Bandung

Welcome to Bandung

Welcome to Bandung, the “Paris of Java”! This charming city, nestled in the highlands of West Java, Indonesia, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and urban sophistication. Bandung attracts visitors with its:

• Cool Climate: Refreshing mountain air and mild temperatures year-round
• Stunning Landscapes: Surrounded by volcanic mountains and lush tea plantations
• Vibrant Arts Scene: Home to numerous galleries, museums, and creative spaces
• Shopping Paradise: Famous for factory outlets and local fashion brands
• Culinary Delights: A haven for food lovers with diverse local and international cuisine

Some History First

Bandung’s history is as colorful as its present:

• Pre-colonial era: Part of the Sundanese kingdom of Pajajaran
• Dutch colonial period: Developed as a resort town in the 19th century
• Early 20th century: Nicknamed “Paris of Java” for its European architecture and lifestyle
• Independence era: Hosted the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference, a milestone in the Non-Aligned Movement
• Modern times: Evolved into a major educational and industrial center

Key historical sites to visit:

• Gedung Merdeka (Asia-Africa Conference Museum)
• Villa Isola (Art Deco masterpiece)
• Gedung Sate (iconic government building)

Bandung Today

Today, Bandung stands as a dynamic city blending tradition with modernity:

• Population: Over 2.5 million in the city proper, 8 million in the greater area
• Economy: Major textile and garment industry, growing tech startup scene
• Education: Home to numerous universities, including Institut Teknologi Bandung
• Culture: Center for Sundanese arts and crafts, modern music and fashion
• Urban development: Balancing growth with environmental conservation efforts

Is Bandung Safe?

Bandung is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always wise to exercise caution:

• Petty Crime: Low incidence, but be aware in crowded areas and markets
• Traffic: Exercise caution when crossing streets or using motorbike taxis
• Natural Disasters: Be aware of potential volcanic activity from nearby mountains
• Health: Drink bottled water and be cautious with street food

Tips for staying safe:

• Use reputable transportation services
• Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas
• Stay informed about any volcanic activity warnings

Where is Bandung?

Bandung is strategically located in West Java, Indonesia:

• Coordinates: 6°54′S 107°36′E
• Elevation: Approximately 768 meters (2,520 ft) above sea level
• Surrounding landscape: Volcanic mountains, tea plantations, and rice fields
• Nearby cities: About 140 km southeast of Jakarta

Fun fact: Bandung is often called the “Flower City” due to its abundance of trees and parks.

What is the Best Time to Visit Bandung?

The best time to visit Bandung is during the dry season from June to September:

• Weather: Less rainfall and lower humidity
• Temperatures: Average highs of 27°C (81°F) and lows of 17°C (63°F)
• Events: Many cultural festivals occur during this period

Consider these factors:

• Wet season (October to March): Higher rainfall, but lush green landscapes
• Weekends: Can be crowded with domestic tourists from Jakarta
• Ramadan: Dates vary yearly; some businesses may have limited hours

How to Get to Bandung & Around

Getting to and around Bandung offers various options:

Arriving in Bandung:

• Air: Husein Sastranegara International Airport (BDO) for domestic flights
• Rail: Scenic train ride from Jakarta to Bandung
• Bus: Comfortable buses from major cities in Java

Getting around the city:

• Angkot: Colorful minivans serving as shared taxis
• Taxis: Blue Bird is a reputable company
• Ride-hailing apps: Grab and Gojek are popular and convenient
• Rent a motorbike or car: Popular for exploring the city and surroundings

Tip: Consider hiring a driver for day trips to tea plantations and volcanoes.

Things to Do in Bandung

Bandung offers a wealth of attractions and activities:

1. Natural wonders:

• Tangkuban Perahu: Active volcano with stunning crater views
• Kawah Putih: Surreal white crater lake
• Ciwidey: Tea plantations and hot springs

2. Cultural experiences:

• Visit Saung Angklung Udjo for traditional Sundanese music
• Explore the Geology Museum
• Tour the historical Asia-Africa Conference Museum

3. Shopping:

• Hunt for bargains at factory outlets on Jalan Riau
• Explore traditional markets like Pasar Baru
• Visit trendy boutiques in Dago area

4. Culinary adventures:

• Try Sundanese cuisine at local restaurants
• Explore themed cafes in the north of the city
• Join a food tour to sample street food delicacies

5. Outdoor activities:

• Go strawberry picking in Lembang
• Enjoy water sports at Situ Patenggang
• Trek through Djuanda Forest Park

Pro tip: Take a day trip to Kawah Putih early in the morning for the best views and fewer crowds!

Where To Stay In Bandung

Bandung offers accommodations for every budget and preference:

• Luxury: Five-star hotels in the city center or mountain resorts
• Mid-range: Boutique hotels in Dago area
• Budget: Guesthouses and hostels near universities
• Unique stays: Glamping sites and tea plantation lodges

Popular areas to stay:

1. Dago: Upscale area with many cafes and boutiques
2. Riau: Close to shopping areas and factory outlets
3. Lembang: Cooler climate, closer to natural attractions
4. City Center: Convenient for business travelers

What To Eat In Bandung

Bandung’s culinary scene is a delight for food lovers:

Must-try local dishes:

• Sate Bandeng: Grilled milkfish satay
• Kue Lapis Surabaya: Layered cake
• Batagor: Fried fish dumplings
• Nasi Timbel: Rice wrapped in banana leaf with various side dishes
• Surabi: Rice pancake with sweet or savory toppings

Where to eat:

• Traditional markets: Pasar Baru for local snacks
• Street food: Sudirman Street for a variety of options
• Local restaurants: Sindang Reret for Sundanese cuisine
• Modern cafes: Dago area for Instagram-worthy spots

Tip: Don’t miss trying Bandung’s famous Kopi Aroma, a local coffee roaster with a history dating back to 1930.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Visiting Bandung requires some preparation:

• Visa: Many nationalities eligible for visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival
• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay
• Proof of onward travel: May be required upon entry
• Customs: Declare items exceeding duty-free allowance

Important: Always check the latest requirements with the Indonesian Embassy or consulate in your country before traveling.

What To Pack For Your Trip

Prepare for Bandung’s cool climate and varying activities:

Essential items:

• Light layers for cool evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration
• Rain jacket or umbrella
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Modest clothing for visiting religious sites
• Swimwear for hot springs
• Reusable water bottle

Tips:

• Bring a light sweater or jacket, as evenings can be cool
• Pack some long-sleeved shirts and pants for protection from mosquitoes
• Consider bringing a small daypack for excursions to tea plantations or volcanoes

Remember, Bandung has numerous markets and shops where you can buy most items you might forget, including trendy local fashion!

FAQs