Jakarta, as the capital city of Indonesia, measures about 662 sq kilometers. The population in its greater area is approximately 30 million people. It can be daunting for anyone who wants to explore the city especially for tourists and newbie expats. During my 5 years stay in Jakarta I have learned that the city provides very little information about tourist attractions. If you compare to other tourism venues across the country, I can say that finding things to do in Jakarta is not really easy, especially when you speak no to very little Indonesian.
As Jakartan, nickname for people who reside in Jakarta, I will try to put together a small guide to roam the city and fun things to do in Jakarta.
1. Monas
Monas or Monumen Nasional (national monument) may be the number one attraction in Jakarta. Its 137 meter-high monument remains the most visited landmark since 1975. It serves as the symbol of Indonesia’s independence. With the admissin fee of about Rp 20,000 (USD $1,5), the monument offers one the best views in town. You might not want to miss your chance to this iconic monument.
2. Kota Tua (old town)
Kota tua is an old Dutch colonial district. It stands as a relic of Jakarta’s colonial past. This area boasts beautiful building heritage from the Dutch. The place is ideal for walk around, take a glimpse of the old building plus sample some street delicacies. You can also visit a few museums showcasing a decent insight into the city’s history. On Sunday, Kota tua is a little bit bizarre place along with magic shows and some folks dressed in Halloween customes because every Sunday the square will be packed with many Indonesians.
3. Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral
Istiqlal Mosque, opened in 1978, is the largest mosque in the Southeast Asian region. This what makes the mosque special. Also the name istiqlal is derrived from the Arabic word which means independence. It is built directly across from Jakarta Cathedral. This shows how religious tolerance truly exists in Indonesia. If you enjoy neo-gothic cathedral that dates back to 1901 then this church is worth a visit.
4. Pasar Baru
Pasar baru is the oldest market in Jakarta that dates back to 1820. The shopping area is for pedestrian only. It’s filled with fabrics vendors, vintage cameras, and fresh flowers. Pasar baru is also the home to diverse mix of Chinese, Javanese, and Indian thus making it perfect place to visit to sample all kinds of marvelous Indonesian street foods.
5. Sunda Kelapa Port
There are actually no stunning vistas from this port. However although the harbor might be dirty and polluted but it is kind of cool. It may not be your average tourism thing to do in town but you’ll like it. A lot of fishermen would offer us on their canoes to give a little tour. For me as Jakartan myself, this would qualify as weird thing to do in Jakarta. However if you wish to take a look a very different view of Jakarta, this would be perfect.
6. Glodok or the city’s Chinatown
Glodok is Jakarta’s historic Chinatown. The market sells everything from incense to electronics to traditional Chinese snacks. If you are a big fan of wandering around market just to find weird trinkets, sampling unique foods and doing good ol’ people watching then Glodok is the right place for that purpose.
