Sunday, April 5, 2020

Indonesia Travel Guide: Surakarta

Indian lady seated on a stall, in antique market, Surakarta, Indonesia.
Surakarta, or Solo, is a city in Central Java, Indonesia. Founded in 1745 by Pakubuwono II, it was once the capital of the Mataram Sultanate before it split into two royal courts, the Surakarta Sunanate and the Yogyakarta Sultanate. Located along the Bengawan Solo River, the city is well known for its strong Javanese roots, especially in batik, wayang (shadow puppetry), traditional music, and dance. Surakarta also played a role in Indonesia’s journey to independence, once becoming a base for early nationalist activities.

Compared to Yogyakarta (MOUNT MERAPI TOUR & TRAVEL), Surakarta is less crowded with tourists, but that’s what makes it appealing to many. It offers a more local and grounded feel of Java. The trip from Yogyakarta to Surakarta takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car (roughly 60 to 65 kilometers), depending on traffic. You can easily see the main attractions in a full day, or even in three-quarters of a day.

 

Pasar Triwindu (Triwindu Market)

Pasar Triwindu is popular among antique collectors. The market stretches across a few rows of stalls selling vintage furniture, radios, clocks, old coins, paintings, wooden carvings, and random household items from the past.

 

Some of the items are genuine antiques, while others may be replicas. If you enjoy browsing or bargain hunting, this market is worth walking through. If you’re not into antiques, you might find it repetitive, but it still gives a glimpse of Solo’s trading culture (TAJ MAHAL AGRA, INDIA).

Walking aisle between the antique shops in Solo, Indonesia.

Vintage collection, rangings from lamp, photo frames in antique market, Solo, Indonesia.

Antique cups tights together and hung up in an antique shop, Indonesia.
Mangkunegaran Palace
Not far from the main city streets, Mangkunegaran Palace stands as a strong symbol of Solo’s royal heritage. It was established in 1757 by Raden Mas Said, who later became Mangkunegara I. The palace continues to serve as the residence of the Mangkunegaran royal family (THINGS TO DO IN CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA).

 

Its layout blends Javanese and European styles. There are large open halls, polished wooden pillars, carved details, tiled floors, and peaceful courtyards. The palace complex includes the Pendopo Ageng, a grand open pavilion used for royal and cultural events, and the Dalem Ageng, the main royal living quarters.

 

Many parts of the palace are open to visitors, including sections displaying royal costumes, traditional weapons, old photos, and musical instruments. The palace sees a steady stream of local and international visitors, especially on weekends. Some days, live cultural performances are held, adding value to your visit.

Sultan banquet hall, with chairs in a Palace in Surakarta, Indonesia.

Outside walkway and ambiance of a palace in Indonesia.

Vintage wooden cupboard with displays in Mangkunegaran Palace, Surakarta, Indonesia.
Pusat Grosir Solo
If you're in the mood for some shopping, Pusat Grosir Solo is a large indoor market where locals go for clothes, fabrics, and daily goods. It’s filled with small shops spread across a few levels, mostly selling batik, fashion items, and souvenirs.


Prices here are often cheaper than in bigger malls, and you can bargain. However, many of the items sold are similar to those found in other markets across Indonesia. So, unless you're looking for something specific, it might feel like just another shopping stop.

Batik shirts and cloths display in a shop in a shopping mall, Solo, Indonesia.
Mata Mata Museum
This museum is made for fun. Known for its 3D trick art, Mata Mata Museum is filled with wall paintings and setups where you can pose and take creative photos. The displays are playful and meant for people who enjoy taking pictures with optical illusions. It’s a good choice for families, kids, or anyone who likes photo spots. But if you’re not into that, you might want to skip it and save on the entrance fee.
Indian lady lying down on the moon like trick art display in art museum, Indonesia.

Indian lady posing at the foot of Bruce Lee Art in 3D Museum, Indonesia.

Indian lady posing in a boat, art display of Venice, in 3D Museum, Indonesia.

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