How to Get from Soekarno-Hatta Airport (CGK) to Menteng, Central Jakarta

Quick Answer

The best way to get from Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Menteng depends heavily on your arrival time and luggage situation. For most daytime arrivals: Blue Bird taxi or Grab (45-120 minutes, $15-30/225,000-450,000 IDR) offers door-to-door convenience. For budget travelers: Airport Rail Link to BNI City + TransJakarta/taxi (60-90 minutes, $3-5/45,000-75,000 IDR) is cheapest. For late night arrivals: Pre-booked transfer or Grab ($20-35/300,000-525,000 IDR) is safest. Important warning: Jakarta's notorious traffic can double travel times during peak hours (7-10 AM, 4-8 PM) - always add 50% buffer.

How to Get from CGK to Menteng by Airport Rail Link & Public Transport

Airport Rail Link to BNI City Station (Then to Menteng)

The Airport Rail Link (ARL) from Soekarno-Hatta to BNI City Station takes 45-55 minutes and costs 70,000 IDR ($4.50). Trains run every 30 minutes from approximately 5:00 AM to 8:00-9:00 PM (check current schedule). From BNI City Station, you need additional transport to Menteng: Blue Bird taxi (15-30 minutes, 40,000-80,000 IDR/$2.60-5.25) or TransJakarta bus (20-40 minutes, 3,500 IDR/$0.25). Major limitation: Last train departure is early (8-9 PM), making it useless for late arrivals.

A common example of a real-life mistake

You arrive at 8:30 PM, thinking you can take the Airport Rail Link to save money. You follow signs to the station, buy a ticket, and wait. At 8:45 PM, an announcement says the last train has left. The DAMRI bus counter is closed. You're now forced to find a taxi in the chaotic arrival hall, dealing with aggressive touts while tired. You end up paying 350,000 IDR ($23) for what should have been 200,000 IDR ($13), losing both money and an hour. This happens nightly.

TransJakarta Bus from BNI City to Menteng

From BNI City Station, you can take TransJakarta bus corridors 1 or 6 toward Monas/Harmoni, then walk or take a short Gojek/Grab bike (ojek) to your final Menteng location. TransJakarta costs 3,500 IDR ($0.25) with electronic card. Critical warning: Not suitable with luggage larger than a backpack. Buses are often crowded, and Menteng stations may require walking on busy roads without sidewalks. Many tourists attempt this but regret it with suitcases.

Jakarta MRT from BNI City? Not Direct to Menteng

While Jakarta now has an MRT system, it doesn't directly serve Menteng. From BNI City, you could walk 10 minutes to Dukuh Atas MRT station, take MRT to Bundaran HI station (near Menteng's southern edge), then walk 15-20 minutes or take ojek. Total: 80,000-90,000 IDR ($5.25-5.90) and 60-75 minutes. I don't actually recommend this route unless you're familiar with Jakarta and traveling light during rush hour when taxis are stuck in traffic.

CGK to Menteng by DAMRI Airport Bus

The DAMRI airport bus from Soekarno-Hatta to Gambir Station is arguably better for Menteng than the train, as Gambir is closer to central Menteng. Buses run approximately every 30-60 minutes from 3:00 AM to 10:00-11:00 PM (varies by route). Travel time is officially 60-75 minutes but realistically 60-120 minutes due to Jakarta's unpredictable traffic. Cost is 40,000 IDR ($2.60). From Gambir Station, take a Blue Bird taxi or Grab (5-15 minutes, 20,000-40,000 IDR/$1.30-2.60) to your Menteng destination.

DAMRI Bus from CGK to Gambir Station: Key Details

• Bus Routes: DAMRI to Gambir Station (closest to Menteng), also buses to other Jakarta areas
• Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes depending on traffic and time of day
• Operating Hours: Approximately 3:00 AM - 11:00 PM (confirm current schedule)
• Luggage: Storage under bus (2 pieces typically included)
• Payment: Cash (IDR) at DAMRI counter in arrival hall
• Travel Time Reality: Official: 60-75 minutes. Realistic: 60-120 minutes. Friday afternoon: 90-150 minutes
• Drop-off: Gambir Station (Central Jakarta), then 5-15 minute taxi to most Menteng locations

Why Choose DAMRI Bus to Gambir for Menteng?

The DAMRI bus to Gambir Station makes sense if: 1) You arrive during daytime (before 8 PM), 2) You have manageable luggage (fits under bus), 3) You're on a tight budget, 4) You don't mind unpredictable travel time. Gambir Station is closer to Menteng than BNI City Station. However, during Friday afternoon or rainy season, the bus can take 2+ hours in traffic. The internet says DAMRI is reliable, but that's only true if you have flexible time.

Bus vs Train to Menteng: The Real Comparison

Airport Rail Link advantages: Predictable timing (45-55 minutes regardless of traffic), air-conditioned comfort, more frequent (every 30 minutes). DAMRI Bus advantages: Cheaper (40,000 vs 70,000+ IDR), drops you closer to Menteng (Gambir vs BNI City), under-bus luggage storage. Critical factor: Time of day. During Jakarta's notorious rush hour (7-10 AM, 4-8 PM), the train is 60-90 minutes faster. During light traffic, difference is minimal.

Taxi, Grab & Private Transfer from CGK to Menteng

Taxi from Soekarno-Hatta to Menteng

Taking a taxi from CGK Airport to Menteng is the most straightforward option. Blue Bird taxis (light blue) are most reliable with meters. Travel time ranges from 45 minutes (late night, no traffic) to 120+ minutes (Friday afternoon, rainy season). Taxi cost ranges from 200,000 to 350,000 IDR ($13-23) including tolls (approx 30,000-50,000 IDR/$2-3.25). Always insist on meter ("argo") or agree on price beforehand. Avoid touts offering fixed prices - they're typically 50-100% higher.

Grab & Gojek from CGK to Menteng

Grab and Gojek are ride-hailing apps widely used in Jakarta. They have designated pickup zones at all terminals. GrabCar prices range from 200,000 to 350,000 IDR ($13-23) depending on traffic and time. GrabCar 6 (larger vehicle) costs 250,000-400,000 IDR ($16-26). Important: Book AFTER you clear immigration and have your luggage, as drivers wait limited time. Late night surcharge applies after 10 PM. This is often cheaper and more reliable than regular taxis.

Private Transfer from CGK to Menteng

Pre-booked private transfers cost 300,000 to 500,000 IDR ($20-33) for standard sedan, more for vans. Driver meets you with sign at arrivals. Best for: Late arrivals, families, groups of 3-4 with luggage, first-time visitors, or business travelers. Fixed price means no surprise meter increases. Many hotels offer airport transfer at 400,000-600,000 IDR ($26-39) - often worth it for convenience.

Is a Taxi/Grab Worth It to Menteng?

For solo travelers with backpack: Probably not (bus/train 40,000-70,000 IDR vs taxi 200,000+ IDR). For 2 people with luggage: Usually yes (100,000 IDR each vs 40,000 IDR bus). For 3-4 people: Absolutely (50,000-75,000 IDR each, door-to-door). For late night arrivals (after 10 PM): Taxi/Grab is the only practical option. During Friday afternoon traffic jam: Consider train instead, even with transfers.

CGK Airport to Menteng Route Map & Jakarta Traffic Patterns

The map below shows the travel routes from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) to Menteng, Central Jakarta. The Airport Rail Link follows a dedicated rail line to BNI City Station. Road routes for buses/taxis follow the Jakarta-Merak Toll Road and inner city roads, all subject to Jakarta's infamous traffic congestion.

View the route on Google Maps: View route from CGK Airport to Menteng on Google Maps

The distance from CGK Airport to Menteng is approximately 30 km (19 miles) but travel time varies wildly: 45 minutes (2 AM, no traffic) to 150 minutes (Friday 5 PM, rainy season). The Airport Rail Link distance is 35 km but fixed 45-55 minute schedule. Critical traffic periods: Weekdays 7-10 AM, 4-8 PM; Friday afternoon (all afternoon); Sunday evening; Rainy season (Nov-Mar) adds 30-60 minutes.

Complete Train & Bus Stop List: CGK Airport to Menteng

Airport Rail Link (ARL) Stops

The Airport Rail Link makes these stops from CGK to BNI City Station:

1. Soekarno-Hatta Terminal 1 Station (Departure point)
2. Soekarno-Hatta Terminal 2 Station (5 minutes from T1)
3. Soekarno-Hatta Terminal 3 Station (8 minutes from T1)
4. Batu Ceper Station (Local station, 15 minutes from T1)
5. Duri Station (Transfer point for other trains, 25 minutes from T1)
6. Tanah Abang Station (Major station, 35 minutes from T1)
7. Sudirman Baru Station (Also called BNI City Station, 45-55 minutes from T1 - YOUR STOP for Menteng)

Important: All trains stop at all stations. No express service. Frequency: Every 30 minutes. Operating hours: Approximately 5:00 AM to 8:00-9:00 PM (verify current schedule).

DAMRI Bus Route to Gambir Station

The DAMRI bus from CGK to Gambir Station is direct with no intermediate stops. However, the route passes through:

• Airport Perimeter Road (5-10 minutes)
• Jakarta-Merak Toll Road (20-60 minutes depending on traffic)
• Tomang Toll Road / Grogol Area (10-30 minutes, frequent congestion)
• Central Jakarta Streets to Gambir Station (5-20 minutes)

Note: Some DAMRI buses continue past Gambir to other destinations - confirm "Gambir" is displayed.

