That’s the first place that pops to your mind when you hear someone speak of Indonesia? Well, most probably it would be Bali for most people. We get why many might have chosen Bali, since it is by far one of the most attractive and globally known islands in Indonesia. Be as it may, Indonesia has more to offer than the beautiful sights in Bali.
Indonesia is also well known for its capital – Jakarta. According to the World Population Review, Jakarta, being the largest city in the country, is a sprawling metropolis and home to about 10,770,487 people. From history to shopping, street foods, arts and more, this massive capital exhibits cultural value, natural beauty as well as historical significance that offers leisure and entertainment to tourists, just like you.
Many tourists use Jakarta as an entry and exit point to Indonesia and if you’re ever passing
through the city and have some time to spare or planning a getaway, there are a wide
range of attractions for you to enjoy.
Menteng, Central Jakarta
Menteng, one of the most exclusive parts in Central Jakarta was designed by the Dutch colonial government in the 1920s. This exclusive neighbourhood is filled with a variety of entertainment options, excellent dining experience, grand fountains and limitless shopping locations. One way to pass your time in this huge city is shopping. Plaza Indonesia (PI) is a three-level retail hub that provides a variety of dining and entertainment experiences. If you’re planning to do most of your holiday activities at Menteng, then it’s best to stay closer to where you’ll be going to minimise your traffic time.
Where to stay: The Hermitage Hotel, Menteng Jakarta offers a wide range of amenities during your stay. Visit www.hermitagejakarta.com for more information. However, do check the room rates and availability before proceeding with your booking.
Istiqlal Mosque
If you’re someone who loves architectural landscapes, then this is one of the best places to visit. Istiqlal Mosque, located at Jalan taman Wijaya kusuma in Central Jakarta was established in 1978. Standing across an old catholic church at the section of Jalan Lapangan Banteng, it is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia both in its building structure as well as capacity as it is able to provide space for 200,000 people. This beautiful mosque was designed in 1954 by a Christian architect, Frederich Silaban from North of Sumatra and has decorative Islamic interior designs includingan amazing courtyard with marble and decorative minarets.
If you’re planning to visit this mosque, here are some details that’ll be helpful to you during your visit:
How to get there: It is easy to reach Istiqlal Mosque as it is near the Gambir Train Station. From the Sukarno-Hatta international airport, public transports such as “Metromini” or “Transjackarta” buses are available for you to use. You can also opt for a motorcycle or taxi too to get to the mosque!
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, also known as (TMII), is a must-visit spot especially for families that are visiting Jakarta as it is a great place to learn about the Indonesian culture. TMII is practically a miniature of Indonesia.
It is located in the Eastern part of the city and has an amusement park that offers a great escape from the hectic city. The amusement park has multiple pavilions that represent the Indonesian culture and architecture including museum indonesia. To enjoy the numerous museums as well as flora and fauna gardens, spare a whole day to explore the entire park. Once your journey has come to an end at the TMII, tourists can relax at one of the amusement parks located in the complex.
Side note: TMII is open daily from 8 am till 10 pm. However, the museums and architectural displays are closed by 4 pm. For more information,
check out: www.tamanmini.com/pesona_indonesia/.
A true taste of Indonesia
As you travel and explore Jakarta, be sure to indulge in some local delicacies. One of the best places to taste the local delicacies is at the restaurant lara djonggrang which is strategically situated at the heart of Menteng, Central Jakarta. Interestingly, lara djonggrang was named after a Javanese princess who sacrificed her life and undying love for her father and was turned into a stone by a disgruntled prince so that she would not be able to love anyone else forever! Now, the stone visualisation of Lara Djonggrang is one of the masterpieces in this authentic restaurant. This restaurant serves some of Indonesia’s authentic cuisines that was inspired by the royal journeys during the times of the King Hayam Wurum in the 14th century.
There are plenty of amazing places you can visit during your stay in Jakarta. To find out more, scroll through Indonesia’s official tourism platform Wonderful indonesia to discover some of the other adventures that Jakarta offers.
