indonesia Passport and Visa entry requirements

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indonesia Passport and Visa entry requirements
Travel tips for your trip to indonesia Hotel Maps Famous Places in indonesia helps you to make your trip to indonesia in the holiday a Splendid One




Passports:

To enter Indonesia, a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry is required by all nationals referred to in the chart above.

Passport and Visa entry requirements :-

Entry requirements for Americans: US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Entry requirements for UK nationals: British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Entry requirements for Australians: Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Entry requirements for South Africans: South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Passport/Visa Note: Passengers to Indonesia of most nationalities can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival, provided that: (i) they arrive at a major Indonesian airport; (ii) their passport contains at least one unused visa page for the visa-on-arrival sticker; (iii) they are holding return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination; and (iv) they can show proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in Indonesia (at least USD 1,000 or a valid credit card). The visa fee is USD 25. One visa extension, of a further 30 days, is possible, via an application made to the Immigration Office. Note that the day of arrival in Indonesia is counted as the first day of stay, and that fines will be levied against tourists who exceed their permitted period of stay. Visitors wishing to travel to the Indonesian province of Irian Jaya must obtain a special permit ("Surat Jalan") after arrival in Indonesia from the Dinas Intel Pam Pol MABAK in Jakarta, or other regional police headquarters in Biak or Jayapura. It normally takes about two days to obtain this permit. Upon arrival in Irian Jaya, visitors must report to the local police office. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, if arriving in Indonesia within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Famous Places in indonesia For Your Holiday

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Famous Places in indonesia For Your Holiday
Travel tips for your trip to indonesia Hotel Maps Famous Places in indonesia helps you to make your trip to indonesia in the holiday a Splendid One




Dreaming of getting in one of the beaches in Bali? If you love nature and unforgettable and romantic beach expertise, Indonesia is the optimum place for you. Character and culture include the highlights of Indonesian tourism. The country's tourism is focused on tropical destinations that's why the accommodations and resorts are becoming developed. The region is in addition a residence to 7 entire world heritage web sites declared by UNESCO.

The natural ecosystem on the land is well-preserved due to the fact among the 17,000 islands, the only inhabited islands are 6,000. Diving and surfing will be the pursuits that most tourists do in a rural area. Since Indonesia has 17,000 islands, there are many diving and surfing internet sites all around the nation. A few of the diving internet sites are Bunaken at the tip of Sulawesi, Tulamben Bay in Bali, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Penida. As for the surfing web sites, there are lots of surf breaks along Sumatra, Aceh, Bali, Banten, Sumbawa, and Mentawai Islands. G-Land inside Bay of Grajagan and Lagundri Bay in Nias island are the two popular surf breaks in Indonesia.

Except for the diving, surfing, and beach hopping, there are many our natural resources in Indonesia by which six of them are listed as entire world heritage sites. The largest our natural resources in Sumatra include the Gunung Leuser National Park which is 9,500 sq km, Kerinci Seblat Nationwide Park that is 13,750 sq km, along with the Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park which is 3,568 sq km. The nature preserve the endangered animals like Sumatran elephants, Javan rhinoceros, and Orangutans.


This is a selection of five of the best and most dazzling of Indonesia's tourist paradises:

Java

Java is the main island of Indonesia, in terms of population and development. It's also one of the most unusual tourist destinations in the world. There are some extraordinary things to see in Java:


Sumatra

Sumatra is Indonesia's big western island. It's a very diverse place with many different environments and a priceless wildlife heritage which trying hard to survive the strain of modern times. Sumatra retains much of its ancient heritage and culture. It's common to see ancient ways of life and fishing boats next to new four wheel drives and sleek modern power boats.

Bali

Bali, one of the world's legendary tourist destinations, is the global traveler's classic must see destination. Bali resorts are famous for their high quality, particularly in the Nusa Dua and Jimbaran areas of the island.

