Travel
06 December 2024
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As the new capital of Indonesia, Nusantara Capital City (IKN) never fails to draw attention. News about its construction progress or the grandeur of the Garuda Palace, for example, is widely talked about.
During the 79th anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence last August, Nusantara made history by hosting the flag-raising ceremony for the first time. It caught the instant attention of many people. Some foreign media also covered the event.
However, we’re not about to read Nusantara as the new seat of government of the Republic of Indonesia. Instead, let’s explore the other side of Nusantara as a potential tourist destination.
Various sources stated that the development of Nusantara covers an area of 190 thousand hectares. Such a vast area offers some local attractions worth visiting within and near Nusantara. What are they? Find out more below.
Garuda Palace is the most magnificent and iconic building in the new capital. The palace is a presidential residence and office where day-to-day government activities are carried out.
One reason the Garuda Palace is so captivating is the unique structure that sets it apart from most palaces. The three-story building was designed to resemble a giant garuda bird with a 40-meter height.
The government even specifically chose the design created by a renowned Balinese artist, I Nyoman Nuarta, who also designed the Garuda statue in the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, Bali.
It’s no wonder that many people are captivated by the architectural marvel of the Garuda Palace and want to see it in person.
Not far from the Garuda Palace, you can find a large red and white flag flying on its pole installed on a hill.
The 79-meter flagpole is the tallest in Indonesia and is located within the Kusuma Bangsa Park, a national memorial site.
The large flagpole was built ahead of the 79th-anniversary ceremony of Indonesia’s Independence last August, where a 12x18 meter replica of the Indonesian flag was flown. Impressive!
Titik Nol Nusantara (lit. Ground Zero of Nusantara) is a landmark where IKN construction began. The government set the Titik Nol Nusantara as a reference point for the rest of the IKN building process. The site used to be forested and an agricultural area.
Administratively, it lies in a quite strategic location, between Samboja Sub-district and Sepaku Sub-district, North Penajam Paser District. Forests still dominate the surrounding area, so the air temperature is still relatively cool.
You can visit the Tapak Raja cave just outside of Nusantara. Located about 31 kilometers from the Titik Nol Nusantara, or less than one-hour drive, the cave is believed to be the place where kings of the past meditated.
Until around the 1950s-1960s, meditation was practiced by leaders and elders of the Paser tribe to deepen their knowledge of kanuragan (a supernatural martial art).
Like any other caves, Tapak Raja also has stalactites hanging from its ceilings. One of the stalactites is so fascinating because it resembles a human footprint.
Mentawir mangrove forest is another spot worth visiting near IKN. Located about 42 kilometers from the Titik Nol Nusantara, it only takes 1 hour to get there.
This tourist area is open 24/7 with an entry ticket of only Rp10,000 per person. The price also covers a ticket for a boat to cross to the fishing area.
Another thing to do here is explore the mangrove forest using a fishing boat. The rental fee is only Rp250,000 for up to 15 people.
Although it’s open 24/7, the best time to visit is before sunset. You can enjoy a beautiful sunset in cooler weather.
So, are you interested in exploring IKN? For your convenience, you can use TRAC car rental service. Currently, TRAC makes its service available in the new capital as the official transportation partner of Swissôtel Nusantara.
TRAC car rental is available in 2 service options. You can choose a self-drive car rental if you want privacy. Or you can rent a car with a driver for your convenience.
It’s perfect to escape the headache of finding the best route. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the trip.
For an easy booking experience, you can make a reservation on the TRAC website or via the TRACtoGo app. Download the app from the Play Store or App Store. Become a member and enjoy benefits from TRAC services.
For the latest information on TRAC services, offers, and holiday travel tips, follow TRAC’s social media accounts @trac_astra on Instagram, TRAC-Astra Rent a Car on Facebook, and @TRACastra on X (formerly Twitter).
Follow any track with TRAC!
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