Travel Light

BANDUNG

Telephone code : 022.

Wilujeng Sumping ti Bandung, or Welcome to Bandung, this is the kind of greeting that you are going to hear when you arrived in Bandung. City of Flowers, is the provincial capital of West Java and Indonesia' s third largest city. Known in colonial times as the Paris of Java because of its European ambiance and sophistication, Bandung shares with Miami a fine legacy of Tropical Deco architecture dating from the 1920's.
Situated on a plateau in the beautiful Parahayangan mountains, Bandung's pleasant climate and lush surroundings have offered an escape from the heat of the lowlands since the mid 19th century when it was the heart of the region's most prosperous plantation area. Host to the historic Asia Africa conference in 1955, Bandung is now a center of higher education ,commerce and aircraft industry which despite its modern amenities still retains much of its colonial era charm.
The capital of West Java and Indonesia's fourth largest City, is situated on a plateau 700 meters above sea level with a cool climate throughout the year. Although it has a population of over two million the pace of city life is slower than Jakarta's. Several institutes of higher education are located here, including the country's prestigious Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB). In Bandung, try to see the "Wayang Golek" wooden puppet show and hear the "Angklung" bamboo orchestra, as well as the classical Sundanese gamelan and dances
Bandung is also renowned for its shopping, particularly for shoes, textiles, clothing and denims which are found in the colourful Jeans street . Easily reached from Jakarta by train , road or air (the scenic train trip is recommended), Bandung, with its cool mountain air is a popular second stop for those visiting the national capital and an essential stay-over for travellers enroute through Java.

This province has its own unique culture and language, both called Sundanese which is also used to call its people. The ancient kingdoms of Tarumanegara, Pajajaran, Banten and Cirebon would make interesting studies for the student of archaeology Cirebon is located on the border between West and Central Java, having a mixed culture originating from the ancient Cirebon and Banten kingdoms, resulting in similar customs and dialects of the two people, although Banten is located at the extreme western part of the province.
Bandung is situated 180 km southeast of Jakarta. The city gamed fame in 1955 as the venue for the first Afro-Asian Conference which brought together the leaders of 29 Asian and African nations with the aim to promote economic and cultural relations and take a common stand against colonialism.
The Province has a great number of attractions, from the wildlife reserve of Ujung Kulon on the south- western tip of Java and the isolated communities of the mysterious Baduy to the unspoiled beaches, the royal palaces of Cirebon and the world renowned botanical garden in Bogor.
The road from Jakarta to Bandung passes through a beautiful panorama of mountains, paddyfields and small holiday resorts. An expressway connects the crowded capital city with Bogor and the mountain areas, and onward to Bandung.
It has a number of sea resorts on its western and southern coasts which have modern hotels and are popular during the weekends.
The Sundanese people are soft-spoken. The women of the Bandung region are known for their beauty. A lighthearted people who have a love for bright colors, their mournful "kecapi" music is memory of beautiful legends

The city history dates from 1488 when the first reference to Bandung exists. But from ancient archeological finds, we know the city was home to Australopithecus, Java Man. These people lived on the banks of the Cikapundung in north Bandung, and on the shores of the Great Lake of Bandung. Flint artifacts can still be found in the Upper Dago area and the Geological Museum has displays and fragments of skeletal remains and artifacts.
The Sundanese were a pastoral people farming the fertile regions of Bandung. They developed a lively oral tradition which includes the still practiced Wayang Golek puppet theatre, and many musical forms. "There is a city called Bandung, comprising 25 to 30 houses," wrote Juliaen de Silva in 1614.
The achievements of European adventurers to try their luck in the fertile and prosperous Bandung area, led eventually to 1786 when a road was built connecting Jakarta, Bogor, Cianjur and Bandung. This flow was increased when in 1809 Louis Napoleon, the ruler of the Netherlands, ordered Governor General H.W. Daendels, to increase defences in Java against English. The vision was a chain of military defense units and a supply road between Batavia and Cirebon. But this coastal area was marsh and swamp, and it was easier to construct the road further south, across the Priangan highlands.
The Groote Postweg (Great Post Road) was built 11 miles north of the then capital of Bandung. With his usual terseness, Daendels ordered the capital to be relocated to the road. Bupati Wiranatakusumah II chose a site south of the road on the western bank of the Cikapundung, near a pair of holy wells, Sumur Bandung, supposedly protected by the ancient goddess Nyi Kentring Manik. On this site he built his dalem (palace) and the alun-alun (city square). Following traditional orientations, Mesjid Agung (The Grand Mosque) was placed on the western side, and the public market on the east. His residence and Pendopo (meeting place) was on the south facing the mystical mountain of Tangkuban Perahu. Thus was The Flower City born.
Around the middle of the l9th Century, South American cinchona (quinine), Assam tea, and coffee was introduced to the highlands. By the end of the century Priangan was registered as the most prosperous plantation area of the province. In 1880 the rail line connecting Jakarta and Bandung was completed, and promised a 2 1/2 hour trip from the blistering capital in Jakarta to Bandung.
With this life changed in Bandung, hotels, cafes, shops sprouted up to serve the planters who either came down from their highland plantations or up from the capital to frolic in Bandung. The Concordia Society was formed and with its large ballroom was the social magnet for weekend activities in the city. The Preanger Hotel and the Savoy Homann were the hotels of choice. The Braga became the promenade, lined with exclusive Europeans shops.
With the railroad, light industry flourished. Once raw plantation crops were sent directly to Jakarta for shipment to Europe, now primary processing could be done efficiently in Bandung. The Chinese who had never lived in Bandung in any number came to help run the facilities and vendor machines and services to the new industries. Chinatown dates from this period.
In the first years of the present century, Pax Neerlandica was proclaimed, resulting in the passing of military government to a civilian one. With this came the policy of decentralization to lighten the administrative burden of the central government. And so Bandung became a municipality in 1906.
This turn of events left a great impact on the city. City Hall was built at the north end of Braga to accommodate the new government, separate from the original native system. This was soon followed by a larger scale development when the military headquarters was moved from Batavia to Bandung around 1920. The chosen site was east of City Hall, and consisted of a residence for the Commander in Chief, offices, barracks and military housing.
By the early 20's the need for skilled professionals drove the establishment of the technical high school that was sponsored by the citizens of Bandung. At the same time the plan to move the capital of the Netherlands Indies from Batavia to Bandung was already mature, the city was to be extended to the north. The capital district was placed in the northeast, an area that had formerly been rice fields, and a grand avenue was planned to run for about 2.5 kilometers facing the fabled Tangkuban Perahu volcano with Gedung Sate at the south end, and a colossal monument at the other. on both sides of this grand boulevard buildings would house the various offices of the massive colonial government.
Along the east bank of the Cikapundung River amidst natural scenery was the campus of the Technische Hoogeschool, dormitories and staff housing. The old campus buildings and its original landscaping reflect the genius of its architect Henri Maclain Pont. The southwestern section was reserved for the municipal hospital and the Pasteur Institute, in the neighborhood of the old quinine factory. These developments were carefully planned down to the architectural and maintenance details. These years shortly before World War II were the golden ones in Bandung and those alluded to today as Bandung Tempoe Doeloe.
The war years did little to change the city of Bandung, but in 1946, facing the return of the Colonial Dutch to Indonesia, citizens chose to burn down their beloved Bandung in what has become known as Bandung Lautan Api, Bandung Ocean of Fire. Citizens fled to the southern hills and overlooking the "ocean of flames" penned "Halo Halo Bandung," the anthem promising their return. Political unrest colored the early years of Independence and consequently people flocked to Bandung where safety was. The population skyrocketed from 230,000 in 1940 to 1 million by 1961. Economic prosperity following the oil boom in the 70's pushed this further so that by 1990 there were 2 million inhabitants.
Present day Bandung is thriving. As home to more than 25 schools of higher education, there is a vibrant collegiate atmosphere. The ITB still reigns supreme in Indonesian education; the Universities of Padjadjaran and Parahyangan receive students from all over the country. The National Hotel Institute, the National Railway Institute, the Senior Officers Military Institute, the Women's Police Academy, grace the city. The excellent fine arts offerings have produced an artist colony of great repute and excitment. The textile industry is the largest in the country and contributes to a vigorous business climate.
In 1987 the city extended its administrative boundaries toward a Greater Bandung Plan (Bandung Raya) Plans for the city include higher concentrations of development outside the current city centre, in an attempt to dilute some of the population density in the old core. These days Bandung Raya is still years ahead, yet the land has suffered deeply. Commercial activities run amok, God only knows who can take control. The city core is practically uprooted, old faces are torn down, lot sizes regrouped, and what was idyllic residence is now bustling chain supermarkets and rich banks

HOW TO GET THERE

By Air
Husein Sastranegara domestic airport Iinks Bandung with Jakarta and most major cities in Java. Services are provided by deraya air.

By Train
The best way to get to Bandung from Jakarta is by train, taking the beautiful scenery enroute. Regular departures leave Jakarta's Gambir station. The executive class is recommended. The trip takes around three hours. From Bandung trains also travel to Yogyakarta

Land Transport
The best way to get around Bandung is by taxi or minibus hired via your hotel . The city center can be comfortably discovered on foot Jakarta - Bandung via Puncak or Jakarta - Bandung via Cikampek / Subang

PLACES OF INTEREST

Bandung


The capital is situated on a plateau 768 meters above sea level with a cool climate throughout the year. Although it has a population of over two million the pace of city life is slower than Jakarta's.Several institutes of higher education are located here, including the country's prestigious Bandung Institute of Technology.There are short drives up to the mountain resorts of Lembang and the Bosscha Observatory, and higher to the volcanic crater of Tangkuban Perahu, the only crater in Java accessible all the way by car as far as its rim. It is an awe-inspiring sight of emanating sulfur fumes. Descent into all the volcano's 12 craters is only possible with the aid of an experienced guide, because of the presence of suffocating gases at certain spots.Just a 15 minutes drive from Tangkuban Perahu is a hot springs resort. Here you can swim in warm mineral water pools, good for healing skin problems.The resort provides visitors with a bar, restaurants, tennis courts and cottage style hotels overlooking a beautiful mountain-scape.In Bandung, try to see the "Wayang Golek" wooden puppet show and hear the "Angklung" bamboo orchestra, as well as the classical Sundanese gamelan and dances.
Mang Udjo Angklung Workshop
One of the unique characteristics of this place is that traditional art performances are staged with a natural background of mountains, ricefields and plantations. Bamboo handicraft and musical instruments are made and sold here. Mang Udjo's "Angklungs" are well-known because of his fine workmanship and exact tuning of these bamboo musical instruments. His workshop is located in the village of Padasuka, around 7 km from Bandung.

Maribaya
Since long known for its hot water springs, Maribaya lies north of Bandung which can be reached within 30 minutes. The trip itself is worthwhile making, as you will pass through a picturesque road dotted with flowery hills and lovely villas all the way. The mountain air is cool and the sulfur-laden water just comfortably hot for swimming as well as for just soaking in. Part of the scenery is a 25 m high waterfall set against a steep mountain cliff.

Nusantara Aircraft Industry (IPTN/Nurtanio)
Vastly stretched out at Jalan Pajajaran, 6 km from down town, this is the only aircraft industry in Indonesia. To visit this place a permit should be arranged previously.

Patenggang Lake
One of the leading resorts is located in less than an hour by road to the south of the city. The eastern side of the lake is a cool forest having an average temperature of 10 degrees C and is often hazy the whole day. The north side is bordered by a lush tea estate, reaching far out to the west and south.

Juanda Forest Park
This is a 590-hectares (2,475-acres) forest for research and recreation with native plant species as well as from other parts of the world. The Japanese occupation forces left a number of caves and tunnels which they dug out of these cliffs during World War II for the defense of the area. This highland forest park is minutes away from Bandung.

Jatiluhur Dam
Situated just about halfway between Jakarta and Bandung, this dam was originally built with French technical assistance back in the Fifties, mainly for the purpose of generating electrical power for the region. Since then the dam developed into a multi-purpose designated area as it now serves irrigation to the surrounding arable land and fishery as well. Somewhat later, tourism saw a potential area for development as it now provides convenient facilities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, a camping ground, speedboats for water skiing and cottages. The water surface is enormously vast, the scenery tropical, the air crisp and cool.

The Prince Sumedang Foundation Museum
Located in the Pavilion of the Sumedang Regency building, in which relics of Sumedang's ancestors such as gamelan, spears, crown and royal clothes are exhibited.

Garut


The Garut Regency lies sixty-three kilometers to the southeast of Bandung, 717 meters above sea level. The area of Garut, 3,105,99 square kilometers large in size, lies between the Sumedang Regency in the north, the regency of Bandung and Cianjur in the west, the Indonesian Sea in the South the Tasikmalaya Regency in the east. This cool place can be reached from Bandung in approximately one hour.
Due to the scenic beauty of this there are many places of interest for nature lovers. The northern part of the region is reserved for the development of the city of Garut while the southern region is rich with a beautiful coastline, nature preserves and beautiful scenery. Since the time of the Dutch occupation, this region has been developed as a resting place.
The inhabitants of Garut are mostly Moslems and more than half of the people live on farming. The specific food from this place, which is very famous, is "dodol Garut", a sweet food made from sticky rice flour and sugar with various flavorings. This food is offered in different wrappings and can be store for a long time. In the past, Garut was also famous for its high quality oranges.
Garut has a specific cultural attraction, the "Ram Fight". Two strong male Ram, with big, long and strong horns are made to fight against each other in the center of a arena, usually in a field, accompanied by "Kendang Pencak" music. There are three centers for ram high performances: in the districts of Bayongbong, leles and Samarang. The participants mostly come from the surrounding place.
In Garut there are a lot of interesting places to visit, some have been developed, some others are being developed and there are places, which are still left natural. Some of the places worth visiting are

Papandayan Crater


Papandayan Mountain is one of the natural wonder in Jawa Barat. This interesting place lies in the border of the Bandung and Garut regencies, about seventy kilometers south of Bandung. It is one if the most spectacular volcanoes in this province, and the top of the mountain are easily reaches, because there are special road leading to the crater.
To reach this area, it may be passing the old capital town of the Bandung area, Dayeuhkolot. Papandayan is a unique mountain resort area. One can watch the bubbling hot water and sulphur, which produces peculiar sound

Cangkuang temple


The Cangkuang Temple and the Cultural preserve can be found in Cangkuang village, seventeen kilometers away from Garut or fifty kilometers away from Bandung. The temple of Cangkuang is a Hindu temple of Cangkuang and was to be one of the important discoveries in the field of culture and history. For this temple was first temple found in West Java. It is assumed to have been built in the 8th century.
About eight kilometers to west of Sumedang there is deep valley lying between rocky cliffs. Along the valley is the road, which connects Bandung and Cirebon. This place is considered historical and has been called "Cadas Pangeran" meaning prince rock.
In remembrance of the merit and bravery of Pangeran Kornel, governing regent at the time, who opposed the Dutch Colonial Government in Indonesia under the leadership of General Herman Willem Daendels. At the time Daendels ordered to open and build a road from Anyer to Panarukan.
When the work reached Sumedang between the year 1811 and 1812, Pangeran Kornel refused the order as he saw that project made the local people become the victims of "Rodi" (forced Labor).