People don't just "like" Bali, they love it. Each beach and resort has its own admirers, and the regular visitors come back many times. Bali's reputation is based on a mix of its natural beauty, the fabulous holiday lifestyle, and a personal affinity. Everyone has "their" personal Bali. It's one of the few places in the world where tourists care as much as locals about preserving the natural charm of the region.


Kalimantan

Kalimantan, formerly known as Borneo, is the big northern island, a wild area famous in colonial times for its wild jungles and their fierce inhabitants, the Dayaks. This is a truly incredible, magical place. You can see orangutans in their natural environment, go on river cruises up wild rivers, trek through one of the world's great jungles, and see a real traditional longhouse and the famous Dayak dragon.

Sulawesi

Sulawesi is the large, island with four big peninsulas east of Kalimantan. The island is divided into North Sulawesi and South Sulawesi. This island is famous for its diving experiences. Sulawesi has a range of marine environments, including beautiful beaches. Inland, it has fabulous Lake Linow, and an active volcano, Mt. Soputan.

Indonesian holidays combine all the best elements of tourism; Excitement, exotic places, and real luxury.

Free Guide Jakarta City

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Free Guide Jakarta City
Travel tips for your trip to indonesia Hotel Maps Famous Places in indonesia helps you to make your trip to indonesia in the holiday a Splendid One


The capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is a city of contrasts and a mixture of cultures. Tourists from all over the world visit here and stay in any of the Jakarta hotels to enjoy a memorable holiday.

1. Merdeka Square is Jakarta’s most important square and one of the top tourist sights in the city. The square is surrounded by many attractive tourist sites such as Merdeka Palace, Istiqlal Mosque and the National Museum of Indonesia. In the heart of Merdeka Square is the famed National Monument.

2. National Monument called Monas is an obelisk topped with gold, and is dedicated to Indonesia's Proclamation of Independence. The monument which is an icon of Jakarta, rests in a park that is one of the few open green spaces in the area. There is a museum of national history with a gallery of 48 dioramas inside this candle-shape monument.

3. Museum National: Located in front of Monas, this museum displays pre-historical and historical artifacts from Indonesian culture from as far back as the Stone Age. Museum Gajah (its other name) has one of the most complete collections of Chinese ceramics in the world. Established in 1778, the museum is one of the oldest in South-East Asia, and boasts of a comprehensive collection of artifacts.

4. Museum Fatahillah is often called ‘the oldest building in Jakarta’, and was a city hall back in the 17th century. Also known as the Old Batavia Museum, or Museum Sejarah, this antique building is often used to host shows, exhibitions and as a backdrop for photos.

5. Lubang Buaya: An important site of Indonesian history, Lubang Buaya literally meaning "crocodile's pit" is the site of the murder of seven army officers during the 1st October coup attempt of the Thirtieth of September Movement. The site also attracts plenty of tourists.

6. Petak Sembilan the city’s original Chinatown, sees the cultural exchange between native Jakartans and Chinese, It features the Gloria building (Jakarta’s first supermarket) and the ancient Dharma Bhakti temple. Visited during the Chinese New Year season of January-February, tourists can taste great Chinese food here at the Peranakan traditional market. Many discount hotels in Jakarta are located here.

7. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah Park depicts Indonesia through its pint sized replicas of the archipelago, traditional houses from different provinces, and cultural items. Taman Park is one of the largest green areas in the city and a great place to unwind.

8. Setu Babakan: This 165-hectare cultural conservation park was created by Governor Fauzi Bowo in 2004 as part of Jakarta’s anniversary celebration. A slice of Betawi life has been preserved for tourists and locals to enjoy here, and tourists can enjoy typical Betawi foods, drinks, cakes, and regular Betawi dance performances held every weekend.

9. Taman Impian Jaya Ancol: Originally a place to relax for the Dutch elites back in the 18th century, it has now become a modern water park for children and adults. Dunia Fantasi, Gelanggang Samudera, and Seaworld Indonesia are some major attractions here, as well as nice seaside views and the occasional dance parties near the beach.

