You might not be too familiar with the name Bogor. Known as the “City of Rain,” it’s only 60 kilometers from Jakarta to South, but offers a stark contrast to the bustling capital.
Bogor enjoys fresh, cool air, so this place was once called Buiternzorg which means ‘without worries’. This fresh air is obtained because the city is located between volcanic mountains, namely Mount Salak and Mount Gede Pangrango. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Jakarta, and it would be a shame to miss out on visiting this historical city with its refreshing atmosphere.
Visiting this city in West Java is sure to be a delightful experience. If you’re someone who enjoys walking, Bogor is pedestrian-friendly and offers plenty of opportunities to engage with the locals.
Where is Bogor?
Bogor is situated to the south of Jakarta and is part of West Java province. It’s easily connected to Jakarta via roads, trains, and other means of transportation. From Bogor, it only takes around three hours by bus to reach Bandung, and the southern coast of Sukabumi is about a 2.5-hour journey by public transport, with a train also linking Bogor and Sukabumi.
Despite the heavy traffic, Bogor’s air remains cool year-round, even during the dry season.
How to Get to Bogor
The best way to reach Bogor is by public transportation like the Commuter Line (KRL) or bus. Taking public transport is more efficient and saves time, especially since the Jakarta-Bogor highway can get very crowded.
Taking the Commuter Line (KRL)
There are many stations in Jakarta that offer Commuter Line (KRL) services to Bogor. You can board the train from the nearest station to your residence. If you live in central Jakarta, head to Sudirman, Gondangdia, or Juanda stations and take the red line to Bogor station.
However, if you live near Kota Tua, you can start your journey from Jakarta Kota Station (JAKK). It’s not recommended to take the train from Pasar Senen or Jatinegara stations, as it takes much longer to reach Bogor.
Once at the station, you can buy a Commuter Line ticket for IDR 10,000 (about USD 0.65), or use a JakCard, which you may already have from sightseeing in Jakarta. The train journey from Jakarta to Bogor takes around 1.5 hours, assuming there are no delays. However, sometimes technical issues like sudden train breakdowns or floods can cause delays.
It’s best to avoid visiting Indonesia during the rainy season. For more on the best time to visit Indonesia, check out our previous article about Best Time to Visit Indonesia: Months and Weather Insights
After arriving at Bogor Station, exit through the east gate, which is closer to the main road.
Taking the Bus
You can also take a bus from Kampung Rambutan Terminal in East Jakarta to Baranangsiang Terminal in Bogor. These buses travel via the Jagorawi Toll and take about 1.5–2 hours. Buses leave for Bogor every 30 minutes, with options like Agra Mas and Lorena. It’s best to choose a large, air-conditioned bus for a more comfortable ride. A one-way ticket costs around IDR 25,000 (about USD 1.60).
The downside of taking the bus is that if you have long legs, you might find the seating cramped. Additionally, street vendors and buskers often board the bus, so keep an eye on your belongings.
Taking a Damri Bus from the Airport
If you’re coming from Soekarno-Hatta Airport, you can take a Damri bus to Bogor, with the final stop at Botani Square terminal. Buses run from the airport between 6 AM and midnight, and from Bogor between 2 AM and 8 PM. Buses depart every 60 minutes, and the fare is IDR 130,000 (about USD 8.50).
The Damri bus route takes you from the airport via the Jakarta City Toll (through Ancol or Grogol, depending on traffic) and the Jagorawi Toll, ending at Botani Square. The Damri buses are comfortable, with spacious seats and fewer passengers.
Exploring Bogor
Although Bogor isn’t as large as Jakarta, it’s still big enough to tire you out if you try to explore the city entirely on foot. There are several modes of transportation available for getting around, such as Gojek, Grab, taxis, or the local Angkot (green public minivans). Angkots are easy to spot, with one appearing every minute.
Places to Visit in Bogor
There are several tourist attractions in Bogor that are close to each other, so you can easily explore them on foot. Despite the busy traffic, Bogor still maintains its fresh air thanks to the many trees lining the streets. Below are some recommended places you can visit that are within walking distance of each other:
Bogor Palace
Bogor Palace is one of the six Presidential Palaces in Indonesia and has its own unique charm. Not only is it rich in history, but it also boasts vast, beautifully landscaped grounds that are home to hundreds of deer.
The palace was first built in 1744 by Governor-General Gustaaf Willem Baron Van Imhoff as a retreat. Between 1870 and 1942, it served as the residence of Dutch governors. In 1950, it became the official residence for Indonesian presidents, often used as a rest house.
Located just outside the Bogor Botanical Gardens, it’s only about a 10-minute walk from Bogor Station to Bogor Palace. You can feed the deer outside the palace gates by purchasing carrots and vegetables from local vendors—an activity kids especially love. This simple tradition has become a favorite pastime for many Bogor residents.