Kamojang Crater


The Kamojang Crater lies twenty-three kilometers away from Garut. This is the most beautiful of the entire crater we find on Mount Guntur, which is still active. In this area there are twenty steam wells and some of them have been used to generate electrical power. For this region a Geothermal Power Plant has been built. Places of interests in Tasikmalaya include the most attractive natural resorts. From a tourism viewpoint at least, the area has benefited from the latest eruption

Ngamplang area.
This is a natural recreational place with beautiful scenery. It is located five kilometers away from Garut. This place is famous as a resting place and recreations place. It has a golf course, tennis courts, a swimming pool and other facilities.

Talagabodas crater.

The Talagabodas Crater, which nowadays in a lake, lies north of Mount Talagabodas. In Wanaraja Village twenty-seven kilometers away from Garut. The water in the crater very often boils and changes in color

Tasikmalaya
Sixty kilometers from Garut, Tasikmalaya is known for its plaited mats, painted umbrellas and batiks of particular designs and colors.

Kampung Naga


The uniqueness of Kampung Naga is that in spite of its proximity to modern society, it has retained its traditional customs over the centuries. It is a small village in the beautiful mountains of the Salawu District, some 30 km from Tasikmalaya. Here the most important traditional ceremony is called the "Upacara Pedaran" which illustrates its age-old history and culture, held only once every year.

CIAMIS

Ciamis is the eastern most Regency in the Province of Jawa Barat and situated as a gate on the boundary between the provinces of Jawa Barat and Jawa Tengah. Geographically, this Regency lies between 108o 20' and 108o48' eastern longitudes and 1o 40' and 7o 50' southern latitude. This regency is bordered in the west by the Regency of Tasikmalaya, in the north by the Regency of Majalengka, in the east by the regencies of Cilacap and Banyumas in Jawa Tengah, and in the south the Indian Ocean.
This Regency has an area of 199,067,540 hectares. With an average elevation of 203 meters above sea level. The land is fertile, sloping toward the south, with vast plantations of rubber and teak trees.
The people in this regency are ethnically Sundanese. Therefore, in many aspects what is found here is also found in other regencies in the Province of Jawa Barat-food, friendly and helpful people, and cultural arts, for example, are debus (performance demonstrating physical invisibility), kuda lumping (a kind of bobby horse, but the jockeys in trance and is able to do the impossible like eating light bulbs, lamp-chimneys, etc), Rudat (cultural arts influenced by the Islamic Culture), Tayub (dance performed by young people, used to dance by aristocrats), kecapi (zither and flute), degung (gamelan orchestra), Keroncong, Penca Silat (martial arts) and Kliningan (gamelan orchestra).
The cultural art specific for this area is ronggeng gunung.
Places of interests in Ciamis, especially beaches, are being developed and more and more tourists visit them. There is breathtaking scenery and beautiful nature. There are historical remains, a nature reserve with an interesting flora and fauna. The places of interests worth mentioning, among others, are

Pangandaran


The distance from Ciamis to Pangandaran is about 113 kilometers while from Bandung to Ciamis is 180 kilometers. It can be reached by all kinds of transportation means within two hours from Ciamis. The Pangandaran Recreational Park is located in the southern part of Jawa Barat, on a small cape. There is a green hill overlooking the sea. Another beauriful place is the Pananjung Nature Reserve, 475 hectares large, located in a beach below the hills. There are buffaloes, deer, monkeys, and various kinds of birds, inhabiting the adjoining wildlife reserve. There are also caves with stalactites and stalagmites and old Japanese bunkers. For those who want to stay longer, hotels, bungalows and homestays are available. Restaurants and Bars can be found easily along the beach

Green Canyon.


Green Canyon is an interesting place lies in the area of Pangandaran Beach. This beautiful place is located in Ciamis Regency. The Canyon walls both sides of fresh and clear water for some hundred meters of Cijulang River. The visitors not only being able to enjoy boating but also having a good panorama of great beautiful canyon.
The Canyon lies about thirty-five kilometers away the west Pananjung-Pangandaran, on road side Pangandaran-Cipatujah route. Villas, bungalows and other facilities for the visitors are available

Pangandaran, Karang Nini and Batu Hiu
This is the second beach resort area on the Indian Ocean after Pelabuhan Ratu. It certainly equals the latter's awe-inspiring natural beauty, however, it has the disadvantage of being so far off from Bandung (223 km) and even more so from Jakarta (400 km). Road conditions are good, thus making the trip by car or bus recommendable. However, if you prefer to take the train, get into the Bandung-Yogyakarta Express train and get off at the Banjar railroad station about 4 hours later. From here it will be another 50 km by bus to Pangandaran. The beach is called Penanjung, where most of the cottages and hotels are located, however, of modest ratings. Nothing luxurious should be expected. Pangandaran is especially of interest to nature lovers, as there is a wildlife reserve in the vicinity where wild birds and other indigenous animals live about freely to be enjoyed by visitors. Here too, the white beaches are fine, the ocean ever so blue and the seafood superb. Twelve kilometers before arriving at Pangandaran you will see a huge rock on the beach which is called Karang Nini. A forest Conservation Park is located right here, which is another place of special interest to nature lovers. Nearby is a camping ground which has basic facilities suitable for the younger set. Somewhat further out, west of Pangandaran, driving 23 km on the way to Parigi, lies Batu Hiu, meaning Shark's Rock, which is a coastal rock having the shape of a shark. Close by a recreation park is found where you can have an endless open ocean view and enjoy nature at its best.

Lembang - Bosscha Observatory - Tangkuban Prahu


There are short drives up to the mountain resorts of Lembang and the Bosscha Observatory, and higher to the volcanic crater of Tangkuban Perahu, the only crater in Java accessible all the way by car as far as its rim. It is an awe-inspiring sight of emanating sulfur fumes. Descent into all the volcano's 12 craters is only possible with the aid of an experienced guide, because of the presence of suffocating gases at certain spots.
Getting there: From Bandung's minibus terminal take a Colt via Lembang.

Maribaya Hot Springs

Since long known for its hot water springs, Maribaya can be reached within 30 minutes. The trip itself is worthwhile making, as you will pass through a picturesque road dotted with flowery hills and lovely villas all the way. The mountain air is cool and the sulfur-laden water just comfortably hot for swimming as well as for just soaking in. Part of the scenery is a 25 m high waterfall set against a steep mountain cliff.

Mang Udjo Angklung Workshop
One of the unique characteristics of this place is that traditional art performances are staged with a natural background of mountains, ricefields and plantations. Bamboo handicraft and musical instruments are made and sold here. Mang Udjo's "Angklungs" are well known because of his fine workmanship and exact tuning of these bamboo musical instruments. His workshop is located in the village of Padasuka, around 7 km from Bandung.

Ciater Hot Springs
The Pools are probably the best of all the hot springs around Bandung.The water contains minerals that help to cure skin deseases and also a hospital to restored the broken bones , some people believe that if you washed your face with the water from Ciater, you will always look 'young' :)

Patenggang Lake
One of the leading resorts is located in less than an hour by road to the south of the city. The eastern side of the lake is a cool forest having an average temperature of 10 degrees C and is often hazy the whole day. A lush tea estate, reaching far out to the west and south, borders the north side.

Tangkuban Parahu.


General Information
Tangkubanperahu is a 2084 high strato volcano having a twin crater on the summit, located in Lembang District, 26 km away to the north of Bandung City. Geographically, situated between 6° 46' South Latitude and 107° 36' East Longitude. According to Neumann van Padang (1951, p.79), this present volcano is the youngest stage of Sunda Volcano Complex, lies at the northern part of Bandung. Since the change of eruption points this volcano complex streching 1100 m east - westward.
Historic Eruptions and Recent Activities
Van Bemmelen (1934) wrote that Tangkubanperahu had built itself in the eastern part of Sunda Caldera.
The historic eruptions can be classified into 3 periods as follow :
1. Explosive phase. During this period, the loose materials in any size came out and covered nearby area. Those material downed to the stream as lahar.
2. Effusive phase. Lava flow built by andesite-olivin-augit-basaltic.
3. A developed phase of Tangkubanparahu
The eruptions, in general, occurred small. Had been discussed by Junghuhn, Verbeek- Fennema and Stehn.
H2S, CO2 and CO came out from several places ( Kusumadinata,1962).
1829 Between 4 - 7 April, continuously for 3 days, ash eruptions occurred in Kawah Ratu and Domas (Junghuhn,1853). Newmann van Padang 1951,p.81) wrote that it was ( explosive eruption and occurred in Kawahratu only
1929 On May 20, mud eruption occurred inside Kawahcoma (Natuurk, Tijdschr. Nederl.Ind. 1930), fountain up to10m. Newmann van Padang (1951,p.81) stated as phreatic eruption.
1935 The activity of Kawahratu increased. A fracture appeared in the floor of Kawahratu, in the northwestern part of Kawahecoma, 1 m in width and 50 m in length. On April 27, emerged several new fumarolas in the northern part of Kawah Badak (Maandrapport Vulkanol. Onderz., April 1935)
1946 1947 The activity increased at Kawahratu, plume reached up to 100 m. December-January.
1950 The activity increased.
1952 Kawahratu's activity. On April 22, seen glowing point on fumarolas area. On May 9, Kawahecoma got active 11, seen dark steaming up to 25 m. Ash showered at west side (Suryo, 1952).
1957 In January, a new eruption site appeared in Kawahbaru.
1960 Increasing activity in Kawahratu, enlargement of fumarola area. A new eruption point was born on May first.
1960 July 16, August 1.
1965 February, March, October.
1969 Increasing activity in Kawahratu. Ash showered tea plantation on the north side.

Geology
Physiography. Tangkuban Parahu and other mountains in the surrounding area are located in the Bandung zone (Van Bemmelen, 1934). The Bandung zone is a longitudinal belt of intermontane depressions. This belt has generally a width of 25-50 km, slightly convex to the north, located between the Bogor zone and Southern Mountain. This depressed zone is named after the main town in it, Bandung. it is structurally the top part of the geanticline of Java, which has broken down after or during the arching up at the end of the Tertiary. the axial belt is the site of Quaternary volcanism. It extends from the Pelabuhan Ratu bay in the west, via the Cimandiri valley with Sukabumi (600 m), Cianjur plains (495 m), Bandung (715 m) and Garut (711 m) to the Citanduy valley with Tasikmalaya (351 m) in the east, ending in the Segara Anakan on the south coast of Central Java. The central part of this zone is occupied by the uplands of Bandung and Garut. Physiographically The Bandung zone of West Java is the equivalent of the Solo zone in East Java; the link between both is the part of Central Java with the South Serayu range and West Progo mountains. Tangkuban Parahu morphologic unit. The morphology of this volcano can be divided into three main units : the active stratocone, the middle volcanic slope and the foot volcanic slope. The active stratocone occupies the central part of the Sunda Caldera. The craters of this volcano are situated in an east-west direction. Several craters are located in the summit area and some others are located on the eastern flank. This active strato cone is composed of alternated layers of lava and pyroclastic rocks and the summit area consists of phreatic deposits. Radiate pattern with V shaped valleys with several water falls are the common features found in this morphologic unit.The middle volcanic slope comprises the northeastern, southern and southeastern slopes of the volcano. The lithologies are composed of thick pyroclastic rocks and lava flows which are usually exposed in deep river valleys with parallel to semi radiate drainage patterns. The south and southeast slopes are interrupted by Lembang fault, which lies in an east-west direction. The foot slope occupies the northeast and south slopes of the volcano. They are located between the elevations of 1200 m to 800 m in the south and between 1000 m to 600 m above sea level. The northeast foot has parasitic eruption vents such as : G.Malang, G.Cinta and G. Palasari. Big lava flows and reddish scoria originated from these eruption vents and they cover a large part of this foot. The drainage pattern which has developed in this area is parallel with shallow U shaped valleys where it passes through a hard lithology.The south slope is situated between the Lembang fault and the peneplain of Bandung in the south. The major part of the area is composed of pyroclastic rocks and some lahar deposits, whereas lava flows are found in the river's bottom. Parallel drainage patterns is more commonly developed in this morphology. Structural geology. Lembang fault is a major fault in the area, strectching in an east-west direction. It is located in Lembang from which the name is derived and it is about 10 km to the north of Bandung. It is an active fault with a distinct northward facing scarp. This fault, with total outcrop about 22 km can be traced as a fairly straight line from G.Palasari in the east to the west near Cisarua. Former investigations have always attributed predominantly dip slip displacement of Lembang fault commenced after the big eruption of Sunda volcano which took place in Old Quaternary time. Geological history. History of G.Tangkuban Parahu began with the presence of an old volcano complex called G.Sunda complex. G.Sunda complex is historically young in geological time. Some of the events which occurred in the region are able to be measured in thousand of years. G.Sunda complex is a compound volcano, consisting of three bodies, two of which are extinct and the third one, Tangkuban Parahu, is still active. The volcano is built on a basement of Neogene sedimentary rocks. The oldest extinct volcano, the so called Sunda volcano has a big caldera. Only part of its rim remains, that is between G.Burangrang and G.Tangkuban Parahu. Lembang lake is part of this caldera's bottom. According to Van Bemmelen (1934), in the post caldera stage the Lembang fault came into existence. This event was followed by the birth of G.Burangrang, now extinct, and finally Tangkuban Parahu volcano. Stratigraphy. The oldest strata in the area consist of marly clay alternating with tuff beds and coral reefs of Miocene age. They are exposed at Citarum river to the southwest of Tangkuban Parahu and in the lowland of Purwakarta and Subang. At some places the coral reef is partly metamorphosed into marble by contact with lava flows. These beds are then intruded by Pliocene volcanics consisting of hornblende andesites and dacites. These are covered by hornblende andesite, coarse breccia and conglomerates. A new period of volcanic activity began in a complex north of Bandung during the Quaternary period. In the west a large volcano (G.Sunda) formed, whereas in the east the volcanic activities were in the area of Bukit Tunggul, G.Pulusari and G.Cangak. The age of this volcanic period was determined by the bones of large mammals such as rhinoceros, hypopotamus species, buffalo, antelope and deer suffocated by lahar. from these fossils it was known that volcanism occurred during the Old Pleistocene.G.Sunda volcanic products consist of lahars, lava flows, pyroclastic fall and pyroclastic flow. Tangkuban Parahu products consist of pyroclastic flow, lava flows, pyroclastic falls, lahar and phreatic deposit. There are two other deposits which are not included in the direct results of volcanic activity such as Bandung lake deposits which is stratigraphically lies above pyroclastic flow product from Tangkuban Parahu, and Melongasih fluviatile deposits which are composed of volcanic material, but as the result of secondary processes. Petrography. Pyroclastic flow deposits surrounding Tangkuban Parahu are calc-alkaline associated with tholeiitic suites, and fall within the series of basaltic andesite-andesite. Division into magma types within this series is based on silica content as classified by Taylor (1969); low-Si andesite (53-57% SiO2) and andesite (57-63% SiO2).

