Top Rated Attractions in Jakarta

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.

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.

Designed in a neo-gothic style, this cathedral was finally completed in 1901, after almost a decade of idle time due to financial difficulties. Beautifully decorated with holy pictures and figures, it is said to be the largest and most unique center of Catholicism in Jakarta. A small history museum on the second floor of the tower exhibits various artifacts and memorabilia related to the church. A small candle factory is located behind the grotto.

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.

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.