South Travel Guide

Discover the rich culture, natural wonders, and amazing food scene of South Bandung in Western Java, Indonesia. Explore the best places to see, top things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to South

South Bandung is a picturesque region of Western Java situated in the Parahyangan mountains, boasting a stunning cultural heritage as well as natural wonders to explore. This travel guide will take you on a fascinating journey through the region, with insider tips on the best places to visit, eat, stay, and experience in South Bandung.

List of Places to Visit in South

Here are the top must-see places in South Bandung:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Gedung Sate - A historic building in the heart of Bandung that serves as the governor’s office of West Java.
  • Museum Konferensi Asia Afrika - An international conference hall that commemorates the first Asian-African Conference in 1955.
  • Saung Angklung Udjo - A traditional bamboo music performance that showcases the unique Sundanese culture.
  • Kampung Gajah Wonderland - A theme park that highlights Sundanese culture and traditions, with rides and attractions for everyone to enjoy.

Natural Attractions of South: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Hiking/Biking Routes of South

South Bandung is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love to hike or bike. Here are some of the best routes to try:

  • Pine Forest Campsite in Lembang - A 14 km round-trip trail that winds through a lovely pine forest and hilly terrain.
  • Kamojang Crater - A challenging 11 km round-trip trail that offers stunning views of the Kamojang Crater and sulfur fields.
  • Mt. Tangkuban Perahu - A moderate 3.8 km round-trip trail that leads to the rim of the dormant volcano.

Best Things to Do in South: Activities and Tours

  • Cimahi Waterfall Trekking - A half-day trek through the stunning Cimahi Waterfall, with ample time for swimming and lunch in the surrounding forest.
  • Countryside Bike Tour - A guided cycling tour through the rural countryside, stopping at local markets and villages along the way.
  • Sundanese Cooking Class - A fun culinary experience where you learn to cook traditional Sundanese dishes with local chefs.

Week-Long Itinerary for South

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long visit to South Bandung:

Day Activity
1 Explore the city of Bandung and visit the Gedung Sate and Museum Konferensi Asia Afrika
2 Hike Mt. Tangkuban Perahu and visit the nearby hot springs
3 Visit the Kawah Putih volcanic crater lake and Sanghyang Heuleut Natural Park
4 Enjoy the countryside bike tour and stop at local markets and villages
5 Learn to cook traditional Sundanese dishes at a cooking class
6 Trek to Cimahi Waterfall and swim in the crystal-clear waters
7 Relax at the Ciwidey Valley Resort and soak in the hot springs with a stunning view of the valley

Food and Drink Scene of South

The food scene in South Bandung is as diverse as its culture, with plenty of traditional and modern restaurants and cafes to enjoy. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to sample:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sate Maranggi - grilled beef skewers with a spicy and savory marination that originated from Purwakarta.
  • Nasi Timbel - steamed rice wrapped in banana leaves with various side dishes.
  • Batagor - fried fish and tofu dumplings served with sweet and spicy peanut sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Bandrek - a traditional drink made of ginger, coconut sugar, cinnamon, and other spices, perfect for warming yourself in cold places.
  • Es Duren - a sweet and creamy ice dessert made of durian and coconut milk.
  • Kopi Luwak - one of the rarest and most expensive coffees in the world, made of coffee beans that have been eaten and then excreted by Asian palm civets.

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

South Bandung offers plenty of accommodation options for all budgets, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. Some top choices include:

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

South Bandung is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as handwoven fabrics, woodcarvings, and ceramics. Here are some recommended souvenir shops to visit:

  • Rumah Garuda - a gallery that showcases Sundanese art and culture, including masks, sculptures, and traditional textiles.
  • Cihampelas Walk - a mall that offers various stores for shopping, including a factory outlet selling local handicrafts.

Local Culture and Customs of South

The Sundanese culture in South Bandung is renowned for its hospitality, arts, and traditions. Visitors are encouraged to respect their customs, such as dressing modestly and removing shoes before entering a house or temple. Tipping is not expected but appreciated, and bargaining is common in souvenir shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit South

The best time to visit South Bandung is during the dry season, which ranges from May to September. The weather is nice and cool, with sunny days and temperate nights. The wet season, from October to April, can be rainy and muddy, but it can also create a refreshing atmosphere for adventure activities and green scenery.

Do’s and Don’ts of South

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and sample the traditional beverages.
  • Respect the customs and dress modestly in temples and public areas.
  • Explore the outdoors and discover the natural wonders of South Bandung.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the traffic rules or jaywalk in busy streets.
  • Litter or vandalize public places.
  • Touch or feed the wildlife creatures, including monkeys, at natural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in South

South Bandung is generally a safe place to travel, with low rates of violent crimes. However, visitors should be careful in crowded areas and avoid carrying valuable items in insecure places. Be aware of the traffic conditions, which can be chaotic and crowded.

Health in South

Visitors to South Bandung should take necessary health precautions, such as drinking bottled water, keeping up to date on vaccinations, and using mosquito repellent. It’s also important to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated during outdoor activities.

Getting to South: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near South

The nearest airport to South Bandung is Husein Sastranegara International Airport, which is located in the heart of Bandung city.

Bus Stations Near South

Bus travel in Indonesia is affordable and convenient, with several bus companies that operate routes to and from Bandung. Some of the most popular bus stations in Bandung include:

  • Cicaheum Terminal - a busy bus station that serves routes to West Java cities such as Tasikmalaya, Garut, and Cianjur.
  • Leuwipanjang Terminal - a primary bus station that serves routes to Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Bali.

Other Options

Private car rental and taxi services are also available in South Bandung, and some accommodations provide shuttle services for guests. Ride-hailing apps such as Go-Jek and Grab are popular in Bandung and can be used to get around the city and to nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in South

The best way to get around South Bandung is by renting a car or a scooter, which allows you to explore the region at your own pace. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available in South Bandung, but they can be costly during peak hours or long distances.

Where to Go Next from South: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring South Bandung, visitors can venture to nearby destinations like:

  • Jakarta - the bustling capital city of Indonesia, with shopping malls, museums, and cultural landmarks.
  • Bogor - a city with a superb botanical garden and presidential palace.
  • Pangandaran - a coastal town with lovely beaches and surfing spots.

Conclusion

South Bandung is a stunning destination for anyone seeking adventure, culture, and nature in Indonesia. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re ready to discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and experience in this amazing region. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem of Southeast Asia!

Sri Baduga Museum. Sri Baduga Museum.