Geophysics
Observatory of Mt. Tangkuban Parahu built at the east slope of the volcano. It equipped by one unit seismograph meanwhile a vertical componentseismometer installed at upper part of Kawah Ratu. The data telemetered to the observatory. The seismicity consists of tectonic earthquake, shallow volcanic earthquake/B-type and deep one (A-type) while B-type events dominating. Appearences of tectonic earthquake events usually assosiated with Lembang Fault's activity. In 1993, phreatic eruption occurred and followed by increasing the number of B-type events.

Volcanic Hazards
The Eruption of Tangkubanparahu has been classified into a small eruption. Lava flow eruptions are expected not to be occurred. According to Klompe (1954), Bandung City may be threaten when the eruption takes place in Kawah Badak. Based on the past experiences of activities shown since the 19th century, the volcano never demonstrated a big magmatic eruption but small ash one without lava flow or glowing rockfalls. Phreatic eruption is dominant and generally followed by the increasing of fumaroles/solfatares temperature at several active craters named Kawah Ratu, Kawah Baru and Kawah Domas. Volcanic material ejected during the eruption is generally ash layer which spread out limitedly around the summit up to a few kilometers. Mud fountain is only limited at the fumaroles area and never formed a lahar flow. On the increasing activity, fumaroles/solfatares plume is possible to be be followed by the increasing of volcanic gases such as toxic CO and CO2. When the accumulated toxic gases around the active crater is getting higher, the area can be clasified into limited primary hazard area. Secondary hazard such as lahar-flood never occurred. Local landslides took place inside the crater and the steep upper flank. The hazardous area can be divided into 2, named Danger Zone and Alert Zone.

DANGER ZONE
The area covers 57.5 km2 which is potential to be affected by volcanic material ( ash, lapilli, bomb) within radius of 2.5 - 3 km, around the active craters. Pyroclastic flow or lava flow may enter the river valley where their upper stream is from the summit. This lava flow can reach as far as 7 - 10 km in distance to the south through Cibodas, Cihedueng, Cimahi and Cikole rivers; while northward and northeastward through Cipangasahan , Cinangka, Cipunagara and Cikondang rivers this pyroclastic and lava flows may reach up to 20 km. This condition is affected by the their morphology where the north flank is steeper than the south one. Lembang Fault Scarp may influence the distribution of these products. This fault may block the flow to the south.
ALERT ZONE
This area may be affected by sand and ash fall which cover around the river valleys where their upper stream is from the suumit. The alert zone area may cover 10 km in radius

Shopping Hints
Fine paintings, hand-carved wooden statues and screens, silver-work, hand-woven and painted cottons and silks, batiks, embroidery, garments for casual wear, leather and cotton bags, bone carvings, shell ornaments, masks, pottery, ceramics, basketry, sandstone statues and bamboo furniture, are all West Javanese specialties.

As the capital city of West Java, Bandung's shops are filled with products of this far-flung archipelago as well as imported goods. Shopping in Bandung is fun, simple and extensive.
Pasar Kota Kembang, a narrow lane with shops and stalls lining along it, could be a perfect place for bargaining cheap clothes, belts, shoes or handbags. Next to it is a shopping center specializing in textiles. This market lane connects Jl. Asia-Afrika with Jl. Dalem Kaum.
The first market in Bandung located in Kampung Ciguriang, behind Kapatihan was built in 1812. In the middle of l9th century, the market caught on fire. Later,the merchants gathered around Chinatown and established a new market, Pasar Baru. Once it was a beautiful place surrounded by Chinese-Dutch style shops . Now, only a few are left. Nevertheless, it's still the hub of commerce in Bandung. Plenty of textiles, batiks and clothes in cheap and moderate prices are available. You can test your bargaining skill here. A vegetable market is in the basement. Go to Jl. Pasar Utara. A row of stalls sell all sort of snacks, most of them Bandung specialties. You're welcome to have a taste before you buy the snacks. Jalan Pasar Selatan is lined with jeans shops trying to copy the ones in Jl. Cihampelas. Some of these shops are old ones. With the permission of the owner, old building enthusiasts could enter the old shop and take photographs.
Pasar Jatayu, on Jalan Arjuna, is a flea market mixed with motorbike parts shops. After jostling around, you'll find two antique shops in the dark and crammed market. You'll feel like finding a treasure island. Nearby is a row of shops selling military paraphernalia, and the Ciroyom terminal is next to them.
These three markets will be a nightmare for a claustrophobic. Known as The 'Flower City', Bandung certainly has a flower market, located on Jl. Wastukencana. The flowers are supplied from cool uplands that surround Bandung. Nice place to refresh your eyes.
The rather bizarre 'Jean Street', on Jl. Cihampelas, offers all sorts of jeans and T-shirts while offering fantastic shopfronts to view. The shop owners vie for the most elaborate shopfront design in an attempt to lure business.
Shopping centers are in abundance. The Alun-alun area is surrounded by shopping centers, particularly in Jl. Dalem Kaum. Bandung Indah Plaza is the most luxurious shopping center in Bandung. Nearby City Hall in Jl. Merdeka, it is a new favorite place for the young.
On Jalan Braga, you could find souvenir and antique shops, such as Sin Sin established in 1943. Leather shoes and garment at Leather Palace. Snake skin bags, shoes and all sort of suitcases at Cuero. Bookshops in Braga offer a great range of English books and magazines.

PLACES TO EAT

Bandung is heaven to satisfy your taste buds. From traditonal food sold by street vendors up to international ones in fancy restaurants. A warung is regarded as a poor man's restaurant. But on Jl. Bungsu next to Puri Mas Bakery, you could see the newest BMW and Mercedez parked in front of a small lane famous for its Sekoteng Ice. By far the best food money can buy and is served in these makeshift foodstalls with canopies, hardwood benches or stools, and glowing with hissing gas lamps. Open after 5:30 pm.
Groups of nightstalls located in the corner of JI. Merdeka and JI. L.L.R.E. Martadinata spread mouthwatering smells from sizzling sate on red hot glowing charcoal braziers. Try Madurese, chicken, beef, or mutton sate and various kinds of soto, an Indonesian thick soup. Jl. Cikapundung Barat stalls (occupying sidewalks used as a selling place for secondhand books at noon) serve all kinds of popular Indonesian food. Sate Padang Pak Datuk is worth a try.
Near the RRI building on Jl. Diponegoro, you can taste local delicacies such as gorengan (sort of Japanese tempura) from tofu, sweet potato, taro, pineapple, jackfruit, banana and comro (mashed cassava filled with fermented soybean cake). A sip of bandrek -ginger drink- and bajigur -coconut milk sweetened with palm sugar- in a cool night is a nice treat. A piece of sweet awuk (coneshape rice cake with layers of palm sugar) can be enjoyed in Awuk Cibeunying stall. Roasted corn on a cob with four flavors, seafood, Indonesian style Chinese food, pecel lele (fried eel fish with yummy sauce), fried goldfish and chicken porridge all are available.
Feel thirsty when strolling around Alun-alun, go to PakAceng's ice juice pushcart on Jl . Kapatihan in the mouth of a blind alley, next to 'Damai' shop (pay attention to 'Shinly' &'Krizia' billboards). Es campur (mixed ice) or if you want a sterile one, just ask for fresh orange juice with young coconut water placed in a plastic will be made for Rp. 750,-. Since 1967, Pak Aceng has been a famous es campur seller.
As a rule of thumb, warungs line and crowd in almost every intersection. But a good sense and luck play an important part in finding a good warung with fair price and nice food which does not upset your stomach.
Lotek Kalipah Apo, famous for its lotek and gado-gado since 1953, serves all kinds of sweet tasty kolek with thick coconut milk plus pieces of bananas, and rice cakes. A variety of rujak, Indonesian fruit salad, is ready to be tasted. Be wary of the hot sauce of the rujak. Avocado juice, mixed ice, young coconut ice and cendol ice, -colored rice drink with palm sugared coconut milk- can make you real aficionados of these desserts.
Stalls along Jl. Rama offer Indonesian style fried chicken, Chinese food, and much more. The best pempek -a sort of fish meatballs dipped in hot vinegar sauce- can be eaten in one of the stalls here. It's a Palembang specialty.
Craving for western delights, Tizi has a wide range of German touch bread, cakes, cookies, pan cakes, and steaks. A cart selling colenak(roasted fermented cassava root )at the mouth of Jl. Kidang Pananjung is also worth a try. Glosis with romantic lighting and cooler climate of an uphill area could be a perfect place for dinner. Braga Permai with its original Dutch era cake recipes would be a cozy place to recall the atmosphere of old Braga Street.
Queen Restaurant offers luxurious Chinese food while Dai Shogun serves qualified Japanese food, sit facing its heartsoothing garden. Paregu offers less expensive Japanese food with eat your fill Yakiniku and Shabu-shabu. Hanamasa on Jl. Merdeka serves buffet Yakiniku.


Indramayu


The regency of Indramayu is located in the northeast of Jawa Barat, at a geographical position of 107o 52' - 108o 36' eastern longitude and 6o 14' - 6o 40' southern latitude. In the west it is bordered longitude and regency of Subang, in the north by the Java Sea, in the east by the regencies of Cirebon and Majalengka, and in the south by the regency of Sumedang. It covers an area of 2,004 square kilometers, the longest distance from west to east seventy kilometers, from north to south fourty kilometers.
Indramayu is situated 195 kilometers from Jakarta or 183 kilometers from Bandung. From Jakarta it can be reached by car or by train to Surabaya. Transport facilities include buses and non-buses vehicles, available at three terminals. Traveling in town can be done by four-wheel-drive vehicles, Dokars (horse-drawn carts) and Becaks. About fifteen kilometers from the center of the town, in Jati barang there is a railway station connecting this are so Jakarta, Karawang, Cikampek, Cirebon, and Bandung.
Indramayu is famous as 'the rice barn' of West Java. Another nickname given to Indramayu is 'the town is mangos'. The Dermayu mango, as it is called by the local people, is well know for its special taste, its cookies 'kripik tike' and 'kue poci'. 'Kripik tike' is a snack made of grass root 'tuber grown in many swamps found around the villages of Indramayu. It is crunchy and tasty and has a high nutritional value. 'Poci' cookies are cookies that have a conical form made of a mixture of rice, green beans and coconut sugar or ordinary white sugar. This cookie can be slurred for a long time.
As a region more than 4,5 centuries old, Indramayu has many ancient buildings, such as mosques, and the graves of the ancestors of Indramayu from the period of the Sundanese kingdoms until the beginning of the Islamization in the area. In the town of Indramayu, in the Pesinan area, we are still able to see the old warehouses of the period before World War II, as evidence for Indramayu's nickname 'rice barn', in fact, has exited for a long time.

Cirebon

BRIEF HISTORY: A state founded in 1478 as a result of the fall of the Mojopahit Empire, split into 4 lineages in 1662 with their own land and palace (Kraton) in Cirebon: 1° Kraton Kasepuhan with the title of Sultan Sepuh from 1699, 2° Kraton Kanoman with the title of Sultan Kanoman or Sultan Anom from 1662, 3° Kraton Kacirebonan with the title of Pangeran Kacirebonan from 1710 and 4° Kraton Kaprobonan with the title of Panembahan from 1694, until 1773. There was a rolling succession where the head of the Kraton Kanoman succeeded to the Kraton Kasepuhan ruler, the Kraton Kacirebonan to the Kraton Kanoman, etc. In 1773, the extinct Kraton Kaprobonan 4th line's lands and rights were divided between the Sultan Sepuh of the Kraton Kasepuhan 1st line and the Sultan Kanoman of the Kraton Kanoman 2nd line. The royalty was downgraded to regencies by the Dutch in 1809 and restored by independent Indonesia. On the island of Java (Jawa Barat).
Cirebon a border town between Jawa Tengah and Jawa Barat is situated on the coastline of the Java Sea. It is located at 108o 33' eastern longitude and 6o 41' southern latitude. It is only 257 kilometers from Jakarta or about 125 kilometers from Bandung, the capital of Jawa Barat. Cirebon can be reached from Jakarta by car, train, or by airplane, and from Bandung by car. It is has warm weather with temperatures between 24o and 32o Celsius.
As a harbor-town, Cirebon has very rapidly developed to a business center as well as a tourism visited by businessmen. The pressure has led to a burst of hotel construction both in the center of the city and in the outskirts. World-class hotels and cheaper ones are always available in this city.
Historical buildings and places of religious background have become the most attractive places for travelers outside the city of Cirebon. The busiest time of the year is one the year is one the twelfth of Rabiulawal (Maulud) when people from all corners of Java and even from other island come to this town to follow ritual ceremonies, Palaces and The Grave of Sunan Gunung Jati are always crowded by visitors at this time, not only because it is the time when sacred rituals from the palaces are performed to the public but also because many kinds of traditional arts and ceremonies become the most attractive performances to see

Oldest still excisting royal city
Cirebon , the first big harbour east of Jakarta, is a modest trade city with about 225,000 inhabitants. It's the only of the 16th century Jawanese city kingdoms, complete with palaces and royal families, which has survived the times. With this fact, Cirebon is the oldest royal city of the island; about three centuries older than both Yogyakarta and Solo. However without doubt it's one of the most interesting places of Jawa, foreign tourists are still a rare sight, because the city is far awa from the tourist areas.
The location of Cirebon is very strategic. In the Indojawanese time it was the most important harbour of the mighty Galuh kingdom, of which the capital was located in the fertile of the River Citanduy , not too far away from Ciamis. The harbour also opened the way to the River Cimanuk, which flows through Sumedang to the lake basin of Bandung. Because the coasts of Western Jawa are swampy and in some places rocky Cirebon and Sunda Kelapa ( Jakarta ), together with Banten in the far West, the main entries to the blooming highlands

Kasepuhan Kraton
Nowadays Cirebon is on the crossing of a busy coastal road and the main road to Bandung. The harbour, main depot for the oil from the Jawa Sea, is famous for it's great catches of fish and other sea animals. Cirebon means 'River of Shrimps' and the city has a nickname 'Kota Udang', 'City of the big Shrimps'; historical sources tell us that the name of the city is probably diverted from caruban, which means 'mixture' - a withness of the very heterogene heir of Cirebon.

Old coastal kingdom
However the roots of Cirebon grow deep into the Indojawanese history, it's the arrival of the Islam which gave the city it's powerfull position. Cirebon was most likely the first Islamic city kingdom of Jawa. Local cronics name Cakrabuana, Prince of Galuh-Pajajaran, which became harbour master of Cirebon. After that he reformed towards Islam, and didn't want to be tributary anymore and defended himself successfully against the attacks of the king. This most likely took place in the early 15th century, since the room of the throne at the entrance of the Kasepuhan Palace is dated 1425.
The famous rise of Cirebon is more associated with Sunan Gunung Jati, one of the nine wali which prepared Jawa for the Islam a century afterwards. Following an old story his father was a sultan from the Middle-East, and his mother a younger sister of Cakrabuana which had been to Mecca for the piolgrimage. The boy, born on Sumatera, was placed on his throne directly. He lead the recontruction of the palace and got himself a fabulous reputation as one of the most holy persons of his time.
In the 16th century, the 'Golden Century' of the Islamdic coastal kingdoms, Gunung Jati connected himself with the mighty Demak and conquerred Hinduist harbours like Sunda Kelapa and Banten afterwards. He died in 1568; his grave, north of Cirebon, is an important place of pilgrimage for Jawanese and Sundanese muslems.
During the 17th centuy another Islamic power developed on Jawa: the inland kingdom of Mataram. The coastal kingdoms were swept away - including royal families - by the Central Jawanese armies of sultan Agung. Only the rulers of Cirebon succeeded to survive as fazals of Mataram, probably through their smart prearranged marriages and their religious leaders. Sultan Agung took a Cirebon princess as his wife, in which all Mataram rulers got connected to the coastal city through him.
Following royal stories the kingdom was split up peacefully in 1678. The three princes from Cirebon built new palaces. At about the same time Mataram had to pay the entire north to the Dutch as result of a war-debt. The sultans were obliged to sign contracts with the VOC, which got the monopoly over the im-, and export. On the other hand, the sultans were allowed to keep their kingdom and their privileges.
The following century the colonial power was a battle for existance. In the 18th century the population of Cirebon was decimated by epidemics and famine; gangs looted the surrounding area, while greedy Dutch servants filled up their pockets, without the permission of the Dutch government.
At the beginning of the 19th century a new colonial government was installed. The kingdom was split up under the heirs; today five different royal families still exist. From 1809 the sultans got a yearly income of 18.000 'rijksdaalders' ( Dutch coin with the value of 2,50 Guilder ) The title of sultan was abolished. Ever since they have a retiring exsistance in their palaces, just like the rulers of Yogyakarta and Solo. They followed the Central-Jawanese rulers who became the patron of arts. In between a new European quarter appeared at the northern side of the city. Nowadays Cirebon looks the same as other not to big Jawanese cities.

Early Palace architecture
However Cirebon is the oldest still remaining Islamic royal city of Jawa, it still owns the best preserved examples of the early Indojawanese palace architecture. The pavilions in the gardens ( Siti Inggil of the kratons KasePuhan and Kanoman in Cirebon show a building style which is typical fot the 13th and 14th century East-Jawanese palaces, which can be found on the reliefs on Singosari and Majapahit.
As well as the palaces of Yogyakarta and Solo ( and the Balinese governmental temples ) the central pavilion symbolizes the holy mountain Meru as the centre of the universe, surrounded by seas and continents. Only the fundaments of these structures were originally built from stone or masonry; pilars and roofr were made from wood and palmfibre. With the construction of later palaces concrete, tiles and iron were also used, above all European and oriental features like arched windows were added.
The two most famous palaces of Cirebon unite both elements. The Kraton kasepuhan ( 'palace of the oldest brother' ) in the southeast of the city is located on the original spot of the Pakungwati palace ( 15th century ) and stands to the north watching over the old city square. It would be built in 1677-1678, however the other buildingd probably are not that old. In fact, the whole front part of the kraton, the porch and the Siti Inggil included are directly from the oldest time. The entrance gate from red brick has the shape of an East Jawanese candi bentar like they still can be found on Bali. The low wall which encloses the complex, consists of special bricks that were connected without cement. Earlier, the complex was also surrounded by a canal; the water was taken from a nearby river. The bridge was the only way to entere the palace.
Just behind the gbate are the old watchman's huts; small, open constructions with a piramid shape roof. The bigger pavilions behind that served for royal meetings, court, religious meetings, gamelan and governmental ceremonies. The elegant wooden pilars are decorated with woodcarvings. This part of the kraton is the most authentic; this is how an old Indojawanese palace should have looked like.
A part of theoriginal Pakungwati palace, east ot the Siti Inggil, is ruined. The fundaments of a meditation complex and a royal bathing place, which is filled with holy sources, can be found. During the annual Panjang-Jimat festivities on the birthday of Muhammad ( 12 Mulud ), young people bath in the water from the holy source; it is said it will guarantee a partner for marriage.
A lane covered in shadows runs from Siti Inggril to the main building of the palace. The free standin entry gate is remarkable: a white, arched, with pilars supported gate which shows European features is decorated with wadasan motives ( rock motives ), which are a brand of this royal home. They would go back to the calckstone hills south of the city, and symbolize the meditational caves which are associated with meditational power. They are also connected with the Chinese expression of qi, the kosmic energy which is carried out by the royal ruler . Two white Siliwangi tigers form the attraction in the garden in front of the building.

Panjang JImat
The first building is a big meeting room with an Jawanese look, but with 18th century European furniture. behind this room are two other halls for ceremonial meetings. East of that are the living areas of the royal family. This part has a view over a big garden, with ponds and replica's of religious mountains. At the back the Pringgodani Hall is located, with at it's west the nice meeting room ( paseban ) Roof and pilars decorated with wealthy woodcarvings, originally from the Pakungwait Palace.
The Gedong Singa ( lion shed ) is worth while a visit. Singa Barong united all Jawanese mythological objects; Garuda, horse, lion and elephant. The wagon, moved by a number of albino oxes, was only used at special occations, in which the sultan was fully dressed. Weapons are also to be seen here. The small museum at the other side of the garden shows musical instruments and seni debus, special instruments.

Other places of interest
At the western side of the old alun-alun is Mesjid Agung ( Big Mosque ). The layered, high meru-roof looks like the roof of an Hindu temple from the pre-Islamic time. The wall of red bricks which seals the terrain with nine gates, is a symbol of the wali songo, the nine holy Muslems.
Following the kraton tradition the mosque was completed in 1500; which would made it the oldest on Jawa. In any way the most remarkable. Entire in old-Jawanese style the roof is supported by four enormous pilars ( soko guru ). Just like the mosque of Demak one of the pilars was constructed in one night by Sunan Kalijaga, when he crushed the woodshreds together. The solid roof is made from an difficult system of beams, while the beautifull jati-wooden mimbar pulpit was decorated with Indojawanese kala-makara-motives. The portals are made from sculptured limestone, and decorated with mandala's. The big drum ( bedug ) which calls the religious people for their prayer, is named Sang Guru mangir.
The second palace of importance is 'Kraton Kanoman', or 'Palace of the youngest brother'. It's on walking distance from the mosque, just behind the busy market, Pasar Kanoman It was built about the same time as the Kasepuhan and it also looks like it a lot, but is smaller. A remarkable difference is that the Siti Inggil-pavilions in the northern part are built in a more modern way; roburt entrances of bricks and plaster, decorated with Chinese plates.
The palace garden is also worth while a visit because of 'Paksi Naga Liman' The wagon has a remarkable resemblance with the one of Kasepuhan, but is much older. Nearby is the Kraton Kacirebonan ( or Kacerbonan ), which is originated from the 19th century Kanoman, but is smaller and more modern. This neighborhood has two more 27th century monuments: an old mosque, the Mesjid Panjunan at Jalan Panjunan ( Potter Street ), one of Jawa's oldest Chinese temples, the Klenteng Thiaw Kak Sie at Jalan Pasuketan. This temple is consecrated to Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy. The walls at the side of the big room are decorated with five big wall paintings, which express the ten Bhuddhist punishments.

Taman Arum Sunyaragi
Lovers of exentric architecture cannot miss Taman Arum Sunyaragi, the in 1703 completed royal house and fortress, almost five kilometres south of the city. It contains water bassins and meditational rooms for sultans and their wives. Originally this complex was also surrounded by a canal. Because the royal house was easy to defend, it served in 1787 - in times of heavy supression, as wel as in the Jawa War ( 1823-1830 ) as a centre of resistance against the Dutch. The wars damaged the comples, and in 1853 it was restaurated. The Chinese contractor, which worked under sultan Sepuh, turned the royal house into a maze of Taoistic caves to an example of the Forbidden City in Bejing. Small stairs, sharp corners towards little rooms or just dead ends. Now it has been changed into a part, which doesn't have much of the original value.
Drive southwards, towards Kuningan, where the edge of a cliff gives a nice view over Cirebon and the coastal area.

Grave of Gunung Jati
The most famous place of interest of Cirebon is about five kilometres north of the city, at the shore. It's the Astana Gunung Jati, the grave of Gunung Jati. The name origins from the small, 25 metre high hill, overgrown with djati trees - the 'Djati Mountain', is the translation.
Every 35 days, on Thursday Kliwon of the Jawanese calendar, as well as Muhammad's birthday, this grave hill is being flooded by pilgrims. Some 108 kraman ( elderly ) work here, which originate from a shipcrew which suffered a shipwreck in the 16th century, as the story goes. They were appointed as guards and helpers of the royal graves by Gunung Jati. Still they use nautical terms and words; theyr tasks are identical to the watch at a ship.This place seems an original village of the Hinduist harbour of Caruban, in which Syeh Datuk Kahfi, an Islamic speaker, arrived in the 15th century. Caruban got famous rapidly because it became the centre of conversion. The nowadays complex shows graves from the early 15th century. It a place of worship for pilgrims from all over Jawa.
On top of the hill, from Cirebon on the right side of the hill, is the grave of Syeh Datuk Kahfi. Besides the centuries old ramshackle brick walls a stons stairs leads to the top, from which people hade a great view over the area. The hole grave of Sunan Gunung Jati and other graves, under which the graves of the royal families from Cirebon, a second hill can be found, Bukit Sembung, across the road towards the west.
There is a parking lot, surrounded by little shops with souvenirs, amulettes and empty bottles for holy water. Persisting street sellers and 'guides' bother the tourists continuously. Pay the low entry price at the gate of the gate of candi bentar, and leave the sellers for what they are.
The most important mausoleums are located on a hill at the back of the complex. They are only opened in high season and with special permission of the sultan. Luckily the graves lower on the hill and the mosque give an good impression of the place. Just like in the palaces of Cirebon the pavilions are built with woodcarved constructions, and the masonry walls contain Delft tiles and Chinese plates.

Art from Cirebon
About the art traditions of Cirebon and surrounding area's there is not much known. It is clear that it was one of the most active area's for what about art, dance and music. Just like on Bali the disappearance of the royal leadership, didn't bother the production of arts. It even looks like that the inhabitants discovered new ways for their activities. There are clues that the villages North and West of Cirebon - Plered, Trusmi, Plumbon, Kalimanan, Arjawinangun, Susukan, Gegesik and other - were organised following the rules of the Sufi-tariqat or guilds, which were at least focused on an handicraft each.
Trisumi is know for it's batik, Plered for it's rattan furniture, Gegeris for it's paintings behind glass and topeng-dances. Maybe it's Cirebon, together with it's twin city of Indramayu, which have the most fame from it's extraordinary batiks. The big, remarkable motives in characteristik soga-brown, indigo, 'Turkish' red and creme colors give these batiks something special. The two most famous motives are Wadas Singa ( Kasepuhan-lions besides a cave ) in brown, black and creme, and Mega Mendung 'rain clouds', in splendid bright colors. The unique thing about these batik techniques is the effect of the pensils, it is almos treathed like a painting.
The Mecca for the Cirebon batiks is the stort of Ibu Masina in the village of Trusmi, twelve kilometres west of Cirebon. Leave the main road at the crossing to Weru, and follow the small road to the north; after about 500 metres the batik store and showroom can be found. Since the seventies, Ibu Mesina and her trained personell from Trusmi and Kalitengah brings alive the Cirebon motives.

Posted by situkang jalan

West Java in brief.

The enchanting land of parahiyangan

Jawa Barat is one of the three provinces of Java. The most densely populated is land of Jawa Barat is administratively made up of twenty Regencies and four municipalities, which are respectively headed, by a Regent and a Major. Bandung is the capital city, where the Governor resides. Structurally, Jawa Barat province is divided into five Residencies namely Priangan, Bogor, Banten, Purwakarta and Cirebon.
The Sundanese who occupy almost all of this are well known for their friendliness and hospitality. The Sundanese language, which is melodious and pleasant to hear consists of several dialects that gradually change into Javanese in the areas of Indramayu and Cirebon the east of the Priangan highlands.
In the northwestern part of Jawa Barat, the rural population is bilingual, speaking Sundanese and a dialect of Javanese, but the urban elite is mainly Sundanese speaking. But Bahasa Indonesia, the national language is spoken by all as in the other parts of Indonesia.
Statistically, the majority of the population of Jawa Barat is Moslems. Although many religions and foreign culture have had their influences on the Sundanese, they did not wholly change the traditional customs, as can be seen, for example, in their traditions and festivals. These influences, rather, have enriched the culture and have been assimilated in their way of living.
Traditional arts, for example, are reflected in the Dance-Dramas, each with a close relationship to a certain legend, and usually accompanied by a gamelan orchestra.

Art and music in Jawa Barat have considerably developed in this century. Musical instruments such as gamelan and angklung instrument are still well preserved. The angklung is a musical instrument made a bamboo.
Popular folk arts include the Calung, presenting Jokes and comical arts; the Gondang depicting one of the ways of life of villagers; Reog a humorous group; the Kuda Lumping the hobby horse trance dance; the Kuda Renggong, a distinctive dance and acrobatics and Pencak Silat, an art of self defence.
Many other Sundanese arts and dances have traditionally been passed on from one generation to another. Among the many well-known Sundanese dance are the Mask Dance, the Deer Dance, the Ratu Graeni Dance, the Kandagan Dances, and many others.
Most art performances are sponsored by individuals holding ceremonial feasts, by the village community, by the school, and by commercial tourists agencies. A Sundanese family may hold a ceremonial feast or Hajat at a certain stage in the agricultural cycle, in house building or any other new undertaking, or at one of numerous life-cycle events like pregnancy, birth, circumcision (sunat), marriage and the death.
The greater part of Jawa Barat is mountainous, with the Priangan highlands forming the coir territory. Like most part of Indonesia, it has a tropical climate with an average temperature of 25° Celsius (77°F), abundant rainfall and rich soil. The high yield in agricultural production is on obvious indication of the fertility of the soil.

