Top 14 Famous Buildings In Indonesia - Updated 2024

Tenissa
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 6 min read
famous buildings in indonesia

From Sabang to Papua, Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world. That is why when you have made up your mind to visit Southeast Asia for your next vacation, you would not want to miss Indonesia. Comprising a lot of provinces from the west to the east, Indonesia offers an array of equally astonishing destinations. It may be difficult for you to choose what places to stop and see and what places you can skip this time and save them for next time. You might need a few days to explore all the must-visit attractions and famous buildings in Indonesia. In that case, consider staying in one of the top hotels and popular dive resorts. If you are looking to admire popular buildings, you have come to the right place. Keep reading to learn more about the famous buildings in Indonesia.

What’s new in Indonesia:

  • Good news for travelers! You can now travel visa-free in Indonesia! The country has waived visa requirements for travelers from 96 countries according to TIN MEDIA. The list of countries include USA, UK, Japan, and Mexico.

  • According to VisasNews, travelers to the country are required to apply for SATUSEHAT Health Pass before visiting. This aims to safeguard locals and tourists against the Mpox virus. You can fill up the form here. You must present the pass at the airport for verification.

Traveler's tips

Carole-Ann

Carole-Ann

I recommend going to Indonesia from April to June, which is the beginning of the dry season. It’s not too hot, and it’s the perfect balance between the two seasons.

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All Art & Culture (12) Couple Friendly (13) Family Friendly (11) Outdoor Activity (1) Solo Travel (14)

1. Demak Great Mosque, Demak

Masjid Agung Demak
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Hastosuprayogo used under CC BY-SA 4.0
Art & Culture Family Friendly Solo Travel Couple Friendly

Demak Great Mosque, also known as Masjid Agung Demak, is a historic and renowned religious site celebrated for its historical significance as one of the oldest and most iconic mosques in the country. It was built in the late 15th century during the reign of Raden Patah, one of the first rulers of the Islamic Demak Sultanate, and is considered the birthplace of Islam in Java.

The mosque is famous for its architectural and cultural significance, with its distinctive Javanese design elements and traditional wooden structure that I’m sure architecture buffs will appreciate. The Demak Great Mosque holds a special place in the hearts of Indonesian Muslims and stands as a symbol of the country’s rich Islamic heritage and cultural diversity.

Demak Great Mosque

Address: 4J4P+4WV, Kauman, Bintoro, Demak Sub-District, Demak Regency, Central Java 59511, Indonesia

Website: Demak Great Mosque

Opening hours: open 24 hours

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2. Simpang Lima Gumul, East Java

Simpang Lima Gumul
Source: Pxhere
Art & Culture Solo Travel

Simpang Lima Gumul, a famous monument in Indonesia, got its name from the Javanese term “Simpang Lima,” which translates to “Five-Way Intersection.” The history of Simpang Lima Gumul dates back to the early 2000s when the local government initiated a project to revamp the city’s transportation infrastructure.

The centerpiece of this project was the construction of five towering structures in the middle of the roundabout, each designed to resemble traditional Javanese pavilions known as “pendopo.” These pavilions are made of concrete and feature intricate Javanese architectural elements, with the roofs adorned in elegant patterns. Simpang Lima Gumul’s construction aimed to symbolize the cultural heritage of East Java while simultaneously serving as a functional traffic circle.

Simpang Lima Gumul

Address: 53M7+H3R, Tugurejo, Kec. Ngasem, Kabupaten Kediri, Jawa Timur 64182, Indonesia

Opening hours: open 24 hours

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3. Maimun Palace, Medan

Maimun Palace Medan Indonesia
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mimihitam used under CC BY-SA 4.0
Art & Culture Family Friendly Solo Travel Couple Friendly

The first province that you need to visit in Indonesia is North Sumatra because, here, you will find the city of Medan in which the magnificent Maimun Palace nestles. As one of the most well-known landmarks in Medan, Maimun Palace is the Sultanate of Deli’s royal residence. The palace was built back in 1888 and it showcases an excellent blend of Mogul, Malay, and Italian architecture, making it one of the best places to visit. After admiring the architecture, I’d suggest entering the main room that houses a collection of kerises, antique furniture, and royal portraits, among others.

Maimun Palace

Address: Jalan Sultan Ma'moen Al Rasyid No.66, A U R, Kec. Medan Maimun, Kota Medan, Sumatera Utara 20151

Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 8am - 5pm (closed on Wed)

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4. Lawang Sewu, Semarang

Lawang sewu (2013)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user 22Kartika used under CC BY-SA 3.0
Art & Culture Family Friendly Couple Friendly Solo Travel

Moving on from Medan, you should make a stop at Semarang, the capital city of Central Java province. There are plenty of top-notch attractions in Semarang such as Sam Poo Kong Temple and Immanuel Church, but it is Lawang Sewu that is the heart of the city. When you look at the architecture of the building, you will be reminded of the buildings commonly seen in the Netherlands. During the colonial era, the Dutch ruled Indonesia and left much Dutch heritage, including Lawang Sewu. For some fun things to do, take a guided tour to gain insights into the history and culture of the city. Although the landmark is known as a haunted building, worry not because the government has rebranded it.

