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If you ever find yourself in Indonesia, don't forget to stop by Bandung. As the capital of the West Java province, the city draws in thousands of tourists each year. The metropolitan area, known as Greater Bandung, is the third-largest in the country with more than 8.5 million residents. There are plenty of things to do in Bandung, each one as exciting and unique as the last. If you plan to visit this beautiful city, here are 15 of the best activities you can do in Bandung Indonesia.
Admire The Rainbow Garden
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Photo by Agustinus Dimas from Flickr[/caption]
The Rainbow Garden, also known as Bandung Flower Garden, is the perfect place for couples or romantics at heart. True to its name, this tourist attraction is riddled with fields upon fields of different flowers, all colorful and vibrant, lined up to resemble a bright rainbow.
Frolic around with your friends, alone, or with your partner. It's a great location for Instagram photos or for those who are just looking to stroll around and admire the beauty of flowers. Entrance to the Rainbow Garden is affordable, which is a bargain considering what you're getting in exchange. Plus, the fee comes with a free drink — perfect on hot days.
The Rainbow Garden is located at Lembang, West Bandung Regency, West Java 40391, Indonesia, right next to the famous Lembang Floating Market.
2.
Climb Tebing Gunung Hawu
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Photo by Ocyid X on WikiCommons[/caption]
Head to Tebing Gunung Hawu and climb the towering limestone peaks. In between these hills are broad chasms where hammocks hang on slacklines at the ready, giving tourists an opportunity to wind down after a long hike.
What makes this experience even more alluring is the scenic views of the city of Bandung. From atop high peaks, you'll appreciate its beauty even more. Pro tip: head to Tebing Gunung Hawu at the crack of dawn to catch the sunrise for a magical experience you won't soon forget.
Tebing Gunung Hawu is located in Padalarang, West Bandung Regency, West Java 40553, Indonesia.
3.
Dine At Dusun Bambu
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Photo by boshakti from Pixabay[/caption]
Dusun Bambu is a family leisure park at the foot of a large mountain. A towering bamboo structure marks the entrance, and whimsical floral shuttles can take you everywhere. You can also walk to enjoy scenic vistas, but the park is very big, so you may become tired.
The park itself is a tourist attraction, with several popular restaurants inside. The best is Cafe Burangrang. With its tied glass form, diners enjoy rich meals made with fresh Indonesian spices while admiring the man-made lake below.
Dusun Bambu is located at Jl. Kolonel Masturi No.KM, Kertawangi, Kec. Cisarua, Kabupaten Bandung Barat, Jawa Barat 40551, Indonesia.
4.
Dine At Kampung Daun
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Photo by Chen Wu on Flickr[/caption]
If you had lunch at Cafe Burangrang in Dusun Bambu, save room for dinner at Kampung Daun. Guests enjoy meals in private dining huts in a nature-filled location, with lush foliage and the sound of waterfalls nearby.
No trip to Indonesia would be complete without trying local cuisine. Here, tourists can sample authentic Indonesian food made with Indonesian spices. To make the experience genuine, listen to Indonesian music while eating. You may even catch a cultural show. Plus, Kampung Daun is vegetarian-friendly.
Kampung Daun is located at Perumahan Villa Triniti Blok RR1 Jl. Sersan Bajuri No.88 Km.4,7, Cihideung, Kec. Parongpong, Kabupaten Bandung Barat, Jawa Barat 40154, Indonesia.
5.
Drop By Kawah Putih
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Photo by Adobe Stock[/caption]
Kawah Putih, also known as White Crater, is a volcanic crater lake in Bandung, Indonesia. The turquoise water is magical, and the surrounding trees look like they came from a storybook. Kawah Putih sits about 50 km south of Bandung; the journey is well worth it. Time your visit to avoid the many tourists, especially on weekends. Kawah Putih is located in Sugihmukti, Pasirjambu, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia.
6.
