
Vihara Dharma Bhakti Jakarta
Jakarta's oldest Buddhist shrine (1650), blending serene worship with vibrant Chinatown market life. A historical and cultural gem.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Vihara Dharma Bhakti Jakarta
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Jakarta's oldest Buddhist shrine (1650), blending serene worship with vibrant Chinatown market life. A historical and cultural gem.
"An atmospheric place to explore, offering a unique spiritual experience amidst the bustling market.
"
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is limited; attendants will assist, but be patient. Consider arriving early.
🚶♀️ Explore Chinatown Walk
For deeper history, join a guided Chinatown walk.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Main Altar
Main Hall
Marvel at the intricate Chinese architecture and vibrant religious art dedicated to Goddess Kwan Im.

Glodok Market Immersion
Surrounding area
Experience the unique spiritual atmosphere amidst the bustling wet market.

Historical Significance
Temple grounds
Explore Jakarta's oldest Buddhist shrine, dating back to 1650, with a rich history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Respectful Attire
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is limited; attendants will assist, but be patient. Consider arriving early.
🚶♀️ Explore Chinatown Walk
For deeper history, join a guided Chinatown walk.
🕊️ Fangshen Ritual
Participate in releasing birds for good karma (fangshen).
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is limited; attendants will assist, but be patient. Consider arriving early.
🚶♀️ Explore Chinatown Walk
For deeper history, join a guided Chinatown walk.
🕊️ Fangshen Ritual
Participate in releasing birds for good karma (fangshen).
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Vihara Dharma Bhakti to be a historically significant and atmospheric Buddhist temple, offering a unique spiritual experience amidst the bustling Glodok market. Its traditional Chinese architecture and the opportunity for rituals like fangshen are highlights. However, parking can be a challenge, and the surrounding market can be overwhelming for some.
"Vihara Dharma Bakti located at Petak Sembilan - Jl.Kemenangan III
Parking is for car is limited and quite difficult to get slot , there will be attendant will assist.
Dharma Bhakti Temple or Kim Tek Le, is a temple built for the goddess Kwan Im and is considered the oldest temple of its kind in Jakarta and arguably one of the most famous temple.
Now still under renovation on some area."
Arief
"Located on Jalan Selamat III Petak Sembilan, this temple offers the beauty and richness of typical Chinese architecture decorated with bright colors, with red and yellow dominating."
Lucy Eni
"One of the smaller temples in Chinatown. For more information if rhe history of this place, best to join the Chinatown walk by #kotatua.jkt via Instagram."
J Bz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vihara Dharma Bhakti is located in the Glodok area of Jakarta. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or public transport. Be aware that parking can be challenging due to its location within a busy market area.
Yes, several bus routes serve the Glodok area. It's advisable to check local transit apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. The temple is a short walk from the nearest bus stops.
Parking is limited and can be difficult to secure, especially during peak hours. Attendants are usually present to assist, but patience is key.
The area around the temple is part of the bustling Glodok Chinatown, which is a vibrant wet market. Walking is a great way to experience the local atmosphere, but be mindful of the crowds and vendors.
Vihara Dharma Bhakti is located in a well-trafficked area of Jakarta. As with any busy urban environment, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Vihara Dharma Bhakti is generally free. Donations are welcome to support the temple's upkeep and preservation.
The temple is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architecture and atmosphere.
No, there is no specific entrance fee. Visitors are encouraged to make voluntary donations if they wish.
Yes, you can visit during festivals, but expect larger crowds and potentially different opening hours. It can be a very vibrant time to experience the temple.
Photography is generally permitted, but it's always respectful to ask permission before taking close-up shots of devotees or intricate details, and avoid flash photography.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Take your time to admire the traditional Chinese architecture, observe the religious practices, and soak in the unique atmosphere. Consider a guided Chinatown walk for historical context.
Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, as it is an active place of worship. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended. :pray: :athletic_shoe:
Visitors can observe devotees offering prayers and incense. You may also see opportunities for the 'fangshen' ritual, releasing birds for good karma.
Be respectful of ongoing ceremonies.Yes, children can visit. The vibrant colors and unique architecture can be interesting for them. However, it's important to ensure they are respectful of the religious nature of the site.
Fangshen is a Buddhist practice of releasing captive animals, symbolizing compassion and the accumulation of good karma.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! The temple is situated in the heart of Glodok Chinatown, a renowned culinary hub. You'll find numerous street food stalls and local eateries offering delicious Indonesian and Chinese dishes.
Expect a wide variety of local delights, including Indonesian favorites like nasi goreng (fried rice) and mie goreng (fried noodles), as well as Chinese specialties. Don't miss trying some of the local snacks and desserts. :ice_cream:
Yes, given the Chinese influence and the general availability of diverse cuisine in Jakarta, you should be able to find vegetarian and vegan options, especially at eateries specializing in Chinese vegetarian dishes.
Generally, street food in popular areas like Glodok is safe and a must-try experience. Look for stalls with high turnover and where food is cooked fresh. :forkandknife:
Popular choices include various noodle dishes, dim sum, and local Indonesian staples. Exploring the market will reveal many hidden culinary gems.
📸 📸 Photography
The main altar with its intricate details, the colorful architectural elements, and the contrast between the temple and the bustling market offer great photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful and respectful. Avoid using flash, especially when people are praying or during ceremonies. It's polite to ask permission before photographing individuals. :camerawithflash:
Late afternoons often provide softer, more flattering light. However, the vibrant colors can be captured at any time of day, with morning offering a less crowded experience.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in such religious and densely populated areas due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local advisories.
Try to capture the juxtaposition of the serene temple against the lively market backdrop. Focus on details like the ornate carvings, incense smoke, and the expressions of devotees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Dress comfortably and modestly to ensure everyone is respectful.
* Keep an eye on children in the crowded market areas surrounding the temple.
* Explain the significance of the temple in simple terms to make the visit more engaging.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Budget tips:
* Utilize public transport to reach the Glodok area.
* Enjoy street food for authentic and inexpensive meals.
* Focus on the experience rather than spending money; the cultural immersion is the real value.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The temple's architecture is a beautiful example of traditional Chinese design, characterized by vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and ornate roof details. Red and yellow, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune, are dominant hues. The atmosphere within the temple is one of peaceful contemplation, a stark yet harmonious contrast to the bustling Glodok market that surrounds it. This juxtaposition is a unique aspect of the Vihara Dharma Bhakti experience.
Navigating the Glodok Market
The proximity of the temple to the market creates a unique cultural immersion. Visitors can experience the spiritual serenity of the Vihara and then immediately dive into the energetic local commerce. It's a place where daily life and religious devotion intertwine seamlessly. For those interested in understanding this dynamic, joining a guided Chinatown walk can provide invaluable insights into the history and culture of the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit