The capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is a city of contrasts and a mixture of cultures. Tourists from all over the world visit here and stay in any of the Jakarta hotels to enjoy a memorable holiday.
1. Merdeka Square is Jakarta’s most important square and one of the top tourist sights in the city. The square is surrounded by many attractive tourist sites such as Merdeka Palace, Istiqlal Mosque and the National Museum of Indonesia. In the heart of Merdeka Square is the famed National Monument.
2. National Monument called Monas is an obelisk topped with gold, and is dedicated to Indonesia’s Proclamation of Independence. The monument which is an icon of Jakarta, rests in a park that is one of the few open green spaces in the area. There is a museum of national history with a gallery of 48 dioramas inside this candle-shape monument.
3. Museum National: Located in front of Monas, this museum displays pre-historical and historical artifacts from Indonesian culture from as far back as the Stone Age. Museum Gajah (its other name) has one of the most complete collections of Chinese ceramics in the world. Established in 1778, the museum is one of the oldest in South-East Asia, and boasts of a comprehensive collection of artifacts.
4. Museum Fatahillah is often called ‘the oldest building in Jakarta’, and was a city hall back in the 17th century. Also known as the Old Batavia Museum, or Museum Sejarah, this antique building is often used to host shows, exhibitions and as a backdrop for photos.
5. Lubang Buaya: An important site of Indonesian history, Lubang Buaya literally meaning “crocodile’s pit” is the site of the murder of seven army officers during the 1st October coup attempt of the Thirtieth of September Movement. The site also attracts plenty of tourists.
6. Petak Sembilan the city’s original Chinatown, sees the cultural exchange between native Jakartans and Chinese, It features the Gloria building (Jakarta’s first supermarket) and the ancient Dharma Bhakti temple. Visited during the Chinese New Year season of January-February, tourists can taste great Chinese food here at the Peranakan traditional market. Many discount hotels in Jakarta are located here.
7. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah Park depicts Indonesia through its pint sized replicas of the archipelago, traditional houses from different provinces, and cultural items. Taman Park is one of the largest green areas in the city and a great place to unwind.
8. Setu Babakan: This 165-hectare cultural conservation park was created by Governor Fauzi Bowo in 2004 as part of Jakarta’s anniversary celebration. A slice of Betawi life has been preserved for tourists and locals to enjoy here, and tourists can enjoy typical Betawi foods, drinks, cakes, and regular Betawi dance performances held every weekend.
9. Taman Impian Jaya Ancol: Originally a place to relax for the Dutch elites back in the 18th century, it has now become a modern water park for children and adults. Dunia Fantasi, Gelanggang Samudera, and Seaworld Indonesia are some major attractions here, as well as nice seaside views and the occasional dance parties near the beach.
10. Jakarta Old Town is another place to visit where one comes across many interesting tourist sights such as the Jakarta Kota Station and Jakarta Old Port.