Feel Young Again At Kota Mini
If you want to relive your youth, the European-inspired town of Kota Mini is the place to be. Kota Mini was intentionally built for children, but whimsical adults and the young-at-heart will also enjoy this miniature town. The houses are meant to be smaller, but their tiny size only adds to their charm. The cobblestone streets are also lined by fences, with phone booths and benches dotting the path.
Spend an entire afternoon getting lost in this wonderful destination, filled with perfect photo opportunities and amusing rooms to explore. If you're in dire need of a pick-me-up, a visit to this bright and vibrant town is sure to liven your spirits in an instant. The entrance is affordable, so you're definitely in for a bargain.
Kota Mini is located at Lembang, West Bandung Regency, West Java 40391, Indonesia.
7.
Get Lost In Maribaya
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© Photo by Aidya F from Unsplash[/caption]
Situated in the outskirts of Bandung, Maribaya is home to an adventure theme park (The Lodge) and a nature park (Taman Wisata Maribaya). Also known as Maribaya Tourist Park, it boasts scenic views and activities for nature lovers. Walk or exercise along paths through the forest, and cross bridges over waterfalls.
Thrill-seekers will enjoy The Lodge Maribaya, with zip bikes, sky wings, and a mountain swing. The area is also the best place to go glamping in Bandung.
Taman Wisata Maribaya is located at Jalan Maribaya Babakan Gentong, Lembang 40391, Indonesia.
Go On An Off-Road Trip
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© Photo by Devitapra on WikiCommons[/caption]
If you've never been off-roading before, why not start in Bandung, Indonesia? Gather your friends or family and head to the Bandung countryside, where mountainous regions are just waiting to be explored via an open landrover. You'll pass by vistas of tea plantations, muddy terrain, and puddles of rainwater along the way. Don't forget to take pictures of the forest you'll be passing through as well.
Off-roading in Bandung is a great adventure for both experienced off-roaders and the uninitiated. There are several travel companies that offer the experience, so do your research and take your pick wisely. Some, like the Bandung Off-Road, even organize pit stops where travelers can take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee in the mountains.
Be warned, though. Not everyone should go on an off-roading trip. People with back problems or spinal injuries should skip this item, as it can be really tough on the back.
Immerse Yourself In Sundanese Culture at Komunitas Hong
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© Photo by Gunawan Kartapranata on WikiCommons[/caption]
The Sundanese people are native to West Java. Visit Komunitas Hong, a family-friendly center where you can learn about Sundanese culture, traditions, and folklore. You'll find games and toys made of bamboo enjoyed by Sundanese children, designed for groups of at least two people. While sightseeing and shopping are great in Bandung, immersing yourself in local culture is a shared experience you won't soon forget.
The Hong Community is located at Jl. Bukit Pakar Utara No.31, Ciburial, Kec. Cimenyan, Bandung, Jawa Barat 40198, Indonesia.
10.
Stop By The Bandung Zoological Gardens
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© Photo by Helene Nguyen from Unsplash[/caption]
The Bandung Zoological Gardens, also known locally as Kebun Binatang Bandung, is a home for animals dating back to 1933. This zoo was established by merging two separate zoos, the Cimindi Zoo and Dago Atas Zoo. Now, it stands as a testament of time and nature. While not as impressive as other zoos, Bandung Zoo has some gems.
You'll find a wide range of animals here, including lions, alligators, turtles, snakes, monkeys, zebras, hippos, peacocks, tigers, and camels. There are several types of birds as well. Children will love exploring the many corners of this zoo. The entrance fee is relatively cheap compared to admissions in other zoos.
The Bandung Zoological Gardens is located at Jl. Kebun Binatang no. 6, Taman Sari, Bandung, Indonesia.
Visit One Of Many Tea Fields
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© Photo by ariftsm from Pixabay[/caption]
Although Indonesia is located in Southeast Asia, Bandung boasts a cool climate thanks to its strategic placement in the mountains. Due to its overall cooler temperatures, Bandung makes for a great location to plant tea leaves. This is why the city is home to a smorgasbord of tea fields and plantations. Take your pick, wander around, and get lost in the bevy of tea fields in the area.
