Set aside a weekend to visit tourist attractions in Jakarta, Indonesia and take home images that reflect the country's rich past and subsequent development. Below are 5 scenic sites shutterbugs should head to on their holiday.

Kota Tua Batavia (Old Town)
In the 16th century, European sailors dubbed Old Town as "The Jewel of Asia" and "Queen of the East." Today, Kota Tua Batavia is most famous for its colonial heritage buildings. The area also houses The Jakarta History Museum, Wayang Museum for shadow puppetry, Ceramics Museum, and the Museum Bank Indonesia.

Ancol
Found in Pademangan District, North Jakarta, Ancol is the beach closest to the capital city and serves as a favorite weekend destination. Many activities are held here, such as the Independence Day celebration every August 17. Suggested photo opportunity sessions include the sunrise and the pier called Le Bridge. Parks like the Sea World Aquarium can also be found in the area.

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
The Taman Mini Indonesia Indah was conceptualized in 1970 as a venue for art presentations, and exhibits of the country's rich flora and fauna and cultural representatives of Indonesia's different regions. This resulted in a theme park that offers tourists the chance to learn about Indonesia's cultural heritage in one day. Among the many features of the park are miniatures of the main islands' traditional houses.

Sunda Kelapa Port
This old port is located on the estuarine of Ciliwing River in North Jakarta. It was once the main port of the Sunda Kingdom of Pajajaran and contributed greatly to the city's development. Today, the old port only accommodates pinisi, or traditional two-masted wooden sailing ships. The best time to head to the port and take pictures is early in the morning. At this time, visitors can get the chance to watch the crew members at work.

Jakarta Cathedral and Istiqlal Mosque
Jakarta Cathedral is officially named the Church of Our Lady of Assumption. This imposing structure was built in neo-gothic style in 1901. Istiqlal Mosque, on the other hand, is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia with a capacity of 120,000 people. These buildings are located side by side in Central Jakarta. Tourists are advised to arrive a before or after the service or the prayer time, so they will have a chance to view the interior of these structures.

So get out of your Jakarta hotel, pack your camera and best smile, and visit these attractions in Jakarta.

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