Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, has seen a significant population increase, rising 32 spots to claim the title of the world’s most populous city, now home to over 40 million residents. This leap in ranking was revealed in a recent United Nations report on the world’s most populous cities. Surpassing Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, and Tokyo, Japan, Jakarta now boasts an impressive population of nearly 42 million in 2025. Notably, the majority of the top ten cities with the highest populations are in Asia, with Cairo, Egypt being the only exception, ranking seventh.
The report highlights that more than half of the world’s 33 megacities, defined as cities with 10 million or more inhabitants, are situated in Asia. Apart from Jakarta, other cities in the top ten include New Delhi, India (30.2 million), Shanghai, China (29.6 million), Guangzhou, China (27.6 million), Manila, Philippines (24.7 million), Kolkata, India (22.5 million), and Seoul, South Korea (22.5 million), according to NBC News.
Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, stands in Southeast Asia, a vast nation spread across thousands of unique islands, estimated to be over 17,000 in total. Authorities have never managed to count or name all the islands, indicating the country’s diverse geography. Jakarta is situated on Java, the most populous island globally, home to a staggering 150 million people. Java, located between Sumatra and Bali, is known for its 129 active volcanoes across the Indonesian archipelago.
Indonesia sits within the Pacific Ring of Fire, characterized by volcanic activity and seismic zones along the Pacific Ocean. Mount Semeru in Java recently erupted, showcasing the region’s geological dynamism. Jakarta, a bustling metropolis in western Java, is often underrated by visitors exploring the island’s historical sites, according to Lonely Planet. The city offers a vibrant food scene, rich cultural heritage, and exciting nightlife, making it a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia.
Key attractions in Jakarta include Old Jakarta, Taman Fatahillah square, Merdeka Square, Museum Nasional, Glodok (Chinatown), and numerous shopping malls. Despite its appeal, the city faces challenges of traffic congestion, air pollution, and a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 33°C throughout the year.
The local cuisine in Jakarta features traditional Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng and regional specialties such as babi guling from Bali and seafood inspired by Sulawesi. Street food culture thrives in Jakarta, with popular options like warung (small restaurants) and pedagang kaki lima (street vendors) offering diverse culinary experiences. Nasi uduk, Soto Betawi, Woku, Sop kaki kambing, and Ikan bakar are among the highlighted dishes praised by food enthusiasts.