Amid the rice fields we see neatly tended fruit and vegetable gardens, fishponds, cattle and poultry. There are also field of cassava, potatoes and corn. Up the sloper of the hills and mountains, we find the huge estates of rubber, tea and chinchona. The seas around Jawa Barat as well as its lakes are rich fishing grounds. Important sea fishery centers are Cirebon, Pelabuhan Ratu Beach and Pangandaran Beach. Industries have expanded, paralleling the growth of Jawa Barat's economy
Geography

The province of Jawa Barat is situated between 6° and 8° southern latitude and 108° eastern longitudes. The province of Jawa Barat, which has an area of 44,118 square kilometers, borders on the Sunda strait in the west, the Java Sea in the North, the province of Indonesia in the east and the Indian Ocean in the south.

Jawa Barat is one of the areas in Indonesia that still has seismic activity due to the existence of active volcanoes, such as Mount Gede, Mount Ciremai, Mount Galunggung, Mount Papandayan, Tangkuban Perahu and Mount Krakatau. These, together the with extinct ones, such as Gunung Pangrango, Gunung Malabar, form mountainous the slopes down to the fertile lowlands, with winding rivers flowing into the Java Sea, the Sunda strait and Indian Ocean.
Climate
The tropical climate has to seasons, namely the rainy season from October to April and the dry season through the rest of the year. Generally, however, the rainy season in Jawa Barat is longer, especially in the highland, such as Bogor which the rainy days are many more (around 352 days) compared to those in lowlands (about 138 days). The average rainfall is between 140 mm and 381 mm during the rainy season. Humidity is between 71% and 83%, where as the temperature depends on the height of the area.
At Puncak, in the Gede-Pangrango mountain range, it can be low as 14°, whereas in the seaside areas it can reach 33° or even more at time. The average temperature varies from 18° to 35°.
Size
Jawa Barat has an area of 44,118 square kilometers. Along with the special territory of Jakarta, it covers 45,300 square kilometers. This means that it forms 35% of the island of Java and this also means that Jawa Barat is much larger than the Netherlands (33,000 square kilometers), Luxemburg or Switzerland.
Language
The majority of the people in Jawa Barat use the Sundanese language with its various dialects as a means of communication. Because of the Javanese influence, when the Sunda Java lands was under the authority of Mataram, a kingdom in Jawa Tengah, the Sundanese language knows classes, called undak-unduk basa, such as the use of language according to the social classes. So, the language has "high" and "low" form.
Principle undak-unduk basa claims that every language user be loyal to the stimulated use of certain words for certain people according to his or her position or class in society. These words are in fact just synonyms, but the use may not be mixed up. When this happens, the speaker is considered violating the code of conduct, because he is regarded uneducated and impolite. This, however, does not hold for foreigners and visitors.
Religion


Indonesian takes pride to their National Philosophy (Pancasila) and philosophy incorporating to the beliefs in One God as stated in the first Sila, Nationalism, Internationalism (brotherhood with other nations), Representative government and social justice. It is stressed that social, political and economy freedom in one hand religious base of the people should be kept together in order to build a balance in the life of national community.
Under Pancasila, the major religious communities of Islam, Christian, Hinduism, and Buddhism are able to live in peace and harmony and the freedom of worship is guaranteed in the constitution.
Religious affairs are handled by the Department of Religion, which is responsible for each of the acknowledged religious community, peaceful life among different followers and continuity of religion survival. The enduring value of religions is indicated by its place as an academic subject in all the school through the first two years in colleges must study and pass the examination in religion.
Education
The people take pride in their school. They want their children to the best education possible. Today almost all the young people go to secondary school and many of the school graduates go on to universities or academies (in Indonesia "academy" refers to an institution serving three academic years for diploma degree).
An effort is made to guide dropped out student into careers suited to their talents and abilities by establishing study course supervised under the Department of Education. More effort is done to offer scholarship to elected students of leading Universities who have a serious problem of economy
HISTORY
Batu Tulis Ciaruteun or Ciaruteun Stone Inscription, from the period of the Purnawarman King who ruled Tarumanegara in the 5th century A.D., lies beside the Ciaruteun River in Ciampea, a village nine kilometers from Bogor.
This inscription is written in Palawa letters, in Sanskrit.
The last two kilometers of the journey to the location must be done on foot. Besides this place, there is another inscription, the footstep of the elephant of King Purnawarman, which can be reached via road from Bogor to Jasinga. Long before the 5th century, Jawa Barat already had its centers of civilization. There were, for instance the kingdoms of Tarumanegara, Galuh and Pajajaran, whose rulers embraced the Hindu faith.
Stone inscriptions found near Bogor attest of the existence of kingdoms in Jawa Barat in as early as 415 B.C. Unfortunately, for about thousand years, since the chain of history in Jawa Barat was broken all traces of that period are lacking.
In the 15th century, the kingdom of Pajajaran, who territory spanned the area between Bogor and the port of Sunda Kelapa Jakarta began to feel the pressure of Islam's advance, coming from Banten. The original ancestors of the Jawa Barat, the Baduy, retreated into the area around Rangkasbitung, where they still live up to the present.
The Islamic kingdom of Banten, in turn, suffered repeated attacks by Mataram, and eventually succumbed to the Dutch in 1684. Cirebon fell under pressure from Mataram, and in 1705 became a dependency of Batavia.
From 1808 to 1811, during the tenure of the Dutch Governor General Deandles, many plantations were opened in the surroundings of Bandung, Sukabumi and Bogor. In 1830, those plantation areas began to prosper and in 1870, the Dutch East Indies Government allowed British businessmen to cultivate tea, quinine and rubber plantations in the highlands of Jawa Barat. All this resulted in the rapid growth of the regions of Jawa Barat. The region prospered. Eventually, more than ten percent of land in Jawa Barat were turned into plantations.
Jawa Barat's highlands are verdant and pleasant. The climate is cool. At first, Bandung became the administrative center of the region. At present, Jawa Barat is quite advanced in various sectors. It is the most populous province of Indonesia. Town and villages continue to grow in step with the province's industrial expansion. Various industries such as textile, pharmaceuticals, food, automotive and other heavy industries have been established. The various mines have become increasingly productive
The people



The people of Jawa Barat, Sundanese, possess uncommon warmth along with courtesy, friendliness and politeness. They have a strong sense of helping each other when it's needed. The word of "we" is quite common, we do things and share things together.
Treating each other, not offending other people and not making them shy are of primary important. So that disagreeable and unpleasant things are not said directly. People will say that they think someone wants to hear rather then what actually is. A flat negative is rarely used. The more important the subject under discussion, the quitter the voice. Loud voices are offensive.
Younger people defer to their elders. The difference of age is indicated in language. The younger speak in smooth Sundanese to their older even to those they do not know before. Indelicate or important matters, a personal discussion or a four eyes talk is often used to avoid the embarrassment of direct confrontation.
Good treatment is also made for foreigners, and it is useful to know the way the people can accept. Pointing one's tods at another is considered impolite particularly when sitting with older people. Therefore take care when you cross your legs. Putting one's hand on head on the hips is sign or arrogance or hostility. Avoid using left hand to give or receive thins particularly food and money because the left hand is used for personal sanitary functions and it therefore considered unclean. Anger is not shown openly and slamming the door is impolite.
As you meet Sundanese to whom you would like to become friend, invite them for a meal or drink also call on them, you don't have to wait to be invited. After 4.00 up to 8.00 in the evening is a food time to go visiting. Islamic dietary laws effect most people. They are prohibited from eating pork, which is considered unclean. So when you invite them for meal, let them know that they should eat the meat. Moslem or non-Moslems, but not all, do not drink alcoholic. So it is appreciated if you avoid the drink. During the fasting month of Ramadhan, strict Moslem does not eat or drink and smoke from just before dawn until just sunset.
When someone comes to visit you, even uninvited it is polite to serve something to eat or drink. Then after they have been served, ask them to begin because they will wait until you do. Staying at friend's house is common too particularly among the young people, usually houses are each completed with a guest room.
Arts and craft.
The oldest literary from in Jawa Barat is the Pantun, an epic story on ancient heroes in prehistoric periods, in the periods of Galuh or Pajajaran, e.g. the story of Lutung Sarung, Ciung Wanara, Mundinglaya diKusumah, Nyai Pohaci, Sanghiang Sri, Babad Siliwangi or Babad Cirebon.
These stories are recited in the whole night through and are accompanied by a kecapi (a kind off lute), played by the storyteller himself. At the beginning this art form was considered sacred, therefore it was only performed at certain, e.g. kaul (keeping one's promise) or ngaurat (keeping away evil spirits). But is changing now, either in the acts or in the instruments that accompany the acts. Now, the reciting of pantun is accompanied by a set of gamelan (a Sundanese or Javanese musical instrument) and pesinden (a lady singer).
Although there are about 80 kinds of performing arts, only a small portion of them are maintained and developed. A kind of pantun called tembang Cianjuran is typically Sundanese.
This is accompanied by kecapi pantun rincik (a kind of string instrument), and suling (bamboo flute). However, it is not only tembang Cianjuran that is accompanied by kecapi and suling, even the kawih is also accompanied by them. But the form of the kecapi and its number of string differ from the kecapi pantun and it is called siter. The form of the kawih is freer and more expressive. Because of the expressive and free nature of the kawih. Several other forms of art, such as reog, calung, angklung, gamelan, are accompanied by kawih.

Carving and the art of batik enrich Jawa Barat arts and crafts, too. Carving produce Wayang Golek, heads of kerik, sheaths of long knives and sets of gamelan and other furniture. Horn carvings from the horns of cows as well as the horns of goats, from Sukabumi, produce various object, such as ashtrays, stork-like ornaments, pipes and other useful things. Jawa Barat batik art shows a different pattern from that of Jawa Tengah even within Jawa Barat itself a number of different patterns can be found. There are style of Tasikmalaya, Garut, Indramayu, Cirebon (known as batik Trusmi) patterns Batik Trusmi is named after the village, which produces the batik. The art of batik is the art applying hot wax, tracing a design or a pattern previously prepared on white cloth.
Batik pattern of Tasikmalaya, for instance, has modern patterns, while that of Cirebon has obvious Chinese influences with "rocks and clouds" motifs. Besides the canting the wax can also be applied to the cloth by means of a cap, a metal stamp with a certain pattern. With this, the application of liquid wax to cloth goes rapidly. The wax-covered area on the cloth will resist color change when immersed in a dye bath. Then the cloth with the wax patterns is soaked in hot water to take the wax off. Another method is to scrape the wax off the cloth. Thus, the wax-covered areas remain, uncolored. The waxing and dyeing is repeated until the final color is achieved. At present, batik technique is also applied to other fabrics as well. And there is also batik screen-printing, which bypasses the waxing process and is passed off as batik.

The art of weaving pandanus, bamboo and rattan pruced various handicrafts, mats, hats, boxes, and a variety of other objects are produced in Rajapolah (Tasikmalaya) and Tangerang. Different forms of baskets, lampshades, bags, and all kinds of objects from woven bamboo are also available in Tasikmalaya. Tegalwangi (Majalengka) produced various kinds of rattan chairs, and furniture.
Handicrafts made of ceramics are of various kinds, such as ashtrays, candleholders, canisters, teapots and cups. Pottery produces pots and other household necessities: kendi (water jar), water containers, periuk (cooking pot), kuali (a kind of frying pan), pots, savingpots, pots for plants, pipes etc. These are handicrafts has recently been modified and tends to be more modern. Besides Plered, there is also a Ceramic Research Institute in Bandung, which has showroom exhibiting and selling its products.
culture and tradition.
As Indonesian people in general, the characteristic of Jawa Barat people is famous for friendliness and helpfulness. It is known better as spirit of mutual assistance "Gotong Royong". Several districts spread all over Jawa Barat and each district has each own unique characteristic. However, there are two communities that have strong custom and tradition of heir way of life inherited by ancestors. Lets discover their way of life
In the regency of Lebak, there is a unique community. This is called the Baduy community. They live in the Kampong of Kanekes, sub district of Leuwi Damar. The Baduy community is divided into Baduy Luar (outside members of the community) and Baduy Dalam (inside members of the community). The journey to this area, 50 kilometers from Rangkasbitung, can be covered by either public or private transport, the rest by a three hours walk. But foreigners are only allowed to visit the area of Baduy Luar.
From April to March, the area of the Baduy community is dosed to visitors because during these months they perform traditional ritual called Kawalu Rituals (the Holy Day for this community) and Ngalaksa (preparing flour for cookies). The Kawalu Days are the most important days for the Baduy community because on these days they purify themselves. The summit ceremony of paying their respect to the Government of to the authorities of the region by giving up some of the yield of their crops to show their gratitude to the Government Authorities for protecting them.

This Ceba ceremony is usually conducted for the head of the Sub district the Regent or Resident (position above the Regent). The execution of this ceremony is done by the Puun Delegates (Puun means the head of the Baduy community). Who are accompanied by some people of the Baduy Luar as their spokesmen. For this Seba ceremony they have to walk about 150 kilometers because going by any kind of transportation is considered a taboo. The angklung performance is quite common in the Baduy community. Specific souvenirs are not available in this region, but visitors can by handicrafts from the local people, such as Koja (crocheted bag made of tree-roots) the Baduy weaving in the sub district of Leuwidamar, and planted wares made from bamboo and rattan, which are available to visitors in the sub district of Bayah.
Making calls of Lebaran or Idhul Fitri Day is good time to absorb the people's customs with your Indonesian friends. Lebaran, the feast that marks the end of Ramadhan is the traditional time for going to one's older and neighbors to beg forgiveness for offences both intentional and unintentional.
Early in the morning of Lebaran, every Moslem goes to the fields or mosque to pray. Drinks and food are served at home to every guest. Then city persons journey to parents at villages to ask for blessing and forgiveness for unpleasant things that might happening the past. All family either live nearby or in other cities gather at the parents house-that the happiest moments for all Moslems. Then the parents in turn are expected to visit their houses in cities.
Calls are also made upon superiors at work and friends usually during the fist week of Lebaran. Organizations and offices make a gathering (Halal Bihalal) the second week after lebaran, so that members may great each other. To wish them the joys of the season. This is also appropriate time to send cars, cakes (commonly among relatives) few days before Lebaran and this would be appreciated. Many people collect and keep the cards to send in turn in the next.
Attending a wedding party is a good way too to absorb an important event in the people custom, if the party is held in the day (usually Sunday), dress well (long-white sleeved shirt, batik or light colored shirt) and take a gift to the reception when you come rather than sending it to the house before or after the wedding. A guest book is signed then you proceed directly to greet the bride, groom and their parents then help yourself for meal. The bride and groom wear traditional dress party, which indicate ethnic group. If they are from different ethnic groups, commonly the groom-wear traditional dress of the bride ethnic.
After eating, guest either sit around and talk with friends or back to greet the bride and groom to say goodbye. Akad Nikah or Marriage statement is usually held in the morning before the party. The groom in traditional wedding dress is picked up by the bride family to the house where the wedding will be celebrated. Upacara Ketuk Pintu is done just before the groom enter the hall and have a seat, as a symbol of coming into a new life. And some other ceremonial programs are held too before the bride and groom accepts guests and other attendances to greet.
The emblem

The overall emblem of the Regional Government of the Province of Jawa Barat has a shape of an oval with a ribbon beneath. The dominant color is green and yellow. Other colors are black, light blue and red.

