Depok & Greater Jakarta offers a rich mix of transport options—each with its own vibe, routes, and use cases. Once you learn how to mix and match them, the city opens up.
From the efficiency of the KRL Commuter Line to the comfort of MRT Jakarta, the flexibility of TransJakarta buses, and the speed of online ride-hailing services—navigating the capital region becomes much easier once you understand how each system connects. Whether you’re a student, a commuter, or a curious explorer, mastering the transport ecosystem can save you time, money, and energy.
Modes Options – Rail-Based System
1. KRL Commuter Line
Let’s start with rail—often the fastest way to beat traffic. The KRL Commuter Line is the workhorse of the region, connecting suburbs like Depok to downtown Jakarta and beyond. From UIII, the nearest station is Pondok Cina, around 15 minutes by motorcycle taxi or car. From there, you can hop on a train toward major hubs like Manggarai, Pasar Senen, or Jakarta Kota. It’s great for daily commuters, especially if you plan to intern or take additional courses in central Jakarta.
2. LRT Jabodebek
Another gem is the LRT Jabodebek, a newer elevated line that connects Cibubur and Harjamukti with the city’s east. This one’s perfect if you want a smooth ride closer to UIII, especially when paired with the BisKita Shuttle, a bus service tailored for last-mile access.
Jakarta’s MRT, while more centralized for now, is ideal when exploring the city center—from Lebak Bulus to Bundaran HI. Clean, fast, and air-conditioned, it’s an experience in itself. Trains run frequently and are a reliable way to beat the traffic. Fares are affordable, starting at around Rp 3,000 and going up to Rp 14,000, depending on the distance. You can pay using an electronic transport card (like JakLingko or e-money cards) or QR-based mobile payments.
Modes Options – Bus System
1. TransJakarta
TransJakarta, the city’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, is one of the largest in the world—and it’s still growing. With its dedicated lanes, you’ll often find yourself gliding past the city’s infamous traffic jams while others are stuck honking away. The buses are regular, cheap, air-conditioned, and reach nearly every corner of Jakarta, from business districts to hidden food havens.
Closer to UIII, you’ll encounter BisKita Trans Depok, a local feeder service designed to connect you to major hubs like LRT stations, as well as important spots around Depok. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done—reliably and affordably. For students navigating life between classes, internships, and weekend hangouts, it’s a solid everyday option that won’t eat into your budget.
And when it’s time to travel further—say, heading home for the holidays or catching a flight for a quick island getaway—DAMRI is your go-to. This state-run shuttle service connects Depok and other areas directly to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK). No more haggling with taxi drivers or nervously refreshing your ride-hailing app. DAMRI buses are comfy, air-conditioned, and run on a regular schedule, making airport trips stress-free and student-approved.
