GBK City Forest

Land Transformation: From Golf Course to Tropical Forest

GBK City Forest occupies approximately 4 hectares of land that was once part of the Senayan golf course. This transformation was a bold step by the GBK area management to increase green open spaces (RTH) in Jakarta. Unlike other parks dominated by paved roads, GBK City Forest is designed with an urban forest concept that emphasizes dense vegetation and expansive lawns, creating a stunning visual contrast against the backdrop of the tall buildings in the SCBD area.

Ecosystem and Biodiversity in the City Center

Although it is an artificial forest, the ecosystem in GBK City Forest is designed to support urban wildlife. The vegetation planted here consists of various types of shade trees and ornamental plants specifically chosen to absorb air pollution and dampen road noise.

You can find trees like mahogany, trembesi, and tabebuya beginning to grow lushly. The presence of these trees is bringing back biodiversity that had been lost from the city center. House sparrows, bulbuls, and sunbirds are often seen seeking nectar among the trees. Furthermore, the well-arranged pond ecosystem not only functions as an aesthetic element but also as a water catchment area and habitat for dragonflies and various freshwater fish, which are indicators that the environmental quality in this area is well-maintained.

Nature Tourism Experience and Outdoor Activities

GBK City Forest offers a unique experience rarely found elsewhere in Jakarta: a picnic with a city skyline view. Here are some of the main activities visitors can enjoy:

1. Picnic on the Lawn (Amphitheater): The main area, a tiered lawn, is a favorite spot for visitors. Here, you can spread out a mat, enjoy your packed lunch, and relax while gazing at the skyscrapers that seem to surround this forest.

2. Jogging and Walking: There are well-maintained pedestrian paths that are friendly for walkers and runners. The cool atmosphere due to the abundance of trees makes exercise more effective without being disturbed by the scorching sun.

3. Landscape Photography: For photography enthusiasts, GBK City Forest is a paradise. The blend of natural elements (trees and grass) with modern architectural elements (tall buildings) creates a very Instagramable photo composition, especially during the golden hour.

4. Bird Watching: For those with a keen eye, this area is a great spot to observe how local fauna adapts to the green urban environment.

Best Visiting Times and Seasonal Variations

To get the best experience, visiting in the morning (06:00 - 09:00) or afternoon (16:00 - 18:00) is highly recommended. In the morning, the air is still fresh, and dew can often be seen on the tips of the grass. In the afternoon, visitors can enjoy the transition of sunlight setting behind the tall buildings, creating dramatic city silhouettes.

During the dry season, the grass in GBK City Forest remains green thanks to a good irrigation system, but the air will feel hotter. Conversely, during the rainy season, the scent of wet earth (petrichor) in the middle of this forest provides an incredibly relaxing sensation, although visitors must be careful as the grassy areas may become more humid.

Conservation and Environmental Protection

GBK City Forest holds an important status as a water and air conservation area in Central Jakarta. Its management enforces strict rules to preserve its natural state. Visitors are strictly prohibited from littering, damaging plants, or bringing pets into certain areas to maintain the balance of its small ecosystem.

The drainage system in this area is designed to maximize rainwater absorption into the ground, which serves as a flood controller for the surrounding areas. By prioritizing catchment areas, GBK City Forest becomes an ecological defense against the massive concrete development in Jakarta.

Accessibility and Supporting Facilities

One of the main advantages of this destination is its excellent accessibility. Located in the Gelora Bung Karno area, Senayan, Central Jakarta, it can be reached by various modes of transportation:

• Public Transportation: Visitors can use TransJakarta and alight at the Gelora Bung Karno Halt or use MRT Jakarta and alight at Istora Mandiri Station. From there, it's just a short walk to the City Forest entrance.
• Public Facilities: The area is equipped with very adequate facilities, ranging from clean toilets, prayer rooms, to ample parking spaces around the GBK complex.
• Culinary: Within the City Forest area, there is a food court and restaurant managed by Plataran (Hutan Kota by Plataran) offering quality dishes in an elegant semi-open setting. However, for visitors on a limited budget, there are many culinary options around the GBK stadium.

Conclusion: A Symbol of Human and Nature Harmony

GBK City Forest is tangible proof that metropolitan city development does not always have to come at the expense of nature. Its presence provides a space for Jakarta residents to reconnect with natural elements without having to travel far out of the city. As a nature tourism destination in Central Jakarta, GBK City Forest is not just a recreational spot, but a symbol of hope for a greener, healthier, and more humane Jakarta for all its inhabitants. A visit here will provide a new perspective on how forests and tall buildings can coexist in beautiful harmony.