Indonesia Muslim Travel Guide 2025: Muslim Area, Halal Food, Prayer Spaces & Hotels

Planning a trip to Indonesia? You’re in for a treat—Indonesia is a paradise for Muslim travelers! From grand mosques in Jakarta, halal street food in Yogyakarta 🍛, to the cool mountain air of Bandung 🌿, it’s a country that warmly welcomes Muslim visitors. You can explore rich local culture, shop for beautiful batik 🛍️, or sip Acehnese coffee while watching the sunset ☕🌅.

To make your trip even smoother, there are a few things worth preparing. This guide is made especially for Muslim travelers. It’s packed with helpful tips—how to find halal food 🍗, where to pray, how to navigate public transport 🚆, understand local customs 🙏, and stay connected online 📶. If you're looking for flights ✈️ or hotels 🏨 in Indonesia, this guide has got you covered!

Let’s start planning your adventure in Indonesia! 🧭🎒

🕌 10 Most Muslim-Friendly Cities in Indonesia

Halal Foods in Indonesia

Halal Foods in Yogyakarta

1. Warung Bakmi Jawa Mbah Gito

Located in Rejowinangun, Warung Jawa Mbah Gito is known for its traditional Javanese atmosphere and classic local dishes. The wooden interior and vintage decorations make you feel like you’re dining in an old Javanese home. Its signature dish, Bakmi Jawa, is cooked over charcoal, giving it a rich, smoky flavor. The place may be simple, but the food is full of authentic taste and nostalgic charm.

2. Bale Raos

Bale Raos is a unique halal restaurant in Yogyakarta that serves royal Javanese cuisine once enjoyed by the Sultan’s family. Located near the Yogyakarta Palace, the restaurant blends heritage and elegance in both its menu and atmosphere. Signature dishes like Bebek Suwir (shredded duck) and Garang Asem are rich in traditional flavors yet presented in a refined, regal style. The setting feels upscale but welcoming, with Javanese architecture and classic décor that transport you to a bygone era. It's the perfect place for those wanting to taste the authentic flavors of Yogyakarta’s royal kitchen in a halal, cultural setting.

3. Gudeg Yu Djum

(Source: bakpiakukustugu.co.id)

Gudeg Yu Djum is a legendary halal eatery in Yogyakarta, famous for serving authentic Javanese gudeg—a traditional dish made from young jackfruit stewed in coconut milk. It's the perfect choice if you're craving rich, sweet, and savory Indonesian flavors. The place is simple but full of local charm, with the comforting aroma of teak leaves and coconut wafting through the air. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, making it an ideal spot for an authentic and satisfying local dining experience.

Halal Foods in Lombok

1. Menega Cafe

(Source: salsawisata.com)

Menega Café is a popular halal restaurant in Lombok, best known for its beachfront grilled seafood. Signature dishes like grilled fish, squid, and prawns are served with warm rice and spicy local sambal. Located right by the sea, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy dinner while watching the sunset. The setting is simple yet cozy, ideal for a relaxed meal with family, friends, or your partner in a laid-back, romantic atmosphere.

2. Coffee & Thyme

Coffee & Thyme is a charming halal-friendly café in Lombok, known for its relaxed tropical vibes and quality coffee. Located near Senggigi Beach, it's a favorite spot for travelers looking to unwind with a good cup of coffee or a light brunch. The menu includes espresso-based drinks, smoothies, fresh pastries, and healthy meals like avo toast and granola bowls. With open-air seating, leafy surroundings, and a cozy interior, it’s a great place to chill whether you’re catching up with friends, reading a book, or just enjoying the island breeze.

3. RM Taliwang Irama

(Source: jurnaland.com)

RM Ayam Taliwang Irama is a famous halal restaurant in Lombok, known for its spicy grilled Ayam Taliwang—a local favorite. Located in Mataram, it’s a great place to try authentic Sasak food like plecing kangkung, grilled fish, and various sambals. The restaurant has a simple and friendly vibe, perfect for enjoying bold Lombok flavors with family or friends.

