Vihara Bahtera Bhakti, also know as Kelenteng Ancol or Da Bo Gong is the oldest Buddhist temple in Jakarta. Built around the year 1650, it is made of several beautiful buildings on 4000m2.
I did not find a lot of explanations about it in English either on the spot or on the internet. Wikipedia mentions it is quite unique as you will find rooms dedicated to Chinese Buddhist gods, particularly the earth god Tu Di Gong, but also a muslim shrine for Muslim Indonesians. They are Ibu Siti Wati and Sampo Soei So, supposedly the cook of Zheng He / Cheng Ho the explorer. There is also an area in the back dedicated to Said Areli and Ibu Enneng who seem to be the parents of Siti Wati. If anyone has more explanations, you are welcome to comment below.
The temple is located within an upmarket, quiet residential area and it is quite difficult to find without asking someone for directions. I made the mistake to come by foot from Pantai Carnaval and I had to walk almost 45 minutes to reach it.
In spite of that, Vihara Bahtera Bhakti is definitely a recommended thing to do in Jakarta, especially if you are visiting Ancol and possess your own vehicle.
Vihara Bahtera Bhakti
Oldest Buddist Temple in Jakarta
Jalan Pantai Sanur Lima (near the Marina)
North Jakarta, Ancol
Opening Hours:
Everyday from 5am to 6pm