A Kujang (Sundanese dagger) with five holes is located in the center. Kujang is a multi purpose weapon used by the Sundanese in the past. Five hotels in its center represent Indonesia Philosophy namely Pancasila (Five Principle of the Philosophy or the way of life of the Indonesian). A stem of rice consists of 17 grains is located in the left-hand side. Rice represents or symbolizes food prosperity and cotton symbolizes cloth prosperity. The figures of 17 and 8 remind us to 17th August 1945, the Republic Indonesia's Independence Day.
Beneath the symbol of rice and cotton is a picture of mountain, which symbolizes the region of Jawa Barat as a mountain area. The picture of river and the dams are located beneath the picture of the mountain in the left-hand side. These pictures symbolizes that there are rivers and water dams in Jawa Barat, which are beneficial to agriculture.
Beneath the picture of the mountain in the right-hand side there is a picture of squares, which symbolizes numerous rice-fields and plantations. As we already know, the society of Jawa Barat is generally dependent of the fertility of the soil, which is developed as an agricultural area.
An agricultural activity has a close relation with irrigation as its major resource. In the emblem of Jawa Barat, irrigation is symbolized by the picture of a dam, which is located in the center of the lower part.
Inside the ribbon there is a set words written "Gemah Ripah Repeh Rapih", which means to illustrate the environment of Jawa Barat whose people lives in union and peace. The color of green, which dominates the emblem means fertility and prosperity of the soil in Jawa Barat
Flora & fauna
Jawa Barat is enriched with tropical forest which flora and fauna are rarely found in other provinces. Jawa Barat's flora and fauna are also competed with some Botanical Gardens, which are specially managed to make these areas the scientific Research Center besides the attractive recreation places. These tropical forests are enriched with various famous animals other are Javanese Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros Sondalcus) and Ayam Pelung
Amorphpophalus Titanum Becarri, which was planted in Bogor Botanical Garden, originating from the rain forest of Sumatera, and found by an Italian botanist, Becarri. This flower has a diameter of five centimeters and height of 2,50 meters, and a purple and yellow color.
The single horn rhinoceros, that to be used as a symbol of the Provincial Government of Jawa Barat has been found in Jawa Barat since 250,000 years ago. At present the fossil is preserved in the Geological Museum that is located at Jalan Diponegoro 57 Bandung. The scientific of this rare single horn animal is Rhinoceros Sondaicus Desmarest, and as same as Varanus komodoensis Desmarest, rhinoceros that still alive in Ujung Kulon are also a natural heritage.
The single horn rhinoceros is used as a symbol of the Provincial Government of Jawa Barat, because it is a rare animal that found only in Jawa Barat and has a highly physical resilient. It should be protected because the quantity is very limited.


BOGOR

Telephone code: 0251
Population: 800.000
Language: Bahasa Indonesia and a lil sundanese will be helpful

Previously known as "Buitenzorg" (Sans soucis or Without worries), during the Dutch colonial era, Bogor actually lies closer to Jakarta (50 km) than it does to Bandung (120 km) about 246m above sea level. Appropriately named by the Dutch as a town "without worries", they chose Bogor to be the site for constructing the first palace of the Dutch Governor General way back in 1745. Later restored in 1832, the palace still stands solid and elegant today with its stretched out gardens where deer roam freely on the green grass under majestically tall old trees.

Bogor Presidential Palace


Located in the central of Bogor City with the extent of 28 hectares, completed by hundreds of deer and around 100 huge trees in a large yard. Governor General Gustaf Willem Baron Van Imhoff it as a Villa in 1745.

The Bogor Botanic Gardens


The most renowned of public gardens and one which has won international acclaim, is the Bogor Botanic Gardens, 60 km south of Jakarta. Laid out initially at the orders of the British Lieutenant Governor Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles with the help of experts from the Kew Gardens, the Bogor Botanic Gardens were inaugurated in 1817, after the end of the five-year British interregnum, by Dutch Governor General Van Der Capellen. It covers an area of 87 hectares (about 217.5 acres) and has a collection of more than 15,000 native and foreign plant species, including orchids and the giant Rafflesia which blooms only once a year. Affiliated with the Botanic Gardens are the Herbarium Bogoriense containing preserved plant species, the Zoological Museum and the Treub Laboratory. Branches of the Bogor gardens are the Cibodas Mountain Garden, the Purwodadi Gardens in East Java and the Eka Karya Garden in Bali.

Kapten Muslihat Plaza
Located at Jl. Kapten Muslihat No. 51 as a public recreations and entertainments. Completed with souvenir shop and restaurant. Occasionally live music is held. There is Tourist Information Center.

Museums

Zoological Museum
Exhibited in this Museum are mainly stuffed animals placed behind vitrines or glass display cases, arranged as if these animals were alive in natural surroundings. It is located on Juanda Street in Bandung.

Museum of Pembela Tanah Air
Located at Jl. Jendral Sudirman No. 35 Bogor. It used to be the location of military training for volunteers in 1943. There are 14 dioramas showing the battle journey in bringing The Republic of Indonesia's freedom into reality.

Museum of Perjuangan
Situated at Jl. Merdeka No. 56 Bogor. There are dioramas about battle and collection of sized weapon from Japan and British Army. Our warriors to fight for freedom used that.

Museum of Soil
Museum of Soil, The Research of Soil and Agro climate Center is located at Jl. H. Juanda No. 98 Bogor. It presents soil collection such as macromonolith completed with data of location, soil profile picture, soil morphology, analysis of soil and environment.

Around Bogor

Batutulis Ciaruteun (Stone Inscription)
An inscribed stone in the Sanskrit language originating in South India, which is a relic from the Tarumanegara kingdom during the reign of King Purnawarman in 450 A.D. Located on the bank of the Ciaruteun river in Ciampea village which can be reached by driving along the road from Bogor to Ciampea (around 12km).

Gunung Halimun National Park

Pangrango
Pangrango is a cool place at the foot of this mountain bearing the same name, equipped with the longest restaurant and swimming pool. It has ample mountain views overlooking tropical forests and hills and is located on the Salabintana Road, at 7 km from Sukabumi.

Situ Gunung
Located in the district of Cisaat, 14 kilometers from Sukabumi, Situ Gunung is a natural lake surrounded by damar trees. It is suitable for camping.

Lido Water Recreational Center
It lies 21 km south of Bogor or 81 km from Jakarta. The lake is conveniently located along the route from Bogor to Sukabumi and Pelabuhan Ratu surrounded by scenic panoramas. Water sport facilities, a restaurant and accommodation are available.

Stone Inscription
Approximately made in 1521 - 1535 by one of King Siliwangi's son. Located at Jl. Batutulis No.54. In Batutulis area, there are 15 slates which 6 slate inside the dome, 1 slate out side of terrace, 2 slate in the terrace and 6 slate in the yard.

Raden Saleh Grave
Raden Saleh Syarif Bustaman is an Indonesian modern painting artist. Born in Terboyo Semarang 1814 died in 1880 and buried at Jl. Pahlawan Bogor City. His paintings are famous and well known to other countries. One of his paintings is "Lion Hunt".

BOGOR NEIGHBOURHOOD

SUKABUMI


Sukabumi, which is 105 kilometers from Jakarta and ninety-five kilometers from Bandung, lies at the foot of Mount Gede, at average height of sixty meters above sea level. This cool city, with a temperature of 20o to 30o Celsius, can be easily reached by car or bus from Jakarta, Bandung and Bogor. Besides its enchanting scenery, Sukabumi is also famous for its friendly people. The specific traditional food, which is very popular in Sukabumi, is rempang pada (nutmeg sweets).
Besides the city of Sukabumi for amusement at night, there are several movies theatres and several hotels provide live music and discotheques. Itself, the places around it are also enchanting. Most people say that Sukabumi and its surroundings are ideal places for refreshing and recreation because they give comfort and relaxation.
We can enjoy not only the mountainous areas with fresh clear water, the charm of the blue sea with its warm tropical sunlight. The roaring waves breaking on the beach remind us of the legend of the queen if the Southern Ocean, the mystery of Nyi Roro Kidul. Besides the birds and other animals on Gunung Gede-Pangrango always sing to greet the sun rising on the horizon, in addition this beauty is harmoniously integrated in the various arts and dynamic dances and is complimented by the friendliness of the native people of Sukabumi and its surroundings
Pelabuhan Ratu Beach


Formerly just a plain fishing village it has now grown into a lovely holiday resort, more and more visited by holiday makers from Jakarta and Bandung, a mere three-hour drive from either city through cool mountain villages with picturesque sceneries. Gradually but surely this area will catch up with the pace of development as is the case with Carita on the extreme West coast of Java. Pelabuhan Ratu-Cisolok is a 15 km stretch of breathtaking beauty with hills, mountains and very wide sandy beaches everywhere around you, set against the deep blue Indian Ocean. Truly rare is the fact that thick tropical forests on rolling hills are found right next to stretches of white beaches. Taking walks uphill enables the visitor to look down on the horseshoe shape of the bay's coastline, whereas at night hundreds of fishermen's boat-lamps are seemingly competing with the star-studded sky above, which is both enchanting and romantic. There is one four-star hotel, the Samudera Beach, about 6 km from Pelabuhan Ratu, but several other smaller hotels and cottages are available at moderate rates.

At this virgin stage, this area represents unspoiled beauty in a typically tropical setting with hospitable inhabitants.

Because of its proximity to Jakarta this area is visited by more tourists from the capital than those from Bandung. Moreover, the highways to and from Pelabuhan Ratu have recently been greatly improved to assure you of a smooth ride to enjoy the sceneries you pass even better. Don't forget to the fresh seafood at reasonable prices. Good for taste, swimming, sun bathing and surfing.

Ujung Kulon
On the southwestern tip of West Java is a wildlife reserve of 51.000 hectares covering the Ujung Kulon peninsula and the nearby islands of Panaitan and Peucang. The reserve is a dense forest and is the home of the last surviving one-horned rhinoceros of which only 50 remain. Ujung Kulon is accessible by boat and the closest departure point is Labuan on the west coast.
An entry permit is needed, issued by the Forestry Service (Perlindungan Hutan dan Pelestarian Alam) at Labuan. The dense forest provides a natural habitat for many species of rhinoceros, wild ox, deer, wild boar, panthers, crocodiles, snakes and birds. Visitors are only allowed up to the buffer zone where rustic accomodation is available on Peucang island where towers are erected to be able to observe the animals undisturbedly.
Marine life in the surrounding seas is a kaleidoscope of colors. Beautiful sea gardens are found off Peucang and Panaitan islands. There are no scuba facilities in Ujung Kulon. On the western tip of the peninsula is a lighthouse built by the Dutch which stands near the site of the ruins of the old one.
A stay of at least two days on the reserve is recommended where food provisions should be taken along.

Banten
This is the coastal area where the Dutch formerly landed to trade. Banten has few relics to show of its past grandeur, however, there are the ruins of powerful Moslem kingdoms such as the palaces of Surosowan and Kaibon, the grand mosque of Mesjid Agung Banten (1599) and a Dutch fortress and an old Chinese temple.

Baduy Cultural Conservation


The Baduy community in Banten is an utterly unique and closed society which can be reached via a 10 km village road from either Cibolegar or Cibungur village in the Leuwidamar district. The 50 km road from Rangkasbitung is steep. In April and May, the Baduy community is closed to outsiders, as during this time it commemorates certain ceremonies, called Seba, the offering of part of their agricultural products to the Head of the District, Sub-Regent and the Chief Resident. During this ceremony the "Puun of Baduy" sends out a group of representatives of Baduy Dalam people as well as Baduy Luar to act as the community's spokesmen. When conducting this Seba ceremony the Baduy Dalam members refuse to ride any vehicle, instead, the distance of 150 km is traveled on foot as proof of their perseverance.
To enter this very special Baduy area, one should obtain written permission from the Rangkasbitung District Office stating the purpose of the visit which may take one whole week to process.

Karang Bolong Beach
The name Karang Bolong means Rock (karang) with a Hole (bolong). This may have been some frozen lava, formed during the eruption of Mount Krakatau. The Rock forms a gate facing the sea, making it look very picturesque. There is a small forest which has been converted into a recreation spot. There is a river flowing down to the sea where people can have a bath of fresh water after swimming in the salty sea.

Salira Indah Beach
About 15 km from the Merak bus station is the Salira Indah beach resort, located at scening Tanjung Pujut.
This resort on Java's west coast can easily be reached within a few hours from Jakarta either by bus or car.

Dua Island (Pulau Dua)
Dua Island is the name of a small nature preservation inhabited by some 50 kinds of fish-eating birds. These birds originated from Africa, Asia and Australia and stay on this island to lay and hatch their eggs during April through August each year and fly back home afterwards. It is located in the Banten bay and is accessible by boat from Tanjung Priok sea harbor or from Marina, Ancol.

Pulau Manuk
A rocky isle of 500 m2, it is located 127 km south of Rangkasbitung or 120 km west of scenic Pelabuhan Ratu. The isle functions as a tide breaker as well, so that the inward beach is safe for a variety of marine sports which would have been threatened by the menacing tides of the Indian Ocean.
The isle has a forest conservation park and rubber estate

Pulau Peucang and Pulau Panaitan
Both of these sizable islands are part of the Ujung Kulon nature reserve, and lie just off java's western end. Peucang has two rest houses. A permit to enter the reserve and rest house must be obtained at the nature conservation directorate's head office in Bogor, or the local office in Labuan. Both islands are reached via Labuan, a town on java's west coast where there are fishing boats. It's wise to make firm arrangements for return trips at the same time, and to make some allowances for bad weather. No food is available on the island, but the reserve wardens on Peucang (in radio communication with the nature conservation office in Labuan) will provide visitors with water, bedding, cooking facilities, and guides. There is good snorkeling and diving all the way around Peucang, with many ledges to explore on the northern reef. More spectacular are the "underwater cliffs" of Tanjung layer where the new and old lighthouses are perched on. Tanjung layar is only a short boat ride from Peucang and well worth the trip. Spear fishing is not permitted within the reserve.
Panaitan Island is uninhabited. Day trips to the southern beaches, about one hour from Peucang are recommended. Panaitan has extensive reef platforms, particularly attractive to explore on foot at low tides


Cipanas is about 1.5 hour's drove from Jakarta, using the Jagorawi Toll Road. Since Cipanas is near Bandung, the climate have is cool about 18-24°C. Cipanas is well-known for its mountain scenery and is a favorite place for the local people (especially from Jakarta) during the weekend.
THE PLACES OF INTEREST IN CIPANAS ARE :
The Cibodas Mountain Garden
Founded in 1862 for the study of mountain flora and fauna, it covers an area of about 80 hectares (about 200 acres) at an elevation of 1,200 meters on the slope of the Gede volcano, West Java. Attached to this garden is a forest reserve of more than 1,200 hectares (3,000 acres) extending up to the summit of Mt. Pangrango (3,000 m) and the crater of Mt. Gede, east of Bogor. The Cibodas collection includes imports from a number of sub-tropical countries
Puncak, Ciloto and Cipanas have a cool climate with beautifulscenery,suitable forthose who wish to escape the hectic cities. That is the reason why there are lost of bungalows, cottages, hotels, restaurants and recreation places.
At Puncak, we can stop at Puncak Pas (Puncak summit), the highest spot, to watch the fantastic green carpet. This view is not only impressive but it soothes the eyes, it looks fresh, superb. While enjoying this beautiful panorama we have a choice of food from nearby restaurants or kiosks. Many other facilities are available, which make the area a place for enjoyment and holiday.