Halal Foods in Makassar

1. Rumah Makan Ulu Jaku'

(Source: kulinerkota.com)

Established as a pioneer of authentic Bugis halal cuisine in Makassar, Rumah Makan Ulu Juku offers traditional flavors passed down through generations. Its signature dishes, like pallumara fish head soup and grilled fish with rica spice, never fail to delight anyone who visits. Beyond the delicious food, the restaurant also offers a warm, Sulawesi-inspired ambiance, with wooden ornaments, traditional paintings, and touches of local culture. Its location is also strategic, just a short drive from Losari Beach, one of Makassar’s most iconic tourist spots.

2. Sop Konro Karebosi

(Source: tempatwisataseru.com)

Sop Konro Karebosi in Makassar is a famous place to try sop konro—tender beef ribs in a rich, spiced soup. Portions are big, and the grilled konro is also a must-try. The place is simple but comfortable, and always busy with locals and tourists. It’s in a central location, just a short ride from Losari Beach perfect for a filling meal after exploring the city.

3. Ayam Goreng Sulawesi

Ayam Goreng Sulawesi in Makassar is a popular halal spot known for its crispy fried chicken with rich, local spices. The flavor is bold and savory, usually served with sambal and rice. The place is simple and cozy, often packed with regulars and families. It’s in a central location, making it a great stop for a tasty local meal after visiting Losari Beach or exploring the city.

🎡 Popular Local Attractions & Cheap Tickets

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Muslim-Friendly Tourist Attractions in Indonesia

1. 🕌 Istiqlal Mosque (Jakarta)

Visiting Istiqlal Mosque feels like witnessing a symbol of independence and religious harmony right in the heart of Indonesia’s capital. As the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, it serves not only as a major place of worship but also as a welcoming religious tourism destination.

📍 Location: Jl. Taman Wijaya Kusuma, Gambir, Central Jakarta
✨ Activities: Friday prayers, architectural tours, visit nearby Monas and Jakarta Cathedral
🕒 Opening Hours: 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM (non-Muslim visitors recommended to come outside prayer times)
💡 Tips: Wear modest clothing; non-Muslim women can borrow a head covering at the entrance
🎫 Entrance Fee: Free (voluntary donation for international tourists)

2. 🕌 Al-Akbar Mosque (Surabaya)

Al-Akbar Mosque is the largest mosque in East Java and a prominent Islamic landmark in Surabaya. Known for its massive turquoise dome and modern architecture, the mosque attracts both worshippers and tourists seeking a peaceful and spiritual experience.

📍 Location: Jl. Masjid Al Akbar Timur No.1, Surabaya
✨ Activities: Join Friday prayers, explore the mosque’s interior, and go up the minaret for city views
🕒 Opening Hours: 04:00 AM – 09:00 PM (non-Muslims welcome outside prayer times)
💡 Tips: Wear modest clothing; women should wear a headscarf
🎫 Entrance Fee: Free (minaret access may require a small fee)

3. 🕌 Baiturrahman Grand Mosque (Banda Aceh)

Baiturrahman Grand Mosque is a symbol of resilience and faith in Banda Aceh, famously standing strong during the 2004 tsunami. With its stunning black domes and Mughal-style architecture, it’s one of the most iconic and beautiful mosques in Indonesia.

📍 Location: Jl. Moh. Jam, Banda Aceh
✨ Activities: Observe Friday prayers, explore the mosque's serene courtyard, and learn about Aceh’s Islamic heritage
🕒 Opening Hours: 04:30 AM – 09:30 PM (visitors welcome outside prayer times)
💡 Tips: Dress modestly; women should wear a headscarf—scarves are available at the entrance
🎫 Entrance Fee: Free

4. 🕌 Masjid Raya Bandung (Bandung)

Visiting Masjid Raya Bandung is like stepping into a piece of West Java’s rich Islamic heritage. Established in 1812 and beautifully renovated over centuries, this provincial mosque seamlessly blends traditional and modern architecture, with twin 81 m minarets, elegant domes, and lush courtyard gardens radiating serenity and grandeur.

📍 Location: Jl. Dalem Kaum No.14, Alun-Alun Bandung, West Java
✨ Activities: Join Friday prayers, stroll through the mosque courtyard, ride the lift up the minaret for a panoramic view of Bandung
🕒 Opening Hours: Daily, around 08:00 – 22:00 (non-Muslim visitors should avoid prayer times)
💡 Tips: Wear modest clothing; remove your shoes before entering; headscarves are recommended for women
🎫 Entrance Fee: Free (minaret access: ~Rp7,000 for adults, ~Rp5,000 for children)

5. 🕌 Al-Markaz Al-Islami (Makassar)

Visiting Masjid Al‑Markaz Al‑Islami in Makassar is like stepping into a grand centre of Islamic civilisation in Eastern Indonesia. This architectural masterpiece combines Middle Eastern influences with local South Sulawesi styles especially in its iconic roof inspired by Bugis-Makassar tradition and stands as both a place of worship and a vibrant community hub

📍 Location: Jl. Masjid Raya, Bontoala, Makassar, South Sulawesi
✨ Activities: Join Friday or Eid prayers, explore the mosque’s large prayer hall and library, enjoy the peaceful courtyard and nearby garden area
🕒 Opening Hours: Open 24 hours for worship; sightseeing is best outside prayer times
💡 Tips: Wear modest clothing; headscarves are recommended for women; ask for permission before taking photos inside
🎫 Entrance Fee: Free (some events or facilities may have small fees)

6. 🕌 Great Mosque of Central Java (Semarang)

The Great Mosque of Central Java is one of the most iconic mosques in Indonesia, combining Javanese, Arabic, and modern architectural styles. Its grand dome, spacious courtyard, and 99-meter Asmaul Husna Tower make it a must-visit spiritual and cultural landmark in Semarang.

📍 Location: Jl. Gajah Raya, Sambirejo, Gayamsari, Semarang, Central Java
✨ Activities: Attend Friday prayers, explore the vast courtyard, visit the museum, and ride the elevator to the top of the 99-meter tower for city views
🕒 Opening Hours: Daily, best visited outside prayer times
💡 Tips: Wear modest clothing; remove shoes before entering prayer areas; headscarves recommended for women
🎫 Entrance Fee: Free (tower access: ~Rp7,000–10,000)

7. 🕌 Masjid Agung Demak (Demak, Central Java)

Visiting the Great Mosque of Demak (Masjid Agung Demak) is like stepping into the origins of Islam in Java. Built in the 15th century by Sunan Kalijaga during the reign of the Demak Sultanate, it stands as the oldest mosque in Indonesia and a key landmark of Javanese Islamic heritage

📍 Location: Jl. Sultan Fatah, Bintoro, Demak, Central Java
✨ Activities: Join daily or Friday prayers, explore the mosque’s museum, and visit the tombs of early Islamic figures including Raden Patah
🕒 Opening Hours: Daily, best visited outside prayer times
💡 Tips: Dress modestly; remove shoes before entering prayer areas; photography may be restricted in certain parts like the tombs
🎫 Entrance Fee: Free (small fee for museum access, around Rp5,000–10,000)

8. 🕌 Sultan Suriansyah Mosque (Banjarmasin)

(Source: penjelasantentangwisata.blogspot.com)

Masjid Sultan Suriansyah stands as a proud reminder of South Kalimantan’s deep-rooted Islamic heritage. Built in the 16th century during the rule of Sultan Suriansyah, the first Banjarese king to embrace Islam. This mosque holds the title of the oldest in the region.