Don't worry about potentially damaging the plants. There are pathways in between for people to walk on — clearly, the tea fields here welcome so many visitors that trails are now necessary. You don't even have to shell out any money, as visiting these plantations is largely free of charge.
If you're too lazy to organize your own trip and would rather pay for a tour guide, there are many travel agencies that offer tours of the different tea plantations in North Bandung. Some of them even include samples of the tea. And nothing beats sipping warm tea on a cool morning in Bandung Indonesia!
12.
Visit Tangkuban Perahu
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© Photo by Danial Shah from Unsplash[/caption]
Around 30 km north of Bandung lies Tangkuban Perahu, an active volcano with a live crater. You can drive all the way into the crater itself. Expect serious heat and white smoke emanating from the ground.
Legend has it that a strong young man fell in love with his mother. Distraught, the mother challenged her son to build an enormous boat in a single night. Fearing he would finish, she prayed for an early sunrise. Defeated, the son kicked the boat, giving Tangkuban Perahu, meaning "overturned boat," its iconic shape.
A car ride takes about 2 hours. You can rent a moped or pay for an organized tour.
Tangkuban Perahu is located at Cikahuripan, Lembang, West Bandung Regency, West Java, Indonesia.
13.
Visit The Lembang Floating Market
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© Photo by Ya, saya inBaliTimur from Flickr[/caption]
Another countryside destination in Bandung is the Lembang Floating Market. If you've ever been to the floating markets in Bangkok, this one is somewhat similar, except it's smaller. Since it's situated in the Bandung countryside, you'll have to take a drive or ride a moped to get there.
This floating market sells authentic local dishes and snacks for cheap. Travelers on a tight budget can head to this attraction for a full-course meal for less. Explore the many vendors on wooden boats. You can do so on foot by strolling around the boardwalk, where food stalls are also accessible, or you can rent out a boat and cruise down as you munch on Indonesian food. There is an entrance fee, but it comes with a complimentary drink. The Lembang Floating Market is located at Jl. Grand Hotel No.33E, Lembang, Kabupaten Bandung Barat, Jawa Barat 40391, Indonesia.
14.
Watch A Saung Angklung Udjo Show
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© Photo by Gunawan Midori on WikiCommons[/caption]
The Angklung is a traditional Sundanese instrument made of bamboo, each producing one note to create a full orchestra when played together. Tourists seeking traditional music head to Saung Angklung Udjo, where a museum and evening concerts await.
The performance opens with a shadow puppet show, a vital part of Indonesian culture. Local children then sing and dance before a full angklung concert begins. The interactive show lets the audience play the angklung to create a full orchestra. If you've heard "music brings people together," you'll see it come alive in Bandung, Indonesia.
Saung Angklung Udjo is located at Jl. Padasuka 118, Bandung 40192, Indonesia.
15.
Watch The Sunset At Tebing Keraton
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© Photo by Agustinus Dimas from Flickr[/caption]
Also known as Keraton Cliff or the Royal Cliff, Tebing Keraton is the best place to watch the sunset or sunrise either alone or with someone special. It offers picturesque views of the city and devastatingly beautiful peaks.
Apart from catching the sunrise and sunset from atop the cliff, you can also cycle around this misty spot, though steep climbs test your strength and endurance. For breakfast, stop by Bubur Gowes, a stall selling delicious bubur (rice porridge) popular among cyclists. Pack a light jacket as early mornings can be chilly.
Getting to Tebing Keraton takes more than a simple drive. After parking in the lot, you must rent a motorbike taxi or Gojek, which costs about $3 to $4 both ways. The total distance from the lot to the cliff and back is around 3 km.
Tebing Keraton is located at Bukit Dago Pakar, Bandung 40198, Indonesia.
What To Do In Bandung At Night?
While Bandung is breathtaking no matter the time, the city has an active nightlife. Tourists can experience parties at clubs like Southbank, Malmo, and Sobbers. If you prefer singing over dancing, try one of the many karaoke places. To watch live music, head to bars like Troy's, La Baraga, Little Collins, or Holywings.
