Top Rated Attractions in Jakarta

This extravagantly beautiful mosque sits on nine and a half hectares of land. 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.

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 long-standing journey towards independence. Dominating Jakarta's 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.

Lying in the upscale Menteng residential area, this neat and lovely park is shaded by a number of giant trees. It inherited its name from Suropati, a Balinese rebel. A series of statues representing each of the original six members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) sits against the backdrop of greenery. These statues symbolize friendship, peace, harmony and fraternity. Street artists sell their work along the side of the park.

Kota Tua, or Jakarta Old Town, is a historic neighborhood that once functioned as the headquarters of the Dutch East India Company. Some of the old buildings still stand here today, serving as a reminder of its past. Today, the neighborhood has become a popular spot where tourists flock to watch the European buildings, visit museums or dine at some of the fabulous restaurants and cafes. A few of the popular attractions here are the Fatahillah Square, Kota Intan Bridge, Museum Wayang, Jakarta History Museum, and Cafe Batavia.

This old City Hall of Batavia occupies the site of its two predecessors. The current building of fine Dutch architecture was completed in 1710 and once served many civic and judiciary functions. Beneath the front portico lie some cells which were used as dungeons. The museum took over the premises in 1974 and offers a fine glimpse into the city's colonial past. Thirty-seven ornate rooms display Dutch furniture, old maps, antiquities and Dutch East India Company (V.O.C.) memorabilia, recreating the atmosphere prevalent during the Dutch era. In the rear courtyard stand two ondel-ondel statues.