Lawang Sewu

Address: Jl. Pemuda No.160, Sekayu, Kec. Semarang Tengah, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50132, Indonesia

Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 8am - 8pm; Sat: 8 am - 10pm

Tip from tour guide

Lawang Sewu

Photo of Lawang Sewu shared by Semarang tour guide, Emir.

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5. Bogor Palace, Bogor

Istana Bogor atau Bogor Palace
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Saipul bakrie used under CC BY-SA 4.0
Outdoor Activity Art & Culture Family Friendly Couple Friendly Solo Travel

Situated in West Java Province, Bogor Palace can be found and enjoyed in the city of Bogor. Bogor Palace is among the six presidential palaces in Indonesia and currently, the incumbent president Joko Widodo resides in the palace. You will not be able to enter and tour the palace except during special occasions when the public is invited to come to the palace for free. But, I suggest admiring the stunning architecture from afar and pleasing your eyes with the scenic views of the surrounding botanical gardens that have deer as their permanent inhabitants.

Bogor Palace

Address: Ir. H. Juanda No. 1, Kelurahan Paledang, Kecamatan Bogor Tengah, Kota Bogor, Jawa Barat

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6. Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta

Grand Istiqlal Mosque
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Baqotun0023 used under CC BY-SA 4.0
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You may have mosques in your home country, so what is the reason to make a visit to the Istiqlal Mosque that is situated in the capital city of Indonesia, Jakarta? The most compelling reason is that the Istiqlal Mosque is the largest mosque across Southeast Asia. The mosque is especially crowded during Islamic celebrations such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, with prominent public figures like the president and other officials dedicating their prayers here. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you take a stroll in the mosque that was built to commemorate the independence of Indonesia.

Istiqlal Mosque

Address: Jl. Taman Wijaya Kusuma, Ps. Baru, Kecamatan Sawah Besar, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10710

Opening hours: 4am - 10pm (daily)

Tip from tour guide

Istiqlal Mosque

Photo of the Istiqlal Mosque interior shared by Jakarta tour guide, Emir.

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7. Borobudur Temple, Magelang

famous buildings in indonesia | borobudur temple, magelang
Family Friendly Couple Friendly Art & Culture Solo Travel

One of the historical places and famous landmarks in Indonesia, Borobudur Temple is an attraction that you do not want to miss. Situated in Magelang, Borobudur Temple is the largest Buddhist temple on Earth. If you watched Java Heat, I think you may already be familiar with the temple because the shooting also took place at Borobudur Temple. Be prepared to be blown away by a collection of more than 2,000 relief panels and over 500 Buddha statues.

Borobudur Temple, Magelang

Address: Jl. Badrawati, Kw. Candi Borobudur, Borobudur, Kec. Borobudur, Kabupaten Magelang, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia

Website: Borobudur Temple, Magelang

Opening hours: 6:30am - 4:30pm (daily)

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8. Pagaruyung Palace, West Sumatra

Pagaruyung palace
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Bernard Gagnon used under CC BY-SA 3.0
Art & Culture Solo Travel Family Friendly Couple Friendly

In West Sumatra province, there used to be a kingdom named Pagaruyung. Today, what is left of the empire is Pagaruyung Palace. This royal residence is a unique example of Indonesian architecture, particularly that of West Sumatran. When traveling in the province, you will be able to see a myriad of buildings with roofs that look exactly like those of Pagaruyung Palace. Sneak a glimpse of the unique Indonesian traditions by renting a traditional costume here.

Pagaruyung Palace

Address: GJHC+FHJ, Jl. Sutan Alam Bagagarsyah, Pagaruyung, Kec. Tj. Emas, Kabupaten Tanah Datar, Sumatera Barat 27281, Indonesia

Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)

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9. Gama Tower, South Jakarta

Gama tower
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user baka_neko_baka used under CC BY 2.0
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When soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Jakarta, I recommend stopping by Gama Tower to take pictures of the tallest building not only in the city but in Indonesia. The tower serves as a building for office and residential purposes. The tower is also known as Cemindo Tower or Rasuna Tower.

Gama Tower

Address: GAMA TOWER FI 33, Jl. H. R. Rasuna Said No.2, Karet Kuningan, Kecamatan Setiabudi, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12940, Indonesia

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 5:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

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10. Gedung Sate, Bandung

Gedung Sate Bandung
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Gunawan Kartapranata used under CC BY-SA 3.0
Art & Culture Couple Friendly Solo Travel Family Friendly

Many tourists, both international and domestic, come to Bandung for one purpose only, that is to indulge in the culinary journey. Yes, Bandung is well-known for its delectable cuisines, but it should not be the only reason for you to visit the city. When in Bandung, making a stop at Gedung Sate is a must. Similar to Lawang Sewu, Gedung Sate was also built by the Dutch and used to be the seat of the Dutch East Indies during the colonial era. Featuring a combination of neoclassical design and native Indonesian elements, Gedung Sate is most popular for its tusuk sate (satay skewer) ornament right in the middle of the building, thus the name Gedung Sate.