10. Jakarta Old Town is another place to visit where one comes across many interesting tourist sights such as the Jakarta Kota Station and Jakarta Old Port.

Money Exchange for indonesia -Services - Money

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Money Exchange for indonesia -Services - Money
Travel tips for your trip to indonesia Hotel Maps Famous Places in indonesia helps you to make your trip to indonesia in the holiday a Splendid One




Hemisphere: Northern-above equator Southern-below equator

Continent:

Location: Archipelago SE of Asian mainland along the equator. Neighbors: Malaysia on N, Papua New Guinea on E. Timor-Leste on S.

Area: 718,289 sq mi, 1,860,360 sq km

Form of Government: Multiparty republic with a two legislative houses (Regional Representatives Council 128), (House of Representatives 500)

Population: (2007) 231,627,000

Population Density: (2007) persons per sq mi 322.5, persons per sq km 124.5

Principal Language(s): Bahasa Indonesia (official, modified form of Malay), English, Dutch, local dialects (Javanese most widely spoken)

Religions: Muslim 86%, Protestant 6%, Roman Catholic 3%

Capital: Jakarta

Capital Population: 8,603,349

Capital Average Temperature: Maximum: 31.9 degrees Celsius, 89.4 degrees Fahrenheit

Major Cities: Surabaya 2,660,381, Bandung 2,229,706, Medan 1,979,340,
Bekasi 1,845,245

Topography: Indonesia comprises over 13,500 islands including Java (one of the most densely populated areas in the world with over 2, 000 persons per sq mi. Sumatra Kalimantan (most of Borneo), Sulawesi (Celebes), and West Irian. Also Banka, Billiton, Madura, Bali, Timor. The mountains and plateau on the major islands have a cooler climate than the tropical lowlands.

Economy: G.D.P. $845.6 billion

G.D.P. per Capita: $ 3,400

Vital Statistics: Birth rate per 1,000 population (2006): 20.1 (world avg. 20.3). Death rate per 1,000 population (2006); 6.3 (world avg. 8.6) Total fertility rate (avg. births per childbearing woman 2006) 2.41. Life expectancy at birth (2006) male 67.4 years; female 72.4 years

Government Website: www.indonesia.go.id

Credit cards:

American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Diners Club and Eurocard are widely accepted in Jakarta and the main tourist areas. In more remote areas, it is best to carry cash in small denominations. ATMs are available in towns.
ATM:

ATMs are available in cities and larger towns.
Travellers cheques:

There is limited merchant acceptance but they can be exchanged at banks and larger hotels, although they are becoming less common and more difficult to exchange. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars. American Express is the most widely accepted.
Banking hours:

Mon-Thurs 0800-1400; Fri 0800-1200; Sat 0800-1100 (some branches).
Currency restriction:

The import and export of local currency is limited to Rp5,000,000, amounts more than that must be declared. The import and export of foreign currency is unlimited. However, amounts exceeding the equivalent of Rp100,000,000 must be declared.
Currency exchange:

Although there should be no difficulty exchanging major currencies in the main tourist centres, problems may occur elsewhere. The easiest currency to exchange is the US Dollar.

Health and Medical Information for indonesia

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Health and Medical Information for indonesia
Travel tips for your trip to indonesia Hotel Maps Famous Places in indonesia helps you to make your trip to indonesia in the holiday a Splendid One




Health insurance to include emergency repatriation cover is strongly advised. Adequate routine medical care is available in all major cities, but emergency services are generally inadequate outside major cities. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payments before any treatment is given. Clinics catering specifically to foreigners can be found in most capital cities. Although medical costs are relatively cheap, drugs can be expensive.
Food and drink:

Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products that are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.
Other risks:

Vaccinations for tuberculosis, meningitis and Japanese B encephalitis are sometimes recommended.


