Bekasi is a bustling metropolitan city, located within the Jabodetabek region of West Java. One of the oldest cities in Indonesia, its existence can be traced as far back as the 5th century. Formerly known as Dayeuh Sundasembawa, it used to be the capital city of the Kingdom of Tarumanagara.
Bekasi has seen much urban development over the years, with its middle-upper class satellite city, shopping malls, water parks, and multinational companies. As a transport hub, there are various ways of getting around the city - some of them making for quite a unique experience. Aside from trains and buses, there is the becak (tricycle), ojek (motorcycle), and kuasi (small van).
As of 2014, Bekasi had around 2 million residents, including a number of Japanese and Korean expatriates. Despite much industrialization, it still manages to be close to the natural beauty of Indonesia. With the vibrancy of city life mixed with proximity to natural beauty, Bekasi is worth visiting for its accessibility to both nature and urban life.
1. Hunt for bargains at the many shopping centers
Day 2.. Local day @grand galaxy park - bekasi 1 - 7 May 2017
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Kami kembali hadir di Grand Galaxy Park tgl 1-18 Juni 2017. Dalam rangka program promo disc 50% all items.
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Bekasi, as a major commercial center, has a lot of hang-out places for bargain-hunting visitors. Pasar Proyek is a popular traditional marketplace, filled with shops that sell jewelry and cheap footwear.
Another commercial center to check out is the Grand Galaxy Park, a vast middle-upper class complex containing a mall, schools, entertainment centers, and a residential area. You can also buy a variety of street food in the area.
Pasar Proyek
Address: Jalan Ir. H. Juanda, Bekasi, Indonesia
Opening hours: All day
Grand Galaxy Park
Address: Jalan Grand Galaxy Boulevard No.1, Bekasi Selatan, Indonesia
Opening hours: 10 AM to 10 PM
Contact: +62 21 29613300
Website: Grand Galaxy Park
2. Visit the Gedung Juang Tambun - a silent witness to Indonesia's history
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This historic art deco-style building is a testament to Indonesia’s tumultuous history as a colonized nation that struggled towards independence. Built by a nobleman during the early 1900’s, the building was primarily used as a government office and center for political negotiations. When Indonesia gained independence, various local government offices made the building their headquarters.
Its run-down yet charming quality makes it a must-see for urban explorers. First-time visitors might also be surprised to see bats flying around. There is also a museum nearby that showcases ancient relics and old photographs.
Gedung Juang Tambun
Address: Jl. Sultan Hasanudin No.5 Tambun, Bekasi, Indonesia
Opening hours: All day
Entrance fee: None
Museum Bekasi
Address: Gedung Juang Tambun, Jl -Tambun Selatan Bekasi, Indonesia
Website: Museum Bekasi (in Bahasa Indo)
3. Take a walk through Taman Kota Bekasi
Taman Alun-alun Kota Bekasi
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If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, head to this small oasis for a nice afternoon stroll. The park, opened in 2012, is located between the hospital and Al-Barkah Grand Mosque. There are a lot of exotic plants and trees scattered around, and there is a play area for children, as well. There are also sign boards stating the scientific names of plants and trees, making leisurely strolls educational, too.
Taman Kota Bekasi
Address: Jl. Veteran, Bekasi,, Indonesia
Opening hours: All day
Entrance fee: None
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4. Visit the picturesque lakes
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In Bekasi, there are two lakes, perfect for appreciating nature. Lake Marakas (Danau Marakas), located in the city’s north, is a picturesque lake and great nighttime food destination. In the vicinity are a lot of restaurants and stalls selling local delicacies and souvenirs. Visitors can also take part in recreational activities like fishing.
Another scenic wonder is Lake Cibeureum, which is located between two villages. The 2 hectare (4.9 acre) lake, popular with bikers and campers, has a wide array of stalls selling food and other merchandise. There is also a small island with a large tree, in the middle of the lake, making this place magical to look at, especially as the sun sets.
Situ Abidin is Bekasi’s hidden gem, and it needs government support. Located in the Bojongmangu District, this 17 hectare (42 acre) body of water is around 600 meters (1968.5 feet) above sea level. It is also the location of two sacred tombs. The mountains and fields can be seen from a distance, adding to the serene quality that this haven evokes. Head to this sanctuary and watch the world, and ducks, go by.
