Navigating Jakarta’s train stations can be a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time in the city. With multiple Jakarta’s train stations serving different routes and offering varying levels of comfort and convenience, it’s easy to get confused.
Should you depart from Gambir or Pasar Senen? Which station is closer to your destination, and what services can you expect? And what about the other two—Jatinegara and Jakarta Kota—should you pay any attention to them?
This guide will break down everything you need to know about Jakarta’s train stations, with a focus on the two main hubs—Pasar Senen and Gambir—helping you choose the one that best suits your travel plans. Whether you’re catching a train to explore Java’s vibrant cities or embarking on a longer journey across the archipelago, we’ve got you covered.
Gambir Station
Gambir Station (station code: GMR) is situated in the heart of Jakarta, specifically in the Gambir area of Central Jakarta, right next to the iconic Monas (National Monument). Known for its classic and elegant architecture, Gambir Station stands as a historical landmark, having served as the main railway station during the colonial era in Batavia, the old name for Jakarta.
Today, Gambir Station is renowned for its executive and economy-premium class, offering travelers extra comfort with premium facilities. If you’re planning a long-distance journey and seeking maximum comfort, Gambir Station is likely where you’ll start your adventure.
Facilities at Gambir Station:
- Executive Lounge: Gambir Station has a comfortable waiting lounge with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, snacks, and drinks. The lounge offers comfortable seating, so you won’t feel tired or bored while waiting for your train.
- Restaurants and Cafes: As a premium departure station, Gambir has a variety of food and drink options available inside the station. You can enjoy a range of meals, from local dishes to fast food, in a cozy setting.
- ATMs and Currency Exchange: Gambir Station provides convenient banking services, allowing you to withdraw cash from ATMs or exchange currency before your trip.
- Elevators and Escalators: For easy access between floors, Gambir Station is equipped with elevators and escalators, making it ideal for travelers with luggage. However, keep in mind that all escalators only go up, so if you need to go down, you’ll have to use the stairs or the elevator.
- Toilets and Information Center: Clean and well-maintained toilets are available at Gambir Station. There’s also an information center where you can ask for help or directions, making it easier to navigate the station.
- Charger Corner: If you need to charge your electronic devices, Gambir Station provides charger corners for passengers.
- Porter Service: If you have heavy bags or need assistance with your luggage, Gambir Station offers porter services. Porters can help you carry your bags to the platform or even to your seat on the train for a small fee of about 20,000 IDR (1,3 USD).
Pasar Senen Station
In contrast to Gambir, Pasar Senen Station (station code: PSE) mainly serves economy-class trains. It is also located in Central Jakarta, in the busy Pasar Senen area, known for its markets and commercial activities. This station is popular with locals looking for more affordable travel options.
Facilities at Pasar Senen Station:
- Food Stalls and Kiosks: Unlike Gambir Station, which has several restaurants and cafes, Pasar Senen offers less food options. The food stalls around the station serve traditional dishes, but you might find the dining experience less comfortable. It’s a good idea to buy fast food from a minimarket or on the train.
- Waiting Area: The waiting area at Pasar Senen provides comfortable seating, though it’s not as luxurious as Gambir Station. You can freely choose your seat, but since the station caters to local travelers looking for budget options, the atmosphere may be less formal.
- ATMs and Minimarkets: Like Gambir, Pasar Senen has ATMs and 24-hour minimarkets where you can buy snacks, drinks, and other necessities.
- Toilets and Information Center: Pasar Senen also offers clean toilets and an information center to help passengers with any inquiries or directions they might need.
- Charger Corner: You can find charger corners at Pasar Senen Station as well, where you can recharge your devices before your trip.
- No Elevators or Escalators: Unlike Gambir, Pasar Senen Station does not have elevators or escalators, but there are plenty of stairs upon arrival. This can make navigating the station more challenging, especially if you’re traveling with heavy luggage or have mobility issues.
- Porter Service: Similar to Gambir, Pasar Senen Station has porters available to assist you with your luggage for a small fee of about 20,000 IDR (1,3 USD). This service can be very convenient, especially if you’re carrying heavy bags or are unfamiliar with the station.
General Comparison of Gambir and Pasar Senen Stations:
| Feature | Pasar Senen | Gambir |
| Train Classes | Economy, Executive | Executive, Economy-Premium |
| Facilities | Local food stalls, basic waiting area, toilets, information center, charger corner, porter service | Executive lounge, restaurants, modern facilities, toilets, information center, charger corner, porter service |
| Location | Central city, near traditional markets | Central city, near government buildings and shopping centers |
| Atmosphere | Busy, local, authentic | Calm, modern, elegant |
| Ticket Prices | More affordable | More expensive |
| Best For | Budget travelers, local experience | Comfort seekers, complete facilities |
If you’re looking for an affordable, local experience, Pasar Senen is the right choice. However, if you want more comfort and comprehensive facilities, Gambir may be the better option. If you’re flexible, it’s a good idea to compare trains from both stations and choose based on the most convenient arrival or departure times. Keep in mind that long-distance trains generally run only a few times per day, so planning ahead is key.
