South East Asian Trips

Jakarta - Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is the largest city in Indonesia. The city has all the modern amenities. But in its quest for modernization the city has not forgotten its past and has carefully preserved its rich cultural heritage. Apart from the skyscrapers, colonial structures built by European powers form an integral part of Jakarta's skyline.

Jakarta is a city of many fascinating facets. It is the main gateway to Indonesia. In recent years, Jakarta has expanded its facilities for visitors with multi-star luxury hotels, fine restaurants, exciting nightlife and modern shopping centers. Food is quite cheap in Jakarta and is available in great variety.

Tourist Attractions in Jakarta

The National Monument

The National Monument, or "Monas" as it is popularly called, is one of the monuments built during the Sukarno era of fierce nationalism. It stands for the people's determination to achieve freedom and the crowning of their efforts in the Proclamation of Independence in August 1945. The 137-metre tall marble obelisk is topped with a flame coated with 35 kg of gold. The base houses a historical museum and a hall for meditations. The monument is open to the public and upon request the lift can carry visitors to the top, which offers a bird's eye view of the city and the sea. Istiqlal Mosque: It is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia and the second largest in the world. The mosque took 17 long years to build and the grandeur of its walls and dome is visible from quite far away. Orchid Gardens: Indonesia has some of the most exotic orchid gardens. Several commercial orchid gardens are open to public. Some of the best known of them are located at Slipi and Taman Mini. Condet: This village in southern Jakarta is a protected area where the old rural life style of Jakarta is preserved. Condet is also famous for its fruit orchards. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature): Situated just outside Jakarta, the park has miniatures of all the 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. Pulau Seribu: This group of islands in the Jakarta Bay offers a haven away from the bustle of city life. There are golden beaches fringed with coconut palms. The surrounding waters are a paradise for scuba divers. The islands can be reached from Tanjung Priok or Pasar Ikan (Sunda Kelapa) by ferry or by chartered boat. Some of the islands in this group developed for tourism are Pulau Bidadari, Pulau Ayer, Pulau Laki and Pulau Putri. Museum Gadjah: The National Museum of Indonesia is situated at Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat. 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.

Candra Naya Jakarta

Harboring several notable museums, marvelous monuments, splendid statues, vibrant squares and plush parks, Jakarta forms one of the most visited places in Indonesia. The Candra Naya, Jakarta is one of the popular tourist attractions in Jakarta. Situated in the region of Jalan Gajah Mada in the center of the Chinatown, the Candra Naya, Jakarta previously functioned as the private residence of So Bing Kong. He was a well-known trader who was ordained as the chieftain of the cultural Chinese community.

Candra Naya in Jakarta features a glorious structure of the 17th century. This building was also used as a gathering point for the Chinese traders. This has made the building a popular center for commerce and business of the Chinese communities. However, there were two more buildings of the same type which were destructed in the 1990's. This paved the way for the Candra Naya, Jakarta to pose as the only building of its kind.

The structure of the Candra Naya, Jakarta features the art and style of a Chinese mansion. Originally the compound occupied an area of about 2.4 hectares with a main building in the front part and an extension wing at the back portion. In 1931, this building was entitled as a ‘heritage site' under a ‘Dutch Monumente Ordonantie'. Later, in 1988 it was declared as a heritage site by a ministry. Much later, the extension part at the back of the building was demolished.

It was actually the affluent Khouw family who constructed the complex of the building in Jakarta. In 1946, it was seized by Sin Ming Hui, which was a Chinese social institution. It transformed the private complex into a center for social, education and health services. Later the Candra Naya school, Tarumanagara University and the Sumber Waras private hospital were constructed in the complex.

At present, an Indonesian group of companies named Modern Group has integrated the Candra Naya, Jakarta into a project for an apartment, a shopping arcade and a hotel.

Although no entrance fee is charged while entering this building, tourists need to seek permission from the official in charge of the maintenance of the building.

Immanuel Church Jakarta

Immanuel Church, Jakarta is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jakarta. The church was earlier known as the Willemskerk as it was constructed in honor of King Willem I of Netherlands. The king has received wide acclamation for his sincere initiatives to unite the different denominations of Christianity under one umbrella. Immanuel Church, Jakarta was rechristened in the year 1948.

One of the oldest churches in Jakarta, Immanuel Church, Jakarta resembles the classical Dutch protestant structure of Medan Meredeka which was constructed in the year 1835. The church is masterpiece of baroque architecture and feature splendidly ornamented domed roof. The architectural style of the church makes it stand apart among the other structures of the area and simplicity remains its noted feature.