Gedung Sate

Address: Jl. Diponegoro No.22, Citarum, Kec. Bandung Wetan, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40115, Indonesia

Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)

Tip from tour guide

Gedung Sate is a public building in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. It features neoclassical design while incorporating native Indonesian elements (such as Hindu-Buddhist elements) and was designed by Dutch architect J. Gerber to be the seat of the Dutch East Indies Department of State Owned Enterprises (Departement van Gouvernmentsbedrijven, literally "Department of Government Industries"). The building was completed in 1924. Today, the building serves as the seat of the governor of West Java, and also a museum. 

Its common name, Gedung sate, is a nickname that translates literally from Indonesian to 'satay building', a reference to the shape of the building's central pinnacle, which resembles the shape of one of the Indonesian traditional dishes called satay. 

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11. The Palace of Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta

76518-Yogyakarta
Source: Photo by Flickr user xiquinhosilva used under CC BY 2.0
Art & Culture Couple Friendly Family Friendly Solo Travel

If you want to learn more about the Javanese culture, you should come to its center, which is The Palace of Yogyakarta. This is a palace complex of the city and the palace is used as the seat of the reigning Sultan of Yogyakarta along with family members. In addition, you will also find a museum where you’ll marvel at the impressive collection of royal artifacts. I’m sure this will appeal to art and architecture enthusiasts.

The Palace of Yogyakarta

Address: Jl. Rotowijayan Blok No. 1, Panembahan, Kecamatan Kraton, Kota Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Opening hours: Tues - Sun: 8:30am - 3pm (closed on Mon)

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12. Prambanan Temple, Yogyakarta

famous buildings in indonesia | prambanan temple, yogyakarta
Art & Culture Couple Friendly Solo Travel Family Friendly

The Prambanan Temple complex is a must-visit landmark in the country. It’s a stunning Hindu temple dating back to the 9th century. It’s known locally as Roro Jonggrang and is dedicated to the Hindu trinity: Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu. The tallest temple rises 47 meters (154.20 feet), making it a striking sight. After being rediscovered in 1733, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991. With its remarkable architecture and rich history, Prambanan is one of Indonesia’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit.

Prambanan Temple, Yogyakarta

Address: Jl. Raya Solo - Yogyakarta No.16, Kranggan, Bokoharjo, Kec. Prambanan, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55571, Indonesia

Website: Prambanan Temple, Yogyakarta

Opening hours: Prambanan Temple: 6:30am - 5pm (daily); Perwara Temple: 6am - 5pm (daily)

Price: X USD

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13. Jakarta Cathedral, Jakarta

famous buildings in indonesia | jakarta cathedral, jakarta
Family Friendly Couple Friendly Solo Travel Art & Culture

Jakarta Cathedral, built in 1901, is a beautiful neo-gothic church located across from the Istiqlal Mosque. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it represents Indonesia’s unity in diversity. The church has three tall spires and lovely altars. Inside, you’ll find a museum with relics that tell the story of Catholicism in Indonesia. The cathedral is still an active place of worship, especially during Easter and Christmas when it hosts large crowds, so I’d suggest visiting during that time.

Jakarta Cathedral, Jakarta

Address: Jl. Katedral No.7B, Ps. Baru, Kecamatan Sawah Besar, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10710, Indonesia

Website: Jakarta Cathedral, Jakarta

Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 8am - 8pm (closed on Wed)

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14. Wisma 46 (Bank Negara Indonesia), Central Jakarta

Solo Travel Couple Friendly

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Last but not least, Wisma 46, also known as Wisma BNI, completes the list of the best famous buildings in Indonesia. The skyscraper sits at number two as the tallest building in Jakarta, after Gama Tower. Situated in the heart of Jakarta, Wisma 46’s construction was completed in 1996 and it comprises 48 stories that are used for office purposes.

Wisma 46 (Bank Negara Indonesia)

Address: Jl. Jenderal Sudirman No.Kav. 1, RT.1/RW.8, Karet Tengsin, Kecamatan Tanah Abang, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10220, Indonesia

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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Create wonderful memories

Now that you have read through the entire article, you can see why Indonesia is the right place for a wonderful vacation. Apart from visiting the most beautiful beaches and climbing the great mountains, stop by at some of the abovementioned famous structures in Indonesia. Create wonderful memories and enjoy what this country has to offer.

Frequently asked questions about famous buildings in Indonesia


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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Tenissa is a content writer, translator and editor. She enjoys being a globetrotter and has traveled to many countries around the world. So far, her favourite destination is Switzerland. She looks...Read more

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