Travelwings

Flourishing on the beautiful island of Java, Jakarta is the capital city of Indonesia and is globally recognized for being a great economic, cultural, and political center. However, the city has also gained fame and praise for being an unparalleled tourist place in recent years. Today, millions of tourists flock this island-city every year to experience the greatness it holds. Plan a visit now and unpack a whole new world of surprises. Find Jakarta at its artistic zenith while walking around its unearthly marvels. Immerse in its natural charm. Dive into a sea of colorful culture. Jakarta has in reserve exquisite beauties to love.

USEFUL INFO. ABOUT JAKARTA

OFFICIAL NAME: Special Capital Region of Jakarta

FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Unitary Presidential Constitutional Republic

COUNTRY: Indonesia

POPULATION: Approximately 10.5 Million (As of 2018)

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE(S): Indonesian

LANGUAGES SPOKEN: Indonesian, English, Dutch

CURRENCY: Indonesia Rupiah Rp (IDR)

ETHINICITY: Javanese 35.16%, Native Jakarta 27.6%, Sundanese 15.27%, Chinese 5.53%, Batak 3.6%, and Minangkabau 3.18%

MAP REFERRED: ASIA

AREA: 661.5 Sq Km

Lowest Point: Sea level 0 M

Coastline: Approximately 32 Km

Indonesian Rupiah is the legal currency in Jakarta and is used across the country as well as in several parts of East Timor for exchanging goods and services. The currency is also referred to as 'perak' by locals in the country. It was introduced in the year 1946 by nationalists after Indonesia gained independence from colonial powers. Since then, it has been used extensively.

In the past when the present-day Jakarta was ruled by foreign powers, Netherlands Indies gulden was used as the currency. Later on, when Japan invaded in the early 1940s, a new version of gulden was used until Indonesian Rupiah came into existence.

Symbol = Rp
1 Indonesian Rupiah = 100 sen (Obsolete due to inflation)
1 Indonesian Rupiah IDR = 0.00026 United Arab Emirates Dirham AED (As of 28th Feb 2020)

Indonesian Rupiah bank notes can be found in the denomination of Rp1000, Rp2000, Rp5000, Rp10000, Rp20000, Rp50000 and Rp100000.
Indonesian Rupiah coins can be found in the denomination of Rp100, Rp200, Rp500 and Rp1000.

The region in and around the present-day Jakarta has remained inhabited for more than 2400 years now. The earliest known traces find their roots in the Buni culture that flourished during the period 400 BCE and 100 AD here. Since then, the city has been an important center of politics and trade in Indonesia.

By the 4th century, Jakarta, then called Sunda Kelapa, had become a port settlement under the Sundanese kingdom of Tarumanagara. Gradually, the town developed and evolved to become one of the greatest and significant places of the Sunda Kingdom.

Later on, during the early 16th century, the Portuguese arrived and a few years later, they signed a treaty for trade. By the 17th century, Dutch too established their settlement in the city and started trading. However, in subsequent years, the relation between the king and the Dutch worsened and this led to a war between their armies. As the battle was won by the Dutch army, the Dutch came to power and changed the name of the city to Batavia.

During the 1940s, when the Japanese took over the control of the city, they changed its name from Batavia to Jakarta. Since then, the city has retained the same name. Today, Jakarta is independent and is the capital city of Indonesia. For its historical and cultural significance, it has been able to make its mark on the global map. Millions of tourists visit the country every year to relish its beauty present in the form of nature, history, and architecture.

Spread over an area of about 661.5 sq km with a coastline of about 32 km, Jakarta makes for a beautiful expanse. It is located on the wonderful island of Java and is settled peacefully on the Ciliwung River. That's one of the reasons why the city has been successful in alluring beach lovers and nature photographers from across the globe.

The northern parts of Jakarta are plains, while the southern parts of the city are covered with hills and lush greenery. It has an average elevation of 8 m and hence, Jakarta is quite patched with swampy areas and low-land fields. This diverse topography has made it popular amongst world travelers.

Jakarta is also known for its rivers as about 13 streams flow through the city. The nearest countries that can be explored from Jakarta include Brunei, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Art and Music
As Jakarta serves as a melting point for different cultures from across the globe, one would find several foreign elements in its traditional art and music. However, being a global city, Jakarta entertains every kind of music and art, be it contemporary or old-style.

No wonder the city is home to more than 20 art and music festivals that are celebrated annually. People in Jakarta partake in these events with full vigor and zest. Gamelan instruments are a significant part of traditional music in Jakarta, while the depiction of legendary and mythical stories on walls and buildings is an important part of the traditional art in the region.