The first Bible was printed in the church in the year 1748 and the organ that is still played with the prayers and the choirs of Immanuel Church, Jakarta was set up in the year 1843. The church proceedings are carried in different languages like English, Dutch and the local language Bahasa.

Immanuel Church, Jakarta is open to the public on all days of the week frown Monday to Sunday from 8 in the morning till 1at noon. The time of offering prayers are at 8 am and 7 pm on Sundays.

Placed in the neighborhood of the Gambor in central part of Jakarta, Immanuel Church, Jakarta lies close to National Monument and is placed at distance of 6 Km from the Gereja.

Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta

Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta is one of the most frequented tourist attractions in Jakarta. Among the other notable places of interest one can visit various museums, monuments, parks and squares. The Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta is the largest and the most significant mosque in the south-eastern part of Asia.

It is considered to be the national mosque which was built in 1975. The impressive exterior of the mosque is well-complemented by lavish interiors. The main prayer hall resembles the shape of a rectangle. The diameter of the dome above this hall measures 45 meters. This circular dome is held up by twelve spherical columns. The prayer hall area features rectangular platforms bearing four tiers of balcony.

The staircases built at the corners of the mosque lead to every floor. One can arrive at the main prayer hall by passing through an entranceway. The diameter of the dome on top of this entrance is 10 meters.

The complex of the Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta features a sprawling courtyard. Various social and cultural activities, exhibitions, programmes for the kids, young people and ladies, and other official proceedings are held in here. There are also facilities to organize symposiums, seminars, meetings, and lectures within the mosque.

The main hall in the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta can accommodate more 1,20,000 worshippers at a time. The structure reflects exquisite art artistic style and architecture of the Islamic community. The structure of the mosque was designed and conceptualized by the renowned Indonesian architect - Mr. Frederick Silaban. Marble is used extensively on the walls, stairs and floors in the mosque. This marble was brought in from Tulungagung in the eastern part of Java.

On the other side of the Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta, there is a tall minaret beneath which a drum can be noticed. This drum was made in Borneo and it is used here during the prayers on every Friday.

Worshippers and tourists are recommended to dress in a decent manner during their visit to this popular mosque. One must take off shoes before stepping in the mosque. Ladies are supposed to put on a head scarf. There is space to fit in about eight-hundred cars in the parking area within the complex of the mosque.

The mosque features a strategic location. The chief entrance is near to the Gereja Kathedral. So tourists visiting this mosque can also drop in at the cathedral.

Sea World Jakarta

The city of Jakarta in Indonesia is well known for its amusement parks. Sea World, Jakarta is an important amusement park in Jakarta where you will come across countless variety of marine animals in their natural habitat. A visit to the Sea World, Jakarta is a must if you are accompanied by children. They will really be amazed to witless such a large variety of marine life there.

Placed inside the Ancol Dreamland, Sea World, Jakarta is one of the most advanced amusement parks of the world. You will find a gigantic oceanium in which there are over 4000 species of fishes and 300 species of sharks. The oceanium preserves almost every kind of species found in the sea surrounding the archipelago of Jakarta. You can go for a walk through the acrylic tunnel.

At Sea World, Jakarta these amazing sea creatures nestle and thrive in 500 million liters of sea water and are given food thrice a day. You can share the fun in Disneyland style in this amusement park. Educational films on sea life are also shown. The films are featured in English and in local language Bahasa.

Sea World, Jakarta can be easily accessible from all points of the city. A visit to the place is included in the itinerary of different city tours undertaken in the city especially the Jakarta Golden Tours. The museum remains open on all days of the week. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions of Jakarta.

Those who find the colorful underwater world of marine life fascinating must visit SeaWorld Indonesia in Jakarta. It is an aquarium, though not as large as the name would suggest but definitely worth a visit.

The wonders unveiled at the Sea World Indonesia are slightly different from those you will see in other countries. Though the infrastructure of this water park completely confirms to the western standards, there is a world of difference in what you will get to see.

There is a vivarium, where you can see coconut crabs, a duyong -a touch-area with seaturtles , thornbacks , sharks -a large tunnel with full grown sea turtles and many tropical fish. The sea turtles turtles and the arapaima's seem to be the absolute favorite of the visitors who come to Sea World Indonesia.

If you have 2 hours, it will be more than enough for exploring every surprise that Sea World Indonesia has in store for you. In order to be able to interact with these sea creatures, check the feeding times when you enter and join in.

