When it comes to Indonesia, few make it past the top travel destinations of Bali and Jakarta. However, the off-the-beaten-path city of Bandung—Indonesia’s third largest city—is one not to be missed with jaw-dropping natural beauty and cooler year-round temperatures.
Come alone or with the family and, with a wealth of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
The following are 4 reasons you should visit Bandung Indonesia:
The Scenery
Bandung’s setting amongst lush volcanic mountains offers visitors some of the most impressive natural beauty around. One such area is that of Dago Pakar and its two parks, Taman Hutan Raya and Taman Wisata Maribaya.
Just north of the city centre you can find these parks with their beautiful waterfalls, natural hot springs, cliffs with stunning panoramic views, and over 2,500 species of native fauna.
Expect amazing sunsets like this one!
Another unique locale is Kawah Putih, a captivating crater lake formed long ago by volcanic eruption. The crystal blue waters and white sands of Kawah Putih went unexplored for centuries due to the mysterious nature of the area and associated legends. The mystical spot now welcomes many visitors, mostly local, via a pathway through the heavily forested area.
Family Fun
Bandung isn’t only for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers; there is a wealth of unique activities fun for the entire family. A great start would be a stop at the Deer Conservation Park at Ranca Upas.
Family members of all ages will enjoy visiting with the site’s many deer residents and hand-feeding the friendly creatures.
For more animal enjoyment a visit to the miniature zoo atop the Paris Van Java shopping mall would delight everyone.
After a day of shopping, take time to learn about the many species of tropical birds, sheep, goats, cows, and other farm animals then take your turn with feedings.
For more adventure, try your hand at paintball and hiking at the Lodge Earthbound Adventure Park, then head to Trans Studio Bandung and ride one of Asia’s fastest roller coasters.
This, one of the world’s largest indoor theme parks, also has a science centre and a variety of live shows. You can find hotels here making this a great base location for your trip to Bandung and with accommodations like the Trans Luxury Hotel you’re sure to have a holiday you’ll never forget.
Cultural Activities
One of Bandung’s most popular attractions is the area’s geology museum. Right in the heart of the city you can learn about Bandung’s natural history through exhibits showcasing fossils, replica dinosaur skeletons and footprints, and the most complete Homo Erectus skull ever found.
Friendly locals and cultural activities: Indonesia is loved for both
For art lovers, the galleries of the Sunaryo and the Lawang Wangi Café and Art Space will be a treat.
At the Lawangi Wangi Café and Art Space you can enjoy four art galleries high up in the mountains. Take in the art and enjoy the 200° panorama deck for views of the surrounding mountains and city lights.
For a different kind of art appreciation, the Saung Angklung Udjo will teach you the art of Angklung making—a musical instrument made from Bamboo—and present to you some traditional dance.
So Much Variety
There are so many activities for visitors to Bandung that the list is almost endless. For instance, De’Ranch offers visitors a chance to become a cowboy with authentic dress, horseback riding and other activities such as archery and searching for gold.
Enjoying the beautiful sunshine during our last trip to Indonesia
The Bosscha Observatory offers incredible views of planets and the night sky and, if you time it right, breath-taking meteor showers.
And if it’s shopping you’re after, the floating markets of Lembang and the Cihampelas Walk are a must. Cihampelas Walk is an open-air shopping experience offering retail stores as well as cafés and restaurants while the floating markets of Lembang are comprised of a wide selection of Indonesian foods served from boats on a beautiful lake.
Whatever kind of holiday you are after, Bandung, Indonesia has what you are looking for. If you seek family fun, education, shopping, or outdoor adventure, Bandung should be next on your list. It’s definitely a stop that we want to visit in Indonesia!