The Great Mosque of Sunda Kelapa is a mosque in Menteng, Central Jakarta, and it opens early and closes late. Its prayer halls are spacious and calm, with separate floors for men and women and an air-conditioned room. A garden lies beside the mosque, and the view is most striking at night. Food stalls line the outside, and Suropati Park is nearby for a quieter stop. For visitors who want to learn about Islam, it is a good place to do so in a historic part of the capital.
Prayer halls and facilities
The prayer halls are spacious, and the men's and women's areas sit on separate floors. The women's prayer hall has nice carpets. Some indoor spots are cooler than others, and there is an air-conditioned room for rest.
There are plenty of toilets, and the wudhu area is kept clean. The building is clean and well maintained, and it can hold large gatherings, with room for around a thousand people at a big event.
The entrance, restroom and parking area are wheelchair accessible. The staff are helpful. They guide people through converting to Islam and give time for questions during the training.
Ramadan evenings
During Ramadan the mosque is busier than usual, and the evening follows a clear order. Iftar jami'ah comes first, then the Maghrib prayer. A short khutbah follows Isya, then taraweh of eight rak'ahs, and finally witir of three rak'ahs with one salam.
Takjil snacks and a free nasi kotak meal box are served during Ramadan. From about 5.30 pm, the imam recites the Quran until a few minutes before Maghrib. The congregation keeps silent and makes dua until the azan. A TV screen shows the imam leading the prayers and the supplications, so the congregation can say them together. The taraweh and witir can be finished in under 30 minutes.
The courtyard has a busy night market during Ramadan.
Outside the mosque
Food stalls line the perimeter, and Sate Padang and nasi goreng are among the dishes sold there. A garden lies beside the mosque, and the view is most striking at night.
Suropati Park is nearby for a quieter walk, and the Formulation of the Proclamation Text museum is also close. Parking is limited for cars and motorbikes, so plan on public transport or a ride-sharing service.
FAQ
Is the mosque wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, the restroom and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
Are the men's and women's prayer areas separate?
Yes. The men's and women's areas are on separate floors.
Where can I park?
Parking is tight, especially for cars. Public transport or a ride-sharing service is the easier choice.
What happens during Ramadan evenings?
Iftar jami'ah is followed by Maghrib, then a short khutbah after Isya, taraweh of eight rak'ahs and witir of three rak'ahs.
