Pekan Sari Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit in Pekan Sari, Bogor, and explore its culture, food, and natural attractions with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Pekan Sari

Pekan Sari is nestled in the picturesque Bogor Raya area, located in Western Java. The town is a popular day-trip destination for both locals and tourists, offering a serene environment and beautiful natural attractions. Pekan Sari boasts unique art and handicrafts, rich cultural heritage, and a diverse food and drink scene.

Exploring Pekan Sari is a delightful experience, and visitors are rewarded with beautiful scenery, warm hospitality and a taste of Indonesian culture.

List of Places to Visit in Pekan Sari

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For those interested in Indonesian history and culture, Pekan Sari offers a range of museums and historical sites. The following are some must-visit attractions in the area:

  • Kebun Raya Bogor Kebun Raya Bogor, also known as Bogor Botanical Gardens, is a 200-hectare paradise for plant lovers, researchers and tourists. The garden houses approximately 13.000 plant species, including orchids, durian, coffee, and other exotic plants.

  • Kampoeng Bogor Kampoeng Bogor is a lovely eco-tourism area in Pekan Sari that showcases traditional Indonesian homes and lifestyles. Visitors here can experience a range of cultural activities and workshops, including traditional cooking classes, pottery lessons and batik printing.

  • Istana Bogor The Presidential Palace of Bogor, known as Istana Bogor, is an essential site for history buffs. Set within the lush confines of Kebun Raya Bogor, the palace was built in the 18th century as a retreat for Dutch governors. Today, it serves as a weekend residence for the President of Indonesia. Visitors can take guided tours of its interior, gardens and exhibition halls.

Natural Attractions of Pekan Sari: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pekan Sari is famous for its scenic beauty, ranging from waterfalls to mountain views to rolling hills. Visitors here can indulge in a range of outdoor activities while breathing in fresh mountain air. The following are some natural attractions of Pekan Sari worth exploring:

  • Gunung Mas Tea Plantation Gunung Mas Tea Plantation, located in the scenic area around Puncak Pass, is a charming tea estate surrounded by mountain ranges. Visitors here can learn about the tea-making process, sip on a cup of freshly brewed tea, and take in stunning views of the tea fields.

  • Gunung Pancar Pine Forest The Gunung Pancar Pine Forest is an excellent site for outdoor activities, including hiking and camping. The forest is home to a range of plants and animals, and visitors can breathe in fresh pine-scented air while exploring its numerous walking paths.

  • Curug Bidadari Waterfall Curug Bidadari waterfall, located in the nearby hamlet of Taman Wisata Matahari, is a stunning waterfall that cascades down the rocks, surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors here can take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear pool, relax on its rocky banks, and take in its enchanting beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pekan Sari

Exploring Pekan Sari’s natural beauty is best done through hiking or biking. The following are some popular hiking and biking routes around Pekan Sari:

  • Puncak Pass Puncak Pass is a popular hiking and biking route that runs through the hills of Pekan Sari. The route takes visitors past rolling hills, lush tea plantations, and stunning mountain views.

  • Mount Gede Mount Gede is a challenging hiking route that passes through some of the most scenic areas of Pekan Sari. The route takes visitors past picturesque waterfalls, stunning mountain views, and dense rainforest.

Best Things to Do in Pekan Sari: Activities and Tours

Visitors to Pekan Sari can indulge in a range of activities and tours. From visiting the nearby wildlife reserves to exploring the tea plantations, visitors can customize their experience based on their interests. The following are some must-do activities and tours in Pekan Sari:

  • Wildlife Safari Pekan Sari is surrounded by two significant wildlife reserves, the Taman Safari Indonesia and the Curug Nangka Wildlife Reserve. Visitors can take a wildlife safari and get up close and personal with a range of animals, including rhinos, tigers, elephants, and others.

  • Tea Factory Tour A visit to the Gunung Mas Tea Plantation is not complete without taking in the sight and smell of fresh tea leaves being processed into tea. Visitors can take a guided tour of the tea factory and enjoy a cup of freshly-brewed tea while learning about the tea-making process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pekan Sari

A week-long itinerary for Pekan Sari can include the following activities:

Day Activity
1 Visit Kebun Raya Bogor and Istana Bogor
2 Explore the Puncak Pass and Gunung Mas Tea Plantation
3 Take a wildlife safari to Taman Safari Indonesia
4 Hike up to Curug Bidadari waterfall and surrounding hills
5 Visit Kampoeng Bogor, learn traditional cooking, and pottery
6 Explore the Gunung Pancar Pine Forest and nearby hot springs
7 Visit the nearby city of Bogor, explore its food scene and shopping opportunities

Food and Drink Scene of Pekan Sari

Indonesia has a diverse and flavorful cuisine, and Pekan Sari is no exception. Visitors here can enjoy a range of traditional and modern dishes, delicious coffee, and refreshing drinks. The following are some must-try dishes and beverages in Pekan Sari:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gado-Gado Gado-Gado is a famous Indonesian salad that originates from the island of Java. The dish comprises a mixture of fresh vegetables, such as bean sprouts, cabbage, and cucumbers, served with a flavorful peanut sauce.

