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Attracting millions of visitors annually, Jakarta, Indonesia’s most prominent and capital city, is a must-visit for you and your family this year. Jakarta has a population of 11.35 million people, making it one of the largest urban areas globally. With a rich historical background, this city offers attractions you cannot miss. Each location narrates a story from the past, captivating its visitors and providing an opportunity to explore its rich culture. Savour these local flavours while exploring the city’s most lively atmosphere, making your visit to this capital city an unforgettable expedition.
Location
Jakarta is located on the northwest shore of Java, the most densely populated island in Indonesia. It lies at the estuary of the Ciliwung River, overlooking Jakarta Bay. As Indonesia’s largest city and capital, Jakarta serves an essential function as an economic, cultural, and political hub in Southeast Asia. Its metropolitan area spreads far beyond city boundaries, encompassing various satellite cities and adjacent regions.
How To Reach
Photo: Gunawan Kartapranata / Wikimedia Commons
You can opt for several modes of transportation to reach Jakarta. These modes are mentioned in detail below.
By Air: Approximately 35 km west of the city centre lies the primary airport for Jakarta. Most international flights arrive at the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.
By Trains: To reach Jakarta by train, you would generally need to travel within Indonesia or from nearby regions, as Jakarta is not directly accessible by international train routes.
By Bus: If you are travelling from other cities in Indonesia, long-distance buses are a common and affordable option.
Things To Do In Jakarta
Jakarta offers a wide array of attractions and activities that cater to various interests, from historical sites to modern entertainment.
1. Visit All Family-Friendly Attractions
Photo: baka_neko_baka / Wikimedia Commons
Explore all the significant family-friendly places like the Jakarta Aquarium Safari, Kidzania, and Tribeca Park. All these places bring you to a family-friendly environment where you can enjoy yourself with your children without any worries about safety. Kidzania is a unique theme park where children can role-play various professions in a fun, interactive environment. It allows your kids to get immersed in the real world-like scenarios offering an experience of a lifetime that they would certainly enjoy.
2. Immerse Yourself In The Nature
Photo: oktavianus mulyadi / Unsplash
Escape the city to explore the tropical Thousand Islands which are a perfect destination for snorkeling, diving, or relaxing on the beach. Taman Suropati is a tranquil green space ideal for jogging or relaxing amidst sculptures and fountains. You can also experience Indonesia’s diverse cultures through traditional houses, performances, and exhibits spread across 250 acres at a place known as Taman Mini Indonesia Indah.
3. Entertainment And Shopping
Photo: VulcanSphere / Wikimedia Commons
Jakarta offers a vibrant mix of entertainment and shopping options that cater to various tastes. Grand Indonesia is one of the largest shopping malls in the entire Southeast Asia, which showcases a wide range of international and local brands, dining options, and entertainment facilities like Funworld Broadway for arcade games. You can also visit Ancol Dreamland, an extensive entertainment complex with amusement parks, beaches, and the renowned SeaWorld Jakarta.
Places To Visit Around Jakarta
Diverse cultures and delicious food make this a perfect destination for your next trip. You can visit the following places when in Jakarta.
1. National Monument, Monas
Photo: Gunawan Kartapranata / Wikimedia Commons
The National Monument, popularly known as Monas is a favourite attraction of all tourists visiting Jakarta. It is located in the heart of the city and features spectacular designs covered in gold leaf, which symbolizes the unremitting spirit of the Indonesian people. The monument was officially inaugurated in 1975, after 14 years of construction. The surrounding areas include a large park, which is a prime location for leisure activities for all visitors.
Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM
Entry Fee: IDR 5,000
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Attractions Nearby: Merdeka Square, Istiqlal Mosque, and Jakarta Cathedral
2. Kota Tua, Old Town
Photo: Muhammadsyahid / Wikimedia Commons
Kota Tua, or the “Old Town”, comprises the original downtown Jakarta, Oud Batavia, characterised by a well-preserved Dutch-style architecture dating back to the 1600s. This town was established shortly after the Dutch destroyed the original remnants of Kota Tua. You can enjoy various activities here, including walking tours, cafes, street vendors, and museums. This town is an integral part of Jakarta’s integrity and identity, bringing in tourism and contributing to the overall economy of Indonesia.
