Jakarta City Guide - Further Distractions

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
The ‘Beautiful Indonesia Miniature Park', as it rather nattily translates, is an interesting and unusual diversion. Opened in 1975 this sprawling 100-hectare park has a series of cable cars and shuttle buses to help those that don't come with their own cars get around. There is a pavilion for each of Indonesia's provinces with the highlight Java's mini-Borobudur. There are also regular cultural performances on site. The park is perhaps the most enjoyable of Soeharto's grand projects.

Jalan Raya Pondok Gede
Tel: (021) 840 9214.
Website: www.tamanmini.com
Admission charge.

Ragunan Zoo
For those who don't have time to head east to Komodo National Park itself, this is a great place to see the famous dragons in the flesh. Another highlight are the equally fearsome Java tigers. Opened as long ago as 1864, the zoo closed temporarily a few years ago after a bird flu scare, but is now open for business again.

Ragunan, Pasar Minggu
Tel: (021) 780 5280.
Admission charge.