Food and Drink
Though the traditional Indonesian cuisine is loved by the people of Jakarta, they welcome international delicacies too. Here, you would find food streets that sell lip-smacking dishes from Indonesian Cuisine and also the chains of global restaurants such as McDonald's, Burger King, KFC, and more. The traditional cuisine of Jakarta is a mix of culinary traditions from numerous different cultures. However, it is mostly recognized for the use of rice, spices, seafood, and soup dishes. Sundanese meals, such as Ikan Bakar and Ayam Goreng make for some of the most popular dishes in the city.

Must-try Delicacies
Nasi Goreng, Satay, Nasi Padang, Ikan Bakar, Martabak, Bubur Ayam, Ketoprak, and Mie Ayam

Must-try Drinks
Bajigur, Bandrek, Wedang Jahe, Tuak, Kunyit Asam, and Bir Pletok

Hospitality
People of Jakarta are always respectful towards their guests and that's one of the reasons tourists love coming to this island-city more than once. They always greet tourists with a happy smile and are quite generous and helpful. Do not wonder if you get invited by a local for a supper.

Take a stroll through vibrant streets and squares and observe architectural wonders

Catch a glimpse of the surreal Istiqlal Mosque and frame it on your camera

Spend your day relaxing at unexplored shores and enjoy the colors of Jakarta at the time of dawn and dusk

Revel in luscious Indonesian Cuisine and explore your taste buds as you savor appetizing meals

Explore the unseen boisterous nightlife of Indonesia in the vibrant pubs and bars of Jakarta

Browse through a wide range of shopping complexes and malls and shop your interests

Learn about the local culture and lifestyle of Indonesia in the past at beautiful museums

Admire the poetic horizon at the national monument of Monas

Indulge in exploring the lush green environment of Jakarta and spend your afternoons at its colorful gardens and parks

Enjoy a luxurious stay at waterfront cottages, island resorts, and other five-star properties

Dig into the colonial era at Kota Tua while witnessing magnificent buildings from the past.

With tropical monsoon season, the region of Jakarta experiences two seasons. The rainy season starts in October and lasts until the end of May. And the summer season, which is predominantly dry, starts in June and lasts until the end of September.

The daily mean temperature throughout the year ranges between 26 C and 28 C. Hence, the climate of Jakarta is quite tolerable from January until the end of December. January and February are the highest rainfall-receiving months, while July and August are the lowest rainfall-receiving months in a year.

June - August
This is the best time to visit Jakarta in a year as, during this period, the city maintains a favorable climate. Hence, it is also the peak time here. Millions of tourists from different countries flock the city to savor its magnificence. Several hotels and resorts provide wonderful offers. If you desire to witness the beauty of Jakarta in its full glory, then June to August is the time when you should plan your trip.

Visit Jakarta with Family

Explore the beautiful region of Kota and get in touch with the city's history

Visit the Miniature Park of Indonesia and explore the country in a go

Have a great time together at the old town square of Taman Fatahillah

Create memories taking selfies at the national monument of Monas

Witness colorful sea life at the great aquarium of Sea World

Visit Jakarta as a Couple

Book your stay at waterfront cottages in Thousand Islands and enjoy the serenity

Hold each other's hands and step into the past at the historic Kota Tua

Go for a candle-light dinner at the oldest yet royal restaurants of Jakarta

Explore the white-sand paradise of Tanjung Lesung Beach

Shop together and buy your styles at malls and street markets

Visit Jakarta with Friends

Visit the beautiful beaches of Jakarta and relish their tropical atmosphere

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Jakarta at its clubs and bars

Explore museums and learn in detail about the culture and history of Jakarta

Go for thrilling rides at the amusement park of Dufan

Visit Jakarta with Kids

Have a fun time at the beautiful mini-city of Kidzania

Let your kids enjoy fun slides and water activities at Waterbom Park

Design your own kite and fly it at the Kite Museum of Jakarta

Learn about stars, galaxies, and the sky at the Planetarium Taman Ismail Marzuki

Let kids partake in cultural, science, art, and technology activities at Edutainment Park

What to Buy?