Gunung Mas Tea Plantation


One of the largest tea plantation in West Java, Gunung Mas (Golden Mountain) Tea Plantation offer the beautiful scenery of tea plantation in the highland. Local and foreign tourist usually spend their time to have 'tea-walk', walking around the plantation to breath the fresh air and to enjoy the green leaves of the tea tree. The healthy 'benalu-teh' are available for sold.
Safari Garden National Park and Natural Zoo
As from the name, Safari Garden offer the pleasure of safari in the mountain. See tigers, lions, bears and many other wildlife animals lively from your car with your family and take a meal in the restaurant, or build a camp after your exited safari tours. Make your kid's holiday be an unforgettable moment. Let them play at the kid playground and enjoy free various circus-like shows and attractions.
Cipanas Presidential Palace
Although not for public to visit, is still an attractive place to pass. Build by the founding father of Indonesia, Soekarno, this palace is used to be the 'Camp Davis' for Indonesian President.
National Flower Garden
Here you can find almost all of the famous flower throughout Indonesia. You also can buy some fresh flowers along the street to the garden.
With population of only 50,000. Cipanas is a small town which also allow people doing their business. Banks and Shops open daily during office hour from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. as well Post Office and other government office. Meeting and conference facilities are available in most of the hotels in Cipanas, very from economic non-star to exclusive 3 star. Having corporate meeting in Cipanas could be your company's different experience in building ideas for your company.
Cianjur

Geographically, the regency of Cianjur is located between 106o 42' and 107o 42' eastern longitudes and 6o 21' and 7o 32' southern latitude. The Regencies of Bogor and Purwakarta border this regency in the north, in the west by the Sukabumi Regency, in the east by the regencies of Garut and Bandung while in the south we can see the vast Indonesia Ocean. The distance from Jakarta to Cianjur is about 120 kilometers, and can be covered either by public transport or private car, while the distance from Bandung to Cianjur is about twenty kilometers and you can take a bus, a taxi or your own car.
The average temperature of the region of Cianjur is about 26o Celsius, and it is even hotter in the south. In Cianjur you have Gunung Gede with an altitude of 2,962 meters, a mountain very attractive for those who like mountain climbing. The inhabitants of this region are Sundanese who are well known for their friendliness and their delicate and courteous language.
The Regency of Cianjur, especially its capital is located at the main road Bogor-Puncak-Cianjur-Bandung. This region has many cultural attractions; it is easy to reach either by public transportations or private car.
Cianjur is also known for its "tauco" (bean sauce), pepes ikan (steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves), manisan (preserved fruits), etc. along the main roads you have several restaurants with all kinds of food, seafood, and Chinese-European-and local dishes. There are lots of tourist attractions in this region; dances for example, are performed in Palalangon, a recreation park.
In Cibeureum, which is about seven kilometers from Cianjur in the direction of Cipanas-Puncak, we can also listen to the local songs while enjoying drinks like "bajigur and "bandrek". The musical instruments used are "Kecapi Suling" (zither flute), "Kecapi-biola" (zither-violin), "Celempungan", Wayang Golek, Pencak Silat, "Tari-tarian" (classic and modern dances). Traditional Sundanese songs Cianjuran can also be enjoyed in the Palalangan Recreation Park.
Calendar of Event

Presentation of Traditional art
Conducted twice a month, second and fourth week at the yard of Bogor City hall Jl. Ir. H. Juanda No. 10 Bogor at 19.30 - 22.00 pm. Presents various and marvelous traditional art which grown in Bogor city.

Helaran Performance
Helaran is a kind of parade, which represents various kind of art in Bogor City, visualized in their moving and dancing along the street. The presentation usually held on December.

Pasanggiri Mojang Jajaka
(a kind of youth contest) is held to encourage the youth's spirit to appreciate their art and culture. The winners become Bogor city Tourism envoy. This contest is held on June in celebrating Bogor City Anniversary.

Bogor City Tourism Exhibition
Is held to show, to introduce, to promote, and to propagate all about Bogor City Tourism, art and culture. The Exhibition is held on September.

Tourism of Sport

There are provides you a beautiful landscape, fresh air and pollution free, completed with golf facilities Rancamaya Golf Country Club located at Jl. Rancamaya Utama Ciawi Bogor and Bogor Golf Club at Jl. Dr. Semeru Bogor.

Scientific Tourism

Bogor City is completed with research bureaus such as Spices and Medicine Plant Research Bureau at Jl. Tentara Pelajar No. 3 Cimanggu Bogor. The bureau providers a scientific plantation tourism that serves a package of plant introduction, utilization spices and medicine plants, green house and another product. Similar to the bureau are of Forestry and Natural Conservation Center, Research Center of Forest Product Technology at Jl. Gunung Batu No. 5 Bogor, which present Arboretum, green house, observation laboratory, herbarium collection and plantation.

Tourism trip

It is a tour named Kampung Tour. Started from Bogor Botanical Garden to Pancasan where we can see the making process of Gong (special instrument of Javanese traditional music) and nearby there are been curd and chips along with the making process.

Puppet Wayang is a specific presentation of Sundanese Traditional art. The duration of presentation takes 12 hours. The making process of puppet wayang can be seen at Cikaret. It is also crated as souvenir in a form of original puppet wayang, wayang frame or wayang seated in tiny and unique measure.

Special souvenirs of Bogor City such as canary handicraft available near by the gate of Bogor Botanical Garden, white sand ceramic made by Kemu Mai, unique woodcraft produced by Pakujajar Handicraft, Wayang Frame and Wayang Seated created By Be De's, Fabric Puppet embroidery, Fabric Painting, Dried Flower, etc. Available at Dekranas office Jl. Binamarga Bogor.

Shopping center

A paradise to go shopping various fashionable clothing and household souvenirs is available at Jl. Raya Pajajaran until Jl. Raya Fajar Bogor.

Bogor City has specific food such as Laksa, Toge Goreng, Asinan (Salted vegetables), Roti Mungil (tiny bread). Its special taste will stick in mind and invite you to visit Bogor again. Besides those delicious foods, you can also bring Talas (taro) and pineapple too

Posted by situkang jalan

JAKARTA



For most travelers, Jakarta is either part of a business trip or no more than a pit stop on the way to popular tourist destinations such as Bali. In truth, most find little that makes them want to linger in Indonesia's capital. It's a large, crowded city that evokes no particularly striking images. To appreciate Jakarta, visitors need to seek out sights that invoke the city's historical heritage as a meeting place for East and West. These include the remnants of the Dutch colonial era and the old schooner harbor, still hard at work and looking much as it did in previous centuries. But don't be surprised if, along the way, modern Jakarta begins to grow on you: Its jarring mix of trendy nightspots, teeming streets and political protests bespeak a place where the present is unfolding in an exciting, if not always orderly, manner

Language Description: Indonesian (official). Various regional languages of the country may also be encountered.

MetropolitanPopulation: 11,018,000

Overview: Local currency can be withdrawn from ATMs. Bank Internasional Indonesia (BII) and Bank Central Asia (BCA) machines are conveniently located in shopping malls, and many buildings in the central business district also have ATMs. Most machines have a maximum withdrawal limit of 600,000 Rp per transaction for bank cards issued by other banks.
Unless a huge transaction is involved, the differences between rates at banks and hotels and at the best money changers are marginal. You also have to consider the safety factor. For instance, the Natrabu Restaurant on Jalan Agus Salim offers good exchange rates, but that street is notorious for purse snatchers. Ayu Masagung, on Jalan Kwitang near the Gunung Agung bookstore, offers some of the best rates in town and is popular among Indonesian staff changing money for their offices.

Passport/Visa U.S.: Citizens of Canada and the U.S. need passports but not visas. Proof of onward passage and sufficient funds are required. Reconfirm travel document requirements with your carrier before departure.

Religion: Majority Muslim

Telecommunications Instructions: Most Jakarta phone numbers have six or seven digits, though newer ones have eight. When calling a local number from within Jakarta, the city code -- 021 -- does not need to be dialed before the number, unless you are using a cellular phone. For directory assistance, dial 102 (international) or 108 (domestic).
Public phones take either coins or prepaid phone cards (ones that accept credit cards are rare except in places like the airport). Most public phones do not support international direct-dial calls. The easiest way to make calls is to use a phone card, which you can buy at wartels (telecommunication agencies) and supermarkets. They come in a variety of denominations, from 100 to 640 units. The cheapest card starts at 18,700 Rp.
International direct-dial service is available from hotels and wartels. Wartels normally have a row of cubicles where you can make long-distance and international calls. You are billed afterward at rates considerably lower than what hotels charge.

Telephone Codes: 62, country code; 021, city code

Time Zone: 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (+7 GMT). Daylight Saving Time is not observed

Tipping Overview: A service charge is built into most restaurant and hotel bills, so tipping is not required. Service staff are very appreciative if you leave them at least the small change, however. Taxi drivers expect that you will round up fares to the nearest 1,000 Rp, or they will do so on your behalf without asking.

Voltage Requirements: 220 volts

What to Wear: Pack business suits for meetings, summer clothing for sightseeing and shopping. Tank tops and shorts are acceptable on the beach and at trendy nightclubs but ill-advised elsewhere. A light sweater or jacket is necessary only if you plan to make a weekend trip to the Puncak foothills. Of course, head scarves and covered limbs are necessary for visiting mosques.

Jakarta Transportation.

It's too hot and humid to walk, and nobody does unless the destination is next door. (You will notice that people even take the elevator to go up or down one flight -- staircases tend to be well hidden.) The best way to get around is by hiring a car and driver (usually a taxi). Major hotels will have several of the comfortable Silver Bird Taxis waiting in line. If not, the concierge should be able to call one for you. Jakarta has a comprehensive network of bus companies, some with air-conditioned fleets. But drivers don't always stick to posted routes, and it is always open season for pickpockets on the buses. There have also been cases of gangs of brawling schoolboys hijacking public buses and extorting money from the passengers. We recommend you avoid buses at all costs.

Jakarta Neighbourhoods.

Glodok (Chinatown)
Glodok came into being after the massacre of Chinese in 1740, which was precipitated by fears over the uncontrolled influx of immigrants from China. The Dutch thereafter confined the Chinese to ghettos, and one of them became Glodok. Behind the rather ugly shopfronts of Jalan Gajah Mada and Jalan Hayam Wuruk are winding lanes over which protrude the balconies of narrow houses, and other interesting examples of Chinese culture, tradition, beliefs and architecture. While exploring the area, see Mesjid Jami Kebon (Jalan Hayam Wuruk 83), a mosque with an unusual amount of Chinese influence in its decoration; Candra Naya (Jalan Gajah Mada 188), a fine example of 17th-century architecture; and Vihara Dharma Bhakti Buddhist Temple (Jalan Kemenangan III 97), a popular and often noisy place that's said to be the oldest temple in Batavia.This is the best place if you are looking for chinese medicines.

Pasar Baru
Also known as New Market, this area was originally made up of Indian Hindus, who moved there in the 1800s. They were joined by later waves of immigrants, and today Hindu centers, Dutch churches, Sikh gurdwaras and Chinese temples are within walking distance of one another. Worth visiting are the three Buddhist temples on Jalan Lautze and the Gereja Ayam (Chicken Church) at Jalan Haji Samanhudi 12. You might also be able to gain entrance to the Sikh temple at Jalan Pasar Baru Timur 10 and the Sai Baba Centre on Pasar Baru Selatan. (At both, ring the bell for permission before entering.) Stop by the Jamu Nyonya Meneer shop on Jalan Pasar Baru to see how the traditional Indonesian herbal medicine known as jamu is made.

Pekojan
This area west of Kota was home first to Muslims from India. Because some of the early settlers were believed to be direct descendants of the prophet Muhammad, people in the community were highly respected as religious leaders. A number of notable buildings have survived, including Mesjid Jami Annawir (Jalan Pekojan 72), a mosque built in 1760 that is believed to have been constructed by a descendant of the prophet's daughter, Fatima; and Mesjid Al-Anwar (Jalan Tubagus Angke), an interesting mosque that mixes Balinese, Dutch and Chinese architectural styles.

Jakarta Attractions.

If you have only a day or so to sightsee, you'll want to emphasize the historic sites. City leaders don't do enough to make them attractive, but they're still among Jakarta's most interesting sights. Start your tour with Pelabuhan Sunda Kelapa (Bugis Schooner Harbor), where the city was born. Colorful boats still take on and unload cargo there, and you can hire a small rowboat to take you to the Fish Market across the waters if you're early enough (7 am would be considered late).
Next, plan to see Taman Fatahillah. The three museums surrounding the square are Museum Sejarah Kota Jakarta (Jakarta History Museum), Museum Wayang (Puppet Museum) and Balai Seni Rupa (Museum of Fine Arts). Unless you have a lot of time and an insatiable hunger for exhibits, pick one of the three: All are good, and they are among the best museums the city has to offer.

Medan Merdeka (Merdeka or Freedom Square) is the site of the National Monument (or Monas, as the locals call it). The top of Monas has an observation deck you can visit if time permits, but unless it's a clear day, you won't have much of a view. A number of governmental buildings, including the presidential palace, face the square. Just beyond the palace is Glodok or Chinatown.

From Glodok, head down Jalan Juanda and pass the northern entrance of the Istana Negara, the state palace where the president has his office. You will soon reach the huge modernist Mesjid Istiqlal (Grand Mosque), then the neo-Gothic National Cathedral. Both are open to visitors, except during prayer times.

