A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Jakarta for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Khao Lak or Jakarta?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Jakarta can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a serene, laid back, and relaxed area. Many visitors also come to Khao Lak because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Jakarta

Jakarta is a genuine, sprawling, and friendly city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Jakarta travel costs.

Khao Lak and Jakarta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Jakarta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Jakarta. Although Khao Lak and Jakarta are both popular with visitors, Jakarta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Jakarta is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is more touristy than Jakarta and is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Jakarta is popular for its diversity, culture, cuisine, and mega-malls. It is also home to Istiqlal Mosque.

How is Khao Lak different from Jakarta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jakarta and Khao Lak. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Jakarta?

Jakarta is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Jakarta. There's a huge number of museums around town like the National Museum, Museum Layang-Layang, and Museum MACAN. There's also Merdeka Square, which is one of the world's biggest public squares and Istiqlal Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Jakarta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jakarta is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Jakarta makes for a great culinary experience. There are so many different cultures represented in Indonesian cuisine, and you'll find them all in Jakarta. The food stalls, restaurants, and casual eateries all have their own flavor and style, which makes dining in this mega-city a true adventure.

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Khao Lak or Jakarta Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Jakarta has a better nightlife scene.

Khao Lak has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

If you're looking for night time activities Jakarta has a few options to choose from. It's a huge city, so there's a very active nightlife scene, but it's mostly focused on locals and not tourists like you'll find elsewhere in Indonesia. For the best nightlife district, head to Kemang, which has many bars and clubs.

Is Khao Lak or Jakarta Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a great area for its luxury resorts. However, Jakarta is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Jakarta is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Jakarta Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is a great area for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Jakarta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Jakarta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Jakarta Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is terrific for its beaches. However, Jakarta is not a beach destination.

Khao Lak offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Jakarta is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Jakarta?

Jakarta is a great destination for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Jakarta is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with high end luxury malls where you can buy the latest fashions and many international brands. Around town you'll also find everything from local handicrafts to chic boutiques and grand international chains.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Khao Lak. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Khao Lak or Jakarta More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Khao Lak because of it's amazing beauty. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Khao Lak or Jakarta Better for Families?

Khao Lak is a great area for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Khao Lak is a very family-friendly destination. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Jakarta is a family-friendly place to visit. Most visitors skip out on this huge city, and it's definitely not the first place that comes to mind when you think about family-friendly destinations, but there's actually a very fascinating culture that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There's the Kota area, which has colonial architecture. There's also a puppet museum and several history museums. But for most kids, the highlight is a visit to the Taman Impian Jaya Ancol area, which has amusement parks and even SeaWorld.

Is Khao Lak or Jakarta Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is terrific for romance. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Khao Lak is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Jakarta makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most travelers looking for a romantic destination will head to the many famous honeymoon spots in Indonesia. But for those who make their way to Jakarta, there is sure to be a lot of adventure and culture. The city has many great museums as well as nature parks and amusement parks.

Is Khao Lak or Jakarta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak is a great area for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Khao Lak is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Jakarta. Visitors often have strong feelings about this city, whether they love it or hate it. For those backpackers who spend some time here, they're sure to be treated to a look at true Indonesian culture, which is hard to find in the more touristy areas.

Is Khao Lak or Jakarta Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Khao Lak is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Jakarta is not known for its public transit.

While Khao Lak offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Public transit is generally limited in Jakarta. Public transportation has improved a lot recently. There's a commuter line as well as buses. The system can be a bit overwhelming and slow though, so tourists often avoid it.

Is Khao Lak or Jakarta a more walkable city?

Khao Lak and Jakarta both are decent when exploring on foot.

Khao Lak is generally not very walkable. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

Jakarta is generally not a very walkable area. Central Jakarta is more walkable than most of the city but, in general, the city has a lot of traffic and isn't the best for exploring on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Jakarta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jakarta or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Jakarta?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Khao Lak and Jakarta. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Khao Lak than in Jakarta. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 1-3 days is enough time in Jakarta.

Families should spend more time in Khao Lak than Jakarta. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Khao Lak, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Khao Lak than Jakarta. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Khao Lak that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Khao Lak than Jakarta if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Khao Lak.

One day in Khao Lak or Jakarta?

In Khao Lak, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Jakarta is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Jakarta?

In Khao Lak, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Jakarta is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jakarta, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Jakarta?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Khao Lak has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Jakarta is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Jakarta?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. In Khao Lak, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Jakarta is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Indonesia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Khao Lak and Jakarta, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Jakarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Jakarta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jakarta and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Khao Lak would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Khao Lak than you might in Jakarta.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Khao Lak Expensive? and Is Jakarta Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Jakarta?

Jakarta has a larger population, and is about 5020 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Jakarta, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.