10 Bandung Must Visits You've Never Heard Of
Discover Bandung's hidden gems, ranging from serene natural landscapes to captivating cultural spots. These lesser-known venues offer unique experiences and are perfect for those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist paths. Let's dive into these secret treasures, starting with the least known.
Hidden Gems Await
Bandung, a city nestled in the heart of Indonesia, is not just about bustling streets and popular attractions. Beyond the well-trodden paths lie hidden gems waiting to be explored. Each spot offers a unique slice of Bandung's cultural or natural heritage. So, put on your adventure hat and let's explore these delightful surprises.
Stone Garden Citatah
- Location: Desa Gunung Masigit, Kampung Grimulya, Kecamatan Padalarang, Kabupaten Bandung Barat
- Opening Hours: 6 AM - 6 PM, Daily
- Ticket Price: IDR 10,000 (approx. $0.70)
- Google Maps: Stone Garden Citatah, Bandung, Indonesia
Perched at an elevation of 700 meters, Stone Garden Citatah is an ancient seabed believed to be around 27 million years old. This geological wonder offers a stunning view of rock formations scattered across the landscape. Visitors can enjoy leisurely hikes and capture Instagram-worthy photos of the unique terrain.
Situ Cileunca
- Location: Desa Wanasari, Pangalengan
- Opening Hours: 5 AM - 7 PM, Daily
- Ticket Price: IDR 3,000 (approx. $0.20)
- Google Maps: Situ Cileunca, Bandung, Indonesia
A man-made lake that spans 1,440 hectares, Situ Cileunca is a favorite among nature lovers. This picturesque spot offers boat rides and camping facilities. The serene surroundings and cool breeze make it a perfect escape from city life. It’s also an ideal location for photography enthusiasts due to its Instagrammable settings.
Kampung Daun
- Location: Lembang, Bandung
- Opening Hours: 11 AM - 11 PM, Daily
- Google Maps: Kampung Daun, Bandung, Indonesia
Nestled in the Lembang region, Kampung Daun is a cultural gallery and cafe that provides an authentic village experience. The venue combines art, delicious local cuisine, and the tranquility of rural life. Dine amidst lush greenery while exploring traditional Sundanese culture through its art displays and rustic architecture.
Bosscha Observatory
- Location: Lembang, Bandung
- Opening Hours: 9 AM - 1 PM, Saturday (Public Viewing)
- Ticket Price: IDR 15,000 (approx. $1.00)
- Google Maps: Bosscha Observatory, Bandung, Indonesia
For astronomy enthusiasts, the Bosscha Observatory is a must-visit. This historical site, part of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at ITB, allows you to gaze at the stars through powerful telescopes. It's a unique experience to see celestial wonders away from the city lights.
Tebing Keraton
- Location: Taman Hutan Raya Juanda, Bandung
- Opening Hours: 6 AM - 6 PM, Daily
- Ticket Price: IDR 11,000 (approx. $0.75)
- Google Maps: Tebing Keraton, Bandung, Indonesia
Tebing Keraton, also known as the "Royal Cliff," offers breathtaking views of the lush surrounding forests and mountains. It's an early morning favorite for those wanting to catch the sunrise over Bandung, providing a serene and photogenic start to the day.
Curug Dago Waterfall
- Location: Dago, Bandung
- Opening Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, Daily
- Ticket Price: IDR 10,000 (approx. $0.70)
- Google Maps: Curug Dago Waterfall, Bandung, Indonesia
This hidden waterfall is tucked away in the lush greenery of Dago. The tranquil spot offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. It's a perfect place for a picnic or a quiet stroll along the serene trails that surround the waterfall.
Orchid Forest Cikole
- Location: Lembang, Bandung
- Opening Hours: 9 AM - 6 PM, Daily
- Ticket Price: IDR 30,000 (approx. $2.00)
- Google Maps: Orchid Forest Cikole, Bandung, Indonesia
Orchid Forest Cikole is an eco-tourism destination set amidst a cool pine forest. It boasts a vast collection of orchids and offers recreational activities like treetop walking and zip-lining. The forest's serene environment and floral beauty make it a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts.
Selasar Sunaryo Art Space
- Location: Jl. Bukit Pakar Timur No.100, Ciburial, Bandung
- Opening Hours: 10 AM - 5 PM, Tuesday to Sunday
- Ticket Price: Free
- Google Maps: Selasar Sunaryo Art Space, Bandung, Indonesia
This art space is a haven for art lovers, showcasing contemporary Indonesian art in a serene setting. The venue hosts various exhibitions and cultural events, providing insights into local artistry. Its unique architecture and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit for those interested in art and culture.
Gunung Artapela
- Location: Near Bandung
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Google Maps: Gunung Artapela, Bandung, Indonesia
For hiking enthusiasts, Gunung Artapela offers a less crowded trail with stunning panoramic views. Standing at 2,194 meters, it's an excellent choice for beginners looking for an adventurous day out. The mountain's natural beauty and peaceful ambiance are truly captivating.
Pecah Kopi
- Location: Bandung
- Opening Hours: 8 AM - 10 PM, Daily
- Google Maps: Pecah Kopi, Bandung, Indonesia
Pecah Kopi offers a unique coffee experience infused with Yogyakarta's cultural charm. The cafe is adorned with traditional batik motifs, creating a cozy and culturally rich environment. The coffee here is a true delight, offering a flavorful escape from the ordinary.
Surrounding Areas
Each of these hidden gems is surrounded by additional attractions and activities. The areas around Lembang, for instance, offer numerous hiking trails and natural hot springs. Meanwhile, Bandung's city center is bustling with cultural and culinary experiences, ideal for exploring local flavors and artisanal crafts.
Notable Mentions
While these venues made the list, there are others worth mentioning like the Maribaya Waterfall Park and Saung Angklung Udjo. These spots offer unique experiences, from cultural performances to stunning natural vistas, and are certainly worth visiting if you have the time.
Conclusion
Bandung's hidden gems offer a diverse array of experiences, each with its own charm and unique appeal. Whether you're looking to explore nature, delve into local culture, or simply relax away from the crowds, these spots provide a perfect escape. So, pack your bags and get ready to uncover the lesser-known wonders of Bandung!