Things To Do
in Bekasi

Bekasi is a vibrant city located in West Java, Indonesia, known for its rapid urban development and diverse culture. It is situated just east of Jakarta and serves as a major residential and commercial hub. The city is characterized by a mix of modern shopping centers, traditional markets, and green spaces.

With its rich history and friendly locals, Bekasi offers a unique blend of urban and cultural experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bekasi Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the area, followed by breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Summarecon Mall, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment options.

evening
:

End the day with a stroll at Taman Kota Bekasi, a city park that offers beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Al-Hidayah Mosque for a glimpse into local Islamic architecture and spirituality.

afternoon
:

Explore the traditional markets like Pasar Induk, where you can experience local life and shop for fresh produce.

evening
:

Dine at a popular street food spot, sampling local delicacies like nasi goreng and satay.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$2-5
🏨Budget hotel per night$15-30
🚕Taxi fare for short distance$1-3
Coffee at a café$1-2
🛍️Shopping for souvenirs$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experience with friendly locals.
  • Diverse culinary scene with affordable prices.
  • Close proximity to Jakarta for additional attractions.
  • Traffic congestion can be challenging.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Apa kabar?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Bekasi

Visit one of these nice places.

Taman Kota Bekasi

A beautiful city park with landscaped gardens and sculptures, ideal for capturing sunset photos.

Bekasi Grand Mosque

A stunning architectural marvel that provides a picturesque backdrop for photos.

Summarecon Mall

A modern shopping center with vibrant lights and architecture, perfect for urban photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bekasi

Bekasi's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Indonesian flavors and modern dining experiences, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Bekasi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Goreng

Fried rice often served with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables, and garnished with a fried egg.

Must-Try!

Satay

Grilled skewers of seasoned meat, typically served with peanut sauce.

Bakso

Meatballs made from beef and served in a savory broth, often accompanied by noodles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Induk

A bustling market where locals shop for fresh ingredients, and you can taste street food snacks.

Cibubur Junction

A food court that offers various local delicacies and popular street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bekasi experiences a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C year-round. The rainy season typically lasts from October to April, with heavy rains and occasional flooding. The dry season is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Humidity levels remain high throughout the year, so it's advisable to stay hydrated.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders; it's an important cultural norm.

Dress Modestly

Especially in religious sites, modest clothing is expected.

Politeness in Communication

Use polite language and gestures when interacting with locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bekasi is generally safe for tourists, but it is wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Be cautious of petty crime, especially in crowded places. Ensure to have emergency contacts and know the locations of nearby hospitals.

Tipping in Bekasi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; a 10% tip is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (May - September)

Expect warm, sunny days, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring.

Wet Season (October - April)

Frequent rain showers; pack an umbrella and expect some outdoor plans to be disrupted.

Ramadan (Varies)

A holy month for Muslims; many restaurants may have altered hours, and it's respectful to avoid eating in public during daylight.

Festive Season (December)

The city is lively with celebrations; it's a great time to experience local customs and festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Bekasi at Night

Bekasi has a growing nightlife scene, featuring a mix of bars, lounges, and live music venues. Popular areas include Summarecon Mall and various local pubs. While it is not as bustling as Jakarta, there are plenty of options for a fun evening out, including karaoke and traditional dance performances. Families often frequent cafes and restaurants, making it a lively yet family-friendly environment.

Hiking in Bekasi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park

A beautiful national park about 70 km from Bekasi, featuring several hiking trails with stunning views.

Mount Salak

Located approximately 50 km from Bekasi, this mountain offers various trails suitable for different skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Bekasi by plane.

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK)

Located approximately 40 kilometers from Bekasi, this is the main international airport serving Jakarta and its surrounding areas. It offers numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bekasi is a mix of walkable and non-walkable areas. Central areas like Summarecon Mall and Taman Kota are pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and parks. However, some outlying districts may lack proper pedestrian infrastructure. It is advisable to plan your walking routes in advance and be cautious of traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Javanese

The dominant ethnic group in Bekasi, known for their cultural traditions and customs.

Betawi

The indigenous people of Jakarta, known for their unique culture, cuisine, and dialect.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Badminton

A popular sport among locals, with many playing in parks and dedicated courts.

Football (Soccer)

Widely played in local communities, with small tournaments often held.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bekasi can be quite congested, especially during peak hours as many commuters travel to Jakarta for work. Public transportation options include buses and angkots (minivans), which are affordable but may be crowded. Ridesharing apps like Gojek and Grab are also popular for convenient travel around the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bekasi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local eateries offer vegetarian dishes, but always check with staff.

Halal Food

Most food in Bekasi is halal, but confirm with the vendor for assurance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Bekasi are adequate, with several hospitals and clinics providing a range of services. Larger hospitals like RS Mitra Keluarga offer comprehensive medical care, including emergency services. It's recommended to have travel insurance to cover any medical issues that may arise.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide