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7 most visited places of Jakarta
Stunning cityscape of the city after sunset
Located on the northwest coast of the island of Java, Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, is one of the world's greatest metropolises. Nicknamed by expats as 'The Big Durian' (a thorny fruit), Jakarta boasts of many marvels. From historic and cultural sites to modern high-rise buildings and swanky shopping malls, the city will keep you enthralled throughout your visit.
Your trip to this versatile city will be incomplete without visiting its flea markets and experiencing its electrifying nightlife. Other not-to-be-missed places include:
Ancol Dreamland
Enjoy thrilling rides at Jakarta's Ancol Dreamland
Jakarta's largest amusement park, Ancol Dreamland gives visitors ample scope of exploring their adventurous side. Among its chief attractions are:
- Dunia Fantasi (Fantasy World) - with adrenaline pumping twisted roller coaster rides, Bianglala (Ferris wheel), and Kora-Kora (swinging ship)
- Atlantis Water Adventure - splashing a wave of refreshment with numerous water slides and pools
- Ocean Dream Samudra - featuring sea lion and dolphin shows
- SeaWorld (an oceanarium displaying a wide range of marine life), Executive Golf Fun (the first beach golf course in Indonesia), Pasar Seni Art Market (great for souvenirs and handicraft items) and much more
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
Beguile in Jakarta's unique architecture at the TMMI Theme Park
Spread over 250 acres of land, the Taman Mini Indonesia Indah or TMII is a unique expression of Indonesia's varied culture. This recreational area located in East Jakarta has provinces with beautiful landscaped gardens and dedicated pavilions.
Attractions include the Indonesian archipelago (set amidst the serene waters of the central lake), bird and reptile parks, museums, performing theatres, monorail, and cable rides, to name a few.
National Museum of Indonesia (Museum Nasional)
The grand main-entrance to the National Museum of Indonesia
A must-visit for history buffs, the Museum Nasional houses the richest collection of Hindu and Buddhist art of ancient Indonesia.
The Museum Nas ional is known as the "Elephant Building" after the bronze elephant statue in its forecourt. The collections here represent almost all of Indonesia's territory and rich history. Here you will find prized artifacts like the famous statue of Prajnaparamita (the ancient goddess of transcendental wisdom with intricate carvings).
National Monument (Monas - Monumen Nasional)
The towering "Monumen Nasional" at the city square, Jakarta
Located at the centre of Merdeka Square (also the world's largest city square), the Monas symbolizes the struggle for Indonesian independence.
A flame gilded with 35 kg of gold foil tops this 132 m tall Italian marble tower.
Kota / Old Batavia
Fascinating 16th century buildings in Old Town, Jakarta
Kota (Old Jakarta), known as "The Queen of the East" and "The Jewel of Asia" in the 16th century, was once the center of commerce for the whole archipelago.
It is home to important historical sites and buildings like the Museum Fatahillah, Wayang Museum, Bank Indonesia Museum, Pasar Ikan ( Fish Market ), Kota Intan Drawbridge and the Sion Protestant Church.
Istiqlal Mosque
The national mosque, Istiqlal (Arabic for independence) Mosque
The largest mosque in Southeast Asia, the Istiqlal Mosque is one of the city's popular attractions.
The grand rectangular prayer hall is a sacred place of worship as well as a center for conferences and seminars.
Jakarta Cathedral
Beautiful ornamentations on the spires of the Jakarta Cathedral
Built in 1901, the neo-Gothic style Jakarta Cathedral towers over the Merdeka Square. One of Jakarta's best colonial architecture, the cathedral features 60-meter twin spires, an ivory tower with clocks and the church bell.
The cathedral, also called as the Lapangan Banteng, is located opposite the Istiqlal Mosque, a symbol of religious harmony.
Other Most-visited Places
- If you are a shopaholic: Step into Jakarta's famous flea market (Surabaya street market) for great deals on antiques, furniture, jewelry, and vinyl records.
- If rejuvenation is on your mind: Relax at Jakarta's famous spas that offer contemporary and holistic remedies.
- To catch the party fever: Visit the Potato Head - a famous warehouse-style bar-bistro for a unique experience.
Quick Travel Tips
The people in Jakarta are warm and genuinely hospitable. A trip to this lively place is bound to leave you with a memorable experience. However, Jakarta is known for its high level of pollution, traffic frenzy and unsafe tap water. These may be a cause of concern for your safety and health.
So, before you pack your bags for this trip, keep essential medication at hand, download travel-friendly apps and opt for a good travel plan to insure yourself from any unforeseen expenses. Emergencies in a foreign land can burn a hole in your pocket. Secure your finances from costs due to loss of baggage, misplaced passport and hospitalization during your stay abroad.Click here to know more.