The risk of malaria varies according to area - check before travel.

** There is a risk of rabies throughout Indonesia, in particular in Bali.

**A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from infected areas.

Short History Of indonesia and Culture

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Short History Of indonesia and Culture
Travel tips for your trip to indonesia Hotel Maps Famous Places in indonesia helps you to make your trip to indonesia in the holiday a Splendid One


By the time of the Renaissance, the islands of Java and Sumatra had already enjoyed a 1,000-year heritage of advanced civilization spanning two major empires. During the 7th-14th centuries, the Buddhist kingdom of Srivijaya flourished on Sumatra. At its peak, the Srivijaya Empire reached as far as West Java and the Malay Peninsula. Also by the 14th century, the Hindu Kingdom of Majapahit had risen in eastern Java. Gadjah Mada, the empire's chief minister from 1331 to 1364, succeeded in gaining allegiance from most of what is now modern Indonesia and much of the Malay archipelago as well. Legacies from Gadjah Mada's time include a codification of law and an epic poem.

Islam arrived in Indonesia sometime during the 12th century and, through assimilation, supplanted Hinduism by the end of the 16th century in Java and Sumatra. Bali, however, remains overwhelmingly Hindu. In the eastern archipelago, both Christian and Islamic proselytizing took place in the 16th and 17th centuries and, currently, there are large communities of both religions on these islands.

Beginning in 1602, the Dutch slowly established themselves as rulers of present-day Indonesia, exploiting the weakness of the small kingdoms that had replaced that of Majapahit. The only exception was East Timor which remained under Portugal until 1975. During 300 years of Dutch rule, the Dutch developed the Netherlands East Indies into one of the world's richest colonial possessions.

During the first decade of this century, an Indonesian independence movement began and expanded rapidly, particularly between the two World Wars. Its leaders came from a small group of young professionals and students, some of whom had been educated in the Netherlands. Many, including Indonesia's first president, Sukarno (1945-67), were imprisoned for political activities.

The Japanese occupied Indonesia for 3 years during World War II. On August 17, 1945, 3 days after the Japanese surrender to the Allies, a small group of Indonesians, led by Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta proclaimed independence and established the Republic of Indonesia. They set up a provisional government and adopted a constitution to govern the republic until elections could be held and a new constitution written. Dutch efforts to reestablish complete control met strong resistance. After 4 years of warfare and negotiations, the Dutch transferred sovereignty to a federal Indonesian Government. In 1950, Indonesia became the 60th member of the United Nations.

It was always going to be tricky for the founders of an independent Indonesia in the 1950s to stop this unwieldy and autonomous collection of kingdoms and sultanates from breaking apart. A national consciousness needed to be found, a sense of pride instilled and a national identity formed. To achieve this, a series of heroes was created, most of whom were lauded for their opposition to the Dutch. You can often find the names of these national heroes on banknotes and street signs, which still perpetuate their myths today.

Long-term president General Suharto, who was forced to resign in 1998 after decades of tight-fisted control of the country, also believed in the challenge of keeping the country together. However, he resorted to different methods, such as crushing dissent, keeping a close eye on political activity, and censorship of the media. Things have come along a long way since then and in 2004, Indonesia's first-ever direct presidential elections saw Megawati Sukarnoputri replaced by the new president, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who still presides over the country, having been re-elected in 2009. The president has identified the fight against terrorism as a key challenge, although thankfully the expected upsurge in Islamic radicalism, after terrorist bombings in Bali and Jakarta in 2002 to 2005, never materialised.

Today, Indonesia is enjoying a period of stability and relative prosperity with the country having ducked the worst of the recent global economic crisis. Independence issues in Aceh (greatly improved since the 2005 peace deal) and Papua, natural disasters, such as frequent earthquakes, and potential terrorist activity all remain challenges for the government.

