Sulawesi Landmarks and Monuments

(Sulawesi, Sunda Islands, Indonesia)



The various peninsulas on the island of Sulawesi are home to a number of impressive landmarks, which range from castles and temples, to mountains and volcanoes. One of the best-preserved Dutch landmarks still standing in Sulawesi is Fort Rotterdam, which is located in the city of Makassar, where it was built in the 17th century to guard the harbour.

Another Sulawesi landmark in Makassar is the Monument of Mandala, which affords some excellent city panoramas. Further views are available from high up the Gunung Colo, the Gunung Klabat and the Gunung Lokon volcanoes, where guided treks are often popular.


Fort Rotterdam

Address: Jalan Pasar Ikan, Makassar, Sulawesi, Indonesia, ID
Much of the Fort Rotterdam fortress has undergone renovation work, although some areas remain quite untouched and are beginning to crumble away somewhat. Interestingly, Fort Rotterdam was actually constructed on the site of a 16th-century Gowanese fort, which was unsuccessful in keeping out the Dutch invaders and was soon destroyed. Inside, the Museum Negeri La Galigo is a popular attraction.
Open hours: daily - 07:30 to 18:00
Admission: donations suggested

Kienteng Ban Hian Kong

Address: Jalan Panjaitan, Manado, Sulawesi, Indonesia, ID
Dating back to the 19th century, the Kienteng Ban Hian Kong is the most historic Buddhist temple still standing in eastern Indonesia. The temple has enjoyed considerable restoration work in recent years and really attracts the crowds each February, when it plays host to the Tai Pei Kong Festival.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge

Gunung Lokon Volcano

Address: Tomohon, Sulawesi, Indonesia, ID
The Gunung Lokon Volcano is based in North Sulawesi and close to the town of Tomohon, where it is just under 1,600 metres / 5,250 feet in height. From Tomohon it takes most peoples around four hours to trek to the crater lake, and a further hour to reach the very top. However, do note that before you attempt to climb the Gunung Lokon, you should first register your intentions at the Kantor Dinas Gunung Berapi (Volcanology Centre) in Tomohon, which stands on the Jalan Kakashashen Tiga. Nearby, the sulphurous lake of Danau Linow may also be of interest to keen explorers.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Benteng Otanaha

Address: Gorontalo, Sulawesi, Indonesia, ID
The Benteng Otanaha is an ancient fortress and stands on a hilltop in Lekobalo, just outside Gorontalo. It is believed that Fort Otanaha was built in the early part of the 16th century by the Portuguese, being used by the kings as a defensive stronghold and fortification against the Dutch. Over the years, the Benteng Otanaha has slowly fallen into a state of disrepair, with just three of its towers remaining to offer a glimpse of its former glory.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Gunung Colo Volcano

Address: Pulau Una Una, Sulawesi, Indonesia, ID
At just under 500 metres / 1,640 feet high, the Gunung Colo is now one of Sulawesi's tallest volcanoes, it certainly has an interesting story. Located on the island of Pulau Una Una, the Gunung Colo last erupted as recently as 1983, when its thick ash covered virtually the entire island, destroying the many houses. Fortunately the population of Una Una had been evacuated to safety well in advance. Today, treks to the top of this wondrous natural landmark are extremely popular and last around three hours in total, offering stunning views of the unusual lava landscapes beneath.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge

Gunung Klabat Volcano

Address: North Sulawesi, Indonesia, ID
Gunung Klabat is the highest volcano peak in North Sulawesi, measuring in at just over 2,000 metres / 6,560 feet in height. There is a very well laid out pathway to the top of the volcano, where you can enjoy views of the crater itself. The path winds its way from Airmadidi, where you will first need to register and find yourself a guide. This is a fairly strenuous hike, lasting four hours to the top, and then descending in roughly two hours, passing lush rainforest areas along the way. Many tourists choose to camp at the top, to catch the spectacular sunrise views, which light up the entire peninsula. Sundays are best avoided, since they can be quite busy.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge for guides and tent hire

Gunung Sesean

Address: Tana Toraja, Sulawesi, Indonesia, ID
One of the highest mountain peaks on Sulawesi, the Gunung Sesean is especially popular with trekkers and features a number of trails. It is possible to hike to the very peak of the Gunung Sesean from Batutumonga, and this return trip will take approximately five hours, depending upon fitness levels. Guides are available if you feel that you would like to be accompanied by an expert. The Gunung Sesean is more than 2,100 metres / 6,890 feet above sea level, so you can expect some great views along the way.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free, charge for guides

Monument of Mandala (Monumen Mandala)

Address: Jalan Jendral Sudirman, Makassar, Sulawesi, Indonesia, ID
The Monumen Mandala is a towering building and rather dominates the skyline of central Makassar. Built in the mid-1990s, the Manada Monument measures in at around 75 metres / 246 feet in height and was built as a celebration of Papua's liberation. It is possible to climb the staircase to the top of this tall tower, where the views across the city of Makassar are well worth the effort. An elevator is also available if required.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge