Borobudur

One of the 7 wonders in the ancient world, Borobudur is located near Magelang. Borobudur, a Hindu Buddhist temple, was built in the 9th century. This temple has Gupta architecture of India's influence.

Constructed on a hill about 46 meters high, Borobudur has about 55,000 m3 or stones. Borobudur is design symbolizes the structure of the universe. This design influences temples in Angkor, Cambodia. This temple was found in 1815, under volcanic ash. About 41 kilometers northward from Jogjakarta, Borobudur offers spectacular sight in this modern world.

Getting There

Borobudur is only 1 hour away by car from Jogjakarta. You can either join a tour or rent a car to this spot.


Where to Stay

Inns and hotels in Jogjakarta.


Moving Around

You'll explore this site on foot. Climb this magnificent temple and marvel at various carvings on the stone around you.


Dining Guide

You can bring your own food or buy them around this site.


Souvenir Tips

Souvenirs related to Borobudur can be bought in Jogjakarta. You can buy silver Borobudur's miniature (silver plated ones are also available), keychains, and many more. T-Shirts and postcards with an overview of Borobudur are popular as keepsakes.


Other Things to See or Do

Marvel at the magnificent view. For better understanding of this temple, you can join a tour or hire a licensed tour guide here. Climb the temple to reach the top, where you can see an vacant space signifying emptiness as completion. There's a superstition saying that if you climb this temple with one wish deep in mind, try touching Buddha's figure inside the stupa, which is bell-like in structure. If you're able to touch the Buddha, your wish will come true. Take note of the stone carvings. There are many stories in these stones.

Travel Tips
Dress lightly and comfortably.
Hire a licensed tour guide, so you'll get better information.
Wear a hat or an umbrella. Bring along a raincoat, just in case.

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Central Java

History has left its footprints across Central Java, an area rich in culture and tradition descending from a powerful Hindu and Buddhist past, and more recent Islamic influences. Under the Saliendra and Old Mataram kings in the 8th and 10th centuries the Hindu-Javanese culture flourished, and it was during this period that Java’s most remarkable religious monuments were built such as Borobudur, the most magnificent monument to Mahayana Buddhism in the world; the enormous Hindu temple complex of Prambanan, and the ancient site of the oldest Hindu temples in Java on the Dieng Plateau.

Getting there

An extensive network of good roads and railway links major cities and villages. Airport both in Semarang and Solo and the major seaport in Tanjung Emas, on the north of Semarang and a natural harbor in Cilacap provide national and international access. Door to door travel minibuses are available to and from Java and Sumatra Island.

Tourism Events
* Wayang Kulit (Leather Puppet Shadow Show) from 9.00 pm every Saturday until dawn in Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) Jalan Achmad Yani Semarang. It takes episodes from the Ramayana and Mahabarata epics.

* Wayang Orang (Javanese Opera) performed every night from 8 pm to 10 pm in Sriwedari auditorium Solo Sunday closed.

* Waisak Ceremony, Magelang, Central Java. The “Waisak” is religious event observing the birth of Sidarta Gautama held on June’08 at Mendut and Borobudur temples. This ceremony is first started with religious praying in Mendut.

* Sekaten Fair, Solo, Cental Java. A traditional fair held on Apr’08 annually during the islamic month of Rabiul Awal or maulud (Javanese Calender) to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad. The fair takes place at Alun-alun Utara of the Kasunanan Palace’s North Square and open for visitors day dan night.


Places of Interest

Semarang

Semarang is situated on Java’s northern coast and it is the capital of Central Java. From Candi Hill you get amazing views of the port, the lowlands and green paddy fields, the city itself and the surrounding mountains. The environs around Semarang are perfect for day trips and side-excursions.In the older part of the city, near the harbour, you can still find an interesting collection of buildings dating back to the Dutch colonial era and the Dutch East Indies Company. The city offers evening performances of Wayang drama played by live actors, actresses and dancers at Ngesti Pandowo Theatre. For sport fans there are tennis courts in all major hotels and 2 golf courses located in the town’s suburbs. For short trips out of Semarang within a radius of about 60 km, the following places are recommended: Jepara, northeast of Semarang, is surrounded by white sand beaches, and is also famous for its wood carving industry. An ancient Portuguese Fort can be found to the east of Jepara. Kudus, about halfway between Jepara and Semarang, is home to the Minaret Mosque, which was built in the 15th century. Also known with its kretek (traditional cigarette) industries. Demak has the oldest mosque in Central Java.

Bandungan and Gedong Songo Temple

Bandungan and Gedong Songo Temple. This is a holiday resort on the slopes of Mt. Ungaran, about 900 meters above sea level. Gedong Songo (nine buildings), a group of small 8th century Hindu Javanese temples, can be reached either by car or on horseback from Ungaran. Built at about the same time as the temples of the Dieng complex, Gedong Songo is one of the most beautifully temple complexes in Central Java. The views alone are worth the trip.

Tlogo Plantation

Tlogo Plantation has cool air and beautiful view with various plantation such as coffee, rubber, nutmeg and cloves. It is located 6 kms or only 10 minutes drive from The Ambarawa Railway Museum. (www.tlogoagro.net)

Dieng Plateau

Dieng Plateau. About 4 hours from Semarang is the Dieng Plateau, the site of some of the oldest Hindu temples on Java. These 50 foot high monu-ments stand on a crater floor amidst sulphurous fumes. The road to the Dieng Plateau passes through tobacco plantations and beautiful mountain scenery.

Baturraden

Baturraden. Central Java’s most outstanding resort, approximately 14 kms north of Purwokerto, an administrative town in the southern of Java island. It is occupies a fine site on the slopes of Mount Slamet, 650 m above sea level, feel the coolness air, nice gardens, pines forest, hot springs, ponds and bungalow-style hotels.

Jatijajar Cave

Jatijajar Cave, a magnificient cave near Pantai Ayah (Ayah Beach) 170 km from Solo. It is also has along beautiful tunnel with many stalagnit and stalagtit. A diorama of the legend of “Lutung Kasarung” (a Prince that changed to a Monkey) and some lakes and river in the cave wait to be explored.

Sangiran, The Land of Mystery

Sangiran, The Land of Mystery. In 1891, Eugene Dubois, a French anthropologist discovered fossils of Phitecantropus Erectus, or ‘Java Man’. 1930 and 1931 marked the discovery of fossils of a man from the Pleistocene Period. In mid 1980, scientists were startled by the discovery of a complete 4 m tall elephant. It is located only 18 km from Solo.

Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple. The name “Borobudur” is believed to have been derived from the Sanskrit words “Vihara Buddha Uhr”, (Buddhist Monastery on the Hill). The Borobudur Temple was built in the eighth century by the Cailendra dynasty and is located at Magelang 90 km southeast of Semarang or 42 km northwest of Yogyakarta. One of the world’s most famous temples, it stand majestically on a hill overlooking lush green fields and distant hills. Borobudur is built of grey andesite stone. It rises in seven terraces, each smaller than the one below it. The top is the Great Stupa, standing 40 meters above the ground. The walls of the Borobudur are sculpted in bas-relief, a total length of six kilometres. It has been hailed as the largest and most complete ensemble of Buddhist reliefs in the world, unsurpassed in artistic merit, each scene an individual masterpiece.

Solo

Solo. A pleasant city with a lively character, Solo is also called “The City That Never Sleeps“. One can always find something to eat or buy, as vendors of all kinds and small foodstalls remain open 24 hours. Home of two royal houses with centuries of power and influence over the city, Solo today remains distinctly Central Javanese with and elegance all its own. It is one of the major centres of batik, and souvenir hunters may find old Javanese antiques. Becak (trycycle ricksaw) and Andong (trad-horse carriage) are the most flexible type of traditional transportations within the city and are available everywhere.

Kasunanan Palace

Kasunanan Palace. The royal residence of King Pakubuwono in the 17th century, the palace has an art gallery exhibiting royal heirlooms, antiques and other invaluable objects in a genuine royal Javanese atmosphere. Open from 9 am to 2 pm, Friday closed.

Pura Mangkunegaran (Mangkunegaran Palace)

Pura Mangkunegaran (Mangkunegaran Palace) Another palace built 1757, with typical Javanese architecture consisting of “Pendopo” (an open front hall to receive guests), “Pringgitan” (an porch to hold leather puppet shadow play) and private apartments. Two sets of 17th century Javanese gamelan instruments are exhibited and played every Wednesday in the Pendopo. The palace also exhibits complete collection of masks, wa¬yang orang costumes, leather and wooden puppets, religious articles and jewelry. Dancing practise in Mangkunegaran Palace : Wednesday from 10 am to 12 pm.

Tawangmangu

Tawangmangu. Located 40 kms east of Solo, this recreational resort offers fresh weather, scenic views, swimming pools, bungalow style hotels and restaurants. It lies on the slopes of Mt. Lawu, at an elevation of 1,300 m above sea level. Other features include nearby temples, a national park and the 40 m high waterfall of Grojogan Sewu.

Sukuh Temple

Sukuh Temple. Not far from Solo is the Sukuh Temple, the pyramid “Inca” looklike decorated with wayang stone carvings of Hindu origin, and erotic symbols. The temple is located only 34 km from Solo.

Kemuning Tea Plantation

Kemuning Tea Plantation. Between Sukuh and Ceto Temple, there is a 300 hectares rug of green tea plantation.

Ambarawa Railway Museum

Ambarawa Railway Museum Fifty kms south of Semarang, Amba¬rawa has locomotives of various types and ages, and it is still possible to ride on a cog railway between Ambarawa and Bedono, a village nearby. Prior arrangements should be made for groups. Also of interest are a collection of antique telephones and other instruments used for railway communication. Visit Rawa Pening (Clearly Swamp), the cool water lake near Ambarawa.

Mendut Temple

Mendut Temple Located only 3 kilometers from Borobudur, Mendut is said to face toward Benares, India, where Buddha Gautama taught his five disclipes. The smaller temples of Mendut, which house the great statue of Buddha and the Pawon temple, form an integral part of the Borobudur complex. The three-metre tall Buddha and the two Bodhi¬satva figures of Lokesvara and Vajrapani are among the greatest manifestations of Buddhist thought and art.

Gong Cave Gong Cave

Gong Cave Gong Cave, has incredible ornament which is about 256 m underground with 12 rooms 7 spring and one natural both, located about 7 km from Punung Market, on the way to Pacitan (70 km southern of Solo city). The people believed that on the certain day of Friday there is a sound o traditio¬nal drum instrument called “Gong” come from this cave until now.

Ceto Temple

Ceto Temple, is located in western slope of Mt. Lawu, Gumeng Village Je¬nawi District in Karanganyar - Surakarta. It is located in hill 1400 m from the sea level. Ceto temple site of 13 stages, from the lower places to higher places ar similar to Hinduism temple. Relief status of Ceto Temple Symbolizes a human passion and a portrayal of human being’s soul purification. The hardest seduction in purifying in passions. www.wisata-karanganyar.go.id.

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Bangka Belitung

Bangka Belitung Island is a province with archipelago nomenclature. Broadly regional entirely 81, 725, 14 km sq, land width is 16, 424, 14 km sq and wide territorial water is 65,301 km sq, 20% among others represent territorial water of rock. Consist of 2 big islands, Bangka Island and Belitung Island and also 254 islets surrounding them with coastal length is 1,200 km sq, divided in 7 sub-provinces. With excellence of comparability and supported by regional ecosystem of archipelago, coastal area and the island with the other, Bangka Belitung present marine tourism (diving, scuba, snorkeling, fishing and sailing). There are approximately 55 Chinese or Buddhist temples on Bangka alone which are still in use. The Chinese make up at least 20% of the population of Babel. The majority of the Chinese are direct descendants of the coolies who worked the tin mines. The oldest temple is in Batu Rusa, a village along the road from Pangkalpinang to Su¬ngai Liat. A beautifully decorated temple is found near Tayu in the north of Bangka Island.

Getting there:

By Garuda Indonesia Airlines from Soekarno Hatta Airport or by boat and plane from Palembang.


Places of Interest

Belitung Island

Belitung Island has stayed natural and unspoilt. Coming here is a bit of an adventure where the tourist has to be more self-sufficient and adaptable. Visitors have to come prepared, bring things like swimwear, diving equipment, medicines, cosmetics, sunglasses and sun cream.

Tanjung Pandan

Tanjung Pandan is the capital city of Babel. The topography consists of lowland and some small areas of swamp while in the middle part there is highland in groups of 150-200 meters above the sea level. It is the second biggest tin producer in Indonesia.

Manggar

Manggar is about 90 km from Tanjungpandan. The main economy activity in Manggar was tin mining. There are many nice places that can be visited like: Serdang beach, Burung Mandi beach, Malang Lepau beach, Pengepangan beach, Tirta Surya natural swimming pool, Payak Lake, Kwan In Chinese temple.

Matras and Parai Tenggiri Beaches

Matras and Parai Tenggiri Beaches in the northeast of Bangka, 48 km. from Pangkal Pinang and 12 km from Sungai Liat. The beach is about 3 kilometers long and its width is almost 30 metres. Parai, a beach set between rocky capes is an ideal location for relaxing and swimming. Local fishermen moor their vessels here after a day of fishing, giving the beach the picturesque feel of a fishing village.

Mount Menumbung

Mount Menumbung (355 m) a rather high hill in the neighbourhood of Mentok (North West Bangka) stands as a memorial to the history of the Indonesian nation. A guest house which was built here by the Dutch in 1932 was used to house the former President Soe¬karno and Vice-President Hatta during their imprisonment from February to July 1949.

Remodong Beach

Remodong Beach in North Bangka is a favourite place to enjoy the sunset as the beach faces the west. Tourist facilities are also available on this beach.

Bangka

The name Bangka is derived from the word “WANGKA”, which means tin. This word was also written in a Sriwijaya stone inscription dated 686AD and discovered near the town of Kota Kapur in West Bangka. Today this inscription is kept in the National Museum in Jakarta. Bangka is the main tin producer in Indonesia and is also well-known for its white pepper. The group of islands making up the Babel province is almost located on the equator with latitude of 1 degree 30 to 3 degree 07 and a longitude of 105 to 107 degrees east.

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West Sulawesi

West Sulawesi Province is the extension of South Sulawesi Province which was established through Law No. 26 Year 2004. With Mamuju as the capital city of the province, Administratively, the province is divided into 5 Regencies. Geographically, the province is located in the cross position of the Golden Triangle of South Sulawesi, East Kalimantan, and Central Sulawesi as well as directly faces national and international sailing route of Makassar Straits. Topographic condition of West Sulawesi Province comprises ocean, low land, and high land, has enable the province have fertile land. Climate in the region generally belongs to tropical.

People of coastal area of West Sulawesi are well known as brave marine people. Using their San¬deq boat, the cruise to all over Indonesia and even reaching as far as neighboring country of Malaysia and Australia. Meanwhile, the people who live in mountainous area of the province has cultural similarity with Toraja ethnic in terms of architecture of the house, their language, their cloth as well as in their traditional cere¬mony. West Sulawesi Province has fantastic natural tourism in form of its still natural mountain view, uniqueness of culture of the people, as well as its vast array of tourism objects of special interest which are scattered in its coastal and mountainous areas where special skill needed to enjoy them.

Getting there:

By air: Tampa Padang Airport 27 km from Mamuju capital city.
Belang-Belang Bakengkeng Harbor Mamuju District; Fery Simboro Mamuju Harbor connected Mamuju-Balikpapan, Batulicin, and Surabaya; Ujung Polewali Harbor in Polewali Mandar; Palippi natural harbor in Majene; Manakara Harbor in Mamuju.

Tourism Events

Sandeq Race in Majeneis an annual traditional Mandar boat race that start from Mamuju to Makassar. During the race will be hightlighted by traditional arts and culture performances on August 17, 2008


Places of Interest

Karampuang Island

Karampuang Island in Mamuju Regency. Karampuang Island is a white sanded marine tourism objects with its complete facilities. There are untouched natural coral reefs found surrounding the island.

Tamasapi Waterfall

Tamasapi Waterfall, Mamuju Regency. In this 70 meter high waterfall, tourists may enjoy refreshing weather of the mountain with its clear and natural water.

Banoa Sibatang

Banoa Sibatang. It is a traditional house of Kalumpang in Mamuju Regency with its specific construction and form which is very attractive.

Custom House of Mamuju

Custom House of Mamuju. Custom House of Mamuju consists of several complex of building, namely: Salssa (House of King) which serve as the main house, bandara raja (royal family), pengawal raja (guard), lumbung pangan (food barn), black smith, gold crafter, horse stall, and deer stall complex.

Majene

Majene 302 Kms from Makassar in the Western port of Sulawesi has a long beach line. The view in the coastal area is mostly covered with white sand. This town is famous for its silk “Sarong Mandor Weaving”

Limboro Natural Hot Water Bathing Place

Limboro Natural Hot Water Bathing Place. It is located at the top of Limboro Mountains with its cool weather, beautiful natural scenery of cocoa and nutmeg plantation area.

Sandeq Boat

Sandeq Boat. It is an international fastest sailing boat contest. This boat has its own specifics which functions as fishing boat as well as race boat where each year boat ra¬cing of this kind is held to encourage marine development.
Mandar Museum in Mamuju Regency. Used to keep and preserve historical remains.

Cemetery Complex of King and Royal Family

Cemetery Complex of King and Royal Family. This graveyard is located in a hill of 50 meter above sea level high in Mamuju Regency. From this place, visitors can enjoy the beauty of Majene City beneath.

Palippis Beach

Palippis Beach. This is a marine tourism object in Polewali Mandar regency with a beautiful and attractive natural panorama comprising a blend white sand, hills, and natural caves.

Gusung Toraya Island.

Gusung Toraya Island. This 1.5 Ha island in Polewali Mandar has beautiful beach panorama as there are vast array of clean white sands, a suitable place for sun bathing, swimming, fishing and having recrea¬tion.

Kunyi Natural Tourism.

Kunyi Natural Tourism. It is a tourism object of a three storey 30 meter high waterfall with its clear, clean and cool water, surrounded by plantation of lansium fruit, durian, rambutan, and coffee and serves as a place for agro tourism.

Liawan Waterfall

Liawan Waterfall. This waterfall is located in the forest, Mamasa regency where the place is also accomplished with camping ground. In this area, a number of facilities to have rest, to cook, and to roast fish.

Mambulilling Mountain

Mambulilling Mountain. This 2,741 m high mountain is the ideal destination for those who loves mountain climbing. The mountain has an attractive mountain panorama, suitable for trekking.

Panorama of Mussa Ballepeu.

Panorama of Mussa Ballepeu. Along the way to this 1600 m above sea level tourism object, tourists can enjoy beautiful mountain views, historical tourism objects, and traditional kampongs of Mamasa.

Karampuang Island

Karampuang Island is a white sanded marine tourism objects with its complete facilities. There are untouched natural coral reefs found surrounding the island.

Sollokan Waterfall

Sollokan Waterfall and Malimbong Natural Hot Water Spring. These objects are located in the tourism entrance gate of Mamasa from the south. These place are also suitable for adventurer tourism.

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West Kalimantan

Lying directly on the equator with many canals crisscross the city and one of Indonesia’s longest rivers, the Kapuas (1,143 km long) divides the town in two, providing an essential and historical communications link. Stone carvings and ceramics can be traced as far back as the 5th century, but it is the influence of Islam that has had the most impact on this region. West Kalimantan covers an area of over 146,607 sq km, rich in a variety of minerals and precious stones, and remains largely unexplored. Coastal areas are mainly swamp lands with more than 100 rivers sculpting the flat plains. In the mountainous eastern parts of the province, away from the city and plains, there are many Dayak villages. A large Chinese population, Malays and other Indonesian ethnic groups account for the rest of the inhabitants of the province. West Kalimantan has a tropical climate with the average daily minimum temperature of 220,9 C and maximum 310,05 C. A light rainy season from March - May and the heavy rain from November - January.

Getting there

Supadio International airport, 18 km from Pontianak city is easily accessible from Jakarta or Singapore by air.
PELNI’s Ship sail from Jakarta and Surabaya to Pontianak. Pontianak is easy accesible from kuching, East Malaysia via Entikong.

Tourism Events

Bumi Khatulistiwa Culture Festival
The Festival is held twice a year to celebrate Pontianak’s position right on the Equator. This festival features traditional West Kalimantan art, tourism, and cultural exhibitions, and traditional sport competition contests and seminar are also held this event on March 2008.

Places of Interest

Pontianak.

Pontianak. A capital city of West Kalimantan province covering an area of 146,607 sq kms. Some tourism object closest to Pontianak city are Kada-riah palace in Kampung Dalam, the State Museum, and the Kapuas and Landak River. Beach Resorts of Kijing and Temajoh Islands are good places for rest after diving, fishing and sailing.

Equator Monument

Equator Monument. A five kilometers north of Pontianak city is the precise spot at which the equator bisects the earth. Explore an astronomi cal experiences of the phenomena for a period of only 5-10 minutes twice a year.

A Long House Replica

A Long House Replica. Reflection of the past of the Dayak tribes, a long house “Rumah Betang” situated at Jl. Letjen Sutoyo Pontianak is a unique traditional house. On April 20-23 every year, the ceremony of “Gawai Dayak” will be held.

Pasir Panjang

Pasir Panjang. 17 km from Singkawang in the Sambas regency, is the beach resort of Pasir Panjang, ideal for swimming and tennis. Comfortable cottages are available. In the vicinity of Singkawang, the Gunung Poteng Hill Resort is a good place for nature lovers.

Selimpah Beach

Selimpah Beach is a camping area on the beach where among February until May, many turtles lay their eggs there. It is 305 Km from Pontianak city or 80 Km from Sambas.

Palung National Park

Palung National Park. The Gunung Palung National Park, located in the Ketapang regency covers over 90,000 sq km, is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna. Hot springs, lakes and caves are among the many special features here. The park can be reached by plane or express boat from Pontianak to Ketapang or to Telok Melano and proceed by minibus for 2 hours drive or by kandong (traditional boat) for 6 hours.

Karimata Island

Karimata Island. A spectacular marine nature reserve 100 kilometers east of Ketapang and covering an area of 77,000 square kilometers, the island is home to many species of turtlrs and dugongs.
The Regional airport Rahadi Usman and sea port make it an important link to the rest of Kalimantan.
Accommodation ranging from moderate hotels including restaurants is available.

Kapuas Hulu

Kapuas Hulu, a mega diversity eco-tourism with its huge lagoon amongst the regions in entire Borneo. Covers numerous sites of interest in Betung Kerihun National Park such as botanical inclined, animal lovers, ritual ceremonies by the Dayaks, local music and art, handicraft in the making, Daily life of local communities, Trekking into the jungle, Braving the Rapids, Exploring the caves, adventure – Journey into the Heart of Borneo West.
Danau Sentarum National Park is well worth a visit for its huge lagoon lies on the Borneo land of the West. Covers an area of 132,000 ha situated in Kapuas Hulu Regency, Semitau Sub-District, within a 1,5 hour your convenience trip by speed boat of 20 HP enter the area and explore more traditional floating houses on long boats. Surrounding fresh water swamp with a number of 5 different lakes is also home to the large selection of more than 220 fresh water fish species of any lake in the world. Salty fishes, baked fish. Foremost amongst these are the Super Red Arrowana (Scleropages formosus), or local name “Ikan Silok”, famed for its beautiful coloration and much prized by collectors and enthusiasts alike. A uniquely breeding of this Super Red Arrowana by locals Malay and Dayak. At night the visitors are welcome to stay at indigenous floating houses on the of the Sentarum National Park while self-eatering, fishing, swimming, bush walking, mountain climbing, cruise by traditional boat or speed boat makes your journey ne¬ver ending.

Kendawangan Nature Reserve

Kendawangan Nature Reserve is enriched with an ecosystem comprising lowland fo¬rest, coastal forest, mangrove forest, swamp forest and peat forest. Covering an area of 150,000 square kilometers, this reserve is also home to sea turtle.

Menager Multi-Level Waterfall

Menager Multi-Level Waterfall, cascade down in seven stages over a vast area, surrounded by pristine rainforest, caves Barema – Dayak worship site, rapid stream calm pools of water invite young and old alike to soak in their tranquil depths, this unique waterfall to create a breathtaking spectacle for all to enjoy. Complementing this natural wonder are the ringing calls of birds as they echo from the trees.
This unique waterfall situated between Landak and Bengkayang is easily accessible by 4WD.
Renowned mysteriously as Bukit Kelam (Dark Hill) is a huge stone outcrop forms a spectacular natural backdrop for the town of Sintang.
Sintang is a river town on the confluence of the Kapuas and Melawi rivers, strategically making it the center of Chinese trade with the interior of Borneo. Steel stairs ascend the mountain’s side offering an exciting challenge for adventurous visitors.
This huge stone outcrop forms a spectacular natural backdrop for the town of Sintang, covering an area 520 square kilometers and rising some 900 m (3,000 ft) from the plain below. Kelam (which means “dark” in Indonesia) begins to wear its characteristic shroud of clouds by mid afternoon becoming a brooding, spellbinding image.Is only 15 km from Sintang by public transportation. Rest pavilions and coffee shops are located nearby for the weary traveler.

Baning Nature Reserve

Baning Nature Reserve. This nature reserve provides a beauty panorama for locals alike as its location is right in the heart of Sintang city. Baning National Park is easily accessible for visitors and residents alike. With its unique ecosystem, virgin tropical rainforest and breathtaking panoramic view a quiet oasis. Many varieties of orchids and Kantong Semar flowers create the setting for a beautiful nature walk. For those who love adventure, Nokanayan and Jegonoi waterfalls with its crisscross canal of the river Nokanayan making a perfect apot for visitors world wide.
Detail information for the adventurous lovers are kindly advised to meet the Unit office in Sintang.

The Hidden Paradise in The Heart of Borneo

The Hidden Paradise in The Heart of Borneo. The beauty of nature, a tropical ca¬nyon, lush jungle, fill with rapids and various flora and fauna. With a view of the Schwaner mountains. Come to NOKAN NAYAN where hidden paradise is waiting for you, in the heart of Borneo. There two amazing waterfalls, Nokanayan and Nokan Jengonoi both have a heigh of more than 200 meters hight with more than 50 meter width. With cantons and beauty virgin surrounding.

Myriad array of Malay

Myriad array of Malay. Furthermore, the musical instrument gambus, ketipang, rebana and tar-tar of the Malay dance with its vibrant color of dresses with the men’s motive of Teluk Belanga tied around the waist and wear a hat. For women called “Baju Kurung” and weaving Sarung completed with scarf. Ranging from fascinating array of attractions of the Dayak Dancing and ritual ceremonies to magical treatment, Cap Go Meh Chinese Dancing Dragon with the Ma¬gical Tatung, Robok, Malay Traditional Music and Dance with its weaving clothes in vibrant colors, Cannon Barrage Festival by Malay in Pontianak and much more become the most significant events for the visitors world wide.

Chinese - Tionghoa Display Performances Amazing Chinese Tionghoa Dancing Dragon with its Magical Tatung (LOYA).
As one of the highest concentration of ethnic Chinese or locals “Tionghoa”, in West Kalimantan the Singkawang city provides the Spectacular Magical Tatung and Dan¬cing Dragon during the Chinese happy New Year with its Cap Go Meh – Imlek – Xong She Fat Xoi.
The most attractive traditional musical instrument displayed on special occasion of:
Xong Xi Fat Choi or Wedding party. Ama¬zing Singkawang Chinese Tionghoa Dancing Dragon with the Magical Tatung.

Handicraft & Choices Of Souvenirs

Handicraft & Choices Of Souvenirs. The most conspicuous handicrafts of West Kalimantan. The most well known cloth in the region of West Kalimantan with its various motif in vibrant colors.
Kain Sambas (Weaving cloth) and the Dayak weaving cloth of Ensaik Panjang, Sintang. Cual, Corak Insang, Lunggi Woven, Kalengkang embroidery, and West Kalimantan’s batik.
Choices of handicraft, woven material, rattan, philodendron and wood of West Kalimantan.
Pandanus Plaited bag, bamboo plaited baskets, dishes covers, mat, souvenirs Khatulistiwa monument miniature, bandong traditional boat miniatures, Dayak scimitar, key holders, and woodcarving, ceramics, tie woven beads. It is advisable to come over the Indonesia National Crafts Council (DEKRANASDA) at Jl. Hasanudin Pontianak, Souvenir Shop at Jl. Pattimura, Koperasi KERTA at Jl. Adi Sucipto Pontianak. Further Sambas is renowned with its Weaving Cloth. The most well-known cloth in the region of West Kalimantan with its various kinds of motif in vibrant colors. Meanwhile, Dayak weaving cloth is made by locals Dayak at Ensaid village in Sintang Regency becomes the most wanted by Europe countries and other overseas countries. Dayak Scimitar, or locals Mandau made by the Dayak people in Melawi Regency. This unique replica of Mandau with its scabbard made in big scale of more than 2m x 0,5 height by the Dayak in Melawi Regency creates the best souvenir as its unique style, intricate paintings, design and carving

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South Sulawesi

Spanish and Portuguese galleons, followed by British and Dutch traders, sailed these seas in search of the spice trade, escorted by their Men of War to protect them from the daring raids of the Bugis and Makassar pirates. Famed for their seafaring culture, the Bugis are still the driving force behind the world’s last commercial sailing fleet. The seafarings Bugis dominate the southern tip of Sulawesi, but in the rugged and remarkable country further north is Tana Toraja, often refered to as the “Land of the Heavenly Kings”. South Sulawesi is also famous for its tremendous scenery and the quality and talent of its silk and silverwork industries. In Takalar, every May 2008 there is a “Galesong Festival” thanksgiving ceremony by throwing offerings into sea and hoping for a prosperous fortune.

Getting there:

There are many flights and daily services from Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya and Manado.

Tourism Events
Rambu Solo/Rambu Tuka. There are two different kinds of funeral ceremonies in Tana Toraja on July 2008. The Rambu Solo is a sad ceremony and Rambu Tuka is the happy ceremony. Rambu Solo usually starts in the afternoon and lasts for 7 days. During the ceremony hundreds of buffalos and pigs are slaughtered as sacrifice to ensure the spirits entrance to heaven that the spirit of the death would be accepted by God.
Royal Palace Festival on Sept 2008 in Gowa for a week and participated by 49 former kingdoms in Indonesia.

Places of Interest

Fort Rotterdam

Fort Rotterdam, also known as Benteng Makassar, is a historical site of the past greatest Gowa Kingdom.

Bissapu Waterfall

Bissapu Waterfall at the Bonto Salluang Village, about 5 Kms from Bantaeng or 15 minutes drive through an asphaltroad with some winding slopes, feel the fresh & cool air with its natural scene.

Clara Bundt Orchid Garden

Clara Bundt Orchid Garden. Mr. Bundt, a Dutchman, has his private residence at No. 15 Jalan Mochtar Lutfi. His spacious garden is filled with rare Indonesian orchids and hybrids. He also has an enormous collection of seashells and coral. A visit is worthwhile and several of the collections are on sale. Mr. Bundt is registered in the Sander’s List of London as an expert in orchid cultivation.

Leang-leang Pre-historial Paintings

Leang-leang Pre-historial Paintings. An important archaeological site, these prehistoric caves have strange traces of human palms and a wild pig, believed to be 5,000 years old. The road leads from Maros through the cave-riddled limestone hills to the site, about half an hour’s drive from the airport.

Paotere Harbor

Paotere Harbor is a place to anchor phinisi, the traditional Buginese ships that famous for it sails across from Pacific Ocean to the African coast.

Samalona Island

Samalona Island. Across the harbour of Makassar is Samalona Island, which has been developed into a pleasant recreational resort. It can be reached by boat in 45 mi¬nutes and has simple accomodation. Recreational sports include diving, snorkeling, water skiing and fishing. Best months to visit are from February to October.

Tomb of Sultan Hasanuddin

Tomb of Sultan Hasanuddin. Sultan Hasanuddin (1629-1690) was famous for his exceptional bravery in his struggle against colonial encroachment in South Sulawesi. His huge crypt and those of other kings of Gowa are located in a secluded cemetery not far from Sungguminasa, about 8 kms from Makassar. Just outside the walls of the cemetery; a small fenced-off plot contains the Tomanurung stone on which the kings of Gowa were crowned in pomp and splendour. Not far from the tombs is the oldest mosque in the area, built in 1603.

Sungguminasa

Sungguminasa. Formerly the seat of the kings of Gowa, Sungguminasa is an old wooden palace, 11 kms from Makassar. Now the Ballalompoa Museum, weapons and royal costumes are on display. The royal regalia which include a stone studded gold crown weighing 1,769 grams can be seen only on special request.

Soppeng

Soppeng is one of the former kingdom as written in the ancient “Lontara” script this town has abudance of bats flying around.

Sengkang

Sengkang. The capital town of Wajo Regency is well-known as the center of Bugis silk industry, 240 kms to the northeast of Makassar. In Soppeng a spinning mill produces thread from silk worms. Weaving can be seen in many private homes along this route. The finest silk is handloomed by village women, each of whom can produce two metres of silk a month. Visitors are welcome to stop and watch, or make a purchase if there is any readily available. Nearby Lake Tempe, is a tourist resort where you can enjoy boating.

Malino

Malino is a pleasant and fresh resorts on the slopes of Mount Bawakaraeng which is famous for its “Markisa “ Passion Fruits. The scattered pine woods grows on the height of 1,050 meters above sea level.

Bambapuang

Bambapuang on a high land, hence the climate is cold, a stop point to Tanatoraja with beautiful scenery of mountains and rivers.

Sa’adang River

Sa’adang River is the largest river in south Sulawesi which is famous for rafting adventure start from Tana Toraja.

Kapoposan Island

Kapoposan Island is a great diving area that has an abundant of natural coral reefs an can be reached only hours from Makassar by boat.

Barru Regency

Barru Regency, 134 km from Makassar has beauty offshore. Pannikiang island is home for thousands of flamingo, puteangin island has beautiful coastal beach, Bakki Island coastal is sloping and white sand.

Tana Toraja

Tana Toraja. The center of tourism in Tana Toraja is Rante¬pao, 328 kms north-east of Makassar. Sitting 700 meters above sea le¬vel, Rantepao has cool, pleasant evenings. The entry to Tana Toraja is marked by a gate built in traditional boat-shaped style.The road passes the spectacular mountains of Kandora and Gandang on which, according to Toraja mythology, the first ancestors of celestial beings descended from heaven. “Tongkonan”, a graceful architecture of the family houses, are built on stilts with the roof rearing up at either end, representing the prows of the first ship to arrive in the area with the Torajan ancestors. The houses all lace north, and some say that this is because it was from the north that the ancestors of the Toraja came. Believing that their forefathers descended from heaven in a boat some twenty generations ago, the Torajas have a unique Christian-animist culture. The majority of the people still follow an ancestral cult called “Aluk Todolo”, which governs all traditional ceremonies. Their ancestor worship includes elaborate death and afterlife ceremonies, which are essentially great feasts. A strict social hierarchy is followed in the villages, and for an important figure wedding and burial ceremonies can take days to perform. Water buffalo and pigs are sacrificed in numbers appropriate to social rank, and the deceased’s remains are placed in a coffin and interred in caves hollowed out in high cliffs. The mouth of the cave is guarded by lifelike statues, called Tau Tau, who looks out from a balcony near the burial caves, watching over the families and friends they have left behind. Two villages with easily accessible cliff graves are Lemo, and Londa. Londa is one of the oldest hanging grave sites, in which are buried many members of local nobility. A large balcony is filled with effigies of the dead, the Tau Tau. Young village guides with kerosene lamps can be hired to enter the caves and see ske-letons and old coffins. At Lemo, burial chambers are cut out of the rock and se¬veral balconies fillef with Tau Tau overlook new caves being dug to serve as family graves. Palawa is an excellent village to visit the “Tongkonan”, and a burial place still swarming with celebrations and festivals. Take a side trip from Rantepao to Ketekesu, a traditional village with excellent handicraft shops. Behind the village on a hillside is a grave site with life size statues guarding over old coffins. As roads are not always paved, it is necessary to use a jeep or walk, even when the weather is good. The best season to visit is between May and October.

Batumonga

Batumonga is located I about 1,300 meter above sea level and there are 56 menhir stones which height of 3 meter. The beautiful view of Rantepao and its surrounding valley can be seen from this site.

Losari Beach

Losari Beach Sunsets in the Makassar Strait can be viewed from a promenade at Losari Beach, Jalan Penghibur or the Paotere anchorage in the north end of the city where the Bugis schooners are berthed. Across the harbour is Kayangan Island which can be reached in 15 minutes by ferry. A popular escape from the city, there is entertainment in the evenings and on Sundays.

Bantimurung

Bantimurung waterfall can be reached about 41 kms from Makassar. A cascade of sparkling water gushes out bet¬ween rocky cliffs into a stream shaded by tall trees. The brightly-coloured ornithoid butterflies indegenious to this area are conside¬red among die most beautiful in the world. About 15 meter lower from Bantimurung Waterfall there is a Natural Dreaming Cave with its beauty forms of limestone that brings you to the dreamming world.

Bira beach Cape and Bira in Bulukumba

Bira beach Cape and Bira in Bulukumba is a beautiful pristine white sand beaches, 178 kms Makassar to the south. Traditional ship building is still practiced in this area. This is also the jumping off point for the island of Selayar.

Tanaberu

Tanaberu in Bulukumba is widely known as a place for making traditional boats. In the dry dock, we can see a great number of phinisi boat.

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Riau Islands

Riau Archipelago

Riau Archipelago with Tanjung Pinang as the capital city Is blessed of a lot potential tourism objects, beautiful beaches, and culture attractions. It is located at the crossroads of one of the world’s oldest and busiest maritime routes and well reputes as an ideal stop over for trade and commerce. Riau Archipe¬lago was once home a sea gypsies cruising its rich mangroves forest and waterways. Moreover, it was on this island that the Sultan of Malacca found refuge from Portuguese attack in the 16th century, mapping tales of the legendary importance when Bintan thenceforth grew as the center of the powerful Johor Riau Sultanate.

Getting there

Riau Islands can easily reached by air or sea from Jakarta and Pekanbaru directly. Batam and Bintan have international shiplines and flight. It is only 45 minutes away from Singapore by ferry.

Tourism Events

Perahu Naga (Dragon Boat) Festival in every October covers a distance of 400 meters with both domestic and foreign contestants. It is held along the Tanjung Pinang coast facing Penyengat Island. It features cultural performances, swimming contest and traditional diving challenge.

Places of Interest

Tanjung Pinang

Tanjung Pinang is a busy town on Bintan Island, now as a capital of Riau Archipelago. It has a Museum on Jl. Katamso. A large section of the old part of the town was built in traditional local fashion, on stilts, over the water. Tanjung Pinang City is located at about 10 km from the airport. This town also has 2 ports, Sri Bintan Pura in Tanjung Pinang and Sri Bayintan in Kijang. Tanjung Pinang Serves flight to Pekanbaru and Natuna.

Batu Bedaun Beach

Batu Bedaun Beach is very famous among the teenagers in Dabo Singkep. The beach situated 20 km from Dabo. This white sandy beach is very clean, with blue sea and small wave.

Daik

Daik is a small town but has many historical relics of Riau Lingga kingdom as in the Penyengat Island. We can reach the town by speedboats from Tanjung Pinang. In Lingga Island there are also many variation of tropical plantation and marine water fish species that cannot be found in other pla¬ces. Other interesting objects is Mount Daik with 3 peaks.

Senayang Island

Senayang Island. Boat cruising touring the waters between the islands is among potential attractions. Some real and thrilling adventures are available since there are many islands surrounding Senayang and excellent packages include cycling, bush wacking, swimming, snorkeling and diving.

Tambelan Island

Tambelan Island is about 200 km away from Tanjungpinang. There are only six villages, which are spread over a few islands, with a total population of about 4,000. As is to be expected, the environment here is largely unspoilt, and the scenery is truly magnificent. One of the most interesting of natural attraction in this island is watching turtles laying their eggs in great number that protected by local peoples.

Bintan Island

Bintan Island. International investors have developed many new hotels, integrated world-class resorts, international golf courses on the island of Bintan. Other deve¬lopments include industrial parks, medical, commercial and banking facilities that are readily available to any visitors. During your visit to Riau Archipelago will not be bored or uninspired because there are many other interesting places like Pasar Ikan (Fish Market) where fresh, cheap seafood and ve¬getables are sold. There are also the Akau (Night Market), Pelantar (Water Villages) and shops selling local handicraft, natural attraction like watching the turtles laying their eggs or fishing on the Kelong.

Trikora Beach

Trikora Beach is about 40 kilometers south of Tanjung Pinang on the eastern side of the island. Good beaches are also found on the islands of Terkulai and Soreh, about an hour away by boat.

Natuna Archipelago

Natuna Archipelago is a part of the vast province, which embraces all of the islands off the Riau mainland. The main island clusters of the Natuna archipelago are: Anambas, Natuna, South Natuna and Tambelan. Matak Island at present serves as a base for offshore oil exploration. Colourful co¬rals and reef fish are found in the waters surrounding these islands. South Natuna comprises the islands Serasan, Panjang and Subi. The surf is strong on these islands and the scenery impressive. The Tambelan Islands are accessed by boat in 6 hours from Pontianak in West Kalimantan or from Tanjung Pinang in 16 hours. Turtles habitually come to some of the beaches to depo¬sit their eggs in the warm sand. There are probably more turtles than people on these islands. Natuna is located in area of South China Sea with the geographical location passed by international shipping and coast lines. Natuna’s Ranai airport has length of 2,550 metres and Matak airport with length basis of 1,700 metres. Natuna’s seaport are Lampa (100 x 10 sqm) and Penagih (50 x 8 sqm).

Karimun Island

Karimun Island is one of the most important islands in the Riau Archipelago, due to its thriving economy and proximity to Singa¬pore. Tanjungbalai Karimun is a medium-sized town, with a large Chinese community and shops selling a large variety of imported items. Lies in a shipping line in Malacca Strait and Singapore, Karimun gateway can be passed by international ferry from and to Malaysia and Singapore.

Sea Gardens

Sea Gardens with beautiful corals and fish are found in the waters around the islands of Mapor, Abang, Pompong, Ba¬lang and Tanjung Berkait.


Batam Island

Batam Island is a very strategic island designated as a center of industry, tourism and trade. It lies close to Singapore. The Nongsa recreational region has international hotels, four golf courses, a marina sports facility and a forest reserve. Batam can be reached in two hours from Tanjung Pinang by ferry and in about half an hour from Singapore.

Pulau Penyengat

Pulau Penyengat (Stinging Island) When people found on the first time, Penyengat Island was an island with many stinging bees it is six kilometers from Tanjung Pinang, can be reached in 15 minutes by boat. The seat of the powerful Bugis viceroys of Riau during the 18th century, Penyengat still bears the traces of its illustrious past. Ruins, abandoned for almost 70 years, were recently restored. The old ruler’s palace and royal tombs are among the legacies left by the Riau sultanate. Still in use is the old viceroyal mosque, the Mesjid Raya, there is also a newly built cultural center for stage performances of Malay music and dances.

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Enchanting Toba Lake in Parapat

Viewing this vast lake might make you believe that you're actually visiting an ocean instead of a lake. The atmosphere is so cool and refreshing, the view magnificent and breath-taking, for you can see mountains circling this area. Samosir Island is located proudly in the middle of the lake. Another lake inside Samosir Island makes this place more unique and interesting.

This lake is about 1,700 m2 in size with the depth of approximately 450 meters. About 906 above sea level, this lake hosts various interesting plants. Some people, viewing the sunrise and sunset around this area, claim that Toba manages to help them forget their problems even though only for a while.

Getting There
By renting a car from Medan to Parapat. Parapat is 185 kilometers away from Medan. It will take about 4 hours to reach this place. You can also ride a bus or join a tour to visit Toba Lake.

Where to Stay
Numerous inns and hotels are available in Parapat. Some hotels even have their own swimming pools and jacuzzi.

Moving Around
You can ride a motorboat / ferry to reach Samosir Island.

Dining Guide
This place has several restaurants, where you can eat. You can also eat in the hotels/inns.

Souvenir Tips
Classic souvenirs such as T Shirts, hats, keychains, are available in Medan and Parapat. In Tuk Tuk, you can buy traditional Batak crafts such as Batak traditional calendar, traditional musical instruments, elaborate carvings, ulos, and so on.

Other Things to See or Do

You can swim in the lake or ride a boat circling this lake. You can also visit Samosir Island to see traditional houses of Batak kings in the past also royal tombs in Tomok area. For those of you who are into golf, a golf course is also available in Parapat.

Travel Tips
* Bring your own bathing suit and sports equipment.
* Bring a hat and a jacket. This place can be quite cold.

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Bukit Lawang, the Parish of the Orang Utan

Bukit Lawang might be one of the best place to meet this exclusive and unique primate. Bukit Lawang is one of the largest stronghold community of Orang Utan. Bukit Lawang situated at the eastern side of Gunung Leuser National Park, leap with the track of Sungai Bohorok, Medan. With more than 5000 orang utans occupied the jungle, Bukit Lawang considered as the house of the enormous orang utan by the visitor.

Bukit Lawang founded in the early of 1973, set up to preserve the decreasing number of orang utan as the negative result of hunting, orang utan trading and etc. The rehabilitation center helps the orang utans to re-gain their nature habits and trained through certain programs before released to the wild. Once the primate heads the jungle, the rehabilitation center keep provide them with supplement and regular check-up.

If you wish to feed the orang utan directly, there are 2 feeding times 08.30 am and 3.00 pm; you could feed them with milk, bananas and other food supplements supplied by the rehabilitation center. All the activities within the Gunung Leuser National Park should be done under the permit and guide by professional provide by the rehabilitation center. Some visitor argued that the regulations is way too strict and stiff, but the rehabilitation center excuses that the wrong contact by human could harm the orang utan.

By Air - Daily international flights are available, flight from Medan to Singapore, Malaysia. The domestic flight hook up Medan to Jakarta, Aceh, Pekan Baru, Padang, Batam and Pontianak.

You can arrange your flight through the airline services listed below:
* Garuda Indonesia (www.garuda-indonesia.com)
* Jatayu Airlines (www.jatayuairlines.co.id)
* Air Asia (www.airasia.com)
* Adam Air (www.flyadamair.com)
* Silk Air (www.silkair.com)

Bus - Get to Pinang Baris bus terminals (located at Jalan Gatot Subroto) by taxy from the airport and then take the frequent public bus to Bukit Lawang for 3 hours trip.

If you traveling in group or wish for something more convenient ambience instead of the public bus, you can rent car that arrange trip through most of the main tourist destination. National Car Rent (+624157744) which located at Jl. Balai Kota 2 is a good alternative for car rental

Most of the hotels in Bukit Lawang run by the local citizens. Here are alternatives to stay in during your visit to Bukit Lawang.
* Bukit Lawang Eco Lodge (+628126079983), an eco-friendly lodging situated in the forest.
* Noras Homestay & Restaurant (+62813620706561), situated on the rice field side and the materials are dominated by bamboo huts.
* Wisma Leuser Sibayak
* Wisma Bukit Lawang Indah
* Indrah Valley
* Garden Inn
* Jungle Inn

Most of the activities are done on Foot.

Most of the hotels have restaurants, so you can ask the owner to provide your meal. Along the river, there are some small cafes with chill surrounding; here you can have fruit salad, nasi goreng and snacks. Local pizza also available at Tonys restaurant

You can buy the souvenirs at souvenir shop near the Sungai Bahorok

Trekking

Over night trekking is the major tourists favorite. Most people choose to have a two days treakking in order to have the chance to witness the Orang Utans and other unique creature in their habitat.

Every single trekking activity should be guided by professional to prevent notorious event that might be occurred in the wild. Make sure to inform the guide if you have special interest to specific flora or fauna before trekking.
Guide rates are including basic meals, guide fees, permit and camping equipment
Ask your guide to visit the bat cave

Jungle Hiking
Bukit Lawang emerge as one of alternative-not to be missed. Leave at the earliest morning so you can have the chance to experience the wild life

Rafting at Sungai Bohorok
Ride the Sungai Bohorok rapids using tubes. This activity should be done under the assistance of guide, the stream can be extremely tough and strong.

* To soak the entire Bukit Lawangs beauties, make sure you are in your best healthy, fit and well prepared because the Sumatran jungle is not an easy path.
* Bring along mosquito & leech revolting.
* Sunscreen and mineral water supply are highly recommended .
* Make sure you wear special shoes with grip, since the ground is always slippery.
* Long sleeves and long pants are considered as the best outfit to conquer the jungle fiesta, unless you think that you can outshine Tarzan.
* Heavy rains are mostly downpour at the afternoon; please bring your rain jacket and a water resistant bag to keep your items.
* Do not litter, make sure to collect your trash, any type of trash.
* Dont feed the animal

Others:

For more info please visit
* www.bukitlawangtrust.org
* Bukit Lawang Visitor Centre, open from 08.00 am " 15.00 pm
* PHKA Ranger Station open from 07.00 " 15.00 pm
* PHKA permit office
* Bukit Lawang Guide Association
* Decentralization

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Tamora Golf Club

Facilities:
* Club House
* Locker
* Shower
* Pro-Shop
* Restaurant
* Driving Range
* Tennis Court

Golf Course info:

Member of: PGI; APLGI
Year Built: 1972
Designer: PTP Nusantara II

Total holes: 18
Total Pars: 72
Total Distance: 4925 Y
Type Course: Member

Owner: PTP Nusantara II

d/a PTP Nusantara II, Tanjung Morawa
Medan
Phone: [62-61] 7940055 / 7940449
Fax: [62-61] 7940233

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Logan Hill Golf Club

Facilities:
* Club House
* Locker
* Shower
* Pro-Shop
* Coffee Shop
* Golf Club for hire
* Driving Range
* Tennis Court

Golf Course Info:

Member of: PGI
Year Built: 1972
Designer: Ir. Basuki / Pertamina

Total holes: 18
Total Pars: 72
Type Course: Public

Owner: Pertamina Unit Pengolahan I

Address:
Pertamina Unit Pengolahan - 1
Pangkalan Berandan, Medan
Phone: [62-620] 20335/ Ext. 2429, 2293
Fax: [62-620] 20880

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Martabe Sejahtera Golf Club

This challenging 18-hole course is designed to make your game a memorable one. The combinations of jungle and hills will definitely challenge you to the limit. Built in a surrounding of the Sumatera forest, Martabe is easily accesible from Medan. Buggies and trained caddies will also make your golf a more comfortable one.

Facilities
* Club House
* Locker
* Shower
* Pro-Shop

* Restaurant
* Coffee Shop
* Golf Club for hire
* Shoes for hire
* Trolley for hire
* Motorized for hire
* Cart for hire Massage

Gols Course Info

Year Built: 1998
Designer: Gus Grantham Construction

Total holes: 18
Total Pars: 72
Total Distance: 6071 M
Type Course: Semi Public

Owner: PT. Taipan Asri Int'l

Address
Jl. Let.Jen Djamin Ginting Km. 22, Medan
Phone: [62-61] 778 11163
Fax: [62-61] 4571335
Email: info@martabegolf.com
Website: www.martabegolf.com

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Graha Helvetia Golf & Country Club

Only 15 minutes away from the center of the city, this course pffers a spacious and flat landscape with palm trees providing the shades.

Facilities
* Club House
* Locker
* Shower
* Pro-Shop

* Restaurant
* Coffee Shop
* Shoes for hire
* Trolley for hire
* Driving Range
* Swimming Pool
* Tennis Court


Golf Course Info

Year Built: 1994
Designer: Gary Player

Total holes: 18
Total Pars: 72
Total Distance: 5421 M
Type Course: Member

Owner: PT. Mestika Mandala Perdana

Komplek Ruko Graha Helvetia
Jl. Kapten Soemarsono No. 88 - 90, Medan
Phone: [62-61] 8453557
Fax: [62-61] 8453561

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A Lovely Tourist Town, Berastagi in North Sumatra

Berastagi is a lovely tourist town in the Karo highlands on the way from Medan to Lake Toba. It is situated at an altitude of 1300m and with the setting of by two volcanoes, Mt.Sinabung and Mt.Sibayak. At Gundaling Hill you can see a clear view of those two volcanoes.

The area is known for its cool climate, orchids, flowers, vegetables and fruits and the most famous of which is the "Marquisa" or known as passion fruit which is commonly made into a refreshing fruit-drink. The local markets are swarming with activity and scenes from traditional Karo life. Days are extremely pleasant and nights can be quite cool.

After arriving on Polonia - Medan International Airport, you can use taxi or tourist buses to reach Berastagi. Its located 66 km from Medan, the capital city and will take around two hours drive.

At Gundaling Hills, theres a pleasant colonial-style hotel with a golf course, as well as a range of other star and non-star hotels and accommodations.

Just same like the other Sumatras regions, it served spicy foods. Its worth to try local dishes like Chicken Rice, Medan KweTyaow and others. If you like to drive to Medan, you will find Merdeka Walk. It is the first Tensile Structure (Alfresco Outdoor Concept) in Indonesia and the hottest place to hangout in Medan City with cafes, restaurants, exhibition and entertainment.

You can move around the town by local transport that form of the horse-drawn called sado. Also you can rent a bike from Villa Flores Restaurant.

There are a number of attractions in the town itself, including three markets: the photogenic general market, which takes place five times a week (not Wed or Sun) behind the bus station; the daily fruit market, which also sells souvenirs, to the west of the roundabout, and the Sunday market, which takes place every other week on top of Gundaling Hill and attracts such novelty acts as the teeth-pulling man (Rp200 per tooth) and the snake charmer.
You will find some fine examples of traditional Karo Batak architecture in the villages around Berastagi. The best known is Lingga Village, 15 km from Berastagi.

The wide main street is covered with restaurants and hotels, souvenir shops, and the central market attracts farmers from all over the area. You may buy some souvenirs here, like Batak Ulos-hand woven cloth from Medan, rattan plaitwork, hand-printed batik, paintings, carvings or try to buy Marquisa fruits and bring it home with you!

You better avoid come on Sunday, because many day trippers from Medan come to Berastagi to climb Mt.Sibayak
Days are extremely pleasant and nights can be quite cool. Equipped yourself with simple, warm and comfortable clothes

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North Sumatra

The people of the region can be divided into five main ethnic groups and Languages: The coastal Malays, living along the Malaka Straits, the Bataks, consisting of the sub-tribes around Lake Toba and Samosir Island, are Karo, Toba, Dairi, Simalungun, the Angkola or Mandailing of the southern Tapanuli, and Nias Islanders off the western coast of the province. These groups each have their own dialects, religious beliefs, arts, custom and cultures. Several ethnic groups live in Medan and other towns of North Sumatra, the largest of these being Chinese and Indian.

Tourist Office
Jl. Jend. A. Yani No.107, Medan. 20111
Phone. (061) 4538101, 4520559, 4524908 Fax. (061) 4528436
http://www.sumutprov.go.id

Getting there
Regular bus is available via Trans Sumatra. Bus station Jl. Sisingamangaraja Medan.
Regular flight from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Amsterdam, Vienna, and Jakarta to Polonia Airport Medan, Sumatra.
Belawan seaport is the sea link to Penang, Malaysia. PELNI Lines Jl. Krakatau 17A Phone. (061) 6622526
Train station PERUMKA
Jl. Stasiun 1 Medan Phone. (061) 514114.

Tourism Events
Danau Toba Festival will be held in a week in Lake Toba and performs traditional sports, boat race, cultural attractions, horse race, watersports race and crafts fair.

Places of Interest

Crocodile Farm at Asam Kumbang
Crocodile Farm at Asam Kumbang is 10 km from the heart of the city, with nearly 2,000 crocodiles of different sizes and species. It is open from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.

Tangkahan’s
Tangkahan’s combination of vegeta¬tion and topography makes it a marvelous tourist spot rarely found elsewhere. The Batang Serangan and Buluh rivers, converging exactly in this zone, are typical of rainforest streams, with diverse varieties of vegetation and colorful rocks and Sumatran elephants on their banks. The clear, bluish green river water against the panoramic view creates a mystical atmosphere. Fly to Medan the capi¬tal of North Sumatra Province and proceed with cars or public transport from Pinang Baris Bus Terminal in Medan to Tangkahan, located three hours from the province’ capital. The Best Season to Visit is June to October every year.

Brastagi
Brastagi is a lovely tourist town in the Karo highlands, 70 Km on the way from Medan to Lake Toba. Brastagi is famous for its flowers, vegetables and fruit, most famous of which is the ‘Marquisa’ passion fruit. The local markets are swarming with activity and scenes from traditional Karo life. Days are extremely pleasant and nights can be quite cool. Gundaling Hills provides a clear view of Mt. Sibayak and Mt. Sinabung volcanoes, there is a pleasant colonial-style hotel with a golf course.

Lake Toba-Parapat
Lake Toba-Parapat is the largest lake in Southeast Asia with a surface area about 1,145 sq. kilometers, and the deepest lake in the world, over 450 meters deep. The town of Parapat is the main tourist resort and lies on the shores of the lake. The Batak Toba and Batak Simalungun peoples of Parapat are happy, easygoing people, known for their lively and sentimental love songs. In Parapat, there area facilities for swimming, water skiing, motor boating, canoeing, fishing and golf. The climate is cool and dry, and ideal place to relax. There is a plethora of Hotels, bungalows, villas and guesthouses. Parapat is 176 km from Me¬dan and can be reached in 4 hours by bus.

Jangga Village
Jangga Village is located on the edge of Simanuk-manuk Mountain, 24 Km from Parapat. It is famous of its weaving the beautiful ‘ulos’ cloth. There are monuments of King Tambun and King Manurung, rows of traditional houses.

Lingga Village
Lingga Village is 15 km from Brastagi, a traditional Karo village and still preserved and inhabited today.

Samosir Island
Samosir Island situated at the middle of Lake Toba, is accesible by regular ferries from Parapat. The original home of the fierce Toba Bataks, the island has many sites of stone tombs and traditional villa¬ges. The villages of Tomok, Tuk-tuk, Siallagan and Ambarita are noteworthy. Transportation can be arranged through your Hotel or rent a motorcycle for day’s adventure on the island. Accomodation of various styles and standards are readily available.

Sipiso-piso Waterfall
Sipiso-piso Waterfall is located on the north side of Lake Toba, 24 Km from Kabanjahe, the 120 m waterfall is visible from gazebo near the food and souvenir stands.

Bukit Lawang
Bukit Lawang is about 3 hours by car from Medan. Its main attraction are the Orang Utan rehabilitation center, crossing the Bahorok river and climbing steep, jungle-clad hills it is located at the South of the Mount Leuser National Park.

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Gunung Leuser National Park

Gunung Leuser National Park is one of the biggest and the most diversed national parks in Indonesia (950,000 hectare), covering 7,927 km² in northern Sumatera, Indonesia. The national park, named after 3,381 m height of Mount Leuser, protects a wide range of ecosystems..Actually, it's a collection of various nature reserves and forests: Nature Reserve Gunung Leuser, Nature Reserve Kappi, Nature Reserve Kluet, Sikundur Langkat Wildlife Reserve, Ketambe Research Station, Singkil Barat and Dolok Sembilin.

Most parts of the national park lie in the region Aceh Tenggara (SE Aceh). Other parts are situated in the region east Aceh, south Aceh, and Langkat (a part of North Sumatra).

Generally this park may represent each of this charachter of Beach and swamp forest, lowland rainforest , montane or moss fores up to subalpine forest.

The Gunung Leuser National Park comprises more than 100 kilometres of the Bukit Barisan Mountains. Because of that, the park consists of steep, almost inaccessible mountainous terrain.The altitude ranges from 0 metre, in Kluet (South Aceh), to 3,381 metre, on top of the Gunung Leuser (Southeast Aceh). The Alas river cuts the park into an eastern and western half.

Apart from mountains you find several other ecosystems: beach forest, swamp areas, lowland rainforest, alpine and mountain forest.

At least 130 species of mammals are recognised to belong to this park like the Sumatran tiger ( panthera tigris sumatraensis ) Sumatran elephant ( elephas maximus ), Sumatran rhinocheros ( dicherorinus sumatraensis ), Orangutan ( pongo pygmaeus ), Siamang ( hylobates syndactilus ), macaques, clouded leopard ( neofelis nebulosa ), ajak ( cuon alpinus ), and various sub of deers and sambar. Also noted at least 325 species of birds live inside the park.Reptils and fish may also represent the still diversed ecosystem.

In Bohorok-Bukit Lawang is the Orang Utan Rehabilitation Station and in Ketambe stands the Ketambe research station. The research station is not open to tourists. An Orang Utan sanctuary of Bukit Lawang is located inside the park.. Estimated there are up to 5000 orangutans inside the parks, Together with Bukir Barisan Selatan and Kerinci Seblat national parks it forms a Worlds Heritage Site. . It is the only place in the earth where four of world's spectacular animals ; the orangutan, rhinocheros, elephant and tiger are found together..

The Best Season to Visit:
June to October Every Year

Contact:
Lembaga Pariwisata Tangkahan - LPT (Tangkahan Tourism Institution) Visitor Center, Kawasan Ekowisata Tangkahan (Tangkahan Ecotourism Area)
Desa Namo Sialang, Tnagkahan Mobile phone: 08126567432, 081361662387, 081361674113 Email: tangkahan_ecotourism@yahoo.com

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Menager Multi-Level Waterfall

Menager Multi-Level Waterfall, cascade down in seven stages over a vast area, surrounded by pristine rainforest, caves Barema – Dayak worship site, rapid stream calm pools of water invite young and old alike to soak in their tranquil depths, this unique waterfall to create a breathtaking spectacle for all to enjoy. Complementing this natural wonder are the ringing calls of birds as they echo from the trees.