From BNI City or Gambir to Your Menteng Location

Menteng is a large area. From your arrival point, you'll need additional transport:

• From BNI City Station (ARL terminus): 4-7 km to most Menteng locations. Taxi: 15-30 minutes, 40,000-80,000 IDR ($2.60-5.25). TransJakarta: Corridor 1 to Monas, then walk/ojek.
• From Gambir Station (DAMRI bus): 1-4 km to most Menteng locations. Taxi: 5-15 minutes, 20,000-40,000 IDR ($1.30-2.60). Walk possible for some locations (10-25 minutes).
• Menteng Key Areas: Menteng Park/Thamrin (south), Gondangdia (central), Cikini (east), each with different access.

CGK to Menteng: Ticketing, Costs & Payment Methods

CGK Airport Train Ticket to BNI City Station

Airport Rail Link tickets cost 70,000 IDR ($4.50) one-way. Purchase at airport station counters or vending machines (cash/card). Operating hours: Approximately 5:00 AM to 8:00-9:00 PM (verify). Last train warning: Last departure from CGK is early (8-9 PM) - many travelers get stranded. Trains are often crowded during peak hours (4-7 PM) - be prepared to stand.

Payment Methods: Cash, Cards, Apps

• Airport Rail Link: Cash (IDR) or debit/credit card at counter/machine
• DAMRI Bus: Cash (IDR) only at DAMRI counter in arrival hall
• Blue Bird Taxi: Cash (IDR) preferred; some accept credit card with 3-5% fee
• Grab/Gojek: Credit card in app or cash (IDR)
• TransJakarta: Electronic card only (buy at station for 40,000 IDR including balance)
• General tip: Always carry 100,000-500,000 IDR ($6.50-33) in small bills (20,000, 50,000 notes)

Scenario-Based Guide: Which Option When?

By Arrival Time

Early Morning (5-7 AM): DAMRI bus (first bus ~3 AM) or taxi/Grab. Light traffic, 45-60 minute travel. Morning Rush (7-10 AM): Airport Rail Link recommended (avoids traffic). Taxi will be stuck. Daytime (10 AM-3 PM): All options similar. Taxi 60-90 mins, train+bus 70-100 mins. Evening Rush (4-8 PM): Airport Rail Link ONLY. Road options will take 90-150 minutes. Late Night (9 PM-5 AM): Taxi, Grab, or pre-booked transfer ONLY. Last train 8-9 PM, last bus 10-11 PM.

By Traveler Type

Solo traveler with backpack: Airport Rail Link + TransJakarta (cheapest) or Grab bike (Gojek/Grab motorcycle, 80,000-150,000 IDR/$5.25-9.75). Couple with 1 suitcase each: GrabCar or Blue Bird taxi (split cost). Family with kids (2+2): Pre-booked private transfer or GrabCar 6. Business traveler with laptop: Blue Bird taxi or Grab (door-to-door, receipt available). Elderly/disabled travelers: Pre-booked transfer with assistance. Group of 3-4 with luggage: Taxi van or pre-booked van transfer.

By Luggage Situation

Backpack only: All options possible. Cheapest: Airport Rail Link + TransJakarta. 1 medium suitcase: DAMRI bus (under-bus storage) or taxi. Train possible but crowded during rush. 2+ suitcases or large bags: Taxi/Grab/private transfer ONLY. Oversized/sports equipment: Pre-booked van transfer. Important: Menteng has narrow streets; large suitcases difficult on sidewalks.

By Budget

Ultra-budget (under 100,000 IDR/$6.50): DAMRI bus + walk (if hotel near Gambir) or Airport Rail Link + TransJakarta. Budget (100,000-200,000 IDR/$6.50-13): DAMRI bus + taxi or Airport Rail Link + taxi. Standard (200,000-350,000 IDR/$13-23): Blue Bird taxi or Grab. Premium (350,000-600,000 IDR/$23-39): Pre-booked private transfer or hotel transfer.

Weather & Special Conditions

Rainy season (Nov-Mar): Add 30-60 minutes to all road travel. Taxi/Grab prices surge. Train unaffected. Friday prayer time (12-2 PM Fridays): Traffic increases around mosques. Add 30 minutes. Indonesian holidays: Traffic lighter in Jakarta but heavier on toll roads. Ramadan: Traffic patterns change; afternoon rush starts earlier (2-3 PM).