The best time to visit is 9 in the morning, when the things are more settled before the place gets flooded by school children and before the noisy 'educational' shows take place. It is very easy to reach Sea World Indonesia, just take a taxi inside the park and let them drop you in front of SeaWorld. You will be surprised to know that Ancol is the largest amusement park in South East Asia.

How to reach Sea World Indonesia
Address: Taman Impian jaya Ancol , Jalan Lodan Timur 7 Directions: Sea World Indonesia is a part of the amusements park Ancol (pronounced ansjol), located in the North of Jakarta. You will have to pay entrance money for both attractions. (together it comes to less then 3 euro per person)

Taman Impian Jaya Ancol (Ancol Dreamland)

Taman Impian Jaya Ancol (Ancol Dreamland), 10 kilometers north of Merdeka Square, Jakarta, can be your next holiday trip with your family specially kids. The dreamland is present with its captivating beauty of Jakarta Bay and four other attraction, Sea world, Fantasy World (Dunia fantasy), Atlantis Water Adventure and Marina Beach.

Sea World is a thrilling experience with its inhabitants-Dolphins and an immense number of marine lives from all over the world. Dolphin show is a popular attraction of this particular section which gathers tourists from all over and it can be equated with any of the modernized and high-ticket sea world.

Fantasy World (Dunia fantasy) makes the trip worth to children, keeps them amused and indefatigable entirely. The section, servers several joy rides like Halilintar, Bianglala (a ride of Ferris wheel), Kora-Kora (swing boat), Niagara, Balada Kera and more. This amusement section is sorted into few areas like American are, Asian Area, European Area and further. You will be thrilled with Istana Boneka which will take you for a round in the sea to feel the diverseness around. With the new addition like Power Surge, Perang Bintang and spinning cup, Fantasy World (Dunia fantasy) can claim itself as a complete entertainment package.

Both Adults and kids love to visit Atlantis Water Adventure as they can experience diving in pools, water rides and additional. The poolside restaurants with local dishes are another attractor of this water park and the price is affordable for tourists.

Marina Beach is basically seawall and plays a very important role as it's an entrance between Jakarta to other Thousand Islands. Known for its captivating scenic beauty, Marina Beach is also popular adjoining of café, dockyard and marine sports centre and will certainly offer you a complete refreshment and entertainment.

Overall costing of the complete visit is reasonable. But the trip will be incomplete without a cycle rickshaw ride which is only available in this place in Jakarta.

Taman Fatahillah Jakarta

Jakarta in Indonesia reflects a blend of cultural heritage and natural glory. Among the various spots of interest the Taman Fatahillah, Jakarta is quite popular. The other tourist attractions in Jakarta comprise parks, monuments, museums and plazas. Taman Fatahillah, Jakarta is a frequently visited square in Jakarta.

The Taman Fatahillah in Jakarta derived its name from the Sultan who captured the Portuguese in 1527. Located in Batavia, the park functioned as the administrative center of Batavia in the 18th century. It was discovered at the southern tip of the impressive city hall. Earlier, this square acted as the venue for several public shows - ranging from death penalties and punishments to bright and colorful carnivals.

At present, tourists can get to see a small structure featuring a dome positioned right in the middle of the square. It was built in 1972 by Governor Ali Sadikin. It was constructed to indicate the structure of an old water fountain. In the past, the original fountain gush forth polluted water which led to the increase in the death rate among the Dutch people residing in here.

This plush park is well-maintained and well-preserved. Several notable buildings and cafes can be spotted around the Taman Fatahillah, Jakarta. The Jakarta Museum of History is worth visiting. In front of this museum, one can notice an old Portuguese cannon - Si Jagur. The building of this museum resembles typical Dutch architecture. Originally it served as the judiciary and civic offices. Underneath the porch in the front portion there are few chambers which were used as prison cells.

It was in 1974, when the museum took control over the old City Hall of Batavia. A tour to this museum will surely provide ideas and knowledge regarding the city's colonial era and culture. There are 37 rooms featuring artistic decoration. The rooms comprise Dutch style furniture, antique items of the past, old maps, and, relics and records of the Dutch East India Company. All of these combine to restore and regain the ambience of the typical Dutch period. In the back portion of the courtyard, one can see two ‘ondel-ondel' statues.

No entrance fee is charged for entering the square. It is open throughout the day.

Chinatown Jakarta

Jakarta in Indonesia accounts to be a major tourist destination in South-east Asia. Chinatown (Glodok), Jakarta is one of the distinct places of interest. Steeped in rich history and culture Jakarta has much to offer to the tourists. The region is replete with museums, monuments and parks. Chinatown (Glodok), Jakarta stands as an interesting site for the visitors.