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Attractions Nearby: Jakarta History Museum, Wayang Museum, and Fine Art and Ceramic Museum
3. Istiqlal Mosque
Photo: Aisha Tanduk / Wikimedia Commons
“Istiqlal” is an Arabic word which means “Independence”. This mosque was built as a symbolic gesture for the nation’s struggle for freedom from colonial rule. The mosque features incredible architectural features spread over an area of 22 acres and consists of five different levels. This Mosque is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of religious tolerance in Indonesia. It is situated near Jakarta Cathedral, emphasizing interfaith harmony.
Timings: 4 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Attractions Nearby: Jakarta Cathedral, Merdeka Square, and Monas
4. National Museum Of Indonesia
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the prime location of Central Jakarta, this museum invites thousands of visitors every year. The museum was established in 1778 and is often referred to as the “Elephant Museum” because of a gigantic elephant statue at the entrance. This museum proudly boasts a vast collection of artefacts from the prehistoric era, including various archaeological collections, ceramics, and stone statues. It is one of the oldest artefacts museums in the entire Southeast Asia.
Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: IDR 10,000
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Attractions Nearby: Presidential Palace, Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral
5. Thousand Islands
Photo: Pierre André Leclercq / Wikimedia Commons
Thousand Islands is a group of islands in Jakarta, consisting of 110 islands with some accessible to tourists. Only 13 islands are completely developed for tourists while the other 36 are designated for recreational use. To reach here, you will have to take a boat from Marina Ancol in North Jakarta. Travel times vary between 30 minutes to a few hours depending on your destination island. This area is also home to an extensive and diverse range of marine species. You will find beautiful coral reefs, various fish species, and endangered turtles here.
Best Time To Visit: March to August
Attractions Nearby: Pramuka Island, Pari Island, and Tidung Island
6. Jakarta Cathedral
Photo: Rantemario / Wikimedia Commons
Jakarta Cathedral is located directly across from Istiqlal Mosque, symbolizing religious tolerance and unity within Indonesia’s diverse society. Officially known as the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, this prominent Roman Catholic cathedral measures 60 meters in length and 10 meters in width. Its beautiful interiors are intricately designed, featuring stained glass windows that depict various religious scenes and a grand neo-Gothic organ.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Attractions Nearby: Istiqlal Mosque, Merdeka Square, and Independence Palace
What To Eat
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Jakarta is a paradise for all the foodies, offering a rich variety of flavours to excite your tastebuds. These reflect Jakarta’s multicultural heritage effortlessly. Indulge in the local cuisine by trying traditional dishes such as Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Sate (skewered and grilled meat), and Gado-Gado (a mixed vegetable salad with peanut sauce). Street food stalls are also abundantly present throughout the city, providing delicious and affordable meal options. Whenever travelling to a different country, you must try street food to get the most authentic experience.
Where To Stay
Photo: Alif Mikail / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
When considering where to stay in Jakarta, you have a variety of options that cater to different preferences and budgets. If you plan to visit architectural wonders like Monas, Istiqlal Mosque, or Jakarta Cathedral, Central Jakarta is your place to stay where you can find amazing comfortable accommodations that suit your budget well. For visiting trendy cafes, upscale shopping malls and experiencing vibrant nightlife, South Jakarta is more suitable.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Irfan Muhammad / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip:
An average 5-day trip to Jakarta from India costs around ₹65,000 to ₹90,000 per person. This includes flights, accommodation, food, local transport, and sightseeing. In Indonesian Rupiah, the cost ranges from IDR 12,500,000 to IDR 17,000,000. Costs may vary based on travel class, hotel preferences, and activities chosen during the stay.
Tips For Travellers:
- For a rich cultural experience, it is highly recommended that you engage with the locals.
- Jakarta offers an amazing range of culinary expertise. Indulge in the local cuisine and try the regional specialities of each place.
- Take all the necessary safety precautions like – being aware of pickpockets or making sure of using the right transport at the right prices.
- Use public transport for convenience, since you will end up with a better sense of direction.
Jakarta is a vibrant city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity, offering visitors an unforgettable experience filled with history, culture, and culinary delights. From iconic landmarks and historical sites to luxuriant parks and vibrant shopping districts, there’s no shortage of activities for you. Make sure to immerse yourself in the local culture, try the delicious cuisine, and take in the spirited environment. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or an adventurer at heart, this capital city promises to be a memorable destination for your next trip, book your trip with TripXL now.
Cover Photo: Afif Ramdhasuma / Unsplash
