Airlangga Museum in Kediri Regency, East Java Province

A memorable vacation indeed involves a great destination. In East Java Province, tourists should not ignore Kediri Regency, in this case. For those who love history, for example, they may find several recommended spots like Airlangga Museum. The location is in Pojok Village and it belongs to Mojoroto Sub-District. Here is the good news. The museum resides in the same area with other famous tourist sites, including Selomangleng and Penataran Temple! In terms of function, the building stores historical items of Hindu Culture and those that relate to the Kediri Kingdom. Visitors may find lots of unique objects inside. Plus, they have the chance to explore and conduct photography during the visit.

The Nuance
Even though Airlangga Museum’s size is moderate, it has many features and clean environment. When it comes to architecture, the building has a pyramid roof and glass walls in all sides. The name sign is made of wood and looks so simple. In both east and west outer part of the building, tourists may see a guardian statue. The right statue has a lion-like appearance and the east statue represents a giant with a dragon under his feet. What about the interior?

Exploring Airlangga Museum
First things come first. Most tourists come to Airlangga Museum in order to learn the history and further information regarding the building. As for the name, it is derived from King Airlangga who was the founder of Kahuripan Kingdom. He also ruled from 1009 to 1042. When it is about the literal meaning, “Airlangga” means the jumping water, actually. The museum was inaugurated in 1992 and most of the historical objects were moved from the Kediri’s historical objects shelter, located in the town square.

After hearing the story either from a local guide or keepers, tourists should enter the museum right away. The purpose is to see all historical objects that are kept there. The most interesting one perhaps is the Shivanandi Statue or Arca. It resembles the highest God Shiva, featuring 4 hands and 3 eyes. The majestic appearance of the statue itself impresses all tourists. No wonder, people are likely to take photos of it during the visit.

What is more? The museum has other interesting collections like Gentong Batu and inscriptions. In order to find information and history regarding these objects, though, tourists must ask the keepers or their guide. As for the interior, it looks simple but neat. The most important thing is the value of those historical items, isn’t it?

Nearby Attractions

• Kebun Bunga Matahari
• Selomangleng Cave
• Maskumambang Mountain
• Watu Bengkah
• Penataran Dewi Kilisuci Temple

How to Get There
A trip from Surabaya City to Kediri Regency would take around 1 hour and 59 minutes, as the distance is 120 km. It can be faster if tourists take the right routes, though. First, they must choose Surabaya – Mojokerto Highway. Next, it would be Mojokerto – Kertosono Highway. Once arriving at Kediri, they must take Pamenang Street and head to Pojok Village at Mojoroto Sub-District where the museum resides. The distance is 31.6 km, so this trip would take about 53 minutes.

Where to Stay

• Salma Hotel
• Bukit Daun Hotel
• Ibu Dewi Inn