This unique waterfall situated between Landak and Bengkayang is easily accessible by 4WD.
Renowned mysteriously as Bukit Kelam (Dark Hill) is a huge stone outcrop forms a spectacular natural backdrop for the town of Sintang.

Sintang is a river town on the confluence of the Kapuas and Melawi rivers, strategically making it the center of Chinese trade with the interior of Borneo. Steel stairs ascend the mountain’s side offering an exciting challenge for adventurous visitors.

This huge stone outcrop forms a spectacular natural backdrop for the town of Sintang, covering an area 520 square kilometers and rising some 900 m (3,000 ft) from the plain below. Kelam (which means “dark” in Indonesia) begins to wear its characteristic shroud of clouds by mid afternoon becoming a brooding, spellbinding image.Is only 15 km from Sintang by public transportation. Rest pavilions and coffee shops are located nearby for the weary traveler.

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Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam

Banda Aceh is suffered an immense loss of life during the tsunami of December 26, 2004. Over 100,000 residents lost their live in a matter or minutes as the huge tidal wave swept ashore. Many heart-wrenching and poignant reminders of that day still remain. They range from a huge generator ship that now become a monument that was lifted several kilometers inland from its seaside berth to crush a rom of family houses and their inhabitants and a smaller ship which landed atop another house and ironically served as a means for the survival and resque of 57 people, to a myriad of battered landscapes, shattered buildings, and mass gravesites. Visitors are awestruck at the devastion, but inspired by the recovery process. They marvel at the stories of the survivors, and they revel at their determination to rebuild their lives.

Getting there
Only forty-five minutes from Medan and two and half hours from Jakarta, with Singapore and Kuala Lumpur via Medan even closer than Jakarta

Tourism Events
Aceh Cultural week is held on Aug 2008 in Banda Aceh and perform dances such as Tari Seudati (Seudati Dance).

Places of Interest

Weh Island
Weh Island often referred to by the name of its capital, Sabang, is the western most island of the Indonesian archipelago. It is situated at the mouth of the Malacca Strait a sea passage for many yachts and cruise ships only 18 miles away, one hour by ferry, from Ulee-Lheue harbor in Banda Aceh. Diving in Pulau Weh is a well-established recreational activity with dive masters and dive instructors ready to offer a variety of dives to sites like the fabled Sea Garden in Pulau Rubiah.

Alas River
Alas River flows into the Indian Ocean; this river has exceptional rapids that attract whitewater rafting enthusiasts for all over the world.

Gunung Leuser
Hiking to the peak of Gunung Leuser (3,404 meters) take about 10-14 days. The small village of Angasan is a suitable starting point. Angasan is located several hours walk west of Blang Kejeren. Most hikers spend the night in Angasan and start their trek in the morning. The first five days go through virgin rain forest where rare primates can often be seen.

Baiturrahman Mosque
Baiturrahman Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and ornamentation is the main feature of Banda Aceh. It has five onion-shaped domes, two towering minarattes, expansive white walls, and pillars with beautiful designs.

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In Pursuit of Komodo Dragons in Komodo Island

The biggest lizard in this world, it's sometimes called komodo dragon. There is nothing dragon like about the komodo, though. Admittedly a komodo (Varanus komodoensis) is huge an adult can grow to be 3 meters high with approximately 70 kgs in weight, but it is not as fierce as many people thought. For instance, komodo dragons do not pursue their preys actively or show vicious streak in their coup de grace. Checking on a komodo dragon's mouth and teeth must be every dentist's nightmare, for they are incredibly smelly and full of germs. A komodo dragon usually eats the youngs/wounded animals. But bigger komodo dragons are known to attack bigger livestocks. A bite from a komodo dragon is enough. Then the komodo dragon will follow its prey for days, if necessary. The germs are bound to take effect. When the prey dies, the komodo dragon feasts.

Located between Sumbawa and Flores island, Komodo National Park was founded as a conservation for komodo dragons. Six years after the establishment in 1980, UNESCO declared that this park is a World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve. Komodo National Park consists of three main islands, i.e. Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, also other smaller islands. One of the richest marine environments, this park is also the home for at least 1,000 species of fish, hundreds of species of reef-building, coral, and 70 types of sponges. You can also find sharks, manta rays, whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and dugongs in this park.

Getting There
You can go to Lombok or Flores island first, then embark on a boat/ship to this island.

Where to Stay
You can contact the above tour operators for more information. You can also plan to stay in Bali, and spend a whole day for visiting Komodo Island.

Moving Around
On foot. If you join a tour, the tour will see to everything, including the transportation.

Dining Guide
Traditional restaurants and small cafes.

Souvenir Tips
Wooden carving resembling komodo and other animals.

Other things to See or Do
* See komodo dragons live even in action, if you're lucky enough to watch their feeding time (officers of this park supply food like fresh chicken to komodo dragons).
* Marvel at the diversity of the plants and animals.
* Swim on the pristine beaches.
* Snorkel to glimpse the diversity of the marine life.
* Visit a traditional village in order to observe their way of life.

Tips
* Since most people in this place speak only Bahasa, it is essential that you learn a few useful phrases in Bahasa Indonesia.
* Join a tour to save your time and energy.
* Bring along sunblock, comfortable clothes, shades and hats.

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Ijen Plateau: Known for its Sulphur Mining

Ijen is actually a complex of stratovolcanoes near Banyuwangi in East of Java. Kawah Ijen (Ijen Crater) is the center of attraction, which contains a nearly 1 km wide, turquoise-colored, acid crater lake.

Kawah Ijen is also the site of a labor-intensive sulfur mining operation in which sulfur-laden baskets are hand-carried from the crater floor. The weight of the sulfur stones carried by the labor shoulder can reached up to 80 kg. Coffee, cocoa, clove and rubber plantation surrounding the area of the Ijen Crater, which was established by Dutch colonial government is still run very well and can be visited. A trip to Ijen Crater starts from Bondowoso or Banyuwangi where many tourist information and facilities are available.

How to Get There:
Ijen Plateau is usually accessed from the town of Bondowoso and Banyuwangi. Pos Paltuding, the starting point for the hike to Kawah Ijen, is 64 km from Bondowoso. The starting point can also be reached from Banyuwangi with 4WD vehicles.

The Best Season to Visit:
April to October every year.

Contact:
Global Adventure
Jl. Harinjing 102
Kediri – Jawa Timur
Ph. (0354) 391163,
Fax. (0354) 394312
Mobile: 081334684918,
085649629900
Email: globaladventure@indo.net.id
www.globaladventureindonesia.com

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Kuta Beach - Bali

Once a lonely village on the road from Denpasar toward the Bukit Peninsula, Kuta is now a thriving tourist resort, popular mainly among the young. It owes its claim to fame owes to two factors: its beach (originally Bali's best) and the sunset. The beach front is now host to many hotels, except for Legian and Seminyak, where much of the social scene is now centered. The main shops are located along Legian street.

Kuta has become one of the most dynamic places in Indonesia. It is a place to encounter new ideas and lifestyles and a place to experience all manner of pleasures. It is a popular beach for surfing although, currents make it less suitable for swimming. Life guards are on constant duty during the day. Kuta faces the West, offering beautiful sunsets.

The popular Kuta Beach, overlooking the Straits of Bali, attracts foreign and local water sport enthusiasts and sun worshippers. Throngs flock to this 1.5-kilometer stretch on weekends. The period April to September/October promises favorable reef and beach breaks, enabling surfers to take to the waves. Amateurs should stick to the milder beach breaks for safety reasons. You can also swim here--make sure you do so only within the designated area--or just join the carefree sunbathers. Wandering hawkers and guides offer their wares and services, while others provide a relaxing massage for a reasonable fee.

Getting There
Its very easy to reach Kuta beach and only 15 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport, Denpasar-Bali.

Where to Stay
There are many accommodations ranges from star hotels to Home stays along Kuta-Legian road. You may choose one of them to stay.

Moving Around
Moving around Kuta its very fun and simple. You can go around on foot or you can rent a bike or motorcycle.

Other Things to See or Do
Beside watching sunsets and surf, the other things that you may see or do here are shopping, watching performances of Balinese music and dance in Kuta, staged specially for tourists and anywhere else in Bali and some of them are staged nightly. If you're looking by night, various foreign and locally restaurant, clubs, pubs and bars start to fire up.

Dining Guide
There are various foreign and local restaurants that offering international and local foods. These restaurants are available along Kuta.

Souvenir Tips
There are many souvenir shops along Kuta that offering you many kind of Balinese souvenir, starting from clothes, paintings, handicrafts, wooden crafts, etc.

Travel Tips
* Dont forget to equipped yourself with sun protection,
* Bring a bathing suit and extra clothings,
* If you're including backpackers tourist, and looking for cheap accommodation in Kuta, just go to Poppies Lane Alley 1 & 2 where you can find cheap accommodation and restaurants.
* Warungs offering cheap food are within a 2 minute walk on Poppies Lane 1, so no need to get sucked into a beachside restaurant and high prices.
* Almost every evening there is a performance of Balinese -dance somewhere in Kuta. To know what is on just ask around.

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