Bandung is the capital city of the province of West Java, and is the third largest city in Indonesia, after Jakarta and Surabaya. Geographically, this city is approximately 700 metres above sea-level and surrounded by mountains, earning its nickname the ‘Bandung Basin’. The weather in Bandung is cooler than the coastal cities of Jakarta and Surabaya, due to its cool night time winds. Come with us as we share our pick of the top 12 best things to do in Bandung!
During the period of Dutch colonisation, the Dutch planned to move the capital city of Indonesia from Jakarta (known as Batavia back then) to Bandung, meaning that the city was initially developed in a similar style to European cities. It was also referred to as ‘Parijs Van Java’ (Paris from Java) as well as the ‘Flower City’. Since then, Bandung has grown to incorporate many new and modern malls, office buildings, houses, stores and factories, however traces of some of the old and historical buildings still remain.
Bandung is one of Indonesia’s top vacation destinations and also the centre of Sundanese culture. There are so many things to see and do in this city!
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Tangkuban Perahu
Tangkuban Perahu is an active volcano, situated 30km north of the city of Bandung. It is the only crater in Indonesia which allows you to drive up to its rim. Mount Tangkuban Perahu has a distinctive shape, resembling an overturned boat. Expect to be greeted by sulphur fumes which the crater continues to emit, even though the volcano is not active.
Tangkuban Perahu has played a significant role in the development of the surrounding Parahyangan Highlands, often referred to as the ‘Land Of God’. Its past eruptions contributed to the formation and fertility of the hills north of Bandung thanks to the lava flow carrying large boulders into the valleys, forming huge cliffs, waterfalls and an impressive lake which covers the Bandung plain. Located on the outskirts of Bandung, Tangkuban Perahu Crater is the perfect place to enjoy fresh, cool air and breathtaking scenery. Those looking to relax the mind, body and spirit can take a dip in the nearby Ciater’s Revitalising Hot Springs, for the ultimate rejuvenation sensation!
Desa Ciater, Kabupaten Subang, Provinsi Jawa Barat, Indonesia
Cukul Point
Around a three-hour car ride south of Bandung city is Pangalengan, where you’ll find Cukul Point, a new tourist attraction that is ideal for getting out-and-about in the Great Outdoors! Dubbed one of the best sunrise spots in the Pangalengan area, breathe-in the stunning Instagram-worthy views of the luscious tea plantation spread out before you.
To reach Cukul Point, you need to hike around 2km from the parking area. Don’t worry about getting tired because the scenic route, abundant greenery and refreshing cool air will keep you energised along the way. The entrance fee is very affordable at just IDR 5,000, making it the perfect day-out for adventure-lovers and nature enthusiasts!
Jl. Cukul, Sukaluyu, Kec. Pangalengan, Kabupaten Bandung, Jawa Barat 40378
Curug Malela
Continue your fitness getaway with a refreshing trek to Curug Malela, Bandung’s own version of a mini-Niagara Falls. Curug is the Sundanese word for ‘waterfall’ and the Malela Waterfall is located in the village of Cicadas, West Bandung. Standing at around 60-70m tall, this majestic waterfall features five cascading water-flows. The green beauty of the rice fields, crystal-clear waters and fresh mountain air, are some of the highlights you can enjoy on your trek down to the waterfall. Although the path is quite steep, slippery and challenging, the breathtaking scenery at the waterfall’s base makes the effort totally worthwhile!
Sindangjaya, Gununghalu, West Bandung Regency, West Java
Wana Wisata Jayagiri
Hiking fans can prepare for an exciting outdoor adventure from Wana Wisata Jayagiri to Mount Tangkuban Perahu. Located at Lembang, around 17km from Bandung city, Wana Wisata Jayagiri spans 7-acres of lush pine forest located at the base of one of Bandung’s most iconic volcanoes, Mount Tangkuban Perahu. The fresh cool air and stunning views of the pine forest makes it a hiker’s paradise. The site also boasts a camping ground for those looking to switch-off from the outside world and immerse themselves in nature for a night or two.