Real Traveler Experience: Getting to Menteng from CGK

Getting from Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Menteng tests your Jakarta navigation skills immediately. The Airport Rail Link seems ideal on paper but has critical limitations: last train too early (8-9 PM), BNI City Station is not actually in Menteng (requires additional 15-30 minute taxi), and with luggage it's cumbersome. DAMRI bus to Gambir Station gets you closer to Menteng but subjects you to Jakarta's legendary traffic - what should be 60 minutes becomes 120+ minutes on Friday afternoon. First-time visitors often underestimate the traffic and choose wrong. I've seen tourists with large suitcases struggling on TransJakarta after the train - it's not pretty. Late night arrivals find limited options and often pay premium for taxis. Menteng itself is walkable but arriving tired with luggage after public transport is challenging. The area is upscale with good hotels, but access roads are often congested. Pro tip: If your hotel is in southern Menteng near Thamrin, you're closer to BNI City. If in northern Menteng near Gondangdia, you're closer to Gambir.

The internet says Airport Rail Link is the best option, but that's only true if...

...you arrive between 9 AM and 6 PM, have only a backpack, don't mind a 15-30 minute taxi after the train, and your final destination is in southern Menteng. For everyone else - families, those with suitcases, late arrivals, or those going to northern Menteng - DAMRI bus or taxi is often better. Many blogs written by backpackers don't mention that the "convenient" train still leaves you 4-7 km from most Menteng hotels with no direct public transport connection.

A common mistake I see weekly at CGK

A family of four arrives at 8 PM with six suitcases. They follow signs to the Airport Rail Link, dragging all their luggage. They reach the counter to find the last train left at 7:45 PM. The DAMRI counter is closed. They're now exhausted, with tired kids, in the crowded arrival hall with aggressive taxi touts quoting 600,000 IDR ($39) for a ride that should cost 300,000 IDR ($20). They spend 30 minutes negotiating, finally pay 500,000 IDR ($33), and reach their hotel 2 hours after landing instead of 1 hour. This happens daily. Book a transfer if arriving after 7 PM.

Jakarta-Specific Tips & Traffic Survival Guide

• With luggage: Taxi/Grab/private transfer recommended. Airport Rail Link has luggage racks but crowded. DAMRI bus has under-bus storage. Menteng sidewalks uneven - wheeled suitcases struggle.
• First-time visitor tip: Pre-book private transfer or take Blue Bird taxi. Don't navigate public transport with jetlag and luggage.
• Late night travel (10 PM-5 AM): Last Airport Rail Link 8-9 PM. Last DAMRI bus 10-11 PM. Options after: taxi, Grab, pre-booked transfer. Blue Bird taxi counter operates 24/7.
• Early morning arrivals (before 5 AM): First DAMRI bus ~3 AM. First Airport Rail Link ~5 AM. Taxis available 24/7. Early morning (3-6 AM) has lightest traffic (45-60 minutes).
• With kids: Pre-booked transfer with car seats (specify when booking). Taxis don't have car seats. Airport Rail Link + taxi with kids is challenging.
• Cost-saving tip: DAMRI bus (40,000 IDR) + short walk if hotel near Gambir. Or Grab bike (ojek) if solo with backpack (80,000-150,000 IDR).
• Time-saving tip: Airport Rail Link is only option with predictable timing (45-55 minutes). All road options vary wildly with traffic.
• Friday afternoon/Sunday evening: Worst traffic of week. Allow 2-3 hours for road options. Train is 60-90 minutes faster.
• Rainy season (Nov-Mar): Traffic doubles. Add 50-100% to road travel times. Flooding can block some routes.
• Group travel: 3-4 people: Taxi van or GrabCar 6. 4+ people: Pre-booked van transfer. More cost-effective than multiple taxis.
• Buying tickets: Airport Rail Link at station counters/vending machines. DAMRI at arrival hall counters. Have small IDR bills ready.
• Hotel location specifics: Southern Menteng (near Thamrin): closer to BNI City Station. Northern Menteng (Gondangdia): closer to Gambir Station. Confirm with hotel.
• Return trip to CGK: From Menteng to airport, allow 2-3 hours before flight for road options, 2.5 hours for train (includes transfer time). Friday afternoons: allow 3+ hours.
• Mobile apps: Download before arrival: Grab (transport), Gojek (transport/food), Google Maps (traffic), JakLingko (public transport info).
• Money: Withdraw 1,000,000+ IDR ($65+) at airport ATM. Taxis don't accept large 100,000 IDR bills early in trip. Get smaller 20,000, 50,000 notes.
• Safety: Menteng is safe but be alert. Use Blue Bird taxis or Grab/Gojek. Avoid unmarked taxis. Keep valuables secure on public transport.
• Language: Have your destination address written in Indonesian. Many drivers speak limited English. "Menteng" is widely understood.
• Peak traffic hours: Morning 7-10 AM, Evening 4-8 PM, Friday all afternoon, Sunday evening. Add 50-100% to travel time estimates.

Frequently Asked Questions: CGK Airport to Menteng, Central Jakarta