Indonesia Accommodation. Hotel Guide. Details

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Indonesia Accommodation. Hotel Guide. Details
Travel tips for your trip to indonesia Hotel Maps Famous Places in indonesia helps you to make your trip to indonesia in the holiday a Splendid One




Travel To indonesia : Hotels in Java


Coming to the exotic destination of Java, you will find a wide array of Hotels in Java awaiting your gracious presence to serve you with the best facilities and services. Java Hotels are tailored offer complete comfort and pleasure to the guests. You can put up at these hotels if you wish to explore the island to the fullest. The long stretches of sandy beaches, the swaying palm trees and the never ending blue sea draws millions of travelers from all across the world. To accommodate the growing number of travelers from all corners of the world, innumerable Hotels in Java have cropped up.

The hotels of Java are a perfect blend of warm and traditional hospitality combined with modern facilities. For the travelers, Accommodation in Java can never be a problem. To suit your needs, taste and budget, you can find various categories of Java Hotels. The various types of hotels that are available in Java include 5 Star hotels, 4 star hotels, 3 star hotels, budget hotels, cheap hotels, resorts and others.

All these Hotels in Java are accommodated both by the holiday makers as well as the business travelers. These hotels can be the ideal retreat for the tired and weary souls. The hotels also offer various packages for the travelers. You can find spa packages, honeymoon packages, golf packages, business packages, sightseeing packages and many others. The hotels are frequented by both the national as well as the international travelers. To provide satisfaction and pleasure to the guests the hotels are fitted with all modern amenities.

Some of the major Hotels in Java includes Hotel Majapahit Surabaya, Shangri La Hotel Surabaya, Ijen Resort & Villas, Banyuwangi, Malya Bandung, Holiday Inn Bandung, Novotel Semarang, Holiday Inn Bandung, The Cherry Homes Hotel and Residence, Hotel Ciputra Semarang, Losari Coffee Plantation, Sahid Kusuma, Solo and many others.

The Hotels in Java provides all necessary amenities so as to make your stay at the hotel a comfortable and pleasurable one. The rooms featured in the hotel are properly equipped with all modern amenities so that you can have a worthwhile experience. Take advantage of the business facilities, wherever available. Taste great culinary delights at the restaurants featured in the hotel. The recreational facilities will make your stay a wonderful experience.

Hotels in Jakarta



Hotels in Jakarta offer you the finest facilities and services. The ideally located Hotels in Jakarta deliver you the best in every possible way.

Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia is home to a substantial population. With a vibrant ambience, Jakarta has it all to offer you an enchanting holiday experience. If the major attractions bring you to Jakarta, the Hotels in Jakarta add to your stay. Jakarta hotels are the best bases to indulge in several recreational and leisure activities. Browse through Jakarta travel guide to get extensive information on popular tourist attractions in Jakarta, wildlife national parks in Jakarta, museums in Jakarta and accommodation in Jakarta.

The city was named Jakarta, a small version of Jayakarta, when it was seized by the Japanese forces in the year 1942. The Indonesian war of independence was the immediate consequence. The capital was transferred to Yogyakarta for a short while following the invasion of the Dutch. The war continues over a long period till 1949. Indonesia became an independent country and Jakarta, once again became the capital of Indonesia.

Sally forth to the major tourist attractions to explore the rich history of Jakarta. Most of the Hotels in Jakarta offer tours to the chief tourist attractions. Several hotels offer health clubs for travelers. Some hotels also offer you sauna and spa facilities along with other recreation options including tennis courts and tracks for jogging trails. The people of Jakarta are very fond of golf. With a wide variety of shopping malls, Jakarta offers you a delightful shopping experience. You can visit some of the sprawling shopping malls near some of the premier Hotels in Jakarta.

Most of the hotels offer you exotic dining options. The perfectly designed restaurants in the hotels offer you delicious Chinese, Japanese and Korean cuisines. You can avail of attractive rates on hotels during the off-season. Go through Jakarta travel to know more about the best deals and rates. Jakarta offers you a wide range of hotels. The budget conscious will have a plethora of options to choose from. Melati 1, Melati 2 and Melati 3 are some of the best names amongst the budget Hotels in Jakarta. Those who want to enjoy a lavish stay, can choose from a luxurious range of hotels.