Unfortunately, you can’t enter the palace grounds except during special occasions, such as Bogor’s city anniversary, Indonesia’s Independence Day, or by arranging a group tour through the Presidential Secretariat.
Bogor Botanical Gardens
The Bogor Botanical Gardens (Kebun Raya Bogor) is a vast botanical garden in the heart of Bogor, managed by Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). Covering an area of 87 hectares, it houses more than 15,000 species of plants.
The collection includes various plants from both Indonesia and abroad, with some rare species like the giant Rafflesia flower and the famous Moon Orchid. You’ll also find large trees like canary, bamboo, and fir that thrive in this lush environment.
Because Bogor experiences frequent rain, even outside the rainy season, the garden remains green and vibrant year-round. The Bogor Botanical Gardens also act as the city’s lungs, helping to neutralize pollution from the traffic.
In addition to its impressive plant collection, visitors can explore the Zoological Museum, cross the iconic Red Bridge, relax by the lake with a view of the Bogor Palace, or admire various monuments scattered throughout the garden.
The main entrance to the garden is near Pasar Bogor, about a 10-minute walk from Bogor Palace. Another gate, known as Gate 3, is located in front of Lippo Mall Plaza. You can reach this gate by taking Angkot 03 (route Bubulak-Baranangsiang) and getting off right in front of it.
The entrance fee to the Bogor Botanical Gardens is very affordable at IDR 25,000 (about USD 1.60). Despite being in the city’s bustling center, you’ll still feel the tranquility and freshness of the garden’s air. Most visitors spend about 3,5 hours exploring and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Surya Kencana Street (Bogor’s Chinatown)
Not far from the Botanical Gardens, you can walk to Surya Kencana Street, also known as Bogor’s Chinatown. Along this street, you’ll find old buildings and shops with an oriental feel, as well as temples where Chinese residents worship. Most of the people living on Surya Kencana Street are of Chinese descent, so the area is rich with oriental influences.
Surya Kencana Street is also a culinary paradise, especially known for its non-halal food offerings, such as pork dishes. One of the most famous culinary spots is Gang Aut, where you’ll find legendary street food vendors.
During my visit, I particularly enjoyed Bogor Laksa, a savory noodle soup with a rich coconut milk broth, served with rice cake (ketupat), vermicelli, bean sprouts, boiled egg, and chicken slices. Unlike Singapore Laksa, Bogor Laksa has a unique, local twist.
Another popular dish is Bogor’s Wet Lumpia (spring roll), which is especially loved by the younger crowd. The filling consists of sliced jicama, bean sprouts, and eggs, seasoned and wrapped in a soft spring roll wrapper.
Apart from these, Surya Kencana Street offers various drinks such as iced cincau (grass jelly), coconut drinks, and the non-alcoholic ginger beer called Bir Pletok. You’ll also find Chinese delicacies like Ngohiong (a type of meat roll) and other treats.
Bogor Market (Pasar Bogor)
Just across from the Bogor Botanical Gardens is Pasar Bogor, a traditional market that offers a variety of fresh produce, including vegetables and fruits. It’s always bustling with activity, even late at night, with vendors selling their goods.
Aside from fresh food, you can also find unique Bogor souvenirs here, such as wooden crafts, traditional puppet figurines (wayang golek), and the traditional Sundanese weapon known as a Kujang.
Kujang Monument (Tugu Kujang)
In the eastern part of Bogor, near the entrance to the Bogor Botanical Gardens, stands a monument right in the middle of a busy intersection—Tugu Kujang. This monument is an icon of Bogor and symbolizes the fighting spirit of the city’s residents during the colonial period.
At the top of the monument is the kujang, a traditional Sundanese weapon once used to fight off enemies. In the past, you could enjoy a clear view of Mount Salak from Tugu Kujang, but unfortunately, a hotel now blocks much of that scenic view.
Botani Square Mall
Botani Square is a popular shopping center in Bogor, offering a wide range of products, from skincare and clothing to shoes and groceries. One of the mall’s standout features is the Serambi Botani store, which sells natural products, including food, drinks, herbal remedies, and skincare items.
This three-story mall is popular among Bogor locals, with many dining options, including Indonesian, Chinese, Western, and street food vendors. On the first floor, you’ll find Starbucks, where you can sip coffee in a calm atmosphere. You can also satisfy your cravings at Burger King, Pizza Hut, or grab some freshly baked treats at BreadTalk.
Outside the mall, street food vendors sell traditional dishes like Bogor Soto Mie (noodle soup), siomay (steamed fish dumplings), and other local delicacies at affordable prices. Just be mindful of your belongings, as the area can get quite crowded.
Saung Pak Ewok
Saung Pak Ewok is a dining spot known for its special dessert, Es Campur, an Indonesian mixed fruit ice dessert. Aside from Es Campur, the restaurant also serves a variety of Indonesian dishes, including meatball soup (bakso), chicken rice (nasi ayam), beef soup, and fried rice.
