Introduction
Rise of a small harbour town to a large metropolitan city that became capital of Indonesia makes for a fascinating story. This is the largest city in Indonesia and perhaps one of the largest in entire South East Asia with most of the modern facilities in place, tall buildings in sight every where, and a hustle - bustle in the streets that is unique in comparison to most other places in the country. In the quest for modernisation and development, the city has not forgotten its vibrating past that started with incoming of European powers. The colonial structures have been preserved in the city and in the neighbourhood. Recent economic slowdown and subsequent political problems have created an impact, but not up to the scale that would dampen the spirit of its people for too long.
What to do
Jakarta is a city of many facets and each facet is as much fascinating as is the other. Don't waste your time finding out the attractions in the city they are easily accessible and can be visited in one day. Make your mind to see and experience the fascinating world outside the city limits and you will know what a great place it is to be. Food is really cheap in Jakarta and they are served in many variants. Taste the regional variety and find your rhythm. Nightlife in Jakarta is not a new phenomenon and you will certainly enjoy being in some of the dance clubs or pubs.
City at a Glance
| Latitude | 6º11 |
| Longitude | 106º50'E |
| Population | 8,259,200 |
| Area | 661 Sq. Km |
| Language | Bahasa Indonesia, Javanese |
| Religion | Islam, Christianity |
| Telephone Code | 021 |
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History
Jakarta was a small harbour town when the last Hindu Kingdom of Java, Kingdom of Pajajaran, was ruling in 14th century. The first western power to set foot on this place were Portuguese who after taking permission from then king built a fort here.
The town was conquered by the Muslims after some years under Fatahilklah who changed the name to Jayakarta or the City of Victory on June 22, 1527. The incoming of Dutch in 1596 proved disastrous for Jayakarta, as it was razed to ground by them in 1619. The Dutch built a new city, Batavia, which remained the centre of power for them in South East Asia for the next 350 years. The city came under the siege of Japanese Imperial Forces in 1941 during the Second World War and its name was changed back to Jakarta (from Jayakarta). The defeat of Japan in the Pacific did not allow them to remain in Indonesia for long. Dutch again tried to capture the city but by now freedom struggle was already quite strong in the country and on August 17, 1945, the Indonesian leaders proclaimed its independence from foreign rule in Jakarta.
The city today is trying to emulate the success other larger South East Asian cities like Singapore and Hong Kong and it won't be too long before you can count Jakarta in the same breath as the former ones.
Weather and Best Season to Visit
Jakarta has tropical climate with a high average humidity (81%). There is not much difference in the day and night temperature. Average day temperature is 28ºC while average night temperature is a bit cooler at 25ºC. October to April is the wet season while the dry season is from May to September. Dry season is also the best period to visit this part of the world because weather is clear, roads in the interiors are open, and temperatures are on its best.
Attractions
Istiqlal Mosque
This mosque is the largest in South East Asia and second largest in entire world. The mosque took 17 long years to build and the grandeur of its walls and dome are visible from quite far away. You are required to take permission before entering the mosque and modest behaviour would be appreciated.
National Monument
This is a Russian built monument in the Medan Merdeka (Freedom Square), one of the largest city squares in the world. Known locally as Monas, it is 137 metres high with 35 kg of pure gold leaf. While the top gives spectacular views of the city, there is a museum of Indonesia's history in the basement.
Museum Gadjah
The National Museum of Indonesia is situated at Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat and open Tuesday to Friday. It contains around 85,000 items, the largest in the world of Indonesian artefacts. There is one of the largest and rare collections of Oriental ceramics in this museum. The museum also has a Gold Room open only on Sunday that houses sacred traditional swords.
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature)
Situated just outside Jakarta, the park has miniatures of all 27 provinces of the country reproduced in its Central Lake. This is a wonderful place to know about the entire archipelago in just one day. Regular cultural programmes and ceremonies are held in the park representing different regions.
Taman Ismail Marzuki (Jakarta Art Centre)
This is the best place in Jakarta to feel the pulse of vibrating art scene. Check their programmes meticulously to find out the best of the lot. Shadow puppet (Wayang) performances especially are a hit with the tourists.
Important Festivals and Exhibitions
Jakarta Fair is an annual festival celebrated in the month of June. There are representations from various regions of Indonesia and many other countries in the neighbourhood in this fair. Jakarta Anniversary is a month long celebration held in the month of June with social, cultural, and sports events. Grand Prix D'Indonesia is held in the first week of July at Ancol Circuit while National Film Day is held on March 30 every year.
SHOPPING
Jakarta unlike its recent past is now home to glittering shopping arcades full of merchandises. Taman Surapati is full of paintings displayed by peddlers. Glodok and Pancoran in the Chinatown are the best place to buy antique furniture, Old Dutch lamps, and Chinese porcelains. There are many souvenir shops selling the best of Indonesian arts and crafts. Prices here are lesser than its counterparts in the city.
WHERE TO STAY
Increasing influx of the tourists from across the globe has given a great boost to the accommodation industry in the city. Now it provides accommodation for all kind of travellers whether they are top end or bottom end. Backpacker's hostels and camping grounds are also available.
WHERE TO EAT
Fried Rice or nasi goreng is undoubtedly the most preferred dish in Indonesia. Other popular regional varieties include Padang food from Sumatra, grilled fish from Makasar, soto ayam or chicken soup, and Tapanuli specialities from North Sulawesi. Popular cuisine from other countries are also available. The most exciting thing about eating in Jakarta is that it is cheap and quality is certainly good.
Travel Information
Air Travel Resources
Soekarno - Hatta International Airport is situated around 35 km away from the city centre. This airport is the principle gateway of Indonesia and almost all the major airlines operating in the region stops here. Taxies and buses are the best transport to ferry you to the city.
Water
From Sumatra, Java, or Bali, it is quite easy to enter Jakarta by land. Long distance buses are available to make your visit to the city. Trains for other destinations in Java are also available.
Local Transport
Metered taxis are the most preferred way of travelling in Jakarta and can be hired on hourly basis. Buses are another mode of transport that coveres almost all parts of the city, but they are always crowded. Other transport modes that can be used on the city roads are Bajaj (motorised tricycles), Bemo (bigger motorised tricycles), Mikrolet (mini buses on fixed routes), and air - conditioned city coaches.
