Named after the Indonesian term for "welcome", Selamat Datang Monument is an iconic sculpture created by Edhi Sunarso. President Sukarno commissioned it initially to greet sportsmen and visitors traveling to Jakarta for the 1962 Asian Games. It stands at the center of the Bundaran Hotel Indonesia roundabout, surrounded by a beautiful pond with fountains, and looks particularly impressive in the evenings. The bronze sculpture shows a man and a woman, holding a flower bouquet, standing on top of a pedestal, waving to welcome the athletes. The monument is a symbolic representation of the welcoming nature of the Indonesian people.

Home to the National Monument, Lapangan Merdeka measures one square kilometer and ranks as one of the world's largest squares. With government buildings and Jakarta's major thoroughfares lining its four sides, it makes for a very pleasant and picturesque stroll on a cool day. The park conceals a long history. From a grazing field it became a military training ground in 1809. It was then renamed Koningsplein (King's Square) in 1816 and Lapangan Gambir toward the end of the 19th century, during which it also hosted an annual night fair. Finally, it became the Freedom Square in 1975.

Bearing an enormous scale of 132 meters (433 feet), and topped with flame-shaped gold of monumental proportions, this imposing obelisk is an emblematic landmark of Jakarta. Construction of the monument started in 1961 under President Soekarno but was not completed until 1975, under President Soeharto. Taking pride of place in the heart of the city, this obelisk serves as a solemn tribute to the country's unfettered, long-standing journey towards independence. Dominating Jakarta's scintillating skyline, the national monument's design philosophy is deeply entrenched in ancient Indonesian ideologies, hence being rooted in its history, whilst also keeping up with the contemporary times. Inside the monument is the National History Museum, The Freedom Hall, which depicts Indonesia's struggle for independence through a series of dioramas, whereas the Hall of Contemplation displays the original Declaration of Independence document and a recording of the speech. An elevator takes one to the observation platform, which commands a bird's-eye view of the city.

This extravagantly beautiful mosque sits on nine and a half hectares of land. Incredibly, President Soekarnoto chose a Christian architect to design it. Construction lasted from 1961 to 1967, but its official opening did not occur until 1978. One of the largest mosques in Southeast Asia, Mesjid Istiqlal can accommodate more than 10,000 people and 800 vehicles. It comprises five levels, and its walls, walkways and floors are almost entirely covered with marble from Tulungagung, East Java.

This colossal recreational resort faces the enchanting Jakarta Bay. An erstwhile marshland that lay neglected for years was transformed into one of Jakarta's leading entertainment hubs in 1966. The brainchild of President Sukarno, this sprawling center has been a local favorite ever since its inception. The complex spans an area of 552 hectares (1364 acres), sheltering within its sweeping spread an array of attractions and experiences. From the Ocean Dream Samudra to Pasar Seni's art markets, to golf parks and beach venues, Ancol is awash in themes of fun, frolic, culture and outdoor adventure for adults and children alike. The crown jewel however, is the Dunia Fantasi or Fantasy World, a seafront amusement park that features over 40 thrilling rides.