How to Get to Pasar Senen and Gambir Stations
Both stations are located in central Jakarta and quite close to each other, so there are many ways to reach them. You can use public transportation such as the busway, buses, and electric trains. Alternatively, you can use a taxi or online ride-hailing services like Grab and GoJek, which are available at any time.
Getting to Gambir
TransJakarta Busway: The closest stop to Gambir Station is the “Gambir 2” TransJakarta stop. This stop is part of the TransJakarta BRT system.
Commuter Line Train: If you’re near a Commuter Line station, you can take a train to the Juanda Station, which is the nearest Commuter Line stop to Gambir. However, from Juanda, it’s still around a 20-minute walk which is definitely not worth it, but you can take a Bajaj (Tuk Tuk) to get to Gambir Station.
DAMRI Bus from the Airport: If you’re coming directly from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, the DAMRI bus offers a convenient and affordable option to reach Gambir Station. The bus service runs regularly and drops you off right at the station.
What are the other ways to get from Soekarno-Hatta Airport to the city? Read How to Get from Jakarta Airport (CGK) to City Center
Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services: For a more convenient option, taxis and online ride-hailing services like Grab and GoJek are readily available and can drop you off directly at the station entrance.
Getting to Pasar Senen
- TransJakarta Busway: You can reach Pasar Senen via the TransJakarta BRT system. The closest stop is the “Pasar Senen” bus stop, making it an easy and affordable option for travelers.
- Commuter Line Train: The station is served by the Senen Station on the Commuter Line, which is located right next to Pasar Senen. This makes it a convenient choice if you’re coming from other parts of Jakarta.
- Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services: Like Gambir, you can also use taxis or online ride-hailing services such as Grab and GoJek to get to Pasar Senen.
Not sure how to use public transportation in Jakarta? We’ve got you covered—check out our article Public Transportation: A Complete Guide for Travelers.
Jatinegara and Kota Tua Stations
Jatinegara Station (station code: JNG) is another key hub, especially for economy-class trains, and often serves as a stop for many long-distance routes before they reach Gambir or Pasar Senen. However, it’s not an ideal choice for tourists, as it’s located far from the city center. While tickets might be slightly cheaper, the savings aren’t worth it when you consider the cost and time involved in commuting to and from the station.
Jakarta Kota Station (station code: JAKK) is a historic station with Dutch colonial architecture, located in the heart of Kota Tua. While it primarily serves commuter trains and regional routes, it also serves one economy long distance train per day connecting Kutoarjo with Jakarta Kota.
Tips for Foreign Tourists in Jakarta
In Indonesia, train tickets can be booked online. You just need to visit the official KAI Indonesia website or other websites that offer train ticket services such as traveloka.com or tiket.com. Another easy way is to download the KAI Access app.
Besides online booking, tickets can also be purchased at minimarkets or ticket counters at the stations. Make sure you have your ID ready, such as a passport or another form of identification.
To learn more about booking train tickets, be sure to check out our article How to Travel by Train in Indonesia
- Check Your Ticket and Schedule: Make sure you know which station your train will depart from. Gambir and Pasar Senen are close to each other, but if you go to the wrong station, you might miss your train.
- Arrive Early: Jakarta is known for its traffic jams. It’s recommended to arrive at least one hour before your departure time to avoid being late.
- Prepare Your ID: When entering the station, you may be asked to show your ID. Make sure you carry your passport or another valid ID.
- Watch Your Belongings: Both stations can be crowded, especially during peak hours. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying flashy valuables.
- Learn Basic Phrases: Although many signs and announcements are in English, a little knowledge of Indonesian can be very helpful, especially when interacting with staff or local vendors.
Wondering about how safe Jakarta is? Read Safety in Jakarta: A Guide for Travelers
Which Jakarta Train Station is the Best?
Gambir and Pasar Senen Stations each have their own unique characteristics and facilities. If you’re looking for comfort and premium amenities, Gambir is the right choice. However, if you prefer a budget-friendly trip with a strong local vibe, Pasar Senen might be better for you. Jatinegara caters to economy-class trains but isn’t ideal for tourists due to its distance from the city center. Meanwhile, Jakarta Kota Station is conveniently located but has limited train services, running just once per day.
