| 4 mins read
For most travelers booking a trip to Indonesia, beaches, tropical weather, crystal clear oceans and ancient temples are what they have in mind. Mind-boggling traffic, nearly 10 million people and the world’s second largest metropolitan area… not so much. Though these traits do define in part Indonesia’s capital of Jakarta, there are many good reasons too why tourists who arrive here to escape into the country's interiors shouldset aside some time to explore Southeast Asia’s largest city. What are the top attractions in Jakarta, Indonesia? Here’s a list of our favorite spots:
Cultural Attractions
Monas (the National Monument) is one of the city’s main icons. Located in the central Merdeka Square, this 132-meter tower commemorates Indonesia’s struggle for independence. Inside Monas one can visit the National History Museum of Jakarta (a walk through ancient and modern Indonesia), the Hall of Independence, and the tower’s Observation Deck (located at the top of Monas). Visit during the day from 8:00 AM- 3:00 PM, or catch a glimpse by night as it lights up the city and surrounding areas.
Another cultural, city-center attraction is the National Museum of Jakarta. Located to the right of Merdeka Square in Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat, this informative and interesting museum walks visitors through Indonesia’s archeological, historical, ethnological, and geographical past. Home to over 60,000 prehistoric artifacts, the museum is a fantastic visit for any lover of history and culture. For the visitors who are more interested in the art side of history, Indonesia’s National Gallery is located in the heart of Jakarta as well.
Known as Indonesia’s Miniature Park, TMII (Taman Mini Indonesia Indah) is a 250-acre recreational zone that packs Indonesia’s vibrant culture into one main attraction. Combining traditions, architecture, clothing, dances and other important aspects of daily Indonesian life, this culture park represents every province of the country in its own, unique manner. Quite possibly the most informative, interactive and interesting of Jakarta’s cultural attractions, TMII is definitely worth a visit!!
Other important cultural sites: Jakarta’s Old Town (including its numerous museums) and the Arts Theatre.
Religious Sites
With over 85% of the population practicing Islam, Jakarta is home to some stunning mosques. Quite possibly the most famous mosque within the city is the Istiqlal Mosque (or the Independence Mosque). The National Mosque of Indonesia and the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, this colossal religious structure is found next to Merdeka Square and the Jakarta Cathedral.
Built in the neo-Gothic style, the Roman Catholic Jakarta Cathedral is another important religious structure within the city. Dating back to the late 19th century, this historic cathedral is an architecturally stunning site with clear roots reaching back to colonial times.
Entertainment
Quite possibly the most popular entertainment complex in the city, the ANCOL Dream Park is home to everything from the Dufan Amusement Park and Atlantis Water Adventure to golf, bowling, beaches, art galleries, water sports and paintball. If you’re looking for a good time in Jakarta (and want to escape the madness of the city), ANCOL Dreamland is the place to go!!
Food & Nightlife
Jakarta is an excellent place to get acquainted with Indonesian cuisine. From Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Fried Rice), Mie Goreng (Indonesian fried noodles) & Papeda to delicious sates, Sundanese meals and Ayam Goreng (coconut oil-fried chicken- YUM!), you will fall in love with Jakarta’s endless restaurant, café and street vendor options. If you’re ready to hit the streets at night, Jakarta is also home to some excellent bars, clubs and cafés for locals, expats and travelers of all ages and incomes. (Jalan Jaksa is the best-known traveler hangout when it comes to nightlife.)
Sitting on top of the equator, Jakarta is hot year round. However, if you would like to stay dry during your trip, (try to avoid major public holidays), your Jakarta tour guide will advice the months of May-September as the best time to visit this bustling, eclectic, entertaining metropolis!
Image Credits and License Details:https://flic.kr/p/6wDuSN(Yulian Hendriyana,CC BY-NC-SA 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/8w3K56(Steven Handoko,CC BY-ND 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/eg8wZA(Nanda Riezky,CC BY 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/aJbbez(Kent Kanouse,CC BY-NC 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/atoaF6(Prayudi Hartono,CC BY 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/7eBdpK(nikenmakki,CC BY-NC-SA 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/csB63o (lulun & kame, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/4nYouF (Charles Wiriawan, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0) https://flic.kr/p/4MxbAT (Lan Rasso CC by NC-ND-2.0) https://flic.kr/p/oc4P1Q Johanes Randy Prakoso CC by-nc-nd/2.0/)