Jayagiri, Lembang, West Bandung Regency, West Java 40391
Cikole Lembang
Cikole Lembang, in West Bandung, is a top tourist destination thanks to its numerous natural recreation sites. Among the many places to explore in Cikole is PAL 16, a relatively new tourist attraction which opened in 2016. For a reasonable entrance fee, visitors can enjoy forest bathing (Wisata Hutan Pinus), plus amenities such as gazebos to rest in and hammocks to rent, allowing you to soak-in the stunning natural surroundings. This site opens daily from 8:00am to 6:00pm and is easily accessible due to its strategic location near the main road.
Genteng, Cikole, Lembang, Kabupaten Bandung Barat
Kampung Cai, Ranca Upas
Around 50km, or a 90-minute car ride south of Bandung City, you would find a well-known preservation site called Kampung Cai in Ranca Upas. Spanning hundreds of acres of ground with a variety of captivating flora and fauna, this site offers all you need for a chance to get out in the wilderness, such as camping grounds, deer conservation, outbound activities and natural hot springs.
Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot pools which draws water from the hot springs of Mount Patuha. With two hot pools suitable for adults and children, Kampung Cai is one of Bandung’s most famous hot springs, and with its affordable entrance fee of only IDR 15,000, this is a great way to enjoy the area’s serenity.
Jl. Camp Ranca Upas, Patengan, Kec. Rancabali, Kabupaten Bandung, Jawa Barat 40973
Cipatat Cave
The Cipatat area in Padalarang is home to the remarkable Pawon Cave, an extraordinary archaeological site known for its famous prehistoric human skeleton discoveries! The cave features several large chambers that are relatively well-lit due the sunlight, which is able to enter through openings in the ceiling. One of these fascinating chambers houses an ancient human skull, adding to the cave’s archaeological significance.
Cipatat, Kabupaten Bandung Barat, Jawa Barat 40554
Citatah Cliff
Located at Mount Pawon, Citatah’s famous limestone hill, Stone Garden Citatah, was first discovered and used for mining in the 19th Century. Fossils of coral animals, ancient tools and bone remnants have been discovered here, which adds to its intrigue. During weekends, it’s a popular hotspot for nature lovers and climbers, looking to scale its impressive limestone cliffs.
Pamucatan, Padalarang, Kec. Padalarang, Kabupaten Bandung Barat, Jawa Barat 40553
Dusun Bambu
Dusun Bambu is an open-planned shopping complex set within a forest, complete with a park, shops, apartments and eateries, including the popular Burangrang restaurant. Located on the outskirts of Bandung in Lembang, this is a fantastic area to explore on your visit!
Jl. Kolonel Masturi No.KM. 11, Kertawangi, Kec. Cisarua, Kabupaten Bandung Barat, Jawa Barat 40551
Tebing Hawu
Tebing Gunung Hawu is a must-see for sunrise fans, providing spectacular views of the dawn. You can even witness this breath-taking sight whilst relaxing in a hammock suspended between two cliffs! This unique activity was popularised by locals, aiming to attract visitors and help protect Hawu Mountain from the destructive effects of limestone mining. The mountain features a prominent hole in the middle, reminiscent of a stove hole, which is why it is named “Hawu” meaning “cooking stove” in Sundanese.
Kampung Cidadap, Kecamatan Padalarang, Kabupaten Bandung Barat, Jawa Barat
Palayangan River
For an exhilarating water adventure, try rafting on the Palayangan River. Located at an altitude of 1,200 metres above sea level, the river offers stunning views and cool, crisp air. Approximately 45km from Bandung, the area also features beautiful pine forests, tea plantations and vegetable fields for you to enjoy.
Warnasari, Kec. Pangalengan, Kabupaten Bandung, Jawa Barat 40378
Kawah Putih
The turquoise and white-tinged volcanic lake of Kawah Putih Bandung is one Bandung’s top visitor attractions! Located just outside of the city, this volcanic lake is often busy with visitors, especially on the weekends. However, you can still find some more secluded spots by walking along the pathway with the lake on your right-hand side to enjoy your own private peaceful hideaway!
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That’s it for our roundup of our favourite things to do when in Bandung! Armed with this list, you should be able to tackle a fun-filled and well-rounded adventure in Bandung.
