East Kalimantan (Kaltim) is not only blessed with extraordinary natural beauty but is also rich in history and cultural heritage, captured in the unique museums across the region.
Visiting these museums can offer a unique travel experience while providing an opportunity to delve deeper into local culture and history.
Historical Museums in East Kalimantan
Here are six recommended museums in Kaltim that can provide you with an unforgettable educational holiday experience.
1. Tuah Himba Wood Museum
Located at Panji Sukarame Reservoir in Tenggarong, the Tuah Himba Wood Museum showcases fascinating collections of Kutai and Dayak arts and culture.
With an entrance fee of only Rp5,000 per person, this museum displays various horticultural collections, including native foliage from East Kalimantan.
The museum also features video facilities that offer insights into the local timber industry, helping visitors understand the significant role of wood in the local culture.
2. Mulawarman Museum
Mulawarman Museum is one of the best places to learn about the history of the Kutai Kartanegara Sultanate.
Located on Tepian Pandan Panji Street in Tenggarong, this museum was once the palace of the sultanate.
Here, visitors can explore over 5,000 collections of historical artifacts, artworks, and personal belongings of the sultans.
Walking through this museum is like stepping back in time, witnessing the grandeur of the Kutai Sultanate firsthand.
3. Sandurengas Museum
Sandurengas Museum, situated on Keraton Pasir Belengkong Street in Paser Regency, offers a collection of relics from the sultanate era, including musical instruments and ancient currency.
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM WITA (until 3:00 PM on Fridays).
With ample parking and a classic mosque in the museum area, visitors can enjoy not only history but also a religious tourism experience.
4. Museum of Struggle (Merah Putih)
Known as the Merah Putih Museum, the Museum of Struggle in Sanga-Sanga Dalam, Kutai Kartanegara, traces the historical journey of Indonesia’s fight for independence.
Here, you can see a collection of historical items related to the Merah Putih events and remember the contributions of national heroes.
Each item in this museum tells a story of bravery and sacrifice, honoring the heroes who fought for freedom.
5. Batiwakkal Museum
Located on Manunggal Street in Gunung Tabur, Berau, Batiwakkal Museum is a replica of the Gunung Tabur Palace, which was once the center of the Berau Kingdom.
With its diverse collections, this museum reflects the historical journey of the kingdom.
Visiting Batiwakkal Museum provides a complete picture of the magnificence of Berau’s cultural and historical heritage.
6. Sendawar Ethnographic Museum
The Sendawar Ethnographic Museum in Barong Tongkok, West Kutai, is the perfect destination to view the heirlooms of the Dayak people.
This museum houses up to 188 heirloom items, including traditional sports equipment, cultural accessories, and other ethnographic artifacts.
Its diverse collections open a window into the richness of Dayak culture passed down through generations.
Visiting museums in East Kalimantan offers more than just a visual experience; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the wealth of local culture and history.
Each museum above presents its unique story, adding depth and meaning to your vacation.
If you’re in Kaltim, don’t miss the opportunity to visit these museums and experience the richness of history they offer.