📍 Location: Jl. Kuin Utara, Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan
✨ Activities: Perform prayers in the centuries-old prayer hall, take a quiet walk by the riverside, and visit the tomb of Sultan Suriansyah just nearby
🕒 Opening Hours: Open daily; best to visit outside of prayer times for a peaceful experience
💡 Tips: Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering prayer areas, and don’t miss the unique roof design influenced by traditional Banjar houses
🎫 Entrance Fee: Free (small donations welcome)

9. 🕌 Masjid Cheng Ho (Surabaya)

Masjid Cheng Ho is a Chinese-style mosque built in 2002 to honor Admiral Cheng Ho, a famous Chinese Muslim explorer. Located in Surabaya, it stands out with its red pagoda-style design and peaceful atmosphere. The mosque is a symbol of harmony between Chinese and Islamic culture in Indonesia.

📍 Location: Jl. Gading, Ketabang, Surabaya, East Java
✨ Activities: Pray, take photos of the unique architecture, and learn about Cheng Ho’s history
🕒 Opening Hours: Daily, best visited in the morning or afternoon
💡 Tips: Wear modest clothing and stay respectful when taking photos
🎫 Entrance Fee: Free (donations welcome)

10. 🕌 Masjid Rahmatan Lil-Alamin (Indramayu)

Masjid Rahmatan Lil-Alamin is known for its grand and modern design, often compared to iconic mosques in the Middle East. Located in Indramayu, West Java, it features golden domes, tall minarets, and spacious prayer areas that attract both worshippers and visitors. The mosque was built to promote peace and unity, as reflected in its name, which means "mercy to all creation."

📍 Location: Jl. Raya Jatibarang – Karangampel, Indramayu, West Java
✨ Activities: Pray, admire the beautiful architecture, and take peaceful walks around the mosque complex
🕒 Opening Hours: Open daily, all day
💡 Tips: Best visited during the day to enjoy the full view; dress modestly and keep quiet inside
🎫 Entrance Fee: Free (donations appreciated)

Prayer Room In Indonesia

1. Mosques — The Most Reliable Option for Prayer

Indonesia has over 800,000 mosques and musallas (small prayer rooms), found everywhere from major cities to rural villages. Almost all public places offer access to prayer spaces for Muslims.

📍 Cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Medan have large mosques in central areas and near tourist attractions.
🕌 Friday prayers are held regularly at most large and neighborhood mosques.
👩‍🦱 Women’s prayer areas are usually available, though sometimes smaller than the men's sections.

2. Airports

All major airports in Indonesia offer musallas or mosques, both in domestic and international terminals.

✈️ Soekarno-Hatta (CGK): Musallas available in nearly every terminal, with a large mosque near Terminal 3.
✈️ Ngurah Rai Bali (DPS): Prayer rooms available in arrival and departure areas.
✈️ Juanda Surabaya (SUB): Musallas are located near each terminal’s waiting area.

3. Hotels

Most hotels in Indonesia, from budget to 5-star, provide basic prayer facilities like prayer mats and qibla direction markers in rooms.

Sharia-compliant or Muslim-friendly hotels often have dedicated prayer rooms and serve halal food. Hotels in Muslim-majority regions like Aceh, Padang, or Lombok tend to have more complete facilities.

4. Shopping Malls & Tourist Attractions

Nearly all malls and major tourist sites in Indonesia have musallas or small prayer rooms.

📍 Malls like Grand Indonesia (Jakarta), Tunjungan Plaza (Surabaya), and Trans Studio Mall (Bandung) offer clean and comfortable prayer spaces.
📍 Tourist spots like Borobudur, Monas, and Kawah Putih also provide designated prayer areas or quiet spaces for worship.

🧭 Helpful Apps:

• Muslim Pro – Prayer times, qibla direction, and mosque locator
• Umma – Local Muslim app with prayer tools and event listings
• Google Maps – Search for “Mushola” or “Mosque”
• Qibla Finder – Open in browser for accurate qibla direction

Best Muslim-Friendly Hotels in Major Cities in Indonesia

1. Jakarta

The Grove Suites by GRAND ASTON

This modern 4-star hotel is located in the upscale Kuningan area of South Jakarta and is well-known for being Muslim-friendly, offering comfortable accommodation with access to prayer facilities and halal food options.

