Jakarta - General Information

GENERAL INFORMATION

Jakarta is the main gateway to Indonesian archipelago. It is a contrast of modern western architecture and traditional Indonesian culture. Its rapid growth into a metropolitan city, however, is a reflection of the economic, political, social and industrial development of the nation. There is a center of government, business and industry and

spreads over an area of more than 650 sq. km (410 sq. miles) with a population of over nine million people.

PLACES OF INTEREST

The National Monument
The National Monument or "Monas" as it is popularly called, is one of the monuments built during the Sukarno era of fierce nationalism. It stands for the people's determination to achieve freedom and the crowning of their efforts in the Proclamation of independence in August 1945. The 137-metre tall marble obelisk is topped with a flame coated with 35 Kgs of gold. The base houses a historical museum and a hall for meditations. The monuments is open to the public and upon request the lift can carry visitors to the top which offers a bird's eye view on the city and the sea.

Taman Ria Remaja Senayan
Located at Jalan Pintu VIII Senayan, this Park has a beautiful lake for boating, canoeing and boat cycling. Other facilities for children are among others mini cars, trains and a merry-go-round. Evening entertainment include live musical bands and popular local comedies.

Satria Mandala Museum
This central museum of the Armed Forces displays exhibits on the progress in the development of the Indonesian Armed Forces, its role in the struggle for the nation's independence, and other military relics.

Condet
This village in Southern Jakarta is a protected area where the old rural life style of Jakarta is preserved. Condet is also famed for its fruit orchards.

Ragunan Zoo
Jakarta's Zoo is situated in the suburb of Ragunan in the Southern part of the city. Laid out in a lush tropical setting, such indigenous animals as the Komodo Lizard, Tapir, Anoa, Java Tiger, Banteng, Wild Ox and brightly colored birds are given ample room to fly freely in the green foliage.

Indonesia in Miniature Park
An extensive park to get a glimpse of the diverseness of the Indonesian archipelago, it represents Indonesia's 27 provinces and their outstanding characteristics, reflected most strikingly in the exact regional architecture of the province. It has its own orchid garden in which hundreds of Indonesian orchid varieties are grown. There is also a bird park with a walk in aviary, a fauna museum and recreational grounds with a swimming pool and restaurants. Of special interest here at Taman Mini is the Museum Indonesia. A richly decorated building in Balinese architecture, it houses contemporary arts crafts and traditional costumes from the different regions of the country.