Like to know a little more about the capital cities of the world and improve your chances of winning the next quiz? Take a look at these fun facts about Jakarta!
1. Where is Jakarta, exactly?
Jakarta is the capital city of Indonesia. Wondering how to say the name of this wonderful city? It’s pronounced Jah-car-tah.
2. How big is Jakarta?
The total land area of Jakarta is 255 square miles (661 square kilometres) – that’s a little over 1/3 of the size of London.
3. It’s amazingly dense!
Jakarta’s population was 10,323,000 in 2015 – that’s almost 2 million more than London and gives it a population density of around 40,482 residents per square mile.
4. Jakarta is very close to the sea.
Jakarta is located 26 ft above sea level.
5. What’s in a name?
Residents of Jakarta are known as Indonesians or specifically Jakartans.
6. The climate really varies down in Jakarta.
Indonesians living in Jakarta enjoy a tropical monsoon climate with a wet season from October to May, a dry season from June to September and an average annual temperature of 27.6°C.
7. Jakarta’s easy to find on a map if you look closely.
Looking to fly yourself to Jakarta? You’ll need the coordinates of 6.1745° S, 106.8227° E.
8. It’s an animal lover’s paradise.
Make sure you visit Thousand Islands if you’re in Jakarta; it’s a cluster of 76 coral islands off the coast of Jakarta, where you can see 144 different species of fish whilst scuba diving or snorkelling, or simply enjoy the sun in the glorious surroundings.
9. The mother tongue of Jakarta is pretty obvious.
The official language of Jakarta is Indonesian.
10. Time to change up the pennies!
Indonesian Rupiah is the official currency here.
11. Be sure to brush up on the etiquette.
Whilst in Jakarta it is important to remember not to pat anyone on the head. Whilst in the UK this is often seen as an affectionate thing to do, in Indonesia it is seen as offensive – you have been warned!
12. Jakarta is very popular with tourists!
Indonesia welcomed 9.72 million tourists into the country in 2015, many of whom visited Jakarta for its thriving culture, exquisite cuisine and multiple shopping opportunities!
13. You can call Jakarta from abroad.
Want to call family or friends in Jakarta? You’ll need to use the international dial code, +62-21
FAQs about Jakarta
Can you drink the tap water in Jakarta?
Most locals wouldn’t drink the tap water in Jakarta without it being boiled first. This kills microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or protozoans that can cause disease.
Is Indonesia safe for travel?
The FCO advise that most visits to Indonesia are trouble free, although tourists should exercise caution.
What is the national food of Indonesia?
Nast goreng is Indonesia’s national dish. It’s a delicious spicy meal made in a wok with fried rice, garlic, shredded cabbage, carrot, onion, egg, and sweetened with thick soy sauce - yum!
Do you know any fun facts about Jakarta? Share them in the comments below!
