Lapangan Banteng, Jakarta Overview

Lapangan Banteng is a historic Square in Jakarta established during the era of Dutch colonization. Previously known as Waterloo Square, it houses important buildings like the Ministry of Finance Building and the West Irian Liberation Monument, found at the centre. The square attracts many tourists from all over the world who like to roam around and relax at the Lapangan Benteng Park.

Lapangan Banteng is a must-visit place for architecture buffs. It has some of the best colonial architecture in Jakarta. Lapangan Banteng was designed by the Dutch in the early 19th century. The momentous square even went through a renovation in 2018, which added an illuminated fountain and an open-air theatre. Lapangan Banteng also plays host to several local and national events throughout the year.

Things to Do

Historic Buildings:- Lapangan Banteng boasts of some of the best colonial architecture in Jakarta. The historic square is surrounded by important buildings; Indonesian Ministry of Finance and the former Daendels’ Palace to the East, the Istiqlal Mosque and the Jakarta Cathedral to the Northwest, the Jakarta Central Post Office to the North, Hotel Borobudur to the South and the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs to the Southwest.

Park Facilities:- The northern parts of Lapangan Banteng have sports facilities like athletic tracks and football fields. The southern part has the Lapangan Banteng Park that houses a half-circle shaped pond and an open-air theatre. The Park is frequented by visitors who come here for a picnic.

Flona Jakarta:- Jakarta’s annual flora and fauna exhibition, Flona Jakarta, is held at the Lapangan Banteng Park. The month-long Jakarta Fair is also held over here every year.

How To Reach Lapangan Banteng

Lapangan Banteng is located in the Sawah Besar sub-district of Central Jakarta.
The most convenient way to reach Lapangan Banteng is by hiring a taxi. Alternately, one can commute by train or the TransJakarta Bus Line as well.
There are hop-on tour buses run by the Government of Jakarta. They take you to all the attractions in the city for free.