Jakarta is full of vibrant nightlife, modern skyscrapers, and buzzing crowds. Yet behind its fast-paced energy, the city hides dark stories, tragic pasts, and legends that continue to terrify locals. Many thrill seekers explore haunted places in Jakarta to uncover chilling mysteries, eerie sightings, and unexplainable events.
Below are seven of the most spine-tingling locations known for their supernatural activity and unforgettable histories.
1. Jembatan Ancol
Jembatan Ancol is one of the most iconic haunted places in Jakarta, linked to the legendary spirit known as “Si Manis Jembatan Ancol.” For decades, stories tell of a mysterious woman in white wandering the bridge at night. Drivers and pedestrians have reported seeing her pale figure standing by the railings or suddenly appearing in the middle of the road before vanishing without a trace.
The eerie atmosphere becomes more intense after midnight. The dark waters beneath the bridge and the limited lighting make the area feel isolated and unsettling. Many people describe sensing a sudden coldness or feeling watched while passing through, even on humid nights.
Some locals refuse to cross the bridge alone, especially during late hours. Urban explorers and ghost hunters frequently visit the area hoping to experience the legendary sighting for themselves. Whether rooted in folklore or genuine paranormal encounters, the chilling presence of Si Manis ensures Jembatan Ancol remains one of the most famous haunted places in Jakarta.
2. Menara Saidah
Among the most talked-about haunted places in Jakarta, Menara Saidah stands tall with an eerie emptiness. Built between 1995 and 1997, this 28-story skyscraper once symbolized modern business ambition. However, structural concerns forced its closure in 2007 when the building was discovered to be leaning a few degrees.
Once evacuated, Menara Saidah quickly became a hotspot for paranormal rumors. Security guards and nearby residents claimed to see the figure of a red-clad kuntilanak peering from windows on the upper floors. The atmosphere inside reportedly feels heavy, with lifts moving by themselves and strange footsteps echoing through empty hallways.
The tower’s location on a busy Jakarta road makes its abandoned state even more puzzling. People pass by daily yet avoid getting too close. Its massive, deserted structure and growing urban legends have solidified its reputation as one of the most mysterious haunted places in Jakarta. To this day, no one dares to explore its shadowy interior.
3. Ciplaz Klender
Ciplaz Klender, formerly known as Mall Klender, witnessed one of the darkest moments in Jakarta’s history during the 1998 riots. A massive fire trapped and killed numerous victims, leaving behind trauma that lingers to this day. This tragic past is what makes it one of the most sorrowful haunted places in Jakarta.
Security officers and visitors often report creepy encounters, footsteps in empty corridors, cries coming from dark corners, or sudden cold spots in seemingly normal areas. Some have even seen shadowy figures moving near the burnt sections of the mall. Electrical disturbances are also common: escalators moving on their own, flickering lights, and lifts stopping unexpectedly.
The mall’s atmosphere at night is particularly unsettling. The silence combined with memories of the tragedy creates a heavy emotional weight. Many who enter say they feel watched or followed. Whether or not the spirits of the victims wander its halls, Ciplaz Klender remains one of the most chilling haunted places in Jakarta.
4. Former PKI Headquarters, Salemba
Located across the PBNU office in Central Jakarta, the former PKI headquarters has long been associated with fear, mystery, and political history. After the death of a man during the PKI rebellion, the building became a site of dark energy. Although it served as the Ministry of Tourism office in the 1990s, it eventually fell into abandonment, only strengthening its reputation as one of the eeriest haunted places in Jakarta.
Witnesses claim to see the apparition of a male spirit, believed to be linked to the building’s turbulent past. Security guards working night shifts have reported hearing footsteps echoing down empty hallways or doors creaking open without wind. Cold drafts often appear in sealed rooms, adding to the disturbing atmosphere.
After sunset, the building becomes overwhelmingly eerie. Its dim corridors, decaying interior, and history tied to conflict make many locals avoid the area at night. Though quiet today, its unsettling presence remains strong, securing its place among Jakarta’s most haunted places.
5. Toko Merah
Toko Merah in Kota Tua is a striking colonial-era building known for its bright red exterior. While tourists admire its architecture, locals view it as one of the most chilling haunted places in Jakarta due to its violent history.
The building is believed to have witnessed the tragic massacre of Chinese Indonesians during the 1740 incident. This dark past has sparked countless paranormal experiences. People passing by at night often hear knocking, whispers, or the sound of footsteps coming from inside, even when the building is empty. Some have seen ghostly figures in the old glass windows that disappear when approached.
Despite renovations and its use as a cultural venue, the eerie feeling inside remains strong. The contrast between its beauty and haunting atmosphere draws many curious visitors. Toko Merah stands as a reminder that history, especially tragic history, often leaves behind spirits that refuse to leave.
6. Lubang Buaya
Lubang Buaya in East Jakarta is both a historic and spiritual hotspot. Known for the G30S/PKI tragedy, the site marks the torture and killing of national heroes. Today, it is a museum, but its sorrowful energy ranks it among the most intense haunted places in Jakarta.
Visitors frequently report hearing soft cries, whispers, or even piercing screams around the old well. Many describe sudden chills even on hot days. Dark shadows are often spotted darting between the trees or standing silently near the monuments. Night guards say the location becomes overwhelmingly heavy after dark, making patrolling difficult.
The history alone would make Lubang Buaya emotionally intense, but the paranormal stories amplify its haunting reputation. Whether through spiritual presence or psychological echo, the site continues to embody Indonesia’s national trauma. It remains one of the most emotionally powerful haunted places in Jakarta.
7. Haunted Luxury House in Pondok Indah
Pondok Indah is synonymous with luxury, prestige, and exclusivity. Yet among its grand mansions once stood a terrifying abandoned house regarded as one of the most disturbing haunted places in Jakarta. According to urban legends, the family who lived there died tragically during a violent robbery, leaving the property filled with residual fear and sorrow.
Neighbors reported hearing screams, crying, or footsteps late at night. Some claimed to see a woman standing at the gate before vanishing instantly. Lights were said to flicker inside even though the house had no electricity. Ojek drivers also shared stories of refusing to pick up passengers near the house after dark.
The mansion became a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts until it was demolished in 2008. Yet locals insist the land remains eerie, as if the tragic energy never disappeared. Even without the structure, the story endures, marking it as one of Jakarta’s most unforgettable haunted places.
Also Read: All You Need To Know About Gajah Mada Plaza
Explore the Haunted Place With Ashley Hotel Jakarta
Ashley Hotel Jakarta is the perfect place to stay for anyone eager to explore the most famous haunted places in Jakarta.
Our strategic locations, near Sudirman, Menteng, KH Wahid Hasyim, and proximity to key city routes, make it incredibly convenient for travelers who want quick access to eerie landmarks like Toko Merah, Lubang Buaya, or even the legendary Jembatan Ancol.
After a night of ghost hunting, guests can return to the comfort of Ashley Hotel’s modern rooms, warm ambiance, and relaxing facilities.
Our hotel offers a peaceful retreat to balance the thrill of exploring Jakarta’s darker side. Whether you're a paranormal enthusiast or simply curious about the city’s haunted history, Ashley Hotel Jakarta provides both comfort and strategic access, ensuring your spooky adventure becomes memorable and effortless.