True to its nickname as the “Big Durian,” a reference to the pungent spike-armored fruit ubiquitous in Southeast Asia, the sights, sounds, and smells of Jakarta, Indonesia can be quite overwhelming for first-time visitors. The capital has a pretty large geography and is divided into South, North, East, West, and Central Jakarta. With more than 10 million people living in the city and a public transportation system that is still very much under development, it’s no wonder how Jakarta got its reputation as the world’s city with the worst traffic.
On the flip side, Jakarta is an attractive metropolis home to a bevy of wonderful sites to see. Knowing what to expect and where to go makes it easier to adapt to the city’s chaos and, in the city that never sleeps, there is something for everyone. Here are some great places to start exploring Jakarta for first-timers in the city.
Sightsee at the famous Monas
Like any respectable capital, Jakarta has its own must-see landmark. The National Monument, referred to simply as Monas, was first made open to the public in 1975. The monument is a symbol of Indonesian independence and resilience, standing at an impressive 433 feet and topped off by 110 pounds of real gold in the shape of a burning flame. Enjoy the food and craft vendors located around the site’s vicinity before heading up to the monument observation deck for a magnificent view of the capital.
Explore Jakarta’s architectural history at Kota Tua
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**During Dutch colonial rule, Kota Tua was the epicenter of government affairs, which is where the area’s European-inspired facade comes from. Now its open plaza is host to locals, tourists, colorful street performers, food vendors and selfie hunters. There are multiple museums that offer a glimpse into Jakarta’s past worth visiting, like the Fatahillah Museum, the Wayang Museum, and the Fine Arts and Ceramics Museum. Once you’re done making the rounds, sit down to eat at the old Cafe Batavia, which offers a dining experience straight from Jakarta’s earlier years, or grab a bowl of Es Selendang Mayang, a popular ice dessert made from coconut milk, sugar, ice, and bits of layered cake.
Glimpse Indonesia’s rich history at the National Museum of Indonesia
As a sweeping archipelago, Indonesia is home to 1,300 ethnic groups and 300 native dialects. Impressive, right? The country’s diversity and rich history is all on display at the National Museum of Indonesia with special exhibits taking place for periods at a time. Try to visit the museum on the weekends when its new Weekends @ the National Museum program takes place. You’ll be able to see an interactive storytelling of historical events and participate in mapping games, all accessible without any hidden fees.
Catch adrenaline-pumping rides at Dunia Fantasi theme park
Located in the Ancol complex grounds, a popular beach community in North Jakarta, Dunia Fantasi has long been a big weekend getaway for visitors of all ages. Dufan, which the theme park is known as to locals, has a lot of really cool rides to check out. Some long-time favorites are the wet n’ wild mini rafting (arum jeram), the halilintar roller coaster ride, the niagara-gara water ride and, my personal favorite, the windmill (kicir-kicir). Dress comfortably and bring spare clothes if you’re interested in doing the water rides.
Shop ‘till you drop at Pasar Baru
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**If you’re looking for a place to get some really great shopping deals, look no further than Pasar Baru. It’s one of the oldest shopping markets in the capital city accented by a unique mix of Chinese and Indian cultural fixtures, which come from the surrounding immigrant communities during Jakarta’s large trading past. The complex itself is divided into three different shopping areas and has sellers hawking everything from shoes to tech gadgets and crafts. Hot tip while shopping here: always bargain lower than the first asking price and examine your purchase carefully before you close the deal.
Do you have an activity to add to this list? Share your favorite place to go in Jakarta in the comments below!