Hotels in Kalimantan

Hotels in Kalimantan have increased with the development of travels and tourism in Indonesia. The tourists make trips to the Kalimantan which is a favorite tourist spot. The Hotels in Kalimantan are mainly located in the eastern parts of the city and are easily accessible. There are also major tourist attractions in this part of Yogyakarta. The hotels ranges from star rated hotels to cheap and budgeted hotels.

Le Grandeur Hotel is one of the four star hotels in Kalimantan that is conveniently located. It offers comfortable rooms and also swimming pool for the recreation of the guests. There are also other amenities like laundry services, safe deposit boxes and also car rental desk services to the guests.

Novotel Balikpapan Hotel in East Kalimantan is yet another of the 4 star hotels in Kalimantan. There are 198 rooms that are equipped with modern facilities like air conditioners, mini bar, tea and coffee making machine, safe deposit boxes and also high speed internet accessibility. There are also meeting rooms and leisure facilities for the guests at Novotel Balikpapan Hotel in East Kalimantan.

Swiss-bel Borneo Hotel is a three star hotel that offers a variety of accommodation facilities to the guests. The leisure and business facilities at this Kalimantan hotel are at par with the international standard and offer a plenty of other amenities for the convenience of the guests.

Swiss-Belhotel is also a three star hotel that is cheaper in comparison to other hotels. It offers comfortable facilities to the guests and offer value for money services. The staffs are friendly and make your stay a pleasurable one.

Hotels in Kalimantan provide good accommodation facilities to the guests. There are also many other hotels that too offers accommodation facilities top the guests.

Indonesia - Travel Tips for a Hassle Free Vacation

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Indonesia - Travel Tips for a Hassle Free Vacation
Travel tips for your trip to indonesia Hotel Maps Famous Places in indonesia helps you to make your trip to indonesia in the holiday a Splendid One

Indonesia, a Country of thousands of beautiful and exotic Islands, that spark off your imagination with thoughts of fine sandy beaches, huge temple complexes, great diving and the giant dragons of Komodo. The islands of Indonesia are spread over a vast expanse of ocean and technically speaking is divided by two Continents.

Some parts of the Country can be as different from each other as black is from white. The hustle and bustle of the modern capital Jakarta is like another planet when compared to the traditional Papuan tribes of the Baliem Valley. Jakarta – Not only is it the largest City in the Country, Jakarta is also the heartbeat. Indonesian's from all over the archipelago come to the City to try and find their fortune or just to survive. The face of the City is constantly changing due to the construction of new skyscrapers, shopping malls and hotels.

Jakarta is mainly a business and political City and not really a tourist destination, but the older colonial parts of the City are very interesting and the museums have a lot of fascinating exhibits.

Jakarta, like you would expect, is the most expensive place in Indonesia, as well as the most polluted and most congested. It can be very hard to cope with all of the hustle, dirt, crime and cost, but if you can you will find an exciting City with plenty to offer.

Kota – This is the old Town of Batavia, which was the capital of the Dutch East Indies and the best example of the colonial era in Indonesia. Though much of the old town has been destroyed or demolished over the years, some of the old Colonial buildings are still in active use, and the area has a definite Dutch feel to it.

The centre of the old Town is the pebble stone square known as Taman Fatahillah and this is the key to being able to orientate yourself around the sights of the old Town. The canal of Kali Besar is one block to the west of the square and runs alongside the Ciliwung River.

This was a very prosperous area and on the west bank are some of the high class homes that date from the eighteenth Century.

The Chicken market bridge is the last remaining drawbridge from the Dutch era, it is at the north end of the Kali Besar. Buses always come by on their routes and the city train also has a stop here.

