If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of Jakarta, look no further than Taman Suropati. This public park is a green oasis in the heart of the city, where you can relax, enjoy nature, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Taman Suropati is not just a park, but also a monument to the history and diversity of Indonesia and its neighboring countries.
In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about Taman Suropati, from its origin and name, to its attractions and activities, to its nearby places and options. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group, you will find something to love about this cultural oasis in Jakarta.
History
Taman Suropati was originally built by the Dutch colonial government in 1913 as a recreational area for the elite. It was named Burgemeester Bisschopplein, after the mayor of Batavia (the former name of Jakarta) at the time. The park was later renamed Taman Suropati, after the national hero Prince Diponegoro, who led a rebellion against the Dutch in the 19th century. His nickname was Suropati, which means “the one who changes fate” in Javanese.
One of the most striking features of Taman Suropati is the statues of the founders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). These statues were erected in 1970 to commemorate the 3rd anniversary of ASEAN and to symbolize the friendship and cooperation among the member countries. The statues depict the leaders of Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, the original members of ASEAN. They are made of bronze and stand on granite pedestals, surrounded by a circular fountain. The statues are a testament to the rich and diverse history and culture of Southeast Asia and its people.
Attractions
Taman Suropati is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, who come to enjoy the park’s natural beauty and cultural activities. The park covers an area of 16 hectares and is home to more than 30 species of trees, some of which are over 100 years old. The park also has a variety of flowers, plants, and birds, creating a colorful and serene atmosphere. You can stroll along the paved pathways, sit on the benches, or relax on the grassy lawns, and admire the scenery.
One of the main attractions of Taman Suropati is the local musicians who perform in the park every Sunday morning. These musicians are part of a community called Komunitas Musik Suropati, which was formed in 2007 to promote and preserve the traditional music of Indonesia and other countries. The musicians play various instruments, such as the angklung, the gamelan, the flute, the violin, and the guitar, and sing songs in different languages, such as Indonesian, Sundanese, Javanese, English, and French. The music is soothing, lively, and diverse, reflecting the spirit of Taman Suropati. You can join the musicians, listen to their music, or even learn how to play some of the instruments. The music performance is free and open to everyone, and is a great way to experience the local culture and interact with the people.
Nearby Places
Taman Suropati is located in the central area of Jakarta, which means that there are plenty of nearby places to visit, stay, or shop. Here are some of the options:
Shopping malls:
If you are in the mood for some shopping, you can head to one of the many shopping malls near Taman Suropati, such as Plaza Indonesia, Grand Indonesia, or Sarinah. These malls offer a wide range of products, from local handicrafts and souvenirs, to international brands and luxury goods. You can also find restaurants, cafes, cinemas, and entertainment centers in these malls, where you can have some fun and refreshment.
Hotels:
If you are looking for a place to stay near Taman Suropati, you have plenty of choices, depending on your budget and preference. Some of the hotels near the park are The Hermitage, a luxury hotel with colonial architecture and elegant rooms; Morrissey Hotel Residences, a modern hotel with stylish rooms and a rooftop pool; and Capsule Hotel Old Batavia, a budget hotel with cozy and futuristic pods. You can book these hotels online or through their websites, and enjoy their facilities and services.
MRT station:
If you want to explore other parts of Jakarta, you can easily access the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system from Taman Suropati. The nearest MRT station is Bundaran HI, which is about 15 minutes walk from the park. From there, you can take the train to other destinations in Jakarta, such as the National Monument, the Istiqlal Mosque, or the Old Town. The MRT is fast, convenient, and affordable, and is a great way to get around the city.
Taman Suropati is more than just a park, it is a cultural oasis in Jakarta. It offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Indonesia and its neighboring countries, as well as a place to relax, enjoy nature, and immerse yourself in the local music. Taman Suropati is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the diversity and beauty of Jakarta and Southeast Asia.
If you are interested in visiting Taman Suropati, you can contact us at Tripoto and we will help you plan your trip and book your accommodation. We are experts in travel and we will make sure that you have the best time in Taman Suropati and Jakarta.
