Bandung Travel Guide (Parahyangan/Western Java/Java/Indonesia/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Bandung
List of Places to Visit in Bandung
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Bandung: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Bandung
Best Things to Do in Bandung: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Bandung
Food and Drink Scene of Bandung
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Bandung: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Bandung: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Bandung
Best Time to Visit Bandung
Do’s and Don’ts of Bandung
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Bandung
- Health in Bandung
Getting to Bandung: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Bandung
Where to Go Next from Bandung: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Bandung

Bandung is a vibrant city located in the western part of Java, the most populous island in Indonesia. It is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and boasts a mild climate, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. The city is known for its rich culture, unique cuisine, and a variety of outdoor activities that cater to all ages and interests.

List of Places to Visit in Bandung

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bandung is a city that embraces its own history and is home to a variety of museums and historical landmarks that are worth exploring. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Bandung include:

Museum of the Asian-African Conference
Gedung Sate, an iconic colonial-style government building
Villa Isola, a beautiful art deco mansion and museum
Bandung Geological Museum
Saung Angklung Udjo, a cultural center that showcases traditional Sundanese music and dances.

Natural Attractions of Bandung: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nature lovers will be pleased to know that Bandung abounds in picturesque farming villages, hot springs, and stunning mountain landscapes. Here are some of the top natural attractions worthy of a visit:

Tangkuban Perahu, an active volcano that features breathtaking views of the surrounding valley
Kawah Putih, a magnificent crater lake with turquoise blue water and misty surroundings
Ciwidey Valley, a region of scenic lakes, tea plantations and waterfalls
Dago Pakar, a hilltop area that offers stunning panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bandung

Bandung is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with a variety of trails catering to different abilities and preferences. Here are some of the most popular routes:

Maribaya Nature Reserve, a lush valley with scenic waterfalls and panoramic views
Tebing Keraton, a cliff in Lembang with a panoramic view of Bandung city
Cikole Pine Forest, a tranquil pine forest with various outdoor activities such as flying fox, zipline, and off-road track
Gunung Nuang, the highest mountain in West Java. The hike to the summit takes around 6-7 hours and is perfect for seasoned hikers.
Bandung Biking Tour offers several bike tours that bring you to the city’s must-visit landmarks, traditional markets, and hidden alleys.

Best Things to Do in Bandung: Activities and Tours

The city has no shortage of activities to keep tourists entertained. These are a few of the best things to do in Bandung:

Jalan Braga, a historic street lined with cafes, bars, and boutiques
Enjoy a cup of traditional Luwak coffee at Kopi Aroma
Dago Street, a long street lined with a large collection of factory outlets, shops, and department stores
Learn the secrets of Indonesian traditional healing at Rumah Pengobatan Atria.
Join a culinary tour and explore traditional food in Bandung

Week-Long Itinerary for Bandung

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long visit to Bandung:

Day	Activity
1	Explore the city’s landmarks: Gedung Sate, Braga Street, etc
2	Visit local museums and historical sites
3	Hike around Tangkuban Perahu and Ciater hot springs
4	Soak up the scenic beauty of Kawah Putih and Ciwidey Valley
5	Go shopping in factory outlets and local markets
6	Enjoy outdoor activities at Dago Pakar and Lembang
7	Attend cultural performances and try traditional cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Bandung

Must-Try Dishes

Bandung is known for its delicious food that packs a punch of flavor. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Satay, grilled meat on skewers with flavorful peanut sauce
Soto Bandung, a soup made with meat, vegetables, and herbs
Nasi Timbel, a popular Sundanese dish consisting of steamed rice wrapped in a banana leaf, served with various side dishes
Batagor, fried fish dumplings served with peanut sauce and sweet soy sauce
Martabak, a savory or sweet pancake filled with meat, vegetables, or chocolate.

Local Beverages

Bandung has a vibrant beverage scene, where travelers can indulge in unique and delicious drinks. Some local favorites include:

Es Duren, a popular dessert made from creamy durian fruit
Bandrek, a traditional hot drink made from ginger, palm sugar, and spices
Es Cincau, a refreshing drink made from grass jelly and coconut milk
Teh Poci, a Javanese tea served in a traditional clay pot
Kopi Luwak, the most expensive coffee in the world, made from beans that have been digested and excreted by civet cats.