Jakarta History Museum – This museum is housed in the old town hall of Batavia, which is on the south side of Taman Fatahillah. It is a well built building, which was originally constructed in 1627 and added to in the early 1700s. It was from here that the Dutch administered their colony, and the cities law courts were also here as well as their main prison compound.


It contains plenty of heavy, carved furniture from the colonial, as well as other memorabilia from the Dutch period. Open, 9am till 3pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Admission: 1,000Rp Wayang Museum – This museum is also on the Taman Fatahillah, and has a great assortment of Wayang puppets. It also has examples of puppets from other Countries like Cambodia, China and India.

This building was formerly the museum of old Batavia and was built in 1912 on the site of the former Dutch church which was demolished in 1808 as the
Dutchman "Daendels" plan to rid the City of its unhealthy areas. In the downstairs courtyard, there are memorials to previous governors who were buried on site. Open, 9am till 3pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Admission: 1,000Rp

Fine Arts Museum – Built in the 1860s, the palace of Justice building is now the Fine arts museum. It has a nice collection of contemporary paintings from prominent artists. They also have some ceramics on show from Chinese items to Majapahit offerings. Open, 9am till 3pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Admission: 1,000Rp

Gereja Sion – This church was built in 1695, and is the oldest Church in Jakarta. It is on Jl Pangeran Jayakarta near the Kota train station. The exterior of the Church is actually pretty plain but inside copper chandeliers, the original organ and the baroque pulpit makes it very appealing. Though thousands of people have been buried here there are very few tombs left remaining.

Sunda Kelapa – Just a 10 minute walk from the Taman Fatahillah, the old City port of Sunda Kelapa is full of wonderful Macassar schooners and the brightly coloured sails of these boats make for great viewing. The ships are still a vital means of transporting goods to outlying Islands.

Guides hang around the docks and for a few thousand rupiah will show you around and tell you some insightful stories. You can also take a ride out to the offshore fish market for around 5,000Rp. Admission, 250Rp to the dock area.

Maritime Museum – This is an old VOC warehouse that was built in 1645 and is by the entrance to the Sunda Kelapa. It has examples of Indonesian crafts from around the ages and has photos of the voyages from Europe to Jakarta. The building itself is well worth the visit and the lookout posts are part of the old City wall.

Just before the entrance to the museum proper, is the old watchtower that was built in 1839, it has brilliant views over the harbour. Opening hours are hit and miss, so try to find the caretaker.

National Museum – This museum, constructed in 1862, is considered the paramount museum in Indonesia, and one of the finest in South East Asia. It has a huge ethnic and relief maps of Indonesia on which you can track your travels. The museum has a variety of different cultural displays that show a diverse collection of clothing, instruments, model houses and religious items. In addition the museum has a fine collection of Chinese ceramics that even date back to the Han dynasty of the third Century.

The museum is sometimes known as the Elephant house due to the giant bronze elephant that was a gift from the King of Thailand, and that now stands outside. Open, 8.30am till 2.30pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Admission: 750Rp. Guides are around who can conduct tours in various different languages.

National Monument – This 130 metres high monument stands over Merdeka square and is Jakartas chief landmark. The construction was started in 1961 but was not finished until 1975, when it was officially opened by President Soeharto. At the base is the National History Museum which tells the story of the Indonesian struggle for independence. On national holidays and at the weekends the queues can be long. Open, 9am till 5pm, daily. Admission: 600Rp or 3,100Rp which includes a ride to the top.

Lapangan Banteng – Just east of Merdeka square is this nineteenth century colonial square. It has some of the best examples of Dutch colonial architecture in the whole of Jakarta. The Catholic Cathedral was built at the turn of the twentieth Century, and is opposite the principal place of worship for Jakartas Muslim community, the Istiqlal Mosque. To the east of the square is the Supreme Court that was built, along with the Ministry of finance, in 1809 by that man "Daendel" to replace those buildings torn down.