Bantul Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, local culture and customs, and more in Bantul, Indonesia with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Bantul

Bantul is a regency located in the southern part of the Yogyakarta Special Region in Central Java, Indonesia. Known as an agricultural area, Bantul is also famous for its cultural heritage and natural beauty. This regency is home to many historic sites, natural attractions, hiking trails, and outdoor activities for adventure seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Bantul

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Puro Pakualaman - One of the two principalities of Yogyakarta, Puro Pakualaman is known for its unique blend of Javanese and European architectural styles. The palace is a testament to the cultural exchange between the Javanese and the colonial Dutch.
  • Museum Affandi - This museum is dedicated to Affandi, one of Indonesia’s most prominent modernists. The museum showcases his paintings, sketches, and sculptures.
  • Sultan’s Palace (Keraton) - Built-in 1756, the Keraton is the residence of the Sultan of Yogyakarta. The palace represents Javanese culture and tradition with its distinctive architecture and design.
  • Borobudur Temple - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Borobudur Temple is one of the world’s largest Buddhist temples. This ancient structure is located in Magelang, right outside of Bantul.

Natural Attractions of Bantul: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parangtritis Beach - One of the most popular beaches in Yogyakarta, Paragtritis Beach is known for its black sand, beautiful sunsets, and the mystical legend of Nyi Roro Kidul.
  • Kaliadem Lava Tour - Here, visitors can explore the site of the 2010 Merapi eruption, learn about volcano science and the impact it has on the surrounding environment, and enjoy an off-road jeep tour.
  • Imogiri Pine Forest - This pine forest is perfect for those looking to escape the busy city and immersing themselves in nature. Visitors can take a leisurely walk, go horseback riding, and enjoy the stunning views.
  • Sermo Reservoir - Located in Bantul’s northern part near the Menoreh Mountains, the Sermo Reservoir is an excellent destination for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Additionally, the scenic views are a treat for nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bantul

Bantul has many hiking and biking trails that provide a unique perspective of the regency’s natural beauty. Some of the most popular routes are:

  • Turgo Hills - For those that want a challenging hike, Turgo Hills is the perfect choice. The trail is steep and requires a bit of physical exertion, but the panoramic views are worth it.
  • Nglanggeran Ancient Volcano - While the peak of the volcano can only be reached by foot, there’s a road leading up to the slope, making it an easier hike. The views from the top are incredible.
  • Jeep Tour Merapi Volcano - For those interested in a more leisurely tour around the volcano, the jeep tour is perfect. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery at a relaxed pace.

Best Things to Do in Bantul: Activities and Tours

  • Ullen Sentalu Museum - This museum showcases Javanese culture and art, particularly batik, shadow puppets, and paintings. Visitors get a chance to learn about Javanese culture and have an immersive experience.
  • Keraton Night Market - Visitors can explore local street food, traditional clothing, and enjoy cultural performances.
  • Pindul Cave Tubing - Visitors get a chance to explore the underground river by tubing through the cave system. The trip includes caving, tubing, and cliff jumping.
  • Adventure Park Kali Tengah - Adventure Park Kali Tengah is an outdoor theme park with challenging activities such as high ropes, rock climbing, zip-lining, and many more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bantul

Day Activities
1 Arrival, check-in to accommodation, and visit Parangtritis Beach
2 Explore cultural attractions such as the Sultan’s Palace, Puro Pakualaman, and the Affandi Museum
3 Hike up Turgo Hills, then relax at Sermo Reservoir
4 Embark on a jeep tour of Merapi Volcano and learn about volcano science
5 Experience Pindul Cave tubing or Adventure Park Kali Tengah
6 Visit nearby Magelang to experience the famous Borobudur Temple
7 Enjoy the Keraton Night Market before departure

Food and Drink Scene of Bantul

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gudeg - a Javanese dish made from young unripe jackfruit, usually eaten with rice and chicken or tofu
  • Nasi Langgi - a dish where steamed rice is rolled in banana leaves and served with chicken, fried tofu, tempeh, and fried peanuts with a sesame sauce.
  • Sate Klathak - a sate made from minced beef, served with peanut sauce and rice cakes.

Local Beverages

  • Wedang Uwuh - a traditional drink made from spices such as cinnamon, cardamom and ginger, sweetened with palm sugar.
  • Liwetan - made of rice cooked in coconut milk with various spices and served with an array of side dishes.

Where to Stay in Bantul: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta MGallery Collection - A beautiful colonial hotel with well-maintained grounds, offering guests luxurious accommodations, excellent service, and beautiful gardens.
  • Horison Bhumi Urip Hotel - An affordable option that offers great services, clean rooms, and a comfortable stay.
  • ViaVia Guesthouse - A cozy guesthouse featuring comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden and excellent services.

What to Buy in Bantul: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Batik Fabrics - High-quality batik pieces that showcase the intricate Javanese art.
  • Oleh-oleh Bakpia - A popular traditional pastry with various fillings like cheese, chocolate and pandan.
  • Gulali Merapi - Handmade cotton candy made in Merapi, this-made treat is usually sold in jars as souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Bantul

Javanese culture is widely celebrated in Bantul. It is customary to remove your shoes before entering a traditional Javanese house, and it is also customary to show respect to older people by greeting them first. Additionally, touching the head of someone older or someone of higher authority is considered inappropriate.

Best Time to Visit Bantul

The best time to visit Bantul is from May to September, during the dry season. The weather is more predictable, making it easier to engage in outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bantul

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Carry cash as most places don’t accept cards

Don’t:

  • Touch someone’s head
  • Wear revealing clothing to cultural sites

Safety and Health

Safety in Bantul

Generally speaking, Bantul is a safe place for tourists. However, it is wise to take precautions to avoid petty theft, especially in crowded areas. Keep your valuables in a safe place and avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you.

Health in Bantul

It is important to stay hydrated, especially if you are engaging in outdoor activities. Also, make sure that you have all the necessary vaccines and that you take precautions against mosquito bites to avoid mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue fever and Malaria.

Getting to Bantul: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bantul

The nearest airport to Bantul is the Yogyakarta International Airport. From the airport, taxis and buses are available to take visitors to their accommodation.

Bus Stations Near Bantul

Yogyakarta’s Giwangan bus station is an important hub with connections to major cities throughout Java. From Giwangan, Gojek and Grab rides to Bantul are readily available.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or a motorbike to explore Bantul.

How to Get Around in Bantul

Visitors can travel around Bantul by public transportation, taxis, or motorcycle taxis called “go-jek”. Car rentals and motorbike rentals are also available for those that prefer more independence.

Where to Go Next from Bantul: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Yogyakarta City - famous for its art, culture, and culinary scene
  • Solo City - a historical city known for its Batik, unique cuisine, and traditional Javanese dance.
  • Gunung Kidul Regency - a natural gem of Java known for karst hills, hidden beaches, and crystal clear rivers.

Conclusion

Bantul is a hidden gem in Java that’s worth exploring for its rich culture, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. This travel guide provides comprehensive information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and the local customs and culture, making it easier for tourists to plan their trip to Bantul, Indonesia.

Sunset in Parangtritis Beach Sunset in Parangtritis Beach Parangkusumo Beach Parangkusumo Beach Sandboarding at Parangtritis Beach Sandboarding at Parangtritis Beach Small aircraft on the runway of Depok Beach Small aircraft on the runway of Depok Beach ''Sate klathak'', goat satay with soup ''Sate klathak'', goat satay with soup High waves in the south coast of Central Java High waves in the south coast of Central Java