I am excited to participate in CIRCLE Challenge #3 hosted by @doc_dells and Inspiring Ramadan 2026 by @MahabubMunna. While I’ve been contributing to Google Maps since 2015, I have recently found a new rhythm in sharing my experiences here on Connect. It’s been so rewarding to see everyone’s long-term dedication being recognized!
Last night, I visited the iconic Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta. During this Holy Month, the mosque is the heart of the city’s spiritual life.
Important: Ramadan 1447 H Visiting Hours
If you are planning a visit, please note the specific schedule for this year:
First 20 Days of Ramadan: The mosque is open from 03:30 to 22:30 WIB.
Last 10 Days of Ramadan: The mosque will be open 24 hours, allowing pilgrims to stay overnight (Mabit) for Qiyamullail prayers.
Architecture & Symbolism
Designed by architect Friedrich Silaban, Istiqlal is a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture. Beyond its massive stainless steel dome, its location is deeply symbolic, standing directly across from the Jakarta Cathedral. The “Tunnel of Friendship” connecting the two is a beautiful testament to Indonesia’s spirit of religious harmony.
The atmosphere right now is magical. The area is adorned with beautiful Ramadan ornaments and sparkling lights.
Community Hub: There are numerous food bazaars for ifthar and shopping spots for Ramadan essentials.
Daily Activities: Various brands host events at the mosque daily. I highly recommend checking their official Instagram @masjidistiqlal.official to stay updated on the schedule.
What impressed me most during this visit was the level of care:
Pristine Cleanliness: On regular days, you might not see staff constantly cleaning the wudhu (ablution) areas. However, during Ramadan, they are on standby. Even with the massive influx of visitors, the washing areas remain dry and clean.
Inclusivity: The mosque is now equipped with lifts (elevators), making it much easier for the elderly and people with disabilities to reach the main prayer hall.
Getting There (Location Convenience)
Reaching Istiqlal is incredibly easy:
Public Transport: The TransJakarta (Busway) has a dedicated stop right nearby.
Local Flavor: There are plenty of Bajaj (traditional three-wheeled taxis) waiting at the main gate.
Ride-Sharing: Online transportation is very accessible with clear pick-up points.
Being a Local Guide for many years has taught me that it’s these specific details, like the shift in opening hours or the presence of a lift, that help our community navigate the world better.
Are you planning to do Mabit during the last 10 days of Ramadan this year? I’d love to hear your plans!
jadi ingat pertama kali ke Masjid Istiqlal beneran di buat takjub dengan keindahan bangunanannya apalagi yang di bagian dalamnya, terimakasih sudah berbagi tulisan ini ya Ria @Rialyzara
wah malah baru tahu kalau dome-nya terbuat dari stainless steel. padahal itu kan dibuat sudah sejak lama, dan material stainless steel waktu itu baru populer sebagai bahan bangunan. terimakasih informasi yang bagus ini @Rialyzara
Iya Cak @BudionoS , tapi itu rangka dan ornamenya, lapisannya tetep keramik putih seperti yg kita lihat dari luar kalo gak salah dulu pernah baca biar gak kena rayap.
Hi @Rialyzara Ramadan Mubarak! A huge thank you for joining my #CIRCLE and supporting #InspiringRamadan2026. You have already shared two posts . It is truly inspiring to see a Local Guide with your long-term dedication since 2015, sharing such a rhythmic and detailed perspective here on Connect. This is a fantastic milestone in your challenge journey!
You captured the spirit of Istiqlal so beautifully. It really is the ultimate symbol of religious harmony in Indonesia, not only as the largest mosque in Southeast Asia by capacity but also through that iconic connection to the Cathedral via the ‘Tunnel of Friendship.’
I’m so glad you spotted the accessibility features too! Even when the courtyard gets incredibly busy during Ramadan, those guided blocks (tactile paving) from the entrance to the main building are such a vital detail for inclusivity.
If I remember correctly, the modern elevators from the renovation are indeed equipped with Braille buttons. And for the families, there’s actually a dedicated playground called ‘Taman Persaudaraan’ in the Al-Aziz sector! It’s a safe, rubber-floored space that really helps make the mosque a welcoming community hub for everyone.
As for Mabit, I haven’t actually made any plans for it! But reading your post definitely makes me want to visit again. Keep up the amazing work!
Hi @doc_dells Ramadan Mubarak to you too! Thank you so much for the warm welcome and for noticing my journey since 2015 hehe, it’s been such a rewarding experience being part of this global community!
I really appreciate the extra insights about the “Taman Persaudaraan” and the Braille buttons in the elevators. It’s those little details that make Istiqlal a truly inclusive sanctuary for everyone. The “Tunnel of Friendship” also never fails to move me, it’s such a powerful symbol of what harmony looks like.
I hope you get to visit again soon. Looking forward to the next part of the challenge.
Sudah lama sekali tidak mengunjungi masjid Istiglal ini. ingat saya terakhir waktu perjalanan Wali 9, itu sudah lama sekali. hehe
sangat menakjubkan secara arsitektur bangunannya ya mbk @Rialyzara
Terima kasih sudah berbagi
So happy to see your growth since 2015, it’s been a long and inspiring journey! It’s those small, inclusive touches that truly make a place feel like home for everyone. Can’t wait for the next part of your story. Ramadan Mubarak!
Masjid Istiqlal memang istimewa.. dan what I love most adalah lokasinya yang sangat strategis, dekat sekali dengan kantorku @Rialyzara . Aku beberapa kali mampir di waktu Dhuha, juga saat ada kegiatan khusus. Sejuk dan menenangkan sekali…
I’m happy you enjoyed it.
. It is truly inspiring to see a Local Guide with your long-term dedication since 2015, sharing such a rhythmic and detailed perspective here on Connect. This is a fantastic milestone in your challenge journey! 
