interesting collections that tell the historical journey of the kingdom.
Visiting Batiwakkal Museum allows you to trace the past of a once-thriving kingdom in East Kalimantan, showcasing the enchanting cultural and historical heritage of Berau.
6. Sendawar Ethnographic Museum
Last but not least is the Sendawar Ethnographic Museum, located on Sendawar 1 Street, Barong Tongkok, West Kutai.
The museum holds up to 188 heirloom items from the sub-ethnic Dayak in West Kutai, including traditional sports equipment, cultural accessories, and other artifacts.
This museum offers visitors a window into understanding the diversity of Dayak culture and appreciating the rich traditions passed down through generations.
Visiting the museums in East Kalimantan not only offers a visual experience but also enriches your understanding of local cultural and historical heritage.
Each museum has a unique story waiting to be explored, making your vacation more meaningful and memorable.
So, when in East Kalimantan, take time to visit these museums and let yourself be inspired by the rich history they offer.