Jambi, IO – Jambi is one of the three cities that shares the same name as its province. Jambi was known as part of the East Sumatra region, which eventually merged and was designated its own province in 1957.
Covering an area of 205 square kilometers, the capital city of Jambi can be explored in less than 24 hours. The 621st anniversary of Jambi City will fall on May 28; at more than 6 centuries of age, its story is still clearly imprinted in its ancient architecture and even in certain modern spots. The ancient and modern parts of Jambi add color to the city, with the Batanghari River, the longest in Sumatra, skimming its northern boundary.
Independent Observer will suggest several recommended tourist destinations you should not miss as your quick getaway in Jambi. Happy exploring and you’ll be amazed!
Gentala Arasy
Gentala Arasy is an 80-meter high clock tower located in the Arab Melayu Village, Pelawangan, Jambi City. A museum representing Jambi culture, rooted in Islam, is sited right below the clock tower. There are about 100 collections of Jambi history in the museum, donated by local scholars or the from private collections. A mini-cinema playing video shows on Jambi’s culture is also presented in the museum.
Note its short operational hours: Gentala Arasy is only open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mondays to Fridays, and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. only on Saturdays and Sundays.
The clock tower is connected to an iconic pedestrian bridge that stretches across the Batanghari River. The Gentala Arasy Bridge connects the Edge of Tanggo Rajo, the former old pier of Jambi City, to the Jambi City of Seberang, the Arab villages.
The Gentala Arasy Bridge, with its S-shaped contour, is about 503 meters long and 4.5 meters wide, and was inaugurated in March 2015 by the former Vice President Jusuf Kalla.
At night, the Gentala Arasy bridge offers an interesting play of light, a special impression for all the visitors. The locals usually sit and eat by the Batanghari riverside snack center, just below the Edge of Tanggo Rajo, to enjoy Gentala Throne in a different light.