Bandung Indonesia – Top-10 Tourist Attractions and Things to Do

Often skipped over by many travellers who venture to Indonesia, Bandung offers visitors a surprising abundance of sights and attractions that many travel reviews only seem to scratch the surface of. An unspoiled and relatively unknown travel destination, the natural landscape alone is dotted with everything from smouldering volcanoes, to rolling tea plantations, to enchanting lakes, and shimmering rice paddies. With the rich cultural heritage, the plentiful shopping opportunities, and scrumptious cuisine, the capital of West Java seems to cater for everybody.

Here are our personal top ten activities and attractions in Bandung.

1. Step into the interior of an active volcano at Tangkuban Parahu

Shrouded in myth, legend and folklore, Tangkuban Parahu is an active volcano that doesn’t demand much of a hike and even those short on time or not eager for a strenuous trek will be able to marvel at the raw, natural beauty of the volcano that quite literally means ‘upturned boat’ in Sundanese. Travellers can drive to the very edge of the crater itself and continue along on foot for one kilometre down a bumpy path. Photographic opportunities abound and nature lovers will delight in the wild natural beauty of the location. Visitors will be able to observe stunning views, the famous hot springs and even buy a boiled egg that has been cooked in the geothermally heated groundwater itself. Definitely one of our more fun breakfast experiences.

2. Marvel at the mystical Kawah Putih (White Crater)

This ethereal, crystal blue Crater Lake was formed after the eruption of Mount Patuha and has been considered a magical and enchanting lake ever since. Surrounded by the tall walls of the mountain, legend had it that all birds who flew here would die and the lake was only discovered in the 19th century as people were too afraid to venture to the mysterious area until then. Getting to the lake is possible by navigating the densely-forested area and taking the pathway down to the steaming, bubbling lake. The otherworldly vegetation, white sandy shores, and unusual, chilly temperatures only add to the unearthly and almost ghostly atmosphere. Well worth the visit for those looking for unusual photographs, a unique, natural landscape and an eerie story to take home.

3. Go glamping at Dusun Bambu Leisure Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life for a day or two. A stunning fusion of nature and modernity, the natural beauty at Dusun Bambu Leisure Park takes glamping to a whole new level. Snuggled atop a hilly mountain in Lembang, the park offers guests 15 hectares of land to explore, fresh mountain air, jaw-dropping views and breath-taking scenery of the lake and surrounds, and a dizzying array of educational and recreational pastimes and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Immaculate gardens, playgrounds, a labyrinth, mini golf, pottery classes, boat rides, a shooting range and even a hot air balloon ride are but a few of the activities on offer. Come for the day or stay over – the choice is yours! Ideal for families, adventurous travellers, those seeking to relax, and even honeymooners; an entrance ticket costs IDR 25,000.

4. Go on an exhilarating 4x4 ride

Travellers craving a bit of adrenaline pumping through their veins and a day of exhilarating adventure will be delighted to learn that Bandung offers 4x4 rides off the beaten tracks. Spend the afternoon blazing through deep, muddy channels and over rocky outcrops in a vintage Land Rover that cuts through picturesque tea plantations. The dirt roads inspire a sense of adventure in all of us and these tours are ideal for the outdoorsy and thrill-seeking travellers in Bandung.

5. Learn all about Komunitas Hong traditional games on a cultural tour

Ideally suited to travellers who love learning about new cultures, traditions and local customs; a visit to Komunitas Hong is an excellent way to fully submerge yourself in the life of this small community in Bandung. The cultural tour begins by the local people serenading visitors with traditional music, following this, visitors are taught about the history and background of some of the traditional games of the Komunitas Hong. Participation is strongly encouraged and visitors are invited to join in and have a go at playing the newly learned games and dances. Games include weaving dolls and animals out of palm leaves, tossing scarves in the air, shooting with little, wooden guns and a range of different songs and dances.

6. Attend a Saung Angklung Udjo show

Another unique cultural experience for travellers in Bandung is attending a Saung Angklung Udjo show performed by the children of the community. The beaming faces, vibrant costumes and lively atmosphere will have you bopping your head and clicking your fingers in no time. The angklung is a traditional musical instrument that is made from bamboo tubes that have been tied together. The various tubes create different pitches and are played by shaking the tubes to any number of beats and rhythms. The sound is rather mesmerizing and the audience is invited to learn how to play a simple tune should they wish.

7. Visit the Malabar Tea Plantations

Situated in a hilly region in the south of Bandung lies the gorgeous, green expanse of the Malabar Tea Plantations. Sweeping, panoramic views of green-carpeted, rolling hills are yours for the admiring if you make your way to the famous tea area. Getting here is relatively easy, although it does take around 2 and a half hours from Bandung center. Well-worth the journey, visitors are free to frolic amongst the crops for a day, camp in the plantation itself or rent a small room in the inn for the night. Beautiful, informative and relaxing, the Malabar Tea Plantation and working factory is a treat for those who enjoy being outside, long for a special place to escape the crowds or wish to learn the background behind the fascinating tea making process. It also goes without saying, that one simply shouldn’t leave without sampling a cup of the locally grown and specially brewed leaves.

8. Relax and unwind at Ciater Hot Springs

Travellers with any aches and pains or simply travellers looking for a bit of peace and quiet should head to Ciater Hot Springs to clear their minds and soothe their muscles. The warm, mineral water is said to be filled with health benefits and pour down from the nearby volcanoes into small, naturally formed pools that are ideal for relaxing. The pools are located within a tea estate, have restaurants onsite as well as tennis courts and invite hikers to trek some of the nearby trails. Entrance fee to the springs is IDR 27,000 per person.

9. Discover the secret canyon of River Cikahuripan

This once largely hidden and unknown canyon in Bandung has become increasingly popular as a result of Instagram and it appears that the secret is now officially out. The path to reach the canyon is lined with towering, prehistoric-looking cliffs that lead the way to the crystal-blue waters of the hidden canyon. Perfect for admiring Mother Nature, taking a refreshing dip in the azure waters or for taking photographs. Entrance into the canyon is IDR 10,000 per person.

10. Hike to the summit of Tebing Gunung Hawu at sunrise

Sunrise hikes are somewhat synonymous with Indonesia and Tebing Gunung Hawu is no exception. What is exceptional however, is that hikers are allowed the exciting opportunity to rest in a hammock that is secured precariously between two towering cliffs. Sunrise on this mountain is a special sight to behold and hikers will also be granted the opportunity to see the famous, large ‘hole’ that occurs in the middle of the mountains and allows the sun to shine through. This hole is the reason that the mountain has its name ‘Hawu’ which translates to ‘fireplace’ in Sundanese.