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

Bandung has a wide variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some recommendations:

Luxurious: The Trans Luxury Hotel, Padma Hotel, and Sheraton Hotel.
Mid-Range: Hotel Hilton Bandung, GH Universal Hotel, and Novotel Bandung.
Budget-Friendly: Ibis Budget, Favehotel Braga, and Zen Rooms.

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

Bandung is a shopping paradise, and travelers can find unique souvenirs and local products in the city’s many factory outlets and markets. Some of the best products to bring home include:

Batik fabric and clothing
Handmade leather products
Traditional Sundanese handicrafts like pottery and woven baskets
Tea and coffee from the highlands of West Java
Snacks and sweets like Pisang Sale (fried banana) and Getuk Pisang (sweet potato cake).

Local Culture and Customs of Bandung

The people of Bandung are warm and friendly, and the city is known for its rich cultural heritage. Observing local customs and traditions is essential when visiting Bandung. Visitors should dress modestly, remove their shoes when entering someone’s home, and greet people respectfully.

Best Time to Visit Bandung

The best time to visit Bandung is between June and September, when the weather is mild and rainfall is limited. However, visitors should expect crowds during the high season, making it vital to plan and book accommodation in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bandung

Do:

Learn a few phrases in Indonesian language to interact with locals and show respect.
Take your shoes off when entering temples or mosques.
Exchange currency at authorized money changers.
Try local street food like Nasi Goreng, Bakso, or Sate.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Don’t:

Touch or step on offerings placed on the ground in temples.
Point with your feet to a person, object, statue, or anything considered sacred.
Take pictures of people without their express permission.
Use drugs or participate in any illegal activities.
Bargain at shopping centers or malls.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bandung

As with any city in the world, Bandung has its share of concerns about safety. However, there are things travelers can do to stay safe in the city, such as:

Avoid displaying expensive items in public places and keep valuables in the hotel room’s safe.
Be aware of pickpockets and bag snatchers in crowded areas like markets and public transportation.
Take care when using public transportation, especially at night.
Avoid demonstrations and protests as they can turn violent.

Health in Bandung

Travelers to Bandung should ensure that their vaccinations are up to date and take precautions to avoid mosquito bites as dengue fever is prevalent in the region. It is also essential to drink bottled water only and avoid street food that may contain harmful bacteria.

Getting to Bandung: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bandung

Bandung’s main airport is Husein Sastranegara International Airport, located about 5 km from the city center. From the airport, travelers can take a taxi, rental car, or Grab (ride-hailing app) to reach their destination.

Bus Stations Near Bandung

The main bus terminal in Bandung is Leuwi Panjang, which connects the city to other parts of Java and Indonesia. There are also several bus stations within the city that serve short trips between destinations.

Other Options

Bandung is also accessible by train, with frequent services to Jakarta, Surabaya, and several other cities. It is also possible to rent a car or hire a private driver to explore the region.

How to Get Around in Bandung

Travelers have several transportation options while in Bandung, including:

Taxi and ride-hailing apps like Grab.
Angkot, a small bus that operates on fixed routes throughout the city.
Online transportation (motorcycle taxis) like Gojek and Grab Bike.
Car rentals are also available for more extended trips outside the city.

Where to Go Next from Bandung: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bandung is an excellent base for exploring other parts of Java and Indonesia. Here are some destinations worth visiting:

Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, is 150 km northeast of Bandung.
Yogyakarta, known for its cultural heritage and world-famous temples, is located 400 km east of Bandung.
Pangandaran, a scenic fishing village with beautiful beaches, is located 200 km south of Bandung.
Mount Bromo, a breathtaking active volcano located in East Java, is 450 km from Bandung..

Conclusion

Bandung is a hidden gem in Indonesia, with its beautiful natural landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. It’s a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a break from the usual tourist crowds and looking to explore one of Indonesia’s most fascinating cities. Plan your itinerary, pack your bags, and get ready to explore Bandung’s beauty!