Sample local beer at the Beer Garden in Taman Sari. Not a beer fan? Eat street food instead—at night, vendors sell all kinds of dishes late into the night. For something relaxing after a tiring day, visit a night spa in Bandung Indonesia.
Where To Stay In Bandung Indonesia?
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© Photo from official Padma Hotel Bandung Facebook page[/caption]
There are a number of options for accommodations in Bandung Indonesia. For first-time visitors, the neighborhood of Bandung Wetan at the city center is ideal. Budget travelers can choose from hostels like Ostel by Ostic. Fancier hotels include the Padma Hotel Bandung, Summer Hills Hotel & Villas, Four Points by Sheraton Bandung, Crowne Plaza Bandung, and Mercure Hotel Bandung.
For unique stays, try artsy hotels in West Java with Instagram-worthy backgrounds. Book the luxurious Art Deco, the minimalist Beehive Hotel, or the Victorian-inspired Cottonwood Bed & Breakfast with themed rooms. Other options include the Noor Hotel, Kollektiv Hotel, and the Breeze Bandung.
What To Shop In Bandung Indonesia?
Tourists love to shop in Bandung for competitive prices and vast selections—clothes, jewelry, food, and local souvenirs. Markets and branded outlets abound. Shopping malls include Click Square, Trans Studio Mall, and Bandung Indah Plaza. Budget shoppers find local apparel at Pasar Baru Trade Center and high-quality leather shoes at Cibaduyut. For jeans, Gang Tamim is the best place.
How Long Is The Train From Jakarta To Bandung Indonesia?
Travelers visiting Indonesia for the first time likely want to stop by as many cities as they can. In Java region, begin your itinerary in Jakarta before heading to Bandung and then Surabaya, with your last stop being the province of Bali. However, for many travelers, the itinerary isn't the problem — it's the transportation. Getting from one destination to another is a challenging task when you're a foreigner.
If you're coming from Jakarta, ride a train to get to Bandung. The distance between these two cities is about 150 km, so expect a long journey. The duration of your train ride depends on which station you'll be coming from in Jakarta. Train rides from Gambir Station usually last about 3 hours, while the ones from Pasar Senen take about 4 hours. Make sure to check the schedule of the train, though, as they leave at different times during the day.
What Is Bandung Famous For?
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© Photo by a1phys on WikiCommons[/caption]
Bandung is famous for its fashion scene, earning the nickname Paris of Java. Visitors shop at its many malls and markets. The city also offers nature and hot springs, with parks like Dusun Bambu and several hot spring resorts. Local Indonesian cuisine is a draw, with options for meat-eaters and vegetarians. Bandung blends nature and urban life.
What Language Is Spoken In Indonesia?
Many people mistake Indonesia for India and incorrectly believe the language spoken is Indian. In truth, the language spoken is Indonesian. The official language is Bahasa Indonesia. There are also more than 300 different native languages spoken in various parts of the country.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Bandung Indonesia?
The weather in Bandung can be quite fickle, so it's important to time your visit well. Generally, the best time to visit Bandung Indonesia is between June and September, which is the dry season. Some tourists dislike traveling during the summer because of the hot weather commonly associated with Southeast Asia.
However, these summer months provide the best weather for travelers in Bandung, with sunny days and the perfect temperature experienced all over the city, particularly the countryside. Contrary to popular belief, the summer months in Bandung aren't hot at all. Because it's situated in higher parts of the country, Bandung enjoys cool climates even during the summer.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, there are a lot of things to do and enjoy in Bandung Indonesia. From authentic Indonesian cuisine and beautiful nature parks to endless opportunities for shopping and unique cultural experiences, Bandung is certainly every travel enthusiast's dream destination.
Bandung is not a very well-known city, especially compared to other cities in Indonesia like Jakarta and Bali. However, there's no denying that Bandung belongs among the top destinations in the country. So, what are you waiting for? Satisfy your wanderlust and head to Bandung Indonesia for your next trip abroad!