Batik Fabric

Wayang Puppets

Kopi Luwak

Batik Paintings

Indonesian Jewellery

Gamelan Instruments

Locally-prepared wood carvings

Silver crafts

Local snacks

The National Monument
Also known as Monas, the National Monument in Jakarta is one of the most recognized buildings in the country. Hence, it is on the bucket list of every traveler visiting Jakarta. Built-in 1975, the National Monument observes the nation's struggle for freedom. At the top of the monument is a gold-plated flame that grabs all the attention.
Timings: 08:00 am to 04:00 pm
(Closed on Mondays) Entrance Fee: $1.20 per person

Kota Tua
If history is close to your heart and you love wondering about the past, then Kota Tua is a place that shouldn't be missed at any cost. Kota Tua is a beautiful neighborhood that houses some of the oldest buildings in the city. Read the history of Jakarta through the walls of ancient structures or marvel at beautifully-executed constructions. The place remains lively throughout the day with the presence of locals and tourists.
Timings: Anytime
Entrance Fee: No Entrance Fee

Istiqlal Mosque
A perfect instance of new formalism architecture, Istiqlal Mosque is the pride of Jakarta. With its marvelous structure, it allures tourists from across the country. On average, this brilliant mosque is frequented by more than a million tourists every year. Well, that clearly showcases its popularity amongst tourists. It was built in 1978.
Timings: 04:00 am to 12:00 pm
04:00 am to 11:00 pm on Saturdays
(Closed on Sundays) Entrance Fee: No Entrance Fee

Thousand Islands
A beautiful string of Islands on the coast of Jakarta, Thousand Islands is a must-visit destination in Indonesia, especially for couples. Feel the serenity of shores. Stay at waterfront cottages and indulge in experiencing bliss. Thousand Islands is a pure slice of heaven for the place houses incredible natural beauties to savor.
Timings: Anytime
Entrance Fee: No Entrance Fee

Merdeka Square
Merdeka Square is an important part of Jakarta for the square is also home to the popular National Monument. The place remains crowded with locals and tourists throughout the day. Come here, mingle with locals and capture the street culture of Jakarta. As the square is surrounded by lush greenery, it also offers a tranquil atmosphere to relax.
Timings: Anytime
Entrance Fee: No Entrance Fee

Taman Mini Indonesia Park
Yes! There is a mini Indonesia park in Jakarta that provides its visitors with the opportunity of witnessing the entire country. Taman Mini Indonesia Park was inaugurated in 1975 and since then, it has been the talk of the town. Today, it is immensely popular amongst tourists, especially kids. Spread over an area of about 100 hectares, this beautiful park covers all the major places in Indonesia.
Timings: 07:00 am to 10:00 pm
Entrance Fee: $2 per person

National Museum of Indonesia
Fancy studying age-old relics and prehistoric artifacts? If yes, then the National Museum of Indonesia has to be on your bucket list. The place holds an amazing collection of more than 140,000 ancient objects that are related to archaeology, astronomy, ethnography, culture, and more. Take a stroll through beautiful galleries and step into the past of Jakarta at every step.
Timings: 08:00 am to 04:00 pm
08:00 am to 05:00 pm (Saturdays and Sundays)
(Closed on Mondays)
Entrance Fee: $0.70 per person

Jakarta Cathedral
One of the oldest buildings in Jakarta, Jakarta Cathedral deserves to be explored for its architectural magnificence. It was constructed in the year 1901 and hence, also has a history to unfold. Constructed in the neo-gothic style, Jakarta Cathedral boasts of great halls, embellished pillars, carved entrance, sky-touching spires, and commendable interior.
Timings:
06:00 am to 12:00 pm and 03:30 pm to 09:00 pm
Entrance Fee: No Entrance Fee

Setu Babakan
Visit the gorgeous village of Setu Babakan and learn in detail about the Betwai culture and lifestyle. This cultural park is spread over an area of about 290 hectares and houses museums, theatres, workshops and more. Every single thing here some serious relation to the Betawi people of Jakarta. Occasionally, several traditional dances and music events are also organized at Setu Babakan.
Timings: Anytime
Entrance Fee: No Entrance Fee

Other Places of Importance in Jakarta

National Gallery

Taman Suropati

Jakarta Chinatown

Ragunan Zoo

Basuki Abdullah Museum

Merdeka Palace

Java Jazz Festival
One of the most awaited festivals in Jakarta, the Java Jazz Festival is celebrated by thousands of music lovers coming from different parts of the world. The festival is quite a big hit amongst youngsters. Plan your vacation to Jakarta and experience this crazy carnival of rhythms. Listen to thumping music and dance your night away.
Time: Feb/March

Jakarnaval
A celebration that would provide you with proper insights into the local culture and traditions of Jakarta, Jakarnaval is observed across the country. However, it is predominantly celebrated at Merdeka Square in Jakarta. People dress up and partake in parades. The cultural values of Indonesia are displayed through various events. No art lover or culture explorer must miss this beautiful celebration.
Time: June

