Liciana Q 
Ullen Sentalu Museum in Kaliurang offers deep insight into Javanese culture, unique architecture, and a refreshing tourist experience amidst the cool nature.
Ullen Sentalu Museum, located in Kaliurang, Yogyakarta, has long been one of the interesting cultural tourism destinations in Indonesia.
With a very diverse collection of art and culture, this museum not only presents history, but also provides an immersive experience for visitors who want to understand more about the beauty of Javanese culture.
In addition, its location surrounded by cool nature makes it the perfect place for a vacation while studying. Let’s explore the history, attractions, and facilities offered by this museum, which has long been a favorite tourist destination.
History of Ullen Sentalu Museum
Ullen Sentalu Museum has an interesting and quite unique history. Founded in 1987 by Haryono Hadiwidjono, an art collector, the museum was originally located in Jakarta.
The collections, which mostly consist of Javanese art and cultural objects, include his family’s private collection. The collection includes various items such as traditional clothing, traditional weapons, and handicrafts that reveal the social and cultural life of Javanese society.
Exploring this museum is one of the essential Things to do Kaliurang, providing visitors with a unique insight into the rich heritage of the area.
In 1992, Haryono decided to move the collection to Yogyakarta, his hometown, and established a museum in the Kaliurang area. The Ullen Sentalu Museum was then opened on March 1, 1994.
The name “Ullen Sentalu” comes from Javanese, which means “walking up and down to seek light”. This philosophy depicts a spiritual journey and a profound search for knowledge, which is in line with the museum’s aim to showcase and preserve Javanese cultural heritage.
In 2003, the management of this museum was transferred to the Djojokusumo Foundation, which is the Yogyakarta palace family. This gives the museum significant progress in terms of managing and developing its collections and programs.
Ullen Sentalu Museum experienced a fire in 2014 which resulted in most of the collection being burned. However, after extensive restoration efforts, the museum is back in operation and has become even more well-known in the tourism world, becoming a very popular cultural tourism destination.
The Attraction of Ullen Sentalu Museum
Ullen Sentalu Museum not only offers an extraordinary collection of art and culture, but also has various attractions that make it different from other museums. Here are some of the main attractions that you can enjoy when visiting this museum.
1. Cool and beautiful atmosphere
One of the main attractions of the Ullen Sentalu Museum is the location of the museum which is in the middle of the forest in the Kaliurang area, Yogyakarta.
Surrounded by shady green trees, this museum offers cool and shady air, giving visitors a comfortable atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The natural beauty makes this museum even more interesting, especially for tourists who want to enjoy the coolness of nature while learning about Javanese history and culture.
2. Charming Architecture
The Ullen Sentalu Museum building was designed very carefully so that it looks harmonious with the surrounding natural environment.
The architecture of this museum reflects a blend of traditional and modern styles, with a distinctive Javanese touch that is rich in symbolism.
One of the interesting elements is the use of natural materials in the building which provides a traditional and comfortable feel for visitors.
3. Exploring Historical Knowledge
Ullen Sentalu Museum is an ideal place for anyone who wants to learn more about Javanese history and culture.
The various collections exhibited in this museum provide deep insight into the life of the Mataram kingdom, Javanese traditional life, and other important historical journeys.
From traditional clothing to traditional weapons, every object exhibited here has a priceless story and meaning. Although visitors are not allowed to take photos inside the museum, there are many areas outside the museum where you can take souvenir photos.
4. Special Spice Drink
During their visit, visitors can enjoy various special drinks made from traditional Javanese spices. It’s a refreshing and appetizing experience after touring the museum.
In addition, this museum also provides a restaurant that serves delicious dishes for visitors who want to enjoy lunch or just enjoy a snack while relaxing.
Opening Hours, Tickets and Routes
Ullen Sentalu Museum is open every day from Tuesday to Sunday, from 08.30 to 15.15 WIB. Entrance ticket prices for adults range from IDR 50,000 to IDR 100,000, depending on the type of tour chosen.
This museum is one of the most popular cultural tourism destinations in Yogyakarta and attracts thousands of visitors from various countries every year.
The location of the Ullen Sentalu Museum can be easily accessed, either using private vehicles, taxis, or online vehicle services. You can use online map applications such as Google Maps to help find the best route from your location to this museum.
Facilities at Ullen Sentalu Museum
In addition to the interesting collection, Ullen Sentalu Museum is also equipped with various facilities that will increase the comfort of visitors while they are there. Here are some facilities that you can enjoy when visiting:
1. Arts and Culture Exhibition
The museum has many rooms for art and cultural exhibitions that display extraordinary collections, such as traditional clothing, ceramics, batik, traditional weapons, silver, and various pictures and photographs of the royal family. Each exhibition is designed to provide an immersive educational experience about Javanese culture.
2. Cafe Museum
There is a café inside the museum that offers a variety of delicious dishes and refreshing drinks. With a beautiful view of Mount Merapi, this cafe is the perfect place to relax while enjoying coffee or tea. For those of you who like to hunt for photo spots, this cafe is also very instagrammable!
3. Souvenir Shop
For visitors who want to take home a souvenir, the museum has a souvenir shop that sells a variety of unique items, such as batik cloth, handicrafts, and miniature statues. In addition, visitors can also buy books related to Javanese history and culture as souvenirs.
4. Educational Tour Packages
Ullen Sentalu Museum also offers educational tour packages guided by experienced tour guides. This tour provides more in-depth information about the art and cultural collections in the museum, and invites visitors to understand more about the history of Javanese culture.
5. Meeting Room
For group or special events, the museum also provides rooms that can be rented. The room is equipped with modern facilities such as a projector and sound system.
6. Spacious Parking
This museum has a large parking area, so visitors who come by private vehicle, either car or motorbike, do not need to worry about parking.
Ullen Sentalu Museum in Kaliurang is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Javanese culture and history.
With a rich collection of art and culture, coupled with a cool natural atmosphere and complete facilities, this museum offers an educational and enjoyable tourist experience.
Don’t forget to take the time to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature and experience for yourself the uniqueness of Javanese culture exhibited in this museum! Visiting this cultural gem is one of the must-try Things to do Kaliurang, offering a perfect blend of nature and tradition.
