Vast scenery of green plantations heading towards a surprise panorama of active volcanoes is where the heart of West Java of Indonesia can be found. The third largest city of Indonesia is Bandung. Common cold wind chill, just perfect for a stroll with a sight of green carpets of tea plantations from left to right. It’s an easy reach between the balance of calmness of nature and unpredictable fabled crater of volcanoes.
1. Walk into the live crater of Tangkuban Perahu
More or less 2 hours drive from the city of Bandung going North lies an active volcano, Tangkuban Perahu. It’s a remarkable experience stepping in an active volcano, actual witness to the strong white steaming smoke that it produces. An “overturned boat” from the local’s mouth, the mountain is covered with a story of mystery and legend about a strong young man who fell in love with his own mother. Revelation of this odd and horrifying affair, the mother decided to challenge the man to build a gigantic boat in one single night. Fear of accomplishing the task, she decided to seek help from the God to bring out the sun long before the task has been completed which turns the man to madness as he kicked the boat on defeat and thus the start of the overturned boat legend.
Shopping havens at the top of the crater, rows of stores selling handicrafts, souvenirs and street food. From the scrumptious Tempeh delicacy up to the traditional bamboo instrument, the Angklung, lots of fancy things at sight for bargain! Best view on top of a live crater plus shopping opportunities, Tangkuban Perahu is truly one of the best things to do in Bandung, Indonesia!
2. Visit Dusun Bambu
A relaxing family leisure park at the foot of the mountain with very inspiring, sublime and truly remarkable picturesque surroundings. Gigantic bamboo structure welcomes you at the main gate and a fancy-dancy floral shuttle will bring you to the main area of the park. Along the way, you will see verdant greens with fascinating bamboo walking paths.
Try a unique dining experience on Dusun Bambu’s hanging nests, the “Lutung Kasarung” and let the cool mountain breeze touch the warmth of your cheeks while having a satisfying meal at the tree top. Or move to a higher altitude of Cafe Burangrang, a more jaw-dropping view of the relaxing nature, the calm man-made lake and scenic view of the Burangrang mountain. A close touch with nature, sharing the sweetness of life with the family, Dusun Bambu is truly one of the best things to do in Bandung, Indonesia.
3. Magical pool of Mercure Setiabudi Hotel
Spent nights in Mercure Setiabudi Hotel and their pool is definitely the grandest magical sight in Bandung. Clear water with gleaming colors, such a tranquil atmosphere as if you are staring in the milky way. Imagine yourself floating in the enchanting twinkling stars, a sweet way to end the day and truly one of the best things to do in Bandung, Indonesia.
4. Fine dining experience at the Peak
A distinctive dining experience, the Peak offers guests a taste of International and Indonesian cuisines. More than the perfect course meals, the restaurant is proud of their best collections of wine and cigar in Bandung. Picture-perfect view of flickering lights of the city, certainly a lovely sight. Band playing music as you savor the freshly poured glass of fine wine. The Peak is definitely one of the best places to visit in Bandung, Indonesia.
5. Visit Kawah Putih
Kawah Putih or “White Crater”, a great wonder nestled 50 km South and one of the best places to visit in Bandung. Quite nippy temperature in the area, surrounded by dreamy surroundings, glaring whiteness over the landscape. A crater lake showing off its beauty both to local or foreign visitors and most definitely a glorious spot for photography, from the turquoise lake up to the dramatic skeletal trees around.
The crater lake was also said to be somewhat mysterious that according to villagers, animals, specially birds, tried to avoid the area since it caused death to some living creatures. But science has an explanation to this old story since the crater lake contains a strong concentration of sulfur which is life-threatening to these animals.
But nothing to worry on the said sulfur concentration since today, it’s safe to roam around the crater lake. It’s just the sulfur smell that might bother you so prepare yourself and bring/buy a mask.
6. Lunch at Sindang Reret Ciwidey
Experience the refreshing mountain breeze as savory Sundanese cuisines are being served on your plate, such a perfect way to spend lunch, only in Sindang Reret Ciwidey. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Bandung after an exhausting walk around the crater lake. Restaurant provides visitors the serene ambiance feel and rural scenery. Sindang Reret Ciwidey, definitely one of the best restaurant in the Southern part of Bandung.
7. Witness the Saung Angklung Udjo Show
Last on our list but definitely not the least, Saung Angklung Udjo Show is the happiest place in Bandung! Even with eyes closed, just hearing the tickling blithe melodies of the Angklung will definitely put a smile on your face. Angklung is a traditional musical instrument made of bamboo.
Awe-inspiring Angklung performances from the kids, left with my mouth hanging opened on how great, serious and passionate they were about their craft. Lucky us, we were able to learn on how to play the Angklung as one of the sons of the founder taught us on how to properly shake the instrument (body shaking is a no no). And as the program ends, you get to dance with all the kids and party to the tune of the happy melodies. With no doubt, a day spent in Saung Angklung Udjo is definitely one of the best things to do in Bandung!