Jakarta Attractions
Ask a local what there is to do in Jakarta and chances are one of their first answers will be “shopping”. The city is notorious for its numerous malls and if shopping’s your thing you’re sure to be entertained.
The Grand Indonesia is the country’s largest shopping mall and one of the largest in south east Asia. The mall has shops ranging from designer names to high street brands and there is even a dancing water fountain that plays hourly. Fans of designer brands should also check out Plaza Indonesia. The mall overlooks the Welcome Monument and stocks a large range of designer names. If you fancy a break from shopping why not stop in at PS Bowling-lounge at Plaza Senayan (you go shopping again in the mall afterwards if you're getting withdrawal symptoms).
If designer brands are a little out of your price range why not check out some of Jakarta’s large wholesale malls where you are sure to pick up a bargain or two. Mangga Dua Wholesale Complex is the largest in Asia and stocks everything from electronics to cosmetics. Worth checking out. Another popular outlet mall is at Pasar Pagi Mangga. 2,000 retailers sell everything from textiles to handicrafts
Take in some of Jakarta’s culture at Indonesia’s largest museum, the National Museum that dates back to 1862. The Indonesian Heritage Society gives free tours in various languages. Museum Joang, or the Museum of the 1945 struggle for independence, tells the story of the country’s struggle for independence from 1945-50. It features pictures, weapons, flags and busts of the leaders. It is also home to the first official presidential, and vice presidential, cars.
Only in Jakarta for a brief visit? Well why not check out Taman Mini Indonesia Indah. The complex is situated on 120 hectares and gives visitors the chance to explore all 27 of Indonesia’s provinces. As well as replicas of the architecture from each province there are also museums and parks to explore. The idea for the project came from Indonesia’s previous first lady – Madam Tien Soeharto. Something that is well worth a visit is Istiqlal Mosque. It is the biggest mosque in south east Asia and can hold 120,000 people. It doesn’t matter if you are not a Muslim, the mosque is open to the public and guided tours are available. Apparently President Clinton had one on his last visit to Jakarta. Bare in mind it is a place of worship and you should dress appropriately, and women should ideally wear headscarves. However, the mosque does lend out full-length robes if you pop in unplanned attire.
