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Jakarta: The Vibrant Heartbeat of Indonesia

Discover Jakarta: Where modernity meets tradition in Indonesia's bustling capital. A vibrant city filled with rich history, diverse culture, and unforgettable culinary delights.

Jakarta, the bustling capital of Indonesia, is a city where modernity meets tradition. As you wander through its streets, you'll find soaring skyscrapers juxtaposed with historic Dutch colonial buildings. The city is a melting pot of cultures, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for every type of traveler. Start your journey in Kota Tua, the old town of Jakarta. Here, you can explore the Jakarta History Museum and the charming streets lined with cafes and street vendors. Don't miss the Fatahillah Square, where you can immerse yourself in the city's colonial past. For a taste of the local culture, visit the vibrant neighborhoods of Glodok (Jakarta's Chinatown) and Little India. These areas are perfect for trying authentic Indonesian cuisine and shopping for unique souvenirs. Be sure to try the street food — from satay to nasi goreng, the flavors are simply unforgettable. Jakarta is also a shopper's paradise with its numerous malls and markets. From high-end boutiques in Plaza Indonesia to bargain hunting in Tanah Abang Market, there is something for every budget. If you're interested in arts, the National Museum and the Jakarta Art Building offer a glimpse into Indonesia's rich artistic heritage. Despite its hectic pace, Jakarta also offers serene escapes. Visit the Thousand Islands, a chain of islands just off the coast, for a quick getaway. Or, take a peaceful stroll in Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, a sprawling park showcasing the diverse cultures of Indonesia.

Local tips in Jakarta

  • Traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours. Plan your travel accordingly and consider using ride-sharing apps.
  • Learn a few basic Indonesian phrases. It can be very helpful and locals appreciate the effort.
  • Wear comfortable clothing and stay hydrated. Jakarta's tropical climate can be very humid.
  • Cash is still widely used, so it's a good idea to carry some local currency (Indonesian Rupiah).
  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
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Neighbourhoods in Jakarta

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Central Jakarta

Tourist Places of Jakarta - Top Things ...

South Jakarta

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West Jakarta

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North Jakarta

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East Jakarta

Popular Attractions in Jakarta

  • Taman Mini Indonesia Indah

    Experience the rich cultural diversity of Indonesia at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, a unique theme park and museum complex in Jakarta.

  • Monas

    Experience the essence of Indonesia at Monas, Jakarta's iconic National Monument, a symbol of freedom and a cultural hub in the heart of the city.

  • Ragunan Zoo

    Discover the vibrant wildlife and lush landscapes at Ragunan Zoo, Jakarta's premier destination for animal lovers and families alike.

  • Dufan Ancol

    Experience thrilling rides and magical moments at Dufan Ancol, Jakarta's ultimate theme park for adventure seekers and families.

  • Gelora Bung Karno Complex

    Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Gelora Bung Karno Complex, Jakarta's premier sports and cultural destination, perfect for all visitors.

  • Sea World Ancol

    Explore the vibrant marine life and captivating shows at Sea World Ancol, Jakarta's premier aquarium and family-friendly attraction.

Popular Experiences in Jakarta

When is the best time to go to Jakarta?

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Popular Hotels in Jakarta

Local Phrases

    • HelloHalo
      [ha-lo]
    • GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
      [se-la-mat ting-gal]
    • YesYa
      [ya]
    • NoTidak
      [ti-dak]
    • Please/You're welcomeSilakan
      [si-la-kan]
    • Thank youTerima kasih
      [te-ri-ma ka-sih]
    • Excuse me/SorryMaaf
      [ma-af]
    • How are you?Apa kabar?
      [a-pa ka-bar]
    • Fine. And you?Baik. Bagaimana denganmu?
      [ba-ik. ba-gai-ma-na den-gan-mu]
    • Do you speak English?Apakah kamu bisa berbicara bahasa Inggris?
      [a-pa-kah kam-mu bi-sa ber-bi-tsa ba-ha-sa ing-gris]
    • I don't understandSaya tidak mengerti
      [sa-ya ti-dak men-ger-ti]
    • I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBisa saya lihat menu, terima kasih
      [bi-sa sa-ya li-hat me-nu, te-ri-ma ka-sih]
    • I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
      [sa-ya ti-dak ma-kan da-ging]
    • Cheers!Selamat minum!
      [se-la-mat mi-num]
    • I would like to pay, pleaseBisa saya bayar, terima kasih
      [bi-sa sa-ya ba-yar, te-ri-ma ka-sih]
    • Help!Tolong!
      [to-long]
    • Go away!Pergi!
      [per-gi]
    • Call the Police!Panggil polisi!
      [pang-gil po-li-si]
    • Call a doctor!Panggil dokter!
      [pang-gil dok-ter]
    • I'm lostSaya tersesat
      [sa-ya ter-se-sat]
    • I'm illSaya sakit
      [sa-ya sa-kit]
    • I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
      [sa-ya in-gin mem-be-li]
    • I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat-lihat
      [sa-ya han-ya me-li-hat-li-hat]
    • How much is it?Berapa harganya?
      [be-ra-pa har-ga-nya]
    • That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
      [i-tu ter-la-lu ma-hal]
    • Can you lower the price?Bisa kurangi harganya?
      [bi-sa ku-ran-gi har-ga-nya]
    • What time is it?Sekarang jam berapa?
      [se-ka-rang jam be-ra-pa]
    • It's one o'clockSekarang pukul satu
      [se-ka-rang pu-kul sa-tu]
    • Half past (10)Setengah (sepuluh)
      [se-ten-gah (se-pu-luh)]
    • MorningPagi
      [pa-gi]
    • AfternoonSore
      [so-re]
    • EveningMalam
      [ma-lam]
    • YesterdayKemarin
      [ke-ma-rin]
    • TodayHari ini
      [ha-ri i-ni]
    • TomorrowBesok
      [be-sok]
    • 1Satu
      [sa-tu]
    • 2Dua
      [du-a]
    • 3Tiga
      [ti-ga]
    • 4Empat
      [em-pat]
    • 5Lima
      [li-ma]
    • 6Enam
      [e-nam]
    • 7Tujuh
      [tu-juh]
    • 8Delapan
      [de-la-pan]
    • 9Sembilan
      [sem-bi-lan]
    • 10Sepuluh
      [se-pu-luh]
    • Where's a/the...?Dimana ada/ada...
      [di-ma-na a-da/a-da]
    • What's the address?Apa alamatnya?
      [a-pa a-la-mat-nya]
    • Can you show me (on the map)?Bisa tunjukkan saya (di peta)?
      [bi-sa tun-juk-kan sa-ya (di pe-ta)]
    • When's the next (bus)?Kapan yang berikutnya (bus)?
      [ka-pan yang be-ri-kut-nya (bus)]
    • A ticket (to ....)Tiket (ke....)
      [ti-ket (ke)]