  • Rendang Rendang is a spicy meat dish that originates from Padang, Sumatra. The dish is made with beef or chicken slow-cooked in coconut milk and a range of aromatic spices.

Local Beverages

  • Kopi Luwak Kopi Luwak is a gourmet coffee made from beans that have been eaten and excreted by civet cats. The coffee has a unique flavor and aroma and is one of the rarest and most sought-after coffees in the world.

  • Es Cendol Es Cendol is a refreshing Indonesian dessert beverage that consists of pandan-flavored rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup.

Where to Stay in Pekan Sari: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pekan Sari has a range of accommodations to suit all types of travelers - from backpackers to luxury seekers. The following are some of the best accommodation options in Pekan Sari:

  • Padjadjaran Suites Hotel & Conference Padjadjaran Suites Hotel & Conference is a luxurious hotel located in the nearby city of Bogor. The hotel boasts spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and excellent city views.

  • Arumdalu Private Resort Arumdalu Private Resort is a boutique resort located in the hills of Pekan Sari. Guests here can enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding valley, comfortable rooms, and a range of activities, including hiking, biking, and yoga.

What to Buy in Pekan Sari: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Pekan Sari is famous for its unique art and handicrafts, including batik textiles, pottery, and wood carvings. The following are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Pekan Sari:

  • Batik Textiles Batik textiles are a traditional fabric used in Indonesia. Visitors here can buy batik-printed clothing, scarves, and other souvenirs at affordable prices.

  • Wood Carvings Pekan Sari is famous for its intricate wood carvings, featuring traditional Indonesian motifs such as masks, sculptures, and furniture.

Local Culture and Customs of Pekan Sari

Pekan Sari is a town with a rich history and culture. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions to make the most of their visit. The following are some customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  • Indonesian Language Indonesian is the official language in Pekan Sari. However, visitors can also communicate in English, as many locals speak the language.

  • Religious Festivals Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country, and visitors can witness a range of religious festivals throughout the year. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions during these festivals.

Best Time to Visit Pekan Sari

The best time to visit Pekan Sari is during the dry season, from May to September. The weather during this time is favorable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pekan Sari

When visiting Pekan Sari, visitors should keep the following do’s and don’ts in mind:

Do:

  • Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Learn some Indonesian phrases to communicate with locals

Don’t:

  • Wear short or revealing clothes in public places
  • Engage in any illegal activities, including drug use
  • Disrespect or damage any historical or cultural monument

Safety and Health

Pekan Sari is a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors should take the following safety and health precautions:

Safety in Pekan Sari

  • Avoid walking alone in isolated or less-crowded areas
  • Keep your valuables secure and locked away in a safe
  • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas

Health in Pekan Sari

  • Drink only bottled water
  • Apply mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases
  • Follow a healthy diet and stay hydrated to avoid stomach and digestive issues

Getting to Pekan Sari: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pekan Sari is located approximately 60km from Jakarta, and visitors can get here via various transportation options. The following are some of the best transportation options to Pekan Sari:

Airports Near Pekan Sari

  • Soekarno-Hatta International Airport Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is the main international airport in Indonesia. Visitors can take a taxi or bus from the airport to Pekan Sari.

Bus Stations Near Pekan Sari

  • Terminal Kampung Rambutan Terminal Kampung Rambutan is a bus station located in East Jakarta, from where buses run to Bogor around the clock. From Bogor, visitors can take a taxi or bus to Pekan Sari.

Other Options

  • Private Car Visitors can also hire a private car with a driver to reach Pekan Sari. The cost for a private car varies depending on the distance and the car model.

How to Get Around in Pekan Sari

The best way to explore Pekan Sari is on foot or by hiring a scooter or bicycle. Visitors can also take a taxi or public bus to get around the town and nearby areas.

Where to Go Next from Pekan Sari: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Pekan Sari is a good starting point for several excursions and nearby destinations. The following are some must-visit places around Pekan Sari:

  • Jakarta The bustling city of Jakarta is located just an hour’s drive from Pekan Sari. Visitors here can explore the city’s historical monuments, museums, and markets.

  • Bogor Bogor is a charming town located just a few kilometers from Pekan Sari. Visitors here can explore its botanical gardens, museums, and other attractions.

Conclusion

Pekan Sari is a hidden gem in Western Java that offers visitors an authentic taste of Indonesian culture and natural beauty. Visitors here can indulge in a range of outdoor activities, explore rich historical and cultural attractions, and enjoy unique cuisine and local products. A trip to Pekan Sari promises to be a memorable experience for all kinds of travelers.