Lake Marakas
Address: Pondok Ungu, North Bekasi, Indonesia
Opening hours: All day
Entrance fee: None
Lake Cibeureum
Address: Situ Cibeureum, Lambangjaya, South Tambun, Bekasi, Indonesia
Opening hours: All day
Entrance fee: None
Situ Abidin
Address: Jl. Kp. Beduy, Karangmulya Village, Bojongmangu District, Bekasi, Indonesia
Opening hours: All day
Entrance fee: None
5. Water slides, fish therapy, and ziplines at the Waterboom Lippo Cikarang
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Visitors don’t have to head to Bali for some water park fun. Evoking the ambiance of the popular tourist destination, Waterboom Lippo Cikarang is filled with tropical plants and statues, along with a variety of pools and water slides. There is also a fish therapy pool and spa for those who want to rejuvenate.
Energetic visitors looking for more can take part in climbing and zipline activities. The park provides visitors with private air-conditioned cabins, with a hot shower.
Waterboom Lippo Cikarang
Address: Jln. Madiun Kav. 115 Lippo Cikarang, Cikarang, Bekasi, Indonesia
Opening hours: 10 AM to 5 PM
Entrance fee: Monday to Friday - 4.10 USD (55,000 IDR). Weekends and holidays - 6.33 USD (85,000 IDR)
Contact: +62 21 8990 7814, +62 8990 946768, Fax - +62 21 8990 9469, marketing@waterboomlippocikarang.com
Website: Waterboom Lippo Cikarang
6. Go down a really big slide at the Go! Wet Waterpark - Grand Wisata
Filled with enormous wacky slides, this water park is one for the thrill seekers. It has a variety of pools for kids and adults, including one which emulates the large ocean waves. Visitors are not allowed to bring in food from outside, but there is a designated food center. There is also a slight lack of shade, making hot afternoons a minor inconvenience. According to the park authorities, they are attempting to plant more trees, to make the park a cooler place.
Go! Wet Waterpark - Grand Wisata
Address: Jl. Southern Boulevard Kav. 1, Lambangjaya, Tambun Sel., Bekasi, Indonesia
Opening hours: Monday to Friday - 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM, Weekends - 9 AM to 8 PM
Entrance fee: Adult - 11.17 USD (150,000 IDR) Monday to Friday, 16.76 USD (225,000 IDR) weekends and holidays. Children get a discount.
Contact: +62 21 2956 0000, info@gowet-grandwisata.com
Website: Go! Wet Waterpark - Grand Wisata
7. Make a pilgrimage to Saung Rangoon
Saung Rangoon is an ancient stilt house in the village Cikedokan #BEKASI #INDONESIA pic.twitter.com/6TkouTpt4D
— Lintang Buana Tours (@lintangbuana) June 3, 2016
Aside from being an example of traditional architecture, this 16th-century hut played a major role in Indonesian history. It’s a little hard to get to, but the sights outside and inside are worth it. Located in the Cikedokan Village in West Cikarang, this wooden house on stilts was built by Prince Rangga, son of Prince Jayakarta, as a hideout for freedom fighters, during Dutch colonization.
Elevated at around 3 meters (9.8 feet) off the ground, it was built in such a way to keep watchmen safe from wild animals. It was only discovered by Prince Abbas in 1821 and is known as the oldest building in West Cikarang. As a pilgrimage site, it is a tradition for visitors to bring offerings. Sometimes, shadow puppet performances are also held here.
Saung Rangoon
Address: Saung Ranggon, Cikedokan, Cikarang Bar., Bekasi, Indonesia
Opening hours: 6 AM to 9 PM
Entrance fee: None
8. Marvel at various places of worship
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Although Bekasi’s population is predominantly Muslim, it has a variety of buildings dedicated to many religions. One of which is the Hok Lay Kiong, the oldest Chinese temple in the city. According to authorities, the pagoda has been around for more than 300 years.
Pura Agung Tirtha Buhana is a beautiful Hindu temple, located in a peaceful area. Every Wednesday, it becomes a venue for Balinese dance classes and performances.
