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.

The Batavian Society of the Arts and Sciences was established on this site in 1778; however, due to its rapid growth, the building was transformed into a museum in 1862. Having officially opened its doors in 1868, the museum journeys through the iconic timelines of the country. Cradled in the heart of Central Jakarta, this museum is a moving window into Indonesia's rich history and its indelible cultural heritage. Dubbed as the 'Elephant Building' due to the glorious, bronze-built elephant sculpture fronting it, this museum is as much a symbol of historical insights as it is of architectural magnificence. Spanning the fields of anthropology, numismatics, archaeology, history, and prehistory, this elaborate museum is home to exquisite collections which include ancient ceramics, an extensive line of batik-printed textiles, dazzling ornamentation and stone statues which are soulful vestiges of the Buddhist epoch. With an extensive focus on research, education, and conservation, the museum now has a new section called 'Gedung Arca', which houses a number of permanent exhibits that chronicle the many cultural nuances of the country.

After the bloody massacre of 1740, the Chinese community was confined to ghettos in an area outside the city walls now known as Glodok. Today, shop houses, traditional markets, hawker stalls and temples dot the enclave, retaining a familiar Chinese atmosphere. Pockets of shopping opportunities lying in the area include Glodok Market (a cluster of buildings selling information-technology products, electronic goods, hardware and general department-store merchandise) and an interesting shopping bridge linking Jalan Hayam Wuruk and Jalan Gajah. Sightseers should pay a visit to the two old Buddhist temples Vihara Dharma Bhakti and Da Shi Miao--at Jalan Kemenangan.

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.

This giant oceanarium proudly introduces visitors to more than 4,000 fish and sharks from 300 species. Come and enjoy the deep-sea panorama while strolling through an 80-meter tunnel. The fascinating creatures live in some 500 million liters of seawater and are fed three times a day (some hand-fed). The attraction also features a theater which plays three educational films in English and Bahasa Indonesia.

Situated on 120 hectares of land in the east of Jakarta, this unique complex offers visitors with limited time and the opportunity to see all of Indonesia's 27 provinces in an afternoon! The complex features life-sized replicas of traditional architecture from each province, a miniature version of the Indonesian archipelago, a series of museums and a number of well-maintained parks and gardens. The park's centerpiece is a beautiful artificial lake. The complex was the brainchild of Madam Tien Soeharto, the late Indonesian first lady.

The picturesque old harbor of Jakarta was built in the early 17th century (reconstructed and expanded in 1817) and today still serves as the port of call for perahu pinisi (sailing cargo vessels). Navigated primarily by Bugis and Makassarese traders, these charming and colorful vessels form one of the world's few major commercial sailing fleets, transporting raw materials from Sumatra, Kalimantan and Sulawesi. Visitors will marvel at the amazing strength of the sailors and workers who load and unload goods manually without the help of any equipment. A conversation with them sometimes earns an invitation aboard.