History of Jakarta

  • Jakarta, originally known as Sunda Kelapa, was a thriving port city under the Sunda Kingdom in the 4th century. Its strategic location on the northwest coast of Java made it a crucial hub for trade with regions as far as China and India. Artifacts from this period reveal a rich cultural tapestry influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism.

  • In the early 16th century, Portuguese traders arrived in Sunda Kelapa, seeking to establish a foothold in the spice trade. They forged an alliance with the Sunda Kingdom, constructing a fortress to bolster their influence. However, this alliance was short-lived, as local forces and competing interests soon challenged their presence.

  • The fall of Sunda Kelapa came in 1527 when Fatahillah, a commander from the Sultanate of Demak, drove out the Portuguese and renamed the city Jayakarta, meaning 'Complete Victory.' This marked the beginning of a new era, with Jayakarta emerging as a significant Islamic trading center.

  • In 1619, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) captured Jayakarta and renamed it Batavia. The Dutch transformed the city into the administrative and commercial hub of the Dutch East Indies. The colonial architecture, canals, and fortifications from this period still bear witness to Batavia's historical significance.

  • During World War II, Japanese forces occupied Jakarta from 1942 to 1945, renaming it Jakarta to align with nationalist sentiments. The occupation was a period of hardship and transformation, as the Japanese promoted Indonesian nationalism and mobilized local support against the Dutch colonial rule.

  • On August 17, 1945, Indonesia declared its independence from Dutch colonial rule. Jakarta played a pivotal role in the independence movement, becoming the capital of the newly proclaimed Republic of Indonesia. The city's landscape and society rapidly evolved as it embraced its new identity and responsibilities.

  • Today, Jakarta is a bustling metropolis and Indonesia's political, economic, and cultural heart. The city's skyline is a blend of modern skyscrapers and historic buildings, reflecting its dynamic growth and rich heritage. Jakarta continues to be a melting pot of cultures, offering a vibrant mix of traditions, cuisines, and lifestyles.

Jakarta Essentials

  • Jakarta is served by Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), located approximately 20 kilometers west of the city center. The airport is well-connected with numerous international and domestic flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi, an airport shuttle bus, or the Airport Rail Link to reach different parts of the city. Additionally, Halim Perdanakusuma Airport (HLP) caters to some domestic flights and is located closer to the city center.
  • Jakarta offers various modes of transportation, including taxis, ride-hailing services (such as Gojek and Grab), buses (TransJakarta), commuter trains (KRL), and the MRT and LRT systems. While taxis are convenient, traffic congestion can be an issue. The TransJakarta bus network is extensive and affordable. Ride-hailing services are reliable and popular among locals and tourists alike. For a more scenic experience, you can also use traditional becaks (pedicabs) in certain areas.
  • The official currency in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and licensed money changers.
  • Jakarta is generally safe for tourists, but it is essential to stay vigilant. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists include North Jakarta, particularly around the Ancol area, and some parts of Central Jakarta. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. It is advisable to use reputable transportation services and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
  • In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Major hospitals such as Rumah Sakit Cipto Mangunkusumo (RSCM) provide comprehensive medical services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available. The local police can be reached by dialing 110. Keep the contact details of your country’s embassy or consulate handy.
  • Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices. Remove your shoes before entering mosques and temples. Public Transport: Do be patient during rush hours. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a slight bow or handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and street food. Don't use your left hand for eating or handling food, as it is considered impolite.
  • To experience Jakarta like a local, visit traditional markets such as Pasar Baru and Tanah Abang for a taste of local life. Spend an evening at a warung (small eatery) to enjoy authentic Indonesian cuisine. Explore the historic Kota Tua area to see colonial architecture and learn about Jakarta’s history. Consider using a motorbike taxi (ojek) for a quick and efficient way to navigate the city’s traffic. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share insights about the city.