One of the largest cities on Earth, the sprawling coastal metropolis of Jakarta is home to a staggering 10 million people. The burgeoning population of this Indonesian city on the island of Java is comprised of a wide range of nationalities and as such, the culture here is extremely diverse. Head to Jakarta’s fantasy world theme park, sample the unique local cuisines on offer in its eateries and from its street vendors, or visit Jakarta’s many landmarks from the Istiqlal mosque to the magnificent sapphire coastline.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Jakarta
National Monument — The staggering 132-metre high Indonesian National Monument was opened in 1975 to celebrate Indonesia’s independence from Dutch colonial rule. The observation deck offers astounding views across the skyline, which includes Indonesia’s tallest skyscraper. The striking gardens beneath host regular festivals and events.
Batavia — The old town district of Jakarta offers a vanishing hint of the city as it must have appeared during Dutch occupation in the 17th and 18th centuries. While some buildings crumble into dilapidated charm, others have been revitalised and now house institutions such as the Jakarta History Museum.
Menteng — With literally hundreds of street vendors selling food in Jakarta, you’ll have no problem find something to get your mouth watering. However, the food market held every night in the main park at Menteng offers some particular specialities. You’ll also find the Kunstkring Art Gallery here, which has an excellent restaurant on the ground floor.
Thousand Islands — Even in a city the size Jakarta, Indonesia’s natural splendour is never too far away. Located off the coast are thousands of islands of various sizes. Some offer scuba diving and snorkelling, while all promise a little peace and quiet from the hectic pace of life of this non-stop metropolis.
Things to See in Jakarta
From the neo-Gothic Jakarta Cathedral to Indonesia’s tallest building, the 250-metre high Wisma 46 skyscraper, the buildings here will constantly have you looking to the skies. To see it all, why not book a private tour of the city and the Indonesia Mini Park, a recreation park that encapsulates the entirety of Indonesian culture in one setting? This is definitely a great way to pack as much in as you can.
Things to Do in Jakarta
Wander through authentic bustling Chinese market stalls, sampling some fantastic cuisine along the way, with a small group tour of Jakarta’s Chinatown district. While Jakarta’s endless number of districts are replete with things to do, if you want a break from the wild pace of life, book a private tour to the Bogor Botanical Garden and Puncak. Just don’t be fooled by the name – this is no twee country garden. In true Indonesian style, Bogor is on the larger end of the scale. And as for Puncak, well, this mountain pass offers verdant tropical countryside the likes of which you will probably never have seen before.