The restaurant is spacious and surrounded by a green lawn, providing a relaxing dining atmosphere. It’s located behind the PMI Hospital in Bogor, and you can easily reach it by taking Angkot 03 and getting off near Gate 3 of the Bogor Botanical Gardens, or by walking north from the Kujang Monument.
If you’re looking for a quiet place to enjoy a meal, I highly recommend this spot. The prices are affordable, with drinks starting at around IDR 5,000 (about USD 0.30) and meals at IDR 15,000 (about USD 1.00).
Recommended Accommodations in Bogor
There are many accommodation options in Bogor, catering to a wide range of budgets—from luxurious five-star hotels with multinational facilities to budget guesthouses and hostels for backpackers.
If you’re a solo traveler planning to stay in Bogor, I recommend Rion Hostel Bogor. A night’s stay here is very affordable, starting at IDR 149,000 (about USD 10). The hostel is conveniently located near the entrance to the Bogor Botanical Gardens, Bogor Market, and Chinatown, making it easy to explore the city by foot.
Rion Hostel offers two types of rooms: private rooms for two people and shared dorm rooms for four. The rooms are comfortable and clean, with amenities such as hot showers, a rooftop café, and even a swimming pool.
If you’re arriving by train, you can take Angkot 03 from the station and ask the driver to drop you off at Jalan Sambu.
For accommodation options in Bogor, you can check the map below.
Extending Your Visit in Bogor – Exploring the Puncak Area
If you have extra time in Bogor, I highly recommend visiting the Puncak area. Located at the foot of Mount Pangrango, Puncak is a mountainous region in the Cisarua district of Bogor. As soon as you arrive, you’ll feel the cool air, and there are plenty of attractions to explore.
To get to Puncak from Bogor, you can take public transportation. The easiest way is to hop on an elf minibus heading to Cianjur from Baranangsiang Terminal. If you’re staying at Rion Hostel, you can simply walk to Baranangsiang Terminal and find an elf minibus. Ask the driver to drop you off at Puncak Pass or your preferred destination.
Here are a few locations you can visit using public transportation:
- At Ta’awun Mosque: Located in Puncak Pass, ask the driver to stop right in front of the mosque.
- Taman Safari Indonesia: Get off at the junction leading to Taman Safari and take an ojek (motorbike taxi) to continue your journey.
- Cimory Dairy Land: Located right along the road to Puncak, this is a popular family destination. Ask the driver to drop you at Cimory Dairy Land.
- Cibodas Botanical Gardens: Take the same elf minibus and get off at the junction leading to Cibodas Botanical Gardens, then take an ojek to the gardens.
While visiting Cibodas, you can also trek to Cibereum Waterfall, which is about 2.8 kilometers from the entrance to Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park (TNGGP). The trekking path is easy and offers refreshing views of the surrounding nature.
If you’re feeling more adventurous and want to hike to the summit of Mount Gede-Pangrango, you can register at the entrance of TNGGP and join other hikers. This is also a great opportunity to interact with locals, and you might even find a local guide for free.
How Long Should You Stay in Bogor?
Bogor is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Jakarta and Bandung. I recommend spending at least two full days in Bogor. This way, you can explore the city’s attractions or take a relaxed trip to Puncak Bogor.
A slower pace allows you to enjoy your trip without feeling rushed. Given Bogor’s sometimes busy traffic, it’s best to pick one or two key spots that suit your interests, so you won’t get too tired or overwhelmed.
If you plan to visit Puncak Bogor, I suggest choosing just one destination, as some of the attractions are quite far from the main road. And if you plan to hike Mount Gede, it’s best to extend your stay.
For those with limited time, you can still enjoy a quick trip by visiting Bogor Botanical Gardens and Bogor Palace, grabbing lunch at Surya Kencana Street or Saung Pak Ewok, and then heading back to Bogor Station to return to Jakarta.
Where to Go After Bogor?
Once you’ve explored Bogor, you might want to continue your journey without returning to Jakarta. In that case, you can head to Bandung or Sukabumi. From Bogor, you can take a bus to Bandung from Baranangsiang Terminal. Alternatively, if you’re staying in Puncak, you can catch a bus from the side of the road.
If you’d prefer to go to Sukabumi, there are two options: either take a bus or elf minibus, or take the train from Bogor to Sukabumi.
Conclusion
Adding Bogor to your travel itinerary is definitely worthwhile. Although it’s close to the capital, the city offers a completely different atmosphere from Jakarta. During your stay, you’ll experience peace and cool weather—perfect for refreshing your mind before heading back to the city.
Take time to soak in the beauty of Bogor’s old buildings and don’t forget to breathe in the fresh air while strolling through the Bogor Botanical Gardens. Each moment in this city promises to bring relaxation and serenity.