Hok Lay Kiong
Address: Jl. Kenari I, Margahayu, Bekasi Tim., Indonesia
Opening hours: All day
Entrance fee: None
Pura Agung Tirtha Buhana
Address: Jl. Jatiluhur Raya Blok DU12 No.1, Jakasampurna, Bekasi Bar., Indonesia
Opening hours: All day
Entrance fee: None
Contact: +62 21 8840099
Facebook: Pura Agung Tirtha Buhana Facebook Page
9. Have some African-themed fun at the Transera Waterpark
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
You don’t have to go far in Bekasi to find a piece of Africa. Consisting of a water park and a dry park, Transera stays true to its theme with its quirky jungle and safari settings. Aside from unique water slides, there is also a lazy river that stretches for 333 meters (1092.5 feet) and a wave pool, which provides a great view of the stage.
The dry park has a variety of attractions, most of which cater to kids. One of which is a 40 meter (131.2 foot) slide, which requires special equipment.
Transera Waterpark
Address: Harapan Indah Boulevard Kavling V, Kota Harapan Indah, Kabupaten Bekasi, Indonesia
Opening hours: 10 AM to 6 PM (Monday to Friday), 8 AM to 6 PM (Staurday and Sunday)
Entrance fee: Weekdays - 6.33 USD (85,000 IDR), Weekends - 9.32 USD (125,000 IDR). Visitors below 80 cm - free
Contact: +62 21 2946 5555, +62 21 2947 7575 (fax), customer.care@transerawaterpark.co.id
Website: Transera Waterpark
10. Ride through a mangrove forest at Muara Beting Beach
Pantai Muara Beting - Muara Gembong
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Bekasi may be less popular than other places in West Java when it comes to beaches, but that’s one of the reasons why Muara Beting is so special. Located 48 kilometers (29.8 miles) from the city center, this 70-hectare (173-acre) brownish-white sand beach is the place to go when you just want to get away from the crowds. From September to February, birds of varying species migrate to the area, making for a nice bird-watching spot.
Visitors can rent a boat to the nearby mangrove forest and try to spot black long-tailed monkeys and bush crocodiles.
Muara Beting Beach (Pantai Muara Beting)
Address: Desa Pantai Bahagia, Muara Gembong District, Bekasi, Indonesia
Opening hours: All day
Entrance fee: None. Boat rentals cost 1.49 USD (20,000 IDR).
11. Watch the fishfeeding at Summarecon Mal Bekasi
If you travel with children, take the time to visit the Summarecon Mal Bekasi to see the fish being fed. Although the ponds are at a shopping center, the experience is great fun for the kids and adults. The children can help to feed the many fish set in a tropical styled area. This is in a very natural area with gardens and so you could make a morning of it and eat there as well.
There are stages and entertainment areas near the ponds, so you may find other things to entertain you when you go fish feeding. Often there’s live entertainment that the whole family will enjoy. You can call ahead to find out what time the fish feeding happens.
Summarecon Mal Bekasi
Address: Jl. Bulevard Ahmad Yani Blok M | Sentra Summarecon, Bekasi 17142, Indonesia
Telephone: (021) 2957 2888
Website: Summarecon Mal Bekasi
12. Try the duck satay at the Bebek Kaleyo Grand Wisata
The duck satay is one of the favored dishes by those who dine at the Bebek Kaleyo Grand Wisata restaurant. Located off the toll leading into the Grand Wisata estate, the food is delicious and the prices are reasonable. Smoking and non-smoking areas are provided in the area. The family restaurant did notably well to achieve the Top 100 Kuliner Jakarta-Survey in 2015. The food is mainly traditional Indonesian. Enjoy dining in an air-conditioned area. From main meals to desserts, the food is good value for money and the restaurant is clean.
Bebek Kaleyo Grand Wisata
Address: Kafewalk, Grand Wisata, Tambun, Bekasi, Indonesia
Website: Bebek Kaleyo Grand Wisata
Discover what Bekasi has to offer
Bekasi isn’t just a bustling industrial town in West Java. It has pieces of Indonesia’s history, action-packed attractions, nature, and architectural wonders, which make up a large part of Indonesia’s cultural heritage. Hop on and check it out - there is a lot to discover.
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