Istiqlal Mosque

If you're in Jakarta, this mosque is definitely worth a visit! But if you're coming from abroad, figuring out how to enter might be a bit confusing. Good news—they offer free guided tours every day except Fridays and major Islamic holidays. To make your visit smoother, here are some handy tips: 1. Enter from the gate in front of the cathedral. 2. Look left after entering—you’ll see the Tourist Information Center. 3. Head inside and fill out a visitor form. If no one's there, just take a seat and wait. 4. Visiting hours are from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with breaks at 12:00 PM and 3:30 PM—avoid coming during those times. 5. Dress modestly—cover your shoulders, and if you're a woman, bring a scarf to cover your head. If you forget, they’ll lend you one, but bringing your own is a good idea. 6. The tour covers the main prayer hall, the bedug (traditional drum), and the courtyard. 7. It lasts about 30 minutes, so plan accordingly. 8. Photos and videos are allowed! 9. Tipping isn’t required, but if you’d like to show appreciation, it's welcome. 10. Most importantly—enjoy your visit!

I just found out that at Istiqlal Mosque, we can use the bathroom facilities. This is a very helpful facility for visitors from out of town who are traveling to Jakarta. With this facility, visitors can freshen up, change clothes, and for women, apply cosmetics. There are also plenty of bathrooms available, so even when it's crowded, you don't have to wait too long in line.

I got the opportunity to join an Asr prayer, and I’m loving the experience. I feel more focused while praying and enjoy the calm ambiance (I love the interior so much!). The toilets are clean, and the place is enormously spacious. Sadly, the entrance is too crowded with merchants, even though there is a clear sign asking them to stay away from the entrance. I think the authorities should take action. Even so, this is just a personal preference. Overall, I would love to visit this magnificent mosque again. I wish I could do my daily prayers here more often.

The largest mosque in Southeast Asia, and the ninth largest mosque in the world in terms of worshipper capacity. Construction started in 1961 and took 17 years to complete. As a non-Muslim it is easily visited on free tours that run half hourly. Meet at the information centre where you'll be provided with coverings if you have exposed knees, shoulders (both genders), hair or elbows (for women). The tour takes half an hour and includes the main prayer hall and the huge mosque drum (unique to Indonesian mosques).

We took a tour of the mosque and it was excellent! The guide spoke outstanding English and explained to us many parts of the building and their significance, but also how people pray and the harmonisation they have with other religions in Indonesia. It is an absolutely beautiful mosque, and the 3rd largest in the world. It can hold 200,000 prayers, all facing Mecca. Well worth going, especially if you do not know much about Islam like us. You need to take your shoes off the enter the building and the whole place is meticulously clean. After 30 mins walking around my feet were not dirty at all!

The architecture of this mosque is truly remarkable, standing proudly as the largest in Southeast Asia. Its grandeur is beautifully juxtaposed with the nearby largest church, creating a striking visual contrast. Inside, the ambiance is immaculate and peaceful, providing a serene environment perfect for reflection and prayer. The elaborate adornments and intricate designs is undeniably impressive, facilitating a devout and humble atmosphere for prayer. Overall, it's an awe-inspiring visit that combines architectural brilliance with a tranquil setting. I visited for Friday Jummah prayers which enhanced the overall experience

The mosque is nice and in the city center. It's close to the public transportation. You can ask the security to go on a tour before going inside the mosque. (Not sure if it's free but might be free). It's one of the important places to visit in Jakarta. You need long clothes (covering whole body) to get inside the mosque.

If you’re a foreigner and not a Muslim, you need to register at the office near the entrance and wait for your turn to join a guided tour. The staff was helpful and made the process smooth and straightforward. The mosque itself is vast and impressive, with its clean, spacious interior creating a peaceful atmosphere. I was amazed by the sheer size of the mosque, which can accommodate thousands of worshippers. The architecture is beautiful, and it’s clear that great care has been taken to maintain the building. During the tour, I learned a lot about the mosque’s history and significance as the largest mosque in Southeast Asia. The guide provided insightful information, making the experience even more valuable. I highly recommend visiting Istiqlal Mosque for its cultural and architectural significance. It’s an awe-inspiring place, and even as a non-Muslim, I felt welcome and respected.