Depok Travel Guide

Discover the top things to see, do, eat, and experience in Depok, Indonesia with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Depok

Located in West Java, Depok is a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage and diverse natural landscapes. It is known for its religious landmarks, well-preserved historical sites, and scenic mountain views. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in Depok.

List of Places to Visit in Depok

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum Nasional Indonesia - One of the oldest and largest museums in Indonesia that houses an extensive collection of historical artifacts and cultural exhibits.
  • Museum Sumpah Pemuda - A museum dedicated to the national youth oath movement and the history of Indonesia’s independence struggle.
  • Masjid Kubah Emas - A stunning mosque with a golden dome that is a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims.
  • Pura Parahyangan Agung Jagatkartta - A Balinese Hindu temple that features intricate carvings, colorful murals, and a peaceful courtyard.
  • Candi Gunung Salak - An ancient temple complex that dates back to the 8th century and is situated on the slopes of Mount Salak.

Natural Attractions of Depok: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gunung Pancar Natural Park - A nature reserve that offers hiking trails, hot springs, camping facilities, and picturesque waterfalls.
  • Puncak Pass - A popular tourist destination that offers scenic views, tea plantations, and a variety of outdoor activities such as horseback riding and paragliding.
  • Taman Hutan Raya Ir. H. Djuanda - A sprawling park that is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, picnic areas, and hiking trails.
  • Curug Bidadari Waterfall - A stunning waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff and is surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Taman Wisata Alam Mangrove - A mangrove forest that provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Depok by boat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Depok

Depok offers many hiking and biking routes that range from easy to challenging. Some popular options include:

  • Mount Pancar Hike - A moderately challenging hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Agrowisata Sleman Mountain Bike Trail - A thrilling mountain bike trail that takes you through scenic forests and hills.
  • Sindangbarang Trail - A moderate hiking trail that leads to a tranquil lake and several small waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Depok: Activities and Tours

  • Explore Kampung Budaya Sindang Barang - A cultural village that showcases traditional Sundanese architecture, handicrafts, and local cuisine.
  • Go White Water Rafting in Citarik River - A thrilling adventure that takes you through the scenic river and rapids.
  • Take a Guided Tour of Bogor Botanical Gardens - One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world that features a vast collection of plants and trees from around the world.

Week-Long Itinerary for Depok

Day 1: Visit Museum Nasional Indonesia and Masjid Kubah Emas. Day 2: Explore Taman Hutan Raya Ir. H. Djuanda and Curug Bidadari Waterfall. Day 3: Go hiking to Mount Pancar or Sindangbarang Trail. Day 4: Take a trip to Puncak Pass and visit a tea plantation. Day 5: Go white water rafting in Citarik River. Day 6: Take a guided tour of Bogor Botanical Gardens. Day 7: Relax in Mangrove Forest Park and explore Kampung Budaya Sindang Barang.

Food and Drink Scene of Depok

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nasi Goreng Kambing Kebon Sirih - A spicy fried rice dish with lamb, cilantro, and shredded coconut.
  • Soto Betawi - A hearty beef soup with coconut milk, served with rice cakes and fried potatoes.
  • Nasi Uduk - A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, served with fried chicken, peanuts, and spicy sambal sauce.
  • Pempek - A savory fishcake that is usually served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Es Dawet Ayu - A sweet and refreshing drink made with coconut milk and pandan-flavored jelly.
  • Bandrek - A spicy and warming drink made with ginger, cinnamon, and palm sugar.
  • Kopi Luwak - A specialty coffee made with beans that have been digested and excreted by civet cats.

Where to Stay in Depok: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Aston Imperial Hotel - A luxury hotel with spectacular views of Mount Salak and a variety of dining options.
  • The Margo Hotel - A modern hotel with spacious rooms and a rooftop pool.
  • Airy Syariah Depok Margonda Raya 497 - An affordable guesthouse with clean rooms and friendly staff.

What to Buy in Depok: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Batik Depok - A traditional batik cloth that features intricate patterns and designs unique to Depok.
  • Pewter Crafts - Depok is known for its high-quality pewter crafts, including home decor items and souvenirs.
  • Keripik Tempeh - A popular snack made from thinly sliced, fried tempeh that is crispy and flavorful.

Local Culture and Customs of Depok

Depok has a rich cultural heritage and is home to diverse communities, including Javanese, Sundanese, and Betawi people. Islam is the dominant religion, and visitors should dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Depok

The best time to visit Depok is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is sunny and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Depok

Do:

  • Learn some basic Indonesian phrases and greetings.
  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
  • Take part in cultural events and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs without asking for permission first.
  • Engage in public displays of affection.
  • Drink tap water or eat uncooked food that could cause foodborne illnesses.
  • Disrespect local traditions or beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Depok

Depok is generally safe for travelers, although visitors should take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other petty crimes. It’s best to avoid walking alone at night and to take registered taxis or ride-sharing services.

Health in Depok

It’s important to take necessary health precautions when traveling to Depok. Visitors should ensure that they have updated vaccinations and preventative medication for diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. Be cautious when consuming food and beverages, and drink bottled water if possible.

Getting to Depok: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Depok

  • Soekarno-Hatta International Airport - The largest airport in Indonesia, located approximately 35 km away from Depok.

Bus Stations Near Depok

  • Terminal Depok Baru - A bus station that serves intra-city and intercity buses.
  • Terminal Jatijajar - A regional bus station that serves routes to other cities in West Java.

Other Options

  • Train - Depok has several train stations that connect it to other cities in the region.
  • Taxi or Ride-sharing Services - These are a convenient and safe option for getting around Depok.

How to Get Around in Depok

  • Ojek - Motorcycle taxis that are a fast and cheaper option for short distances.
  • Angkot - Public minivans that operate on specific routes and are a cheap way to get around the city.
  • Bajaj - Three-wheeled motorized taxis that are a popular way to get around the city.
  • Car or motorbike rentals - These are available in Depok but are only recommended for experienced drivers due to the city’s heavy traffic.

Where to Go Next from Depok: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Jakarta - The capital city of Indonesia, known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and cultural attractions.
  • Bogor - A nearby city known for its lush botanical gardens, scenic waterfalls, and Dutch colonial architecture.
  • Puncak Pass - A popular tourist destination that offers stunning mountain views, tea plantations, and various outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Depok offers a unique travel experience that is a mixture of rich culture, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the bustling city or an adventure-filled vacation, Depok is the perfect destination. So pack your bags, and get ready to explore this hidden gem in West Java.

University of Indonesia Mosque beside the lake. University of Indonesia Mosque beside the lake.