Srengseng City Forest

Traces of History and Ecosystem Transformation

Srengseng City Forest did not form naturally. In the past, this area was an active landfill site until the 1990s. Through an ambitious reclamation and greening program by the DKI Jakarta government, this approximately 15-hectare land was transformed into a lush green conservation area.

This transformation created a unique soil structure. Although located in the lowlands of Jakarta, the contour of the land within the forest is slightly undulating due to the layer of topsoil over the former waste piles. Today, the traces of the landfill have completely disappeared, replaced by fertile humus and a dense tree canopy.

Biodiversity and Lush Vegetation

Upon entering the Srengseng City Forest area, visitors are immediately greeted by a significant drop in air temperature. This is due to the density of vegetation dominated by large hardwood trees. There are over 4,000 trees comprising dozens of different species.

Some of the dominant tree types in this area include the Flamboyan tree (Delonix regia) with its fiery red flowers during blooming season, the towering Mahogany tree, and the shady Ketapang tree. Additionally, there are fruit trees such as Mango, Rambutan, and Sapodilla, which often serve as food sources for local fauna.

The existence of this forest also serves as a sanctuary for various types of birds (avifauna). If you visit in the morning, you can hear the chirping of House Sparrows, Bulbuls, and occasionally spot Kingfishers gliding over the water surface. The diversity of insects and small reptiles also maintains the balance of the food chain in this artificial ecosystem.

Exploration of the Artificial Lake and Outdoor Activities

One of the main natural attractions of Srengseng City Forest is the presence of a fairly large artificial lake in the central part of the area. This lake not only functions as a water catchment area to prevent flooding in West Jakarta but also serves as a center for recreational activities.

Fishing in the City

For fishing enthusiasts, the lake in Srengseng City Forest is a hidden paradise. The lake's waters are inhabited by various freshwater fish species such as Tilapia, Mojarra, and Snakehead. Fishing here offers a unique experience; fishing with a backdrop of lush trees while still being in the heart of the city.

Running Paths and Light Trekking

The forest is equipped with paved pedestrian paths that circle the entire area. These paths are very popular among residents who want to go jogging or take a leisurely walk under the shade of the trees. The oxygen-rich air makes it a much healthier place for morning exercise compared to running along a busy road.

Children's Play Area and Family Picnics

There is an open area with children's playground facilities such as swings and slides. For families, the grassy expanses under the large trees are often used to lay out mats and enjoy packed meals (picnics). The quiet atmosphere, only occasionally interrupted by the sound of the wind rustling through the leaves, creates quality moments of relaxation.

Best Visiting Times and Seasonal Variations

For the best experience, a visit is recommended in the morning between 06:00 and 09:00 WIB. At this time, the air is still very fresh, and bird activity is at its peak. If you prefer a twilight atmosphere, 16:00 until closing (around 18:00) is the right time as the sunlight filtering through the gaps in the trees creates a very aesthetic scene for photography.

During the dry season, the hiking trails or footpaths tend to be clean and dry, but some types of trees may shed their leaves, giving a unique autumn impression. Conversely, during the rainy season, the forest will appear very green and lush, although visitors must be aware of some parts of the path that may become slippery.

Conservation Efforts and Environmental Protection

Srengseng City Forest holds the status of a conservation area and water catchment area. Its management strongly emphasizes the preservation of its ecological functions. Visitors are strictly prohibited from cutting down trees, picking plants, or hunting animals within the area.

Plastic waste is a primary focus of conservation here. The management provides many trash bins and regularly cleans the lake area from carried-in waste or remnants left by visitors. These efforts are important to ensure that the groundwater around the Srengseng area remains pure and unpolluted.

Accessibility and Supporting Facilities

Srengseng City Forest is located on Jl. Haji Kelik, Srengseng, West Jakarta. Its location is very strategic and can be reached by various modes of transportation:

1. Public Transportation: Visitors can use TransJakarta corridor 8 or city transportation modes that pass through the Meruya-Srengseng route.

2. Private Vehicles: There is adequate parking space for motorcycles and cars, although on weekends this area is often full of local visitors.

The available public facilities are quite complete to support tourist comfort, including:

• Clean prayer rooms (Mushola).
• Public toilets located at several points.
• Park benches for resting.
• Small stalls around the parking area selling light food and drinks.

Srengseng City Forest is not just an ordinary tourist spot; it is an important reminder for Jakarta residents of the cruciality of green open spaces. With a very affordable entrance fee, this place offers natural luxury that is hard to find elsewhere in West Jakarta. Spending a few hours here is enough to restore energy and clear the mind from the tiring work routine.