East Travel Guide

Read our comprehensive tour guide to East, Indonesia and discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and much more. Plan your trip now!


Introduction to East

East is a region located in Greater Jakarta, Western Java, Indonesia. The region is home to cultural and natural attractions that are worth exploring. It has a tropical climate, with the wet season occurring from November to April and the dry season from May to October. East is a perfect place for travelers who enjoy exploring historical sites, museums, and natural wonders.

List of Places to Visit in East

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

East is home to several museums and historical places that provide insights into Indonesian history and culture.

  1. National Museum of Indonesia: This museum showcases diverse collections of Indonesian history, archeology, and culture, including prehistoric bronze and ceramics art.

  2. Presidential Museum: This museum displays the history of the Indonesian presidency and its former occupants, including Soekarno and Suharto.

  3. Lubang Buaya Memorial Park and Museum: This museum is dedicated to the memory of the 1965 coup attempt against Soekarno.

Natural Attractions of East: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

East boasts diverse natural attractions that are suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

  1. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah: This cultural and recreational park offers a glimpse of the diverse culture and traditions of Indonesia through miniature models of traditional houses and other attractions.

  2. Ragunan Zoo: This zoo is home to various exotic animals, including Komodo dragons and orangutans.

  3. Taman Suropati: This park offers a serene escape from the metropolitan atmosphere of Jakarta, with beautiful greenery and a peaceful lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East

If you love outdoor activities, you will find several hiking and biking trails in East.

  1. Ciliwung River Trek: This trek offers a glimpse of the local community’s daily life along the Ciliwung River.

  2. Taman Hutan Raya: This park is home to various hiking trails that lead visitors through lush tropical forests and natural wonders.

  3. Kelapa Island: This island offers a scenic route for cycling enthusiasts, with gorgeous beaches and breathtaking views.

Best Things to Do in East: Activities and Tours

East provides plenty of activities and tours that cater to all kinds of travelers.

  1. Indonesian Cultural Village Tour: This tour takes visitors through a cultural village that showcases the diverse lifestyles and traditions of Indonesian communities.

  2. Jakarta Walking Tour: This tour takes visitors to various historical and cultural sites in Jakarta.

  3. Cooking Class: This cooking class provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore traditional Indonesian cuisine through hands-on cooking experiences.

Week-Long Itinerary for East

Day 1: National Museum of Indonesia, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah Day 2: Lubang Buaya Memorial Park and Museum, Taman Suropati Day 3: Jakarta Walking Tour, Ragunan Zoo Day 4: Taman Hutan Raya, Ciliwung River Trek Day 5: Indonesian Cultural Village Tour, Kelapa Island Day 6: Cooking Class, Jakarta Old Town Day 7: Shopping, Departure

Food and Drink Scene of East

East boasts a diverse food and drink scene that suits every taste and preference.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Nasi Goreng: This dish is a traditional Indonesian fried rice, served with various toppings.

  2. Satay: This dish is made of grilled meat and served with peanut sauce.

  3. Gado-Gado: This dish is a traditional salad made of boiled vegetables, tofu, and peanut sauce.

Local Beverages

  1. Teh Botol: This drink is a bottled sweet tea that is a popular local beverage.

  2. Bir Pletok: This drink is a traditional Javanese beverage made of ginger, cinnamon, and palm sugar.

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

East provides plenty of accommodation options that cater to all kinds of travelers.

Hotels

  1. Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta: This luxury hotel boasts an elegant interior and overlooks the iconic Bundaran HI.

  2. The Dharmawangsa Jakarta: This hotel is ideal for travelers who prefer a lush and exclusive setting.

Hostels

  1. Six Degrees Hostel Jakarta: This hostel offers affordable rates and a central location that is perfect for backpackers.

  2. Wonderloft Hostel: This hostel provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere within a five-minute walking distance from Taman Suropati.

Guesthouses

  1. The Packer Lodge: This guesthouse offers budget-friendly accommodation with a shared kitchen and lounge.

  2. OYO 639 Hotel Tomang Residence: This guesthouse provides affordable rates, a convenient location, and a friendly atmosphere.

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

East provides plenty of unique souvenirs and local products that make perfect gifts.

  1. Batik: This traditional Indonesian fabric is a must-buy souvenir that features beautiful and intricate patterns.

  2. Wayang: This traditional Indonesian puppet is made of leather and is an iconic Indonesian souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of East

East is multifaceted, with diverse cultures and traditions that reflect Indonesia’s cultural richness.

  1. Religion: Islam is the dominant religion in East, and visitors should be aware of religious customs and practices.

  2. Dress Code: Visitors should dress modestly in public places and observe appropriate dress codes when visiting cultural and religious sites.

Best Time to Visit East

The best time to visit East is during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of East

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions
  2. Carry adequate cash for transactions
  3. Bring sunscreen, mosquito repellant, and other essentials when exploring outdoor areas

Don’t:

  1. Speak loudly or rudely in public places
  2. Eat or drink in public places during the holy month of Ramadan

Safety and Health

Safety in East

East is generally safe for travelers, but visitors should be cautious and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety.

Health in East

Visitors should be aware of the risk of waterborne illnesses and ensure that they drink clean water and practice good hygiene habits.

Getting to East: Transportation Options and Logistics

East is accessible by various transport options, including:

  1. Flights: The closest airport to East is Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, located 30 kilometers from the city center.

  2. Buses: Buses are a convenient and affordable way to travel around East and neighboring areas.

  3. Trains: Jakarta has a well-developed train network that provides easy access to surrounding areas and attractions.

Airports Near East

  1. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport

  2. Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport

Bus Stations Near East

  1. Terminal Kampung Rambutan

  2. Terminal Kalideres

Other Options

  1. Taxis: Taxis are available throughout Jakarta and East area, but visitors should negotiate fares before getting in.

  2. Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car with a driver to travel around East and neighboring cities.

How to Get Around in East

Visitors can travel around East by various means, including:

  1. Taxis: Taxis are available throughout Jakarta and East area.

  2. Public Transportation: Jakarta has a well-developed public transportation network, including buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from East: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Thousand Islands: These islands, located in the North Jakarta area, are a popular excursion spot for beach lovers and adventure seekers.

  2. Bandung: This city, located in West Java, boasts a beautiful landscape, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene.

Conclusion

East is a multifaceted region in Jakarta that offers a diverse range of cultural and natural attractions, outdoor activities, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore the region’s history and culture through its museums and historical sites, enjoy outdoor activities on its hiking and biking trails, and indulge in its unique food and beverages. East is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to explore the richness of Indonesian culture and tradition.