📍 Location: Kuningan, South Jakarta
✨ Why it's special: Located in the prestigious Rasuna Epicentrum area, close to Sunda Kelapa Grand Mosque and many halal restaurants
🍽️ Halal food: Available at the hotel’s restaurant and nearby eateries
🧎‍♂️ Prayer space: Prayer room available, with qibla direction in all rooms
💡 Best for: Muslim business travelers, families, and those seeking modern comfort with easy access to religious amenities

Hotel Gren Alia Cikini

A well-known Muslim-friendly 3-star hotel in Central Jakarta, Hotel Gren Alia Cikini is a favorite among local and international Muslim travelers for its halal-certified facilities and Islamic-friendly environment.

📍 Location: Cikini, Central Jakarta
✨ Why it's special: Located near Cut Meutia Mosque and many halal dining spots; quiet and strategic area
🍽️ Halal food: All food served is halal-certified
🧎‍♂️ Prayer space: Musholla available with prayer mats and qibla direction in rooms
💡 Best for: Muslim families, solo travelers, and pilgrims visiting Jakarta’s religious landmarks

Yogyakarta

Sera Hotel Yogyakarta

This budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Yogyakarta offers a comfortable stay with essential Muslim-friendly amenities, making it a great choice for travelers looking for affordability without compromising on faith-based needs.

📍 Location: Umbulharjo, Yogyakarta
✨ Why it's special: Strategically located near the city center, just minutes from the iconic Kotagede Mosque and halal local food stalls
🍽️ Halal food: Halal breakfast served at the hotel; many halal eateries within walking distance
🧎‍♂️ Prayer space: Prayer mat and qibla direction provided in rooms; mosques nearby for congregational prayer
💡 Best for: Muslim backpackers, solo travelers, and families on a budget seeking a convenient and faith-friendly base in Yogyakarta

Grand Rohan Jogja

A stylish 4-star Syariah hotel in Yogyakarta, Grand Rohan Jogja is designed with Muslim guests in mind, offering full Islamic facilities, halal-certified dining, and a peaceful atmosphere near the city’s top religious and cultural sites.

📍 Location: Jl. Janti, Banguntapan, Yogyakarta
✨ Why it's special: A certified Syariah hotel with full Islamic compliance, located near Islamic landmarks like the Jogokariyan Mosque
🍽️ Halal food: Entire hotel is halal-certified, with a restaurant serving local and international halal cuisine
🧎‍♂️ Prayer space: Dedicated musalla (prayer room), prayer mats, qibla direction, and daily adhan broadcast in rooms
💡 Best for: Muslim families, Umrah transit travelers, and those seeking a full Syariah hotel experience in Yogyakarta

3. Bandung

1. Ruby Hotel Syariah Bandung

A cozy and affordable Syariah hotel in the heart of Bandung, Ruby Hotel Syariah is perfect for Muslim travelers seeking comfort, Islamic values, and easy access to halal food and prayer facilities.

📍 Location: Jl. Dr. Rubini No. 4, Pasir Kaliki, Bandung
✨ Why it's special: A Syariah-compliant hotel with peaceful ambience, Quran recitation in some rooms, and close proximity to Cipaganti Mosque and Istana Plaza
🍽️ Halal food: Entire hotel is alcohol-free and halal-certified; on-site restaurant offers local and Western halal dishes
🧎‍♂️ Prayer space: Mushola available; each room includes prayer mat, mukena, sarung, Al-Qur’an, and qibla direction
💡 Best for: Muslim families, business travelers, and budget-conscious guests looking for a faith-friendly stay in central Bandung

Cinnamon Hotel Boutique Syariah

A luxurious Syariah-compliant boutique hotel in Bandung, Cinnamon Hotel Boutique Syariah offers a unique blend of modern comfort and Islamic values, ideal for Muslim travelers who seek spiritual peace and elegant accommodation.

