Depok – Jakarta's Southern Gateway and University City
Depok is an independent city in West Java province, directly on Jakarta's southern border. The city is primarily known as a Jakarta dormitory town, but it is also home to the Universitas Indonesia (UI) campus – one of Indonesia's most prestigious universities. Depok is a rapidly developing modern city at the meeting point of Betawi and Sundanese cultures.
Attractions and Activities
Situ Babakan (Perkampungan Budaya Betawi) on the Jakarta-Depok border is a living museum of Betawi culture: traditional Betawi houses, dance and music demonstrations, and local gastronomy in a lakeside park. The Universitas Indonesia campus invites a stroll with its modern architecture and green surroundings. D'Kandang Amazing Farm is an educational farm popular with children. Jalan Margonda Raya is Depok's main shopping street, with malls and street-food restaurants.
Culture and Cuisine
A blend of Betawi and Sundanese culture characterises Depok. Betawi ondel-ondel (giant puppets) and lenong theatre are local traditions. The cuisine is diverse: soto Betawi (creamy beef broth), kerak telor (egg rice cake), laksa Depok (spiced noodle soup), and doclang (rice rolls with peanut sauce) are local favourites.
Public Safety
Depok is a safe city. You can move around malls and the university area freely at night. Jakarta metropolitan traffic is extremely heavy during rush hours. Petty pickpocketing may occur at crowded places. Medical care is excellent – several modern hospitals and clinics.
Practical Information
From Jakarta, approximately 40–50 minutes by KRL Commuterline train (Depok station). From Soekarno-Hatta Airport, approximately 1.5–2 hours by car (traffic-dependent). The climate is warm and humid year-round. Accommodation ranges from business hotels to simple guesthouses.