Key Takeaways:
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Depok offers a peaceful blend of nature, education, and culture just south of bustling Jakarta.
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From botanical gardens and food streets to lakeside adventures and Islamic landmarks, the city invites exploration in all seasons.
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Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or cultural traveler, Depok’s charm lies in its community spirit and natural beauty.
Located between the major hubs of Jakarta and Bogor, Depok is a fast-growing city that blends the calm of nature with the energy of urban life. Originally a Dutch colonial settlement and now part of the Jabodetabek metropolitan area, Depok is known for its green spaces, educational institutions, and family-friendly attractions. With a tropical climate, it’s a destination you can enjoy year-round, offering everything from lakeside walks and heritage sites to modern cafes and cultural parks. Locals love it for its slower pace, vibrant street food, and convenient access to both city and nature—and visitors quickly discover how much Depok has to offer.
Table of Contents
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Stroll Around Situ Pengasinan Lake
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Visit the University of Indonesia Campus and Lakes
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Explore Taman Herbal Insani
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Shop and Eat at Depok Town Square
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Discover the Masjid Kubah Emas (Golden Dome Mosque)
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Unwind at Godong Ijo Eco-Park
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Take a Day Trip to Ragunan Zoo Nearby
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Attend a Local Event at Taman Lembah Gurame
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Explore the Street Art and Cafés of Margonda
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Join a Nature Walk at Kampung 99 Pepohonan
1. Stroll Around Situ Pengasinan Lake
Situ Pengasinan is one of Depok’s most charming natural spots—a peaceful lake surrounded by shaded walkways, food stalls, and recreational spaces. Locals come here for fishing, paddle boating, or simply relaxing with a view. The atmosphere is especially serene during weekday mornings, but it comes alive on weekends with families and couples enjoying the breeze. Vendors sell snacks like bakso, corn, and sweet iced drinks, adding a taste of local flavor to the scene.
The lake is also a popular spot for early joggers or those looking for a scenic picnic location. With benches scattered along the path and areas for prayer and reflection, it’s perfect for visitors seeking a more relaxed pace. Sunrise and sunset walks here offer stunning reflections over the water, making it one of Depok’s most photogenic locations.
2. Visit the University of Indonesia Campus and Lakes
The University of Indonesia (UI) campus is not only one of the top academic institutions in the country—it’s also home to sprawling green spaces and tranquil lakes. Located in the heart of Depok, the campus has well-maintained walking and cycling paths that wind through groves of trees and quiet study corners. Danau Kenanga and Danau Mahoni are two of the most scenic lakes, frequented by students and city dwellers alike.
It’s a great place for casual strolls, weekend runs, or quiet moments away from traffic. Visitors can also stop by the UI Library, known for its unique architectural design and rooftop gardens. The atmosphere feels both youthful and peaceful, offering a perfect blend of education, nature, and inspiration.
3. Explore Taman Herbal Insani
Taman Herbal Insani is a family-friendly park that combines botanical gardens with cultural education and eco-tourism. Located on the outskirts of Depok, the park features herbal plant gardens, a fish pond, swimming pools, and shaded areas perfect for group picnics. The highlight is the guided herbal tour, where you can learn about Indonesia’s traditional healing plants and their uses.
There are also playgrounds and outbound activities, making it a hit with children and school groups. Food stalls inside the park serve local dishes, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable about natural wellness. It’s a hands-on and holistic way to learn about Indonesia’s rich botanical culture while spending a day outdoors.
4. Shop and Eat at Depok Town Square
Depok Town Square, also known as DETOS, is a bustling mall where locals come to hang out, shop, and eat. It features a variety of retail stores, movie theaters, and food options ranging from Indonesian classics to Western chains. The mall isn’t massive, but it has a cozy, community vibe that makes it easy to explore.
Food courts serve popular dishes like ayam penyet, nasi goreng, and soto betawi, and you’ll often find weekend events or small pop-up markets. For those traveling with kids, the mall has play areas and game zones to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re escaping the rain or looking for a social night out, DETOS offers a comfortable, air-conditioned hub of activity.
5. Discover the Masjid Kubah Emas (Golden Dome Mosque)
The Masjid Dian Al Mahri, commonly referred to as the Golden Dome Mosque, is one of Indonesia’s most stunning Islamic landmarks. Located in the Cinere area of Depok, the mosque features six domes covered in gold leaf, marble interiors, and expansive gardens that give it an elegant and spiritual atmosphere. It’s a place of worship, but also a popular destination for tourists and architecture lovers.
Visitors are welcome outside prayer times, and modest dress is required to enter the prayer halls. The grounds are immaculately kept, with shaded pathways, fountains, and palm trees creating a peaceful environment. Whether you’re religious or not, this site is a must-see for its beauty, grandeur, and serene presence in the city.
