Important Notes Before Visiting Gelora Bung Karno Jakarta – Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) is Jakarta’s premier sports and entertainment hub, spanning over 279 hectares and attracting large crowds for major events like football matches and concerts. The Main Stadium, with a capacity of around 78,000 people, is equipped with modern features such as hybrid turf and LED lighting, enhancing the experience.
As one of the city’s most iconic venues, GBK hosts numerous significant events throughout the year, making it a central location for national gatherings. If you’re staying with Ashley Hotel and planning to visit GBK, this guide offers insider tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Location and History
Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) is located in the Senayan area of Central Jakarta, bordered by major roads like Jalan Gatot Subroto and Jalan Jenderal Sudirman. The Main Stadium, surrounded by other sports facilities, is easily accessible by foot, with direct access to the Istora Mandiri MRT station.
GBK was built in 1959 for the 1962 Asian Games, designed by architect Frederich Silaban with a roof inspired by traditional Indonesian architecture. Over the years, it has hosted numerous international events, and underwent significant renovations from 2016 to 2018 to modernize its facilities.
Precise Routes and Transport Details
Reaching Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) is easy with Jakarta’s public transport, including MRT, KRL, and TransJakarta. The Senayan MRT station is nearby, with frequent trains, and TransJakarta buses stop close to the stadium. KRL users can get off at Palmerah Station, which is also within walking distance.
Ride-hailing services like Gojek or Grab offer direct access, and it’s also possible to walk from nearby malls like FX Sudirman. To avoid traffic, it’s best to plan your visit outside of peak hours.
Also Read: All You Need To Know About Central Park Jakarta
Entry, Parking, and Regulations
One of the entry to Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) is through Gate 1 on Jl. Asia Afrika, with parking available in multiple zones at affordable rates. The surrounding roads follow the odd-even regulations on weekdays, so plan your route accordingly. For those with accessibility needs, designated parking spots and assistance are available within the stadium area.
Best Time to Visit
To make the most of your visit to Gelora Bung Karno (GBK), it’s important to consider both the event schedule and local weather. Early weekday mornings are ideal for a quiet visit, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Weekends tend to be busier, especially during major events like concerts or football matches, with crowds reaching up to 85% capacity.
During the dry season, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and you can enjoy the track or explore the stadium with minimal rain risk. The wet season brings more rainfall, so mornings are your best bet for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Stay at Ashley Hotel for a More Impactful Experience
Make the most of your visit to Gelora Bung Karno by combining exciting activities like watching a football match, attending a concert, enjoying a morning jog on the track, or having a peaceful picnic, with a relaxing stay at Ashley Hotel. After a day of adventure, unwind in comfort with amenities like a heated swimming pool and themed rooms that add a special touch to your experience.