📍 Location: Jl. Dr. Setiabudi No. 300, Ledeng, Bandung
✨ Why it's special: A fully Syariah-operated hotel with Middle Eastern-inspired interiors, in-room adhan system, and warm hospitality that includes a welcome of Zamzam water and dates
🍽️ Halal food: All food served is 100% halal; no alcohol on-site, with a restaurant offering Indonesian and international halal cuisine
🧎‍♂️ Prayer space: Musalla available; all rooms come with prayer mats, mukena, Al-Qur’an, qibla direction, and live broadcasts from Mecca & Medina
💡 Best for: Muslim families, honeymooners, and spiritual travelers looking for a refined, faith-friendly hotel experience in Bandung

🧳 Things to Consider When Booking a Hotel:

✅ Halal-certified food or nearby halal restaurants
✅ Close to a mosque or prayer facilities
✅ Prayer mat and qibla direction available upon request
✅ Courteous staff and room arrangements that respect privacy
✅ Muslim-owned or managed hotel (if possible)

Final Tips for a Comfortable Muslim-Friendly Trip in Indonesia

1. Manage Prayer Times Wisely

Use mosques as your landmarks—cities like Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya have plenty of accessible mosques.
Download Muslim Pro or Qibla Finder for accurate prayer times.
If there's no designated prayer space, politely ask for a quiet corner—locals are usually understanding and accommodating.

2. Halal Food is Plentiful—But Still, Plan Ahead 🍽️

Look for “Halal Certified” signs or ask if food is "makanan halal."
Minang, Padang, and Javanese eateries are usually safe picks.
For remote areas or hiking trips (like in Flores or Raja Ampat), bring instant halal meals like Brahim’s, Maggi, or Indofood rendang pouches.

3. Dress and Act Respectfully 🧕

Indonesia is diverse—urban areas are relaxed, but in conservative provinces like Aceh or Lombok, modest clothing (long sleeves, loose pants) is appreciated.
Wearing a hijab is welcomed, especially when visiting mosques or rural villages.

4. Learn Basic Phrases 💬

Knowing a few local phrases helps! Try:

• Halal food? → "Makanan halal?"
• Where is the mosque? → "Di mana masjid?"
• No pork, please. → "Tanpa babi, ya."
  

Download offline Bahasa Indonesia dictionaries or translation apps like Google Translate for convenience.

5. Bring Cash + E-Wallets 💳

Cash is still king in many parts of Indonesia, especially in markets and small towns.
In big cities, use GoPay, OVO, DANA, or QRIS for digital payments.
International cards (Visa/Mastercard) may not be accepted at smaller businesses.

6. Transport is Hijab-Friendly 🚗

Public transport like the MRT (Jakarta), buses, and trains are safe and hijab-friendly.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab offer a convenient, private option for women.
Trains and some bus terminals may have prayer rooms—just ask the staff.

7. Choose Muslim-Friendly Hotels 🧳

Look for hotels labeled “Syariah” or Muslim-friendly on Trip.com
Ask for prayer mats and qibla direction at check-in.
Areas like Tanah Abang (Jakarta), Malioboro (Yogyakarta), and Ampenan (Lombok) are great for finding nearby mosques and halal food.

8. Practice Faith with Grace ❤️

Islam is respected across the country, especially in majority-Muslim provinces.
Being polite, patient, and showing a friendly smile goes a long way when requesting halal meals or prayer space.

9. Stay Open to Unexpected Moments 🌍

From centuries-old mosques hidden in rice fields to impromptu iftar with locals, Indonesia is full of beautiful surprises.
Keep your heart open—spiritual experiences and genuine connections often bloom when you least expect them.

✅ That’s a wrap! You’re now ready to explore Indonesia as a Muslim traveler 🧳
From halal food and prayer spots to transport and local customs, these tips will help make your trip easier and more enjoyable.

Each place has something special—like the culture of Yogyakarta, the energy of Jakarta, or the peaceful vibe of Lombok. The best part? You’ll find friendly faces and Islamic hospitality wherever you go.

Still planning? Check out flights, Muslim-friendly hotels, and fun things to do in Indonesia.

Safe travels and enjoy the journey! 🌟