Another sight you might want to see is Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, an amusement park founded by the late Ibu Tien Suharto, wife of the former president. It highlights the different areas of Indonesia through building replicas, museums and cultural exhibits. Some may find it a bit artificial, but it serves as a concise introduction to the country, especially if you won't be traveling outside of Jakarta.

Jakarta landmarks and historic sites.

Cathedral Church
Known alternatively as the National Cathedral and St. Mary's Catholic Cathedral, this neo-Gothic church was completed in 1901. It has a small historical museum inside the tower that contains artifacts and memorabilia related to its history. Outside is a grotto with a statue of the Virgin Mary

Lubang Buaya Memorial Park and Museum
This is where the bodies of the six generals murdered in 1965 during the attempted communist coup were recovered. But despite the gruesome events, it's quite a pleasant park whose name -- "crocodile hole" -- is derived from a legend that white crocodiles used to swim in the nearby river. Several memorials and exhibits commemorate the coup events. A museum traces the history of communism in Indonesia. Most unsettling is its Hall of Relics, which displays the bloodstained clothing of the victims.

Medan Merdeka
Also known as Merdeka Square or Freedom Square, this site has been a lot of different things over the past 350 years: a buffalo field, a military training ground and a desirable residential area in the 1800s. The early 1900s saw the square degenerate into a brickyard, train station and sports center before Sukarno decided to build a grand monument there. Fine buildings housing government offices now surround the square.

The 430-ft/132-m Monument Nasional (National Monument, more commonly called Monas) in the square is an obelisk made of Italian marble and topped by a glittering, gilded flame.Also known as Sukarno's last creation. This monumen symbolizing the old Hindu symbols such as Lingga and Yoni, the negative and positive signs. The viewing platform below the flame offers a bird's-eye view of Jakarta and the bay on clear days (which are rare). The National History Museum in the base tells the story of the independence struggle in 48 dramatic dioramas.

Mesjid Al-Alam Marunda
Famous as Si Pitung's mosque, perhaps the oldest mosque in Jakarta (built before 1761), this deep-red structure is now a protected monument. Built on stilts above the ruined houses of Balinese Muslims, it reflects the architectural style of Balinese mosques, as well as elements of Arabic, Javanese, Dutch and Chinese styles.

Mesjid Istiqlal
Also known as the Grand Mosque, Mesjid Istiqlal is indeed grand -- the largest in southeast Asia. The total capacity of the mosque is 100,000 worshippers, with separate floors for men and women. The structure is essentially a concrete box with the walls, walkways and floors covered in marble from Tulung Agung, East Java. The minaret pillar and pierced trellis-work on the walkways are made of stainless steel. Dress very conservatively if you visit.

Monument Proklamator Sukarno-Hatta
These larger-than-life statues of Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta stand on the site of Sukarno's house, where he emerged with Hatta on 17 August 1945 to read his handwritten Declaration of Independence, a facsimile of which is inscribed on the main monument. The central plaza is occasionally used by students to stage protests and by civic groups to launch nationalistic initiatives.

Pelabuhan Sunda Kelapa
The name translates as Bugis Schooner Harbor, and it's home to traditional pinisi prahu, the sailing vessels that ship goods between the islands of Indonesia. An active port since the 1100s, and once a center of the spice trade, the harbor now handles raw materials like timber logged in Borneo and Sumatra and rice and kapok (cotton) from Sulawesi. Loading and unloading is purely manual: Workers carry enormous loads on their shoulders as they clamber up and down steep gangplanks. You can take a small rowboat to the Fish Market across the river for about 5,000 Rp. The harbor is within walking distance of Museum Bahari.

Perpustakaan Nasional Indonesia
The national library was authorized by a 1990 law to collect every printed work produced in Indonesia, as well as books published by Indonesian citizens abroad and any work about Indonesia imported from abroad. Every issue of Batavia's newspaper from 1810 to World War II can be found there, along with ancient manuscripts and maps from the 1100s. A changing exhibit of the old manuscripts is on display. Guided tours can be arranged.

Taman Fatahillah


Also known as Fatahillah Square, this was the main public area and the administrative heart of Batavia in the 1700s. Weekly fairs, market days and public executions were all held there. The old Portuguese cannon, Si Jagur, in front of Cafe Batavia was brought to Fort Batavia by the Dutch after they conquered Malacca in 1641 and relocated to the square after the fort was demolished in 1809. But to hear the Javanese legends, the cannon was once a man called Kyai Jagur. He and his wife were transformed into cannons upon death. Her cannon was transported to Banten, where it has remained to this day. If ever the two cannons are buried side by side, the world will come to an end. The old city hall building, now the Museum Sejarah Kota Jakarta, stands on one side of the square. Two other notable museums also front the square: Balai Seni Rupa (the Fine Arts Museum) and Museum Wayang (the Puppet Museum).

Taman Prasasti
Also known as the Park of Memorial Stones, it contains an interesting collection of headstones and memorials that offer an informal history of the city's development and international character. The small museum attached to the park gives an overview of traditional burial methods in Indonesia. The Torajans of Sulawesi, for example, bury their dead in chambers cut into rocky hillsides; the Trunyan people of Bali leave the bodies out in the open; and the Irian Jaya people either keep the bodies in special buildings or in boats

Jakarta Museums.

Balai Seni Rupa
Also known as the Museum of Fine Arts, Balai Seni Rupa is housed in a Greek classical-style building that was once the Dutch Council of Justice, dating from 1870. The museum contains a collection of 19th-century paintings. Famous Indonesian artists Raden Saleh and Affandi are represented. The courtyards display sculpture.

Museum Bahari
This Maritime Museum showcases the oceangoing history of the Indonesian archipelago through a collection of navigational charts and equipment, seashells, paintings and historical photographs. Original and scale models illustrate traditional boat-building techniques. The museum is located in beautifully restored warehouses dating from 1652. The front wall is the only remaining part of the old city wall of Batavia.

Museum Manggala Wanabakti
A small museum that will delight forestry buffs with its exhibits about old and new equipment used by loggers, petrified wood, wooden artifacts and oils from cloves, camphor, cendana and other trees that are used as bases in perfumes. Five dioramas replicate rain, teak, pine and agathis forests and mangroves. Unfortunately, signs are printed in Indonesian only, but the documentation and information center on the second floor has an English-speaking librarian.

Museum Nasional


Indonesia's national museum is also known as Gedung Gajah ("elephant building") after the Siamese bronze elephant statue in front by King Chulalongkorn from Thailand when he visited Batavia (Jakarta) in March 1871. The museum contains more than 100,000 items, including a world-class collection of Chinese ceramics. Indonesia's cultural diversity is celebrated in an enormous ethnographic collection of houses, household items and ceremonial objects used by various tribes and groups. Don't miss the Treasure Room. The Indonesian Heritage Society conducts free guided tours in several languages -- the English-language tours take place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 9:30 am and the last Sunday of the month at 10:30 am.

Museum Purna Bhakti Pertiwi
Its name translates as "Perfect Service to the Motherland Museum," which refers to the tenure of former president Suharto. The museum contains many gifts and collections accumulated by Suharto. Among them are blown-glass artworks, a Chinese jade bed, coin statues from Bali and a coral garden. One of our favorite exhibits is the collection of gold works and reliefs depicting episodes from the Mahabharata and the Wahyu Makutha Rama story -- both tales about great leadership. The building reflects the Suhartos' great affinity for symbolism: Its roof is in the shape of a tumpeng, a rice cone, which is the centerpiece of every Javanese ceremonial feast.

Museum Sejarah Kota Jakarta
This museum, in the old city hall of Batavia, housing various ancient furniture and guns as remains of the Dutch colonial government traces the development of colonial Jakarta through a collection of antique furniture and portraits of all the Dutch governors. The building itself may be the most interesting part of a visit, however: Built in 1710, it's the largest and finest remaining example of Dutch colonial architecture in the city. The leafy courtyard behind the museum was the scene of the 1740 massacre of 5,000 Chinese who had sought sanctuary.

Museum Tekstil
The Textile Museum has about 130 items on exhibit at any one time, changing every six months or so. Styles and techniques of all provinces, including formerly Indonesian East Timor, are represented in its 1,000-piece collection. The library has historical data on textile arts.

Museum Wayang
Also known as the Puppet Museum, Museum Wayang has a superb collection of Indonesian puppets and allows you to study the regional variations in design and materials. There are even Christian adaptations of the standard characters from the Hindu epics on which most performances are based. Performances lasting several hours are held on Sunday beginning at 10 am.

Jakarta Theme Parks and Amusement Parks.

Taman Impian Jaya Ancol


This huge recreation park was built on reclaimed land around Jakarta Bay and stretches from Tanjong Priok harbor to the old historic center of Kota. Chief attractions are the Pasar Seni (art market), Seaworld, Dunia Fantasyland (a very good, if illegal, copy of Disney World), Gelanggang Samudra Ancol (a marine mammal attraction) and a water park

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah


The name translates as "Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature," and it was conceived by Ibu Tien Suharto, the wife of former president Suharto. It's made up of houses that reflect the traditional architecture of different areas of Indonesia. The centerpiece of the park is a lake on which all the major islands are represented geographically. Places of worship are also replicated, including a mini Borobudur temple. The park also contains museums dedicated to science, fauna, military heroes, Asmat culture, sports and more. The highlight is the Indonesian Museum, which displays contemporary arts and crafts. The park is very crowded on Sundays and public holidays, when major cultural performances are held.

Jakarta Recreation.


Though it sits close by the sea, Jakarta is not the best place to take a beach holiday: Jakarta Bay is rather polluted. Those seeking some time by the water are better off heading for one of the beach communities some distance to the west of the capital, such as Anyer or Carita Beach. Pulau Seribu (aka the Thousand Islands), north of Jakarta in the Java Sea, is another possibility
Most hotels have well-equipped gyms, swimming pools and tennis courts and offer free entry to hotel guests and some limited access for paying day visitors. Golf courses are abundant, but it can be difficult for nonmembers to gain access to the top ones. Expect to pay at least 300,000 Rp for greens fees.

Though they are somewhat the opposite of physical exercise, deluxe massage and skin treatments are a Jakarta specialty. There are a number of spas (even a lot of hairdressing salons) that can pamper you with various procedures. We particularly like Gaya Spa, Mustika Ratu and Jamu Body Treatments. Expect treatments to begin at 70,000 Rp and go up -- way up

Carita Beach
Accessible from Jakarta over a fair road, you can reach it in less than 3 hours, one third of which is over a toll road which is being extended to the extreme western part of Java in Merak. Here again, most visitors arrive from Jakarta as Bandung is more than 6 hours away from Carita by road. At present Carita and surroundings have definitely got more hotels and other accomodation than those found in Pelabuhan Ratu, and is therefore better developed. It is also located on the way to ferry-crossings to Sumatra from Merak.
Besides white beaches behind hundreds of swaying coconut trees, one panoramic highlight is the visibility of the infamous Krakatoa Volcano from Carita, rising above the horizon in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatera. You won't have difficulties finding a place to stay here as many cottages, hotels and camping grounds are all available, not to mention the inevitable seafood.

Krakatoa Volcano
With devastating effects this volcano erupted just over a century ago in 1883, bringing its fine ashes with the wind streams as far away as over New York City, whereas the eruption's tidal waves reached the American West Coast. At that very instant, Krakatoa vanished as if devoured by the sea, causing formidable tidal waves which in turn swept off just about everything alive from the surrounding coastal areas. However, the disappearance of the gigantic Krakatoa also meant the birth of small islands in its place, one of which is called "Anak Krakatau" or Krakatoa's Child which is at present an extremely active young volcano. From both WestJava's West Coast and from Sumatra's Lampung Province, this young and very active volcano is clearly visible. A boattrip to this place may be worth making.


Jakarta Restaurants.

Diners have a lot of choices in Jakarta. For gourmets, there's a wide selection of elegant restaurants. Some are set in lovely old mansions, while others may be tucked away in discreet hotel corners. Geographically, two areas stand out for dining: Jalan Wahid Hasyim, near Merdeka Square, and Kemang in the southern part of the city. Both offer diversity in terms of cuisine and price, but Kemang is probably the best choice for gastronomic delights

For a uniquely Indonesian treat, try the rijsttafel, or "rice table," invented by the Dutch, which includes an array of small dishes that are brought to the table by a parade of servers. Restaurants specializing in fusion food -- Asian cuisine with a twist -- are also increasingly popular. Vegetarians will have a tough time finding no-meat restaurants. Most hotel cafes and Indian restaurants do offer some vegetarian dishes, however.

Roadside carts -- known as kaki lima -- may look tempting, especially after a few beers, but the food often spells trouble for visitors. A safer bet are the warung, the food stalls in the Kampung Tenda Semanggi (behind the Jakarta Stock Exchange). Many of them are built in old double-decker buses, and the result is a carefully planned maze of colorful eateries offering Indonesian, Asian, European and American cuisine.

Jakarta Shopping.

Traditional handicrafts -- batik cloth, sarong and ikat textiles, tribal art, old jewelry, teak furniture -- are among the best buys in Jakarta. Gold and silver jewelry, especially filigree work, are also a good investment, although prices are probably better in the town of Yogyakarta, in central Java. Coffee beans and tea leaves packed in pretty batik parcels -- available in the Sogo handicraft sections in Plaza Indonesian and Plaza Senayan shopping malls -- make excellent gifts for friends back home. You can also find all sorts of products made throughout the country in the Pasaraya and Sarinah department stores. (We liked the designer batik scarves and bamboo stationery sets and place mats.)
A number of shops sell antiques. The most enjoyable place to browse for collectibles is among the stores of Jalan Surabaya Antique Market. Bargaining in such places is an imperative. Never be afraid to slash the opening price by more than half. Some antique stores, including a whole row of shops on Jalan Ciputat Raya, offer newly made reproductions of old furniture designs -- an affordable way to give your house a vintage look.

A very different type of shopping experience is available at Jakarta's pasars (markets). Most are simply a maze of roadside stalls that open very early in the morning. Others are multistory complexes. Although the average pasar has a range of items -- food, clothing, houseware, stationery, pharmaceuticals -- many of the more interesting ones specialize in particular items. Be warned that the crowds (including ever-present pickpockets) in the markets can make for pretty claustrophobic shopping

Jalan Surabaya Antique Market
This market occupies an entire street. It's filled with store after store offering all manner of collectibles: ceramics, Dutch-style Java lamps, marine instruments (who needs a diving helmet right out of Moby Dick?), masks, tribal medicine boxes, antique spoons, brass pots. The rules are to bargain hard and to never assume anything is a real antique: It might look old and authentic, but it could have been made the day before. Stall holders tend to be more amenable first thing in the morning and when they are closing up in late afternoon.

Jakarta Climate.

It is always hot and humid in Jakarta. Average temperatures stay pretty constant throughout the year, hovering between 80 F/26 C and 90 F/32 C. The rainy season is October-May, making the drier May-September period the best time to visit.



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