6. Unwind at Godong Ijo Eco-Park
Godong Ijo is a unique eco-education park and nursery that blends environmental awareness with fun, interactive learning. Located in Sawangan, this green oasis offers activities like plant education, reptile encounters, fishing ponds, and aquaponics tours. It’s particularly popular with school groups and families for its balance of hands-on education and recreation. The grounds are filled with tropical trees and plants that offer cool shade even on hot days.
For a small entrance fee, you get access to gardens, playgrounds, and guided tours on sustainability and farming. There are also workshops where kids can learn how to pot plants or identify local herbs. The café serves fresh juices and traditional Indonesian snacks, making this a refreshing half-day outing for anyone seeking a slower, greener experience in Depok.
7. Take a Day Trip to Ragunan Zoo Nearby
While technically in neighboring Jakarta, Ragunan Zoo is just a short drive from Depok and offers one of the region’s most family-friendly wildlife experiences. This sprawling zoo features large, shaded enclosures for tigers, orangutans, elephants, and even Komodo dragons. With more than 3,000 animals and over 200 species, it’s one of the oldest and largest zoos in Southeast Asia.
The Primate Center, in particular, is world-renowned for its conservation efforts and educational exhibits. Wide walking paths and bike rentals make it easy to explore the grounds at your own pace. Ragunan is especially great for kids and first-time visitors to Indonesia looking to understand the country’s incredible biodiversity.
8. Attend a Local Event at Taman Lembah Gurame
Taman Lembah Gurame is a public park in Depok that’s become a hotspot for local community events, festivals, and performances. With its open fields, fish ponds, jogging tracks, and occasional food vendors, the park serves as a community gathering place for weekend fun. Local musicians often perform here, and cultural events like puppet shows or art markets are held during holidays and school breaks.
It’s also a great place for a picnic or evening jog, and families with young kids appreciate the playgrounds and shady seating areas. While not a touristy location, Taman Lembah Gurame offers a real taste of everyday life in Depok. If you’re looking to mingle with locals or join in on a spontaneous dance or drum circle, this is the place to go.
9. Explore the Street Art and Cafés of Margonda
Margonda Street is the main artery of Depok—lined with everything from universities and bookstores to stylish cafés and graffiti-filled alleys. It’s a hotspot for students and young creatives, giving the area a fresh, dynamic vibe. Cafés like Kopi Tuli (a deaf-owned coffee shop) and Warunk Upnormal offer not just food and drinks but also strong community spirit and creativity.
Street art and murals along Margonda make it a favorite photo-op area for Instagrammers and visual artists. The street comes alive at night with food stalls, buskers, and late-night hangout spots. Whether you’re sipping coffee or exploring urban art, Margonda captures the youthful energy that defines modern Depok.
10. Join a Nature Walk at Kampung 99 Pepohonan
Kampung 99 Pepohonan (translated as “Village of 99 Trees”) is a private eco-village and retreat center that offers immersive nature experiences in a spiritual setting. Located just outside Depok, it features traditional architecture, organic farming areas, flowing rivers, and small animal enclosures. The serene surroundings invite guests to participate in guided nature walks, eco-prayers, and farming workshops.
Many visitors come for the peaceful atmosphere and holistic experiences, including overnight stays in eco-cottages or treehouses. It’s a great escape from the noise of city life, whether you’re seeking meditation, environmental education, or simply a walk through bamboo groves and flowering trees. Kampung 99 is a rare blend of spiritual, natural, and cultural harmony.
What to do if you have kids?
Depok is ideal for traveling families thanks to its blend of parks, lakes, education farms, and play spaces. Children will love exploring Godong Ijo, Situ Pengasinan, and Taman Herbal Insani—each offering interactive and outdoor fun. Malls like Depok Town Square have game zones and kid-friendly restaurants, while nearby Ragunan Zoo adds a full day of adventure. Depok is relaxed, safe, and affordable for parents who want to mix fun with learning and culture.
Where can I find free events in Depok Indonesia taking place this weekend?
To discover free community events, performances, and weekend gatherings in Depok, visit https://planmyweekend.ai. This platform curates non-alcoholic, social, and family-friendly events like art exhibits, local markets, public yoga sessions, and cultural festivals. It’s the perfect tool for both locals and travelers to find out what’s happening without the need for endless social media searches. Spend less time scrolling and more time exploring with Plan My Weekend.
Final thoughts
Depok may be quieter than its neighboring cities, but that’s exactly what makes it special. Its mix of nature, heritage, student energy, and community warmth makes it perfect for slow travel, weekend escapes, or day trips from Jakarta. With its year-round tropical climate, accessible attractions, and local charm, Depok is a destination that surprises and soothes. Whether you’re sipping kopi by the lake or exploring a golden-domed mosque, Depok invites you to pause, breathe, and enjoy Indonesia’s everyday magic.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
