North Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in North, Jakarta. Our comprehensive guide includes everything you need to know about this beautiful destination.


North, Jakarta is a bustling area full of cultural landmarks, scenic views, outdoor adventures, and mouth-watering food. With so much to see and experience, it can be challenging to decide what to do in North. But fret not, because we have created a comprehensive guide that includes the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in North.

Introduction to North

Located in Greater Jakarta, Western Java, North is a bustling district that is known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Boasting a population of over 1.5 million, North is a melting pot of different ethnicities, cultures, and religions.

From traditional markets to modern malls, North offers a wide range of attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re here to explore the rich history of Indonesia or indulge in some delicious local cuisine, North has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in North

  1. Jakarta Old Town
  2. Museum Bank Indonesia
  3. Taman Impian Jaya Ancol
  4. Dunia Fantasi Theme Park
  5. Thousand Islands
  6. National Monument
  7. Istiqlal Mosque
  8. Sunda Kelapa Harbor
  9. Jakarta Cathedral
  10. Merdeka Palace

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

North boasts a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its numerous museums and historical sites. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions in North:

  1. Jakarta Old Town: Also known as Kota Tua, this is the perfect place to explore the colonial past of Jakarta. Here you will find buildings dating back to Dutch rule in the 17th century, museums, galleries, and charming cafes.

  2. Museum Bank Indonesia: This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and artifacts from the country’s banking history, including old banknotes, coins, historic record books, and more.

  3. Istiqlal Mosque: Located in Central Jakarta, Istiqlal Mosque is the largest mosque in Indonesia and one of the biggest in the world.

  4. Jakarta Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Jakarta and one of the oldest buildings in the city.

Natural Attractions of North: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

North is home to many outdoor attractions and scenic views that can leave any nature lover spellbound. Here are some of the top natural attractions to visit in North:

  1. Thousand Islands: This beautiful group of islands is located in the Bay of Jakarta and is known for its crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches.

  2. Taman Impian Jaya Ancol: This is the largest amusement park in Southeast Asia and offers thrilling rides for adventure lovers. Ancol also has a beach and a golf course to explore.

  3. Dunia Fantasi Theme Park: Another popular theme park in North, Dunia Fantasi is an excellent place to bring the whole family for a fun day out.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North

North offers many hiking and biking routes in parks and natural reserves for adventure seekers. Here are some of the best routes to try:

  1. Taman Suropati
  2. Balai Kota Park
  3. Jakarta Baywalk
  4. Ancol Dreamland Park

Best Things to Do in North: Activities and Tours

  1. Explore the traditional markets in Jakarta Old Town.
  2. Visit the Dunia Fantasi Theme Park with family.
  3. Take a boat tour to visit the Thousand Islands.
  4. Go shopping at some of the city’s best malls, such as Mall Kelapa Gading and Mall of Indonesia.
  5. Try local street food in North’s vibrant food scene.

Week-Long Itinerary for North

Day 1: Jakarta Old Town, Museum Bank Indonesia

Day 2: Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta Cathedral, National Monument

Day 3: Taman Impian Jaya Ancol, Dunia Fantasi Theme Park

Day 4: Thousand Islands Boat Tour

Day 5: Balai Kota Park, Jakarta Baywalk

Day 6: Shopping at Mall Kelapa Gading and Mall of Indonesia

Day 7: Exploring Local Food Scene

Food and Drink Scene of North

North is known for its delicious local cuisine, and there are many must-try dishes and local beverages for food enthusiasts. Here are some of the must-try dishes when in North:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Soto betawi: A rich and spicy soup made with beef and coconut milk.
  2. Nasi goreng: A staple dish in Indonesia, fried rice is served with vegetables, meat or seafood, and a fried egg on top.
  3. Satay: Grilled skewers of meat, usually chicken or beef, served with peanut sauce.

Local Beverages

  1. Es cendol: A sweet and refreshing drink made with rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup.
  2. Kopi Luwak: Known as the world’s most expensive coffee, it is made from beans that have been ingested and excreted by civet cats.

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

North has plenty of accommodation options in different categories to suit every budget. Here are some of the best options to choose from:

  1. The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Mega Kuningan
  2. Best Western Plus Kemayoran Hotel
  3. Whiz Prime Hotel Kelapa Gading
  4. Ibis Styles Jakarta Sunter

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

North has a variety of local products and souvenirs that make the perfect gift for friends and family. Here are some of the products to buy from North:

  1. Batik clothing
  2. Indonesian art and crafts
  3. Local snacks and spices
  4. Handmade jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of North

Indonesia has a diverse cultural heritage that is reflected in its various customs and traditions. Here are some customs and traditions that you need to be aware of when in North:

  1. Indonesian people are generally warm and friendly, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help.
  2. Dress modestly when entering religious sites and mosques.
  3. Remove shoes when entering someone’s home.

Best Time to Visit North

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

Do’s and Don’ts of North

Do:

  1. Learn basic knowledge of the Indonesian language.
  2. Try local street food at the many food stalls.
  3. Respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  1. Drink tap water, only drink bottled water.
  2. Carry large amounts of cash.
  3. Disrespect temples or mosques.

Safety and Health

Safety in North

North is generally a safe place for travelers, but it is always essential to take necessary precautions when in a new destination. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when in North:

  1. Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
  2. Keep important documents like passports and visas safe.
  3. Keep valuables hidden.

Health in North

Indonesia is a tropical country, and as such, visitors should take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. Make sure to carry mosquito repellents and sunscreen when in North.

Getting to North: Transportation Options and Logistics

North is easily accessible from other major cities in Indonesia, with various transportation options available. Here are some of the options you can choose from:

Airports Near North

  1. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport Jakarta
  2. Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport Jakarta

Bus Stations Near North

  1. Gambir Station
  2. Kampung Rambutan Bus Terminal

Other Options

  1. Grab or Go-Jek, locally operated ride-hailing services similar to Uber.

How to Get Around in North

North has a variety of transport options to choose from, including buses, trains, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Grab and Go-Jek.

Where to Go Next from North: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many exciting destinations to explore from North, Jakarta. Here are some of the places you can visit from North:

  1. Bogor, 60 km south of Jakarta, known for its botanical garden and tea plantations.

  2. Bandung, 148 km southeast of Jakarta, known for its natural beauty and art deco architecture.

  3. Bali, known for its beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Flights are available from Jakarta to Bali.

Conclusion

North, Jakarta, provides an exciting mix of culture, history, food, and outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination in Indonesia. We hope our comprehensive guide has inspired you to visit North and explore the best that the city has to offer. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in North, Jakarta.

Traditional wooden boats at Sunda Kelapa Port Traditional wooden boats at Sunda Kelapa Port Ferris wheel in ''Dunia Fantasi'' ('Dufan') theme park in Ancol, North Jakarta. Ferris wheel in ''Dunia Fantasi'' ('Dufan') theme park in Ancol, North Jakarta.