Istiqlal Mosque: A Majestic Symbol of Faith in Jakarta
Discover the grandeur of Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta, Southeast Asia's largest mosque, a symbol of unity and religious harmony.
A brief summary to Istiqlal Mosque
- Jl. Taman Wijaya Kusuma, Central Jakarta City, Pasar Baru, Sawah Besar, Jakarta, 10710, ID
- +62213811708
Istiqlal Mosque stands as a remarkable testament to Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and religious diversity. Located in the heart of Jakarta, this grand structure is not only the largest mosque in Southeast Asia but also serves as a beacon of hope and unity for its visitors. The mosque, designed by the architect Friedrich Silaban, was inaugurated in 1978 and can accommodate over 120,000 worshippers. Its impressive dome, soaring minarets, and intricate calligraphy reflect a blend of modernist and traditional Islamic architectural styles, making it a visual feast for those exploring the city. As you step inside, you are greeted by an expansive prayer hall flooded with natural light, thanks to its large windows and high ceilings. The atmosphere is serene, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city outside. Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque, taking in the exquisite details of its design, including the beautifully crafted mosaics and the serene courtyard. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the mosque’s history, significance, and the role it plays in the spiritual life of Jakarta’s Muslim community. Beyond its religious significance, Istiqlal Mosque is a symbol of Indonesia’s commitment to religious pluralism, situated near the Jakarta Cathedral, which represents the Christian faith. This proximity highlights the harmonious coexistence of different religions in the region. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a culture enthusiast, or simply curious about Indonesia's diverse heritage, a visit to Istiqlal Mosque is an enriching experience that offers deep insights into the nation’s values and beliefs.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds and fully appreciate the serene atmosphere.
- Dress modestly out of respect for the religious site; women may need to wear a headscarf.
- Check the prayer schedule if you wish to observe or participate in the daily prayers.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the mosque's architecture and its significance in Indonesian culture.
- Enjoy the surrounding area, including nearby attractions like the Jakarta Cathedral and Merdeka Square.
Getting There
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Public Bus
If you are starting from the Central Jakarta area, you can take the TransJakarta bus corridor 1 from the Harmoni Central Bus Station. Board the bus heading towards Blok M. Alight at the 'Harmoni' stop and transfer to corridor 2, which goes to the 'Senayan' stop. From there, walk towards the Jalan Taman Wijaya Kusuma, where Istiqlal Mosque is located. The mosque is about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop, visible as a large white structure.
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Train
From Jakarta's main railway station, Gambir, you can take a commuter train heading towards Jakarta Kota. Alight at the 'Jakarta Kota' station. From there, you can take a short motorcycle taxi (ojek) or a 20-minute walk to Istiqlal Mosque. Head southwest on Jalan Pintu Besar Selatan, then continue on Jalan Taman Wijaya Kusuma. The mosque will be ahead on your left.
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Walking
If you are in the vicinity of the National Monument (Monas), you can easily walk to Istiqlal Mosque. Start from Monas and head east along Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan, then turn left onto Jalan Taman Wijaya Kusuma. The mosque will be approximately a 20-minute walk from Monas. Just follow the road signs pointing towards Istiqlal Mosque.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
You can use a local taxi or a ride-hailing app such as Gojek or Grab to reach Istiqlal Mosque. Simply input 'Istiqlal Mosque' or the address 'Jl. Taman Wijaya Kusuma, Ps. Baru, Kecamatan Sawah Besar, Kota Jakarta Pusat, 10710' into the app. The driver will take you directly to the mosque. It's a convenient option if you're carrying bags or traveling with family.
Attractions Nearby to Istiqlal Mosque
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Jakarta Cathedral
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The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption
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Museum Katedral Jakarta
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West Irian Liberation Monument
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Lapangan Banteng Park
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Pasar Baru
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Gedung Kesenian Jakarta
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Gedung AA Maramis II
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Jalan Pasar Baru
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Kawasan Wisata Kuliner Pecenongan
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GPIB Immanuel Jakarta
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Monas
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National Monument
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Museum Sejarah Nasional
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Monas Dancing Fountain
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Little India (குட்டி இந்தியா/India Kecil)
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Stasiun Juanda
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Nederlandsch-Indische Levensverzekerings en Lijfrente Maatschappij
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Noxious Vortex Pusat
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Chulalongkorn de Grote - Rama V, erfgoedpad in Batavia
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Tjokin-Kjokoe Djawa - Spaarbureau Djawa in Batavia
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Dulunya tempat Jagat Review
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Patung Dr GSSJ Ratulangi
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Bc IKDO REINCARNATION
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BARTELE GALLERY - Jakarta, Indonesia