Festival Palang Pintu
Otherwise known as Festival Kemang, Palang Pintu is another carnival that sets the party mood of the entire city. It is generally observed in the southern parts of Jakarta by the Sanggar Manggar Kelape, a significant cultural group of the city. On this day, the entire neighborhood gets decorated. People indulge in attending parades and art events. Traditional dishes are served and fashion shows are organized.
Time: April

Jakarta Fashion & Food Festival
Jakarta Fashion & Food Festival is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm. It is organized by the government of Jakarta in order to promote culinary art and fashion. Hence, hundreds of aspiring artists from across the country and beyond take part in the festival to showcase their talents. It is one of the most famous festivals in Jakarta.
Time: August/September

Independence Day
A national holiday in Indonesia, Independence Day awakens a sense of patriotism in every citizen of Jakarta. It is observed with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural events, parades, competitions, and more. On this day, people also play patriotic songs, themed pictures are telecasted on TVs, and shopping complexes and markets offer great discounts.
Time: 17th August

Other significant festivals in Jakarta

Jakarta Soulnation Festival

Indonesian International Motor Show

Jakarta International Kite Festival

Festival Kota Tua

Jakarta Fair

Festival Jalan Jaksa

As per the visa policy of Indonesia, every tourist is supposed to obtain a visa to enter the boundaries of the country unless they belong to a visa-exempt country. Below given are all the countries that are allowed to enter Jakarta or any other place in Indonesia without any prior visa. Citizens from these countries can stay within the country for a maximum period of 30 days. The list includes:
Afghanistan, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Colombia, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kosovo, Liberia, Micronesia, Montenegro, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.

Indonesia also allows several countries to obtain tourist visas on arrival. However, to get Indonesia tourist visa on arrival, one needs to have:

A passport with a minimum of 6 months validity

Return ticket

Amount to support your stay

Tourist Visa on arrival would allow you to stay in Indonesia for a maximum period of 30 days. However, you can also file an application for a visa extension for 30 days more. It would cost you $35 per head. Below listed are all the countries that are eligible for Visa-on-arrival:
Algeria, Andorra, Armenia, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Maldives, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Seychelles, Taiwan, Timor Leste, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and the United States.

Buses
Buses are the cheapest means of commutation in Jakarta. They are available at all the places as the city houses a number of terminals. From these terminals, one can catch a bus to almost anywhere in Jakarta. Air-conditioned, as well as special tourist buses, also operate within the city.

Motorcycle Taxis
Motorcycle-taxis is perfect if you are on a solo trip and do not want to spend too much on transportation. These are cheap as well as convenient for short distances. Though these are not an official form of transportation in Jakarta, they are still used by thousands of tourists and locals every day. You would need to download the application 'Ojek' to use this bike service.

Metro
The fastest means of transport in Jakarta is rapid transit. However, it is only available in several parts of the city. Jakarta MRT has lines between Kota and Lebak Bulus and Bundaran HI and Lebak Bulus, though not all the lines are operating currently.

Cabs/Taxis
If you do not want to compromise with comfort and time, then cabs are the best options to go with. They are fast as well as convenient. You can find cabs at every corner in Jakarta, ranging from hotels to tourist places. Sharing cabs also operate within the city. You can use them if you are exploring Jakarta on a budget.

Bicycle
Be your own guide and explore the city your way. Rent a bicycle and choose an unconventional way of watching the beauty of Jakarta. Bicycle rental services are available across the old region of the city. Hence, you can easily visit places like Kota Tua on a bicycle.

Via Air Route
Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport in Jakarta is well connected to other parts of the world. Hence, one can easily take a flight from places like Dubai, India, and Europe to reach it. It is one of the busiest airports in the country and is located at a distance of about 10 km from the city center.

Via Rail Route
Train journeys are the best for those who love to explore new things. And if you live within Indonesia, then you can also reach Jakarta via the rail route as the city connects places like Bandung, Solo, and more.

Via Road Route
Jakarta has commendable road connectivity and hence, one can conveniently reach the city via the road route. There are several buses that ply between Jakarta and other nearby cities and towns of Indonesia on a regular basis.

Travel Tips

Check the weather of Jakarta before booking your visit. Do not plan an excursion in between January and March as the city experiences heavy downpour during these months.

Get a Jakarta map handy while getting around for smooth and convenient excursions.

Do not carry lots of cash. However, make sure you have some change in your pocket while traveling via bus or taxi.