Chinatown (Glodok) in Jakarta is associated with the dreadful past of the land. It was originally the old Chinatown of Batavia which was apportioned to the Chinese people by the Dutch. During the post carnage period in the year 1740, the community of the Chinese was restrained to quarters in the region outside the city. At present, this particular area is referred to as Glodok.

Tourists can get to spot several houses, shops, traditional market places, and small hawker stalls scattered in this vibrant area. They can also get to see few temples in this region. The entire region still holds the charm of a unique Chinese locality.

Business and trade have flourished to great extents in this area. It has become the commercial hub of Jakarta. Visitors can go shopping in the Chinatown (Glodok), Jakarta. The Glodok Market comprise a group of shops displaying and selling various electronic goods, hardware products, items related to information technology, and other commodities which are sold in normal department stores. Tourists can get to notice a typical shopping bridge which connects Jalan Gajah and Jalan Hayam Wuruk.

The Glodok Plaza and the Harco Glodok departemnet store have been renovated and reconstructed after the massacre. Double steel doors can now be seen in both of them. It is done in order to ensure maximum possible safety and security.

The region of Chinatown (Glodok), Jakarta features few notable tourist attractions too. There are two ancient Buddhist temples - Da Shi Miao at Jalan Kemenangan, and Vihara Dharma Bhakti, both of which strongly demand tourist visits.

The Santa Maria de Fatima Catholic Church is another noteworthy place to be visited here. There are two statues of lion on either end of the porch. The entrance way runs till the altar. Tourists will get to see unique images of Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ.

Several colorful festivals and customary celebrations are still observed in this area in Jakarta.

Glodok (Chinatown) is open from Monday to Friday from 9 am in the morning to 3 pm in evening.

Indonesia Miniature Park Jakarta

Indonesia Miniature Park, Jakarta is one of the most important tourist destinations in Jakarta. Comprising an archipelago of 1300 islands, Indonesia is the home to immigrants coming from different parts of the world. There are numerous tribes speaking different languages and practicing different rituals in Indonesia which make it one of the most colorful multicultural nations of the world. At Indonesia Miniature Park, Jakarta you will find the microcosm of Indonesia.

Popularly called as the "Taman Mini Indonesia Indah" Indonesia Miniature Park, Jakarta is an amusement park which exhibits the different cultures prevalent in Indonesia. You will also be able to see the different kinds of houses in which the people of the different regions of Indonesia live, their different kinds of dresses and cultures and the traditions of the countless tribes. You will be acquainted with the traditional art of Jakarta.

You need a complete day to go through the park completely. The park receives maximum number of visitors in the weekends and the national holidays. Indonesia Miniature Park, Jakarta is situated a little away from the heart of the city. So getting to the place is also very convenient. Never miss to visit this wonderful place during your travel to Jakarta. A visit to the place is bound to be an unforgettable experience.

Sunda Kelapa Jakarta

Placed at the mouth of Ciliwung river in Jakarta, Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta is well known tourist attraction in Jakarta. Popularly called as Pasar Ikan which means fish market, the place aserved as the main harbor port at the time of the dutch colonial rule in Jakarta. It was from Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta that the Dutch settlers traded with the Hindu Kingdom of Pajarajn in the early 16th century.

Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta is at present a fishreman's wharf and an inter island port. You can still see the Bugis schooners with their soaring mast coming from South Sulawesi. The scene of the Bugis schooner sailing is one of the most spectacular sights of Jakarta. These boats ranks among the oldest sailboats of the worlds. There are seen plying between the islands as they did several centuries ago as an integral part of the trade and commerce of the am Dutch settlers of Jakarta.

The "Phinisi" schooners or the Bugis schooners transport merchandise in and around the archipelago of Indonesia from Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta. These ships are about 40 meters in length and 15 meters in width and are provided with two main masts and seven sails. Sometimes diesel engines are also used in place of the masts. These water vessels are capable of carrying up to 950 tons of cargo and the goods carried Paros from cement to timber, electronic devices and appliances.

The places to which the schooners transport goods from Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta are Batam Island or Pontianakin Kalimantan. The duration of the journey is about three days. Some of the water vessels return empty while other come laden with goods.

In the 12 th century Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta was the busiest harbor in the Pajarajan kingdom and trade was carries from this plavce with China, southern kingdoms of India, Japan and the middle east. However in the 15th century, the situation changed when the port was captured by the Fatahillah.

The road which proceeds to Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta is bordered with shops on its both sides. These shops sell shells, dehydrated turtles, lobsters and other equipments which are of great help to the seafarers. The first fish caught in this harbor is auctioned in this market.