Black and white photograph of the Columbarium at the Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia, Java, Indonesia, taken in September 1949

Menteng Pulo War Cemetery

Menteng Pulo War Cemetery: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Historical Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Menteng Pulo War Cemetery (Ereveld Menteng Pulo) in Jakarta stands as one of Indonesia’s most significant war memorials, reflecting the profound and intertwined histories of Indonesia, the Netherlands, and their Allied partners during World War II and the Indonesian National Revolution. This serene cemetery is not only a place of remembrance for over 4,000 military and civilian victims but also a symbol of reconciliation, education, and intercultural dialogue. This guide provides a thorough overview of the cemetery’s historical context, practical visitor information—including visiting hours, ticketing, and accessibility—and valuable cultural insights to ensure a respectful and meaningful visit.

Black and white photograph of the Columbarium at the Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia, Java, from September 1949

Black and white photograph of the Columbarium at the Menteng Poeloeh war cemetery in Batavia, Java, taken in September 1949

Black and white photo of Batavia, Java in September 1949 showing a street scene

Black and white photograph of Batavia, Java from September 1949 showing the Columbarium at the memorial cemetery Menteng Poeloeh

Black and white photograph of the Columbarium at the Menteng Poeloeh War Cemetery in Batavia, Java, September 1949

Black and white photograph of the Columbarium at the Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia, Java, taken in September 1949

Black and white photograph of Columbarium at the Menteng Poeloeh war cemetery in Batavia, Java, Indonesia in September 1949

Black and white photo of soldiers and civilians gathered at the gravesite during the funeral of Major B.H.J. Callenbach at Ereveld Menteng Pulo, Batavia, 1946

Black and white photo of a gravesite with military personnel at a funeral ceremony in Batavia, Dutch East Indies, 1946

funeral procession at a grave site in Batavia, Indonesia, November 1946

Arrival of Lieutenant-Governor-General H.J. van Mook in Batavia, Dutch East Indies, December 8, 1947

Black and white photo of soldiers in Batavia, Menteng, Oranje-Nassauboulevard during guard change ceremony in July 1946

Black and white photograph of a military guard change at Oranje-Nassauboulevard and Burgemeester Bisschopsplein in Menteng, Batavia, July 1946

Black and white historic photograph of the guard changing ceremony at Oranje-Nassauboulevard and Burgemeester Bisschopsplein in Menteng, Batavia, July 1946, with Nassaukerk church in the background

Black and white historic photo of military guards changing the watch at Oranje-Nassauboulevard Burgemeester Bisschopsplein in Menteng, Batavia in July 1946 with Nassaukerk in the background

Black and white photo of military guard changing ceremony at Oranje-Nassauboulevard and Burgemeester Bisschopsplein in Menteng, Batavia, 1946

Black and white photo showing the changing of the guard ceremony at Burgemeester Bisschopsplein, Menteng, Batavia in July 1946 with Nassaukerk church visible in the background

Guard changing ceremony at Oranje-Nassau Boulevard and Burgemeester Bisschopsplein in Menteng, Batavia, July 1946

Black and white photograph of soldiers standing at attention and swapping guard duty at Oranje-Nassauboulevard in Menteng, Batavia, July 1946

Black and white photograph of military troops performing a changing of the guard ceremony on Oranje-Nassauboulevard near Burgemeester Bisschopsplein in Menteng, Batavia, 1946

Black and white photograph of a changing of the guard ceremony at Oranje-Nassauboulevard and Burgemeester Bisschopsplein in Menteng, Batavia, July 1946

Massive reburial ceremony of war victims at Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948

Mass burial and reburial ceremony of war victims at Menteng Poeloeh Military Cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948

Mass funeral for war victims at Menteng Poeloeh Cemetery in Batavia, April 5, 1948

Mass reburial ceremony of war victims at Menteng Poeloeh Cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948

Massive reburial ceremony of war victims at the Menteng Poeloeh Cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948

Massive reburial ceremony for war victims at the Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948

Massive reburial ceremony of war victims at Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia, 1948

Massive reburial ceremony of war victims at Menteng Poeloeh war cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948

Massive reburial ceremony of war victims at Ereveld Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948

Massive reburial ceremony of war victims at Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948, with mourners gathered around graves

Mass funeral and reburial ceremony for war victims at Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948

Mass burial ceremony for war victims at Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948

Massive reburial ceremony for war victims at Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948

Massive reburial ceremony for war victims at Menteng Poeloeh War Cemetery in Batavia, April 5, 1948

Massive reburial ceremony of war victims at Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia in 1948

Massive reburial ceremony of 21 war victims at Ereveld Menteng Poeloeh cemetery in Batavia on April 5, 1948

Introduction
Historical Background
Visiting Menteng Pulo War Cemetery
Cultural and Educational Significance
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Resources

Historical Background

Origins and Establishment

Menteng Pulo War Cemetery was established in the aftermath of World War II, envisioned as a final resting place for Dutch, Indonesian, and Allied victims of war and occupation. The site, located in South Jakarta’s Menteng Dalam area, was selected for its tranquil palm-lined surroundings—now enveloped by the city’s urban landscape (OGS Indonesia). The cemetery was designed by Dutch Reserve Lieutenant Colonel Ir. Hugo Anthonius van Oerle, with the foundation stone laid in December 1946 and the official inauguration following in December 1947 (Now Jakarta).

