A Guide To Backpacking Jakarta
Although I had been to Indonesia multiple times, this was my first chance to check out Jakarta. With a population of over 10 million people, it is not only the largest city in Southeast Asia but also one of the most populous cities in the world.
The beauty of Indonesia’s capital city does not reside in its attractiveness or the city’s frenetic nature, but in the kindness that lives within the locals’ hearts. Within this essay, you’ll find a comprehensive list of Jakarta’s finest activities and all of the information you need to have a wonderful time. Here are eight fantastic things to do in Jakarta:
Explore Kota Tua, Jakarta’s Old Town
Kota Tua, also known as Old Batavia, is an ancient town sector.It’s a beautiful place that has Dutch-colonial structures surrounding a square where people often gather in the evening. People socialize and relax there–it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a long day.
If you’re looking for something to do in Jakarta, the capital of the Dutch East Indies, you’re in luck. Consider visiting the beautiful Jakarta History Museum or grabbing a cup of coffee at colonial-era cafe, Cafe Batavia. Or, if you’re feeling more low key, people-watching in the evening is always an option.
The square was packed to the brim when I visited, and there were plenty of vendors selling delicious street food. There were also break dancers and a local Indonesian rock band performing. It’s the best place to start your journey in Jakarta because you can get a lay of the land before venturing further into the city.
Explore The Old Harbour (Pelabuhan Sunda Kelapa)
I was given information about an old port known as Pelabuhan Sunda Kelapa, where you can walk around and inspect all of the ancient Phinisi wooden boats that are neatly parked and moored at the port, by one local who we met by chance in the Old City’s Square.
During the Dutch colonial period, Pelabuhan Sunda Kelapa was a major contributor to the transformation of Jakarta into a prominent trade port city and made it the center of Indonesia’s spice trade.
You are free to enter and enjoy the port as you see fit, but if you really want to get beneath the surface and learn how people operate on these enormous wooden boats, there are organized walking tours available that grant access to these vessels, allowing you to interact with those working there, as well as see firsthand how life is like for them.
If you’re ever in Jakarta, port JICT is a must-see. I promise it will be an experience that opens your eyes (in the best way possible). And while you’re there, make sure to snap some pictures of the gigantic wooden boats docked there–they really are something else.
Stroll Around Merdeka Square
Merdeka Square, located in Central Jakarta, is one of the world’s largest squares and home to the Eiffel Tower of Jakarta, which is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks.
The monument is located in the middle of a huge open space that serves as the city’s lung, and it is a location where you may get away from the chaotic Jakarta metropolis and be amongst lovely nature and enormous open space. A local guide on a walking tour can also explore further into the history of the square as well as other tourist attractions listed here if you are interested in knowing more about the history of the area or why it is so significant to those who live there.
Marvel At The Istiqlal Mosque
Istiqlal Mosque is one of the most gorgeous, modern-looking mosques I have ever seen. Its contemporary design sets it apart from all the other mosques I have visited in Indonesia which is refreshing to see.
The mosque holds great significance as it is not only considered to be the biggest mosque in Southeast Asia, but its prayer hall can accommodate more than 200,000 people at a time! The cathedral has multiple levels with balconies displaying a better view of those praying below on the main floor. If you have the idea of also trying the best balconies just like those for your home, you can use this link to opt with your concerns.
Shop Handicrafts At Jalan Surabaya Antique Market
If you’re searching for a spot to purchase handmade souvenirs for your family at home, the best place to be in Jakarta is Jalan Surabaya Antique Market, which is a mecca of all things old.
You’ll discover all types of handicrafts and antiques, from lovely traditional paintings to intricately created house decors that you can purchase. The cost varies significantly from shop to store, but negotiation skills are necessary if you want to get a good deal.
Trace Indonesia’s Roots To The National Museum
The National Museum in Jakarta is an excellent place to learn about Indonesia’s rich history before and during colonial times. With its massive collection of 141,000 artifacts from the prehistoric period to the classical Hindu-Buddhist era of Java and Sumatra, it is one of the best museums in Southeast Asia.
There is no better place to be than here if you are a history buff and want to learn more about the importance of this area prior to the colonial era. The museum is open every day except Monday from 9 AM to 3 PM.
Experience Modern Art At MACAN Museum
If you’re looking for a cool sight that will offer plenty of photo opportunities, Museum MACAN in West Jakarta is definitely worth checking out. The museum is a unique and stunning gallery that showcases some of the finest contemporary art from Indonesia as well as pieces by international artists. The exhibit is ever-changing, and there’s usually something amazing to look at.
The museum features more than 800 modern Indonesian and contemporary artworks from across the world, including the famed ‘Infinity Mirrored Room’ by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, where you’ll find these balls of multicolored light in a mirrored chamber. It’s impressive to see.
Take A Day Trip To The Thousand Islands
Did you know that you may go island-hopping right from Jakarta? Because Jakarta is a port city, there is a tiny archipelago off the coast of the capital city known as the Thousand Islands, which you can visit on a day trip or even stay overnight on.
2 of the most popular islands in Jakarta are Pulau Pramuka and Pulau Tidung. They aren’t very big, but they have their own resorts and tourist attractions poised for you to enjoy. If you only have a few days in Jakarta and want to get away from the city for a while, I recommend taking one of these excursions. It’s an excellent way to experience nature without having to go far from Jakarta.
