Bandung: Paris Of Java

Beloved by Dutch colonialists who considered moving Indonesia’s capital there on account of its cooler climate and natural fortress of volcanic mountains, Bandung, with its art deco buildings and tree-lined streets, retains a nostalgic charm and continues to be a travellers’ favourite. Shoppers fl ock to the city that was once dubbed Parijs van Java for fantastic bargains at numerous factory outlets, while the Tangkuban Perahu volcano, nearby forests and hot springs lure visitors in search of the natural wonders of the land.


BANDUNG AT A GLANCE

• Bandung is the provincial capital of West Java.
• It is located on a highland plateau, about 768 metres above sea level.
• Best time to visit Bandung is between 
• May to October during the dry season but all year round is still fi ne, although later months see frequent rains.
• Average temperature is around 22°C, cooler than the rest of Indonesia. 

BANDUNG MUST VISIT

TANGKUBAN PERAHU 

Literally meaning upturned boat, this stratovolcano, together with Mount Burangrang and Bukit Tunggul, 

are the remains of the ancient Mount Sunda. 

Tangkuban Perahu

SAUNG ANGKLUNG UDJO 

Sundanese arts and culture thrive at Udjo’s House of Angklung, where you can unwind to 

the soothing sounds of the  angklung , a traditional bamboo instrument. (www.angklung-udjo.co.id)

KAWAH PUTIH 

Revel in the natural beauty of this crater lake at Mount Patuha.

Kawah Putih (White Crater)

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD
Savour Sundanese cuisine here but be warned though, most dishes are served with fi ery sambal  (spicy chili paste).Try  Nasi Timbel  – boiled rice served with meat and vegetables, with the ubiquitous  sambal on the side.

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP  
Bandung is famous for its factory outlet stores, and shops selling locally-made goods.

TOP SHOPPING HAUNTS  

• Pasar Baru Bandung for clothes and accessories at wholesale prices.
• Cibaduyut Shoe Shopping Centre for footwear.
• Cihampelas or Jeans Street for shopping, dining and entertainment. (www.cihampelaswalk.com)
• Alifa Mall for Moslem clothing and paraphernalia.
• Bandung Indah Plaza for luxury goods.
• Pasar Kota Kembang for clothes, belts, shoes or handbags. 
• Istana Bandung Electronic Centre for all things electronic.

Tips by 3sixty Magazine