Significance During World War II and the Indonesian National Revolution

Menteng Pulo’s history is deeply tied to the Japanese occupation of the Dutch East Indies (1942–1945) and the subsequent Indonesian National Revolution (1945–1949). During these turbulent years, thousands of Dutch nationals, Indo-Europeans, Indonesians, and Allied soldiers perished in internment camps, forced labor, and military conflicts (Manual Excursion). The cemetery initially served as a burial ground for members of the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army (KNIL) and civilians who died during this era.

In the 1960s, remains from over 20 smaller cemeteries throughout Indonesia were consolidated into Menteng Pulo, following agreements between Indonesia and the Netherlands to concentrate war cemeteries on Java (OGS Indonesia).

Diversity of Burials and Memorial Features

Menteng Pulo is notable for its inclusivity, with graves representing Dutch, Indonesian, British, Indian, and other Allied military personnel, as well as civilians of various faiths—including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism (Indonesia Expat). The cemetery holds between 4,000 and 4,300 graves, with orderly rows of headstones and dedicated sections for different faiths and nationalities.

Distinctive features include:

Simultaan Church: A non-active, multi-denominational chapel at the cemetery’s heart, serving as a focal point for remembrance ceremonies.
Columbarium: Housing urns of Dutch military personnel who died in Japanese captivity and were later transported from Japan (OGS Indonesia).
Memorial Monuments: Honoring aviators, mariners, internees from Glodok, and children who perished in the conflict.

Visiting Menteng Pulo War Cemetery

Location and Directions

The cemetery is situated at Jl. Menteng Pulo RT. 3 RW. 12, Menteng Dalam, Tebet, South Jakarta. It is easily accessible by car, taxi, ride-hailing apps, and public transportation, including TransJakarta buses and the nearby Tebet railway station (Trek Zone).

Visiting Hours and Entry Information

Standard Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Special Notes: Some sources indicate weekday-only access (Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM), with closure on weekends and public holidays (Holidify). For the most accurate information, consult the Oorlogsgravenstichting official website.
Ticket/Entry Fee: Admission is free for all visitors; no tickets required.

Accessibility and Facilities

Paths: Mostly flat, paved walkways make the cemetery accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
Restrooms and Benches: Facilities are available near the entrance.
Chapel and Columbarium: The Simultaan Church and Columbarium are open for reflection during special events or by prior arrangement.
Parking: On-site and nearby parking is available.

Visitor Etiquette and Guidelines

Dress Modestly: Wear respectful, conservative attire.
Maintain Silence: Speak quietly and behave respectfully within the grounds.
Photography: Permitted for personal use; avoid photographing ceremonies or other visitors without permission.
No Littering: Dispose of trash in designated bins.
No Recreational Activities: Eating, drinking, and recreational activities are discouraged.
Children: Welcome, but require supervision.

Cultural and Educational Significance

Menteng Pulo War Cemetery plays a vital educational and cultural role, fostering understanding of Indonesia’s complex wartime history and the shared sacrifices of many nations. The site is used for school and university visits, guided tours, and annual commemorations such as Dutch National Remembrance Day (May 4th), encouraging reflection on peace and reconciliation (Indonesia Expat).

The ongoing maintenance and diplomacy between Indonesia and the Netherlands symbolize a commitment to reconciliation and shared memory, while its inclusivity reflects the unity of diverse communities in the face of adversity.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Kota Kasablanka Mall: A major shopping and dining destination 1.5 km away (Trek Zone).
Erasmus Huis: The Dutch cultural center, offering exhibitions and cultural events, about 2.5 km away.
Jakarta Historical Landmarks: Combine your visit with other nearby sites, such as the National Monument (Monas), Jakarta History Museum, and Tebet Honda Park.

Travel Tips:

Visit during the dry season (May–September) for comfortable weather.
Early morning or late afternoon visits are best to avoid heat and crowds.
Bring water, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Menteng Pulo War Cemetery visiting hours?
A: The cemetery is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some sources note weekday-only access; check the Oorlogsgravenstichting website for the latest updates.

Q: Is there an entrance fee or ticket required?
A: Admission is free; no tickets are needed.

Q: Is the cemetery wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, paved pathways make it accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours can be arranged through the Dutch War Graves Foundation or by contacting cemetery management in advance.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography for personal use is allowed; please be discreet and avoid photographing mourners or ceremonies without consent.

Q: Are group visits allowed?
A: Yes; groups, especially educational or commemorative, should notify management beforehand.

Conclusion

Menteng Pulo War Cemetery is a vital historical and cultural landmark in Jakarta, offering a powerful space for remembrance, reflection, and learning. Its meticulously maintained grounds, inclusive commemoration of diverse nationalities and faiths, and accessible facilities make it an essential destination for history enthusiasts and respectful travelers. Enhance your visit by joining a guided tour or attending annual memorial events, and explore nearby attractions to deepen your understanding of Jakarta’s rich heritage.

Download the Audiala app for personalized travel guides, updates on historical sites, and exclusive cultural insights. For the latest information on visiting hours, group bookings, and special events, consult the Oorlogsgravenstichting official website.