Bargain as much as you can at street markets to get things at reasonable prices.

Hire a guide if you desire to explore the unknown and unexplored parts of the city.

Keep your hotel card and a copy of your passport with you wherever you go.

Jakarta is known for its heavy traffic and hence, do avoid planning your outings during rush hours.

Book your stay in the Thamrin Area of Jakarta for easy access to market places and restaurants.

If you won't mind peddling your way, then a bicycle would be the best option for getting around. You can always ask your hotel staff to arrange one for you.

If you are on a budget trip, then you can head to Ambassador Mall and Plaza Semanggi for shopping and entertainment.

Safety Tips

Do not flaunt your valuables in public or at crowded tourist places unless you want to get tailed.

Though Jakarta is considered quite safe for tourists, you need to be aware of your surroundings. Pick-pocketing is common at most of the crowded public places.

Do not travel through poorly-lit streets or lanes at night.

Always keep an eye on your food and drink, especially while eating at public places.

Be aware of scammers at tourist places and do not get tricked into buying their stories.

Keep all your original documents such as passports locked inside your hotel room and travel with their photocopies.

Keep emergency numbers handy. Use them whenever and wherever needed.

Health

Go with bottled water as tap water in the city is unsafe for drinking.

Get vaccinations for Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus and malaria from your doctor before flying to the city.

Carry travel insurance that could cover all your hospital bills in case of emergencies.

Use air-pollution masks wherever necessary as the city's air is quite corrupt.

Do not compromise with your health and avoid eating at stalls or restaurants that are unhygienic.

What to Pack?

Travel documents

Universal adapter

Phone/Tablet/Laptop charger

Power bank

Sunscreen and Sunglasses

Mosquito repellent

Bug spray

Light summer clothes

Flip-flops and sandals

Walking shoes

Hat

Dress Code & Etiquette

Avoid wearing bikinis or any kind of revealing clothing at beaches or anywhere else. The locals in Jakarta are quite conservative.

Avoid consuming alcohol in the open. Drink only at private places such as bars, pubs, and lounges.

Observe body gestures while talking to locals. Do not put your hands on your hips while talking. It is considered aggressive.

Cover your head and shoulders while visiting temples, mosques or any other religious place.

Public display of affection in Jakarta is often frowned upon. Keep it limited to your hotel/resort.

Brunei
The abode of peace, Brunei is a beautiful country on the picturesque island of Borneo facing the shimmering South China Sea. It is popular for its Islamic architecture, ancient history, and of course, natural charm. With beautiful mosques, unseen sunset destinations, the floating village of Kampong Ayer and virgin rainforests, Brunei provides remarkable sights to capture. Visit it and behold wondrous spectacles.

Malaysia
Another beautiful country in the neighboring regions of Jakarta, Malaysia deserves to be explored for the country has in store innumerable spots to look forward to. Visit the awe-inspiring Petronas Twin Towers or roam through lively markets. Plan a day-trip to Langkawi Island, savor local tastes. Explore the diversity of the colorful Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park or learn about the rich culture of the country at vibrant Malacca.

Singapore
An island country in Southeast Asia, Singapore is one of the highly-advanced and expensive cities in the world. Being an alpha global city, it provides its visitors with all the first-world amenities. Plan a visit and experience a surreal world altogether. From witnessing Gardens by the Bay to photographing the soothing beauty of Sentosa, there is a lot to do here.

With over 10 million people living within its boundaries, Jakarta is one of the most populated cities in the world.

Jakarta is an alpha global city and serves as a melting point for several cultures. Here, you would find people from across the globe.

Jakarta is home to shopaholics. People in the city love shopping and that's the reason the city has shopping complexes and malls everywhere.

The city has been renamed about 13 times in the past before it got its present-day name 'Jakarta'. It was originally called 'Sunda Kelapa' back in the day.

Jakarta has an interesting history to explore and hence, the city hosts more than 70 museums where one steps into the bygone era of the city.

Though Jakarta is commonly known to be a city, it is actually a province of Indonesia with its metropolitan area spread across more than 6000 sq km.

Jakarta is one of the most active cities on Twitter on the globe. Here, people are crazy about the social networking site.

The city is famous for its traffic. During the rush hour in Jakarta, you would find roads packed with vehicles for kilometers.

Patting on someone's head is unacceptable in Jakarta. It is considered indecent and rude.

As Jakarta has a history of more than 1500 years, it is home to some of the oldest and most beautiful Buddhist temples in the world.

SING THE PRAISES OF A GLOBAL CITY WITH ASTONISHING MARVELS

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