21 hidden nature attractions around Bandung you need to visit at least once

Versi Bahasa Indonesia: https://indonesia.tripcanvas.co/id/bandung/tempat-wisata-alam-asyik/

Once a colonial resort center during the Dutch occupancy, Bandung is rightfully dubbed as “Paris Van Java” or the Paris from Java.

With an architectural European style and thriving local fashion industry, Bandung has a quaint atmosphere that immediately sets it apart from the nearby and hectic Jakarta.

Just 2 hours drive away from the capital city, it seems that Bandung can’t escape from being the retreat spotlight that captures the hearts of many.

Also read:

32 incredible things to do in Bandung for an extraordinary vacation

11 hot springs in Bandung and Garut where you can soak in

As the city retains that old world and art deco charm, there is also a side of its natural attractions that is just as irresistible and profoundly breathtaking.

Once you have exhausted yourself from its urban appeals, you’ll soon find the enthralling beauty and heavenliness of Mother Earth around Bandung.

Tired of the same tourist places every time you’re around Bandung? This list might just change your life on how one should holiday around Bandung.

From Lembang, Garut, Pangalengan, to Cipatat, these are the 16 best natural attractions around Bandung that will rejuvenate you in an instant:

Things to do in Bandung and Lembang

1. Explore the hidden canyon of River Cikahuripan

Have you heard of Cikahuripan river’s hidden canyon, located just one kilometre away from the entrance of Cikahuripan tourism spot?

Photo by hens4m

The path is dominated by giant rocks all the way up the two towering cliffs of 10 metres high, spreading up to 100 metres wide from one side to another.

Photo by titinwidiyaningsih

Wedged between the fossil cliffs is a small beautiful river of Cikahuripan. Its water glistens in the distance, creating an inviting body of crystal turquoise pond.

Photo by reza_phlvi_

The water goes as deep as 4 metres, but some rocky spots are shallower, so you can enjoy it with your family.

Photo by reza_phlvi

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2. Hang in the sky like Spiderman – Tebing Gunung Hawu

This mountain blows plenty of other mountains out of the water. Here’s where your superhero dreams come true, and “hanging out” takes on a completely different meaning.

Photo by alfiansprasetyo

For sunrise enthusiasts, Tebing Gunung Hawu boasts a fantastic viewpoint to watch the sun wake up for its morning duties. Better yet, you can catch that sunrise from your perch in a hammock, hanging precariously between two towering cliffsides. Has that image gotten your adrenaline running?

Photo via kusdinardani

Hammocking was popularised by a group of locals in a bid to increase tourist activity in the area, – and thus prevent limestone miners from continuing to destroy Gunung Hawu’s environment. Mother Nature is pleased with you.

Photo via dian lisnawaty hmy

The mountain is also renowned for the massive “hole” that you can see in the middle of the mountain. It’s also the reason why the mountain was christened “Hawu”, which means “fireplace” in Sundanese.

Photo via harivalzayuka

Since you’re here, how can you pass up on snapping a picture with this rare sight? If you’re lucky, you might even catch the sunlight filtering in through the hole, creating an ethereal sight.

Photo via dhonny_putra

3. A Divine Experience in Nature’s Hidden Paradise – Sanghyang Heuleut, Cipatat

Tucked away at West Bandung in a remote area of Cipatat, Sanghyang Heuleut is a small pond surrounded by large white cliffs, lush jungle and a small waterfall as the water source.

Photo via rijaljauhari

It flows to the stream of Citarum river which is also part of a hydropower plant.

Through geographic evaluation, Sanghyang Heuleut is deemed as a prehistoric pond that has existed through time.

Photo via dindinbrave

Legend also has it that its secluded location was meant for the strategic bathing place for goddesses.

Photo via ari andrian

No wonder, the place was deemed “Sanghyang” which means “holy” while “heuleut” means “the space between 2 worlds”, which refers to how the holy place was reserved for divine beings.

Photo via d kiw

The pond itself definitely lives up to its reputation, as evident by the mythical surroundings and unexplainable beauty of its area.

It simply is something so divine that you have to witness to believe.

4. Dramatic Rocky Mountain For A Distinct Rush of Nature – Gunung Batu, Lembang

Lembang makes for the perfect destination for mountaineers as it is situated on the highland of Bandung. So if you’re in search for the next adrenaline rush through height, then Batu Mount might just be the perfect choice for you.

Photo via dheajp04

Just as the name suggests, Gunung Batu or the Stone Mountain is dominated with large rocky surfaces all the way to its top.

Photo via tyuniar93

As one of the tallest mountains in Lembang, you get to witness the unobstructed view of other surrounding mountains such as Tangkuban Perahu, Gunung Putri, Bukit Tunggul and Palasari.

Photo via ariefsyuariady, christian.ceem

All of which enhance the vivid beauty of Mount Batu as a whole. It also makes for the best camping site to get your dose of sunrise

Photo via mocryans

5. Exploring the Dynamic Duo of Caves – Gua Sanghyang Tikoro & Sanghyang Poek, Cipatat

Sanghyang Tikoro and Sanghyang Poek are essentially the parts of the charming area of Cipatat or Saguling Hydro Power Plant, along with Sanghyang Heuleut.

Photo by explorekeindahan 6

Both caves are placed in the same area which is overflowing with clear water and breathtaking surroundings.

Sanghyang Tikoro which means the holy throat is a deep cave with an underground river stream.

Photo by radin mangata 3

It is believed to have formed by the cooling down of lava during a major eruption, while the water slowly eroded and shaped the stalactites cave.

Similarly, Sanghyang Poek is also a cave just 15 minutes away from Tikoro, and a part of the area’s famed tourist spot. The landscape is slightly different as it’s diagonally shaped or slanted.

Photo via ditoapriliansyah

Traveling inside the cool cave, you will experience dripping water and pitch black darkness before emerging to the other side.

Our verdict? Definitely worth exploring!

6. The Ultimate Adventure With Nature – The Lodge Maribaya, Bandung

There is always a sense of satisfaction when you experience an adventure in nature. But what if we tell you that you can actually get an even more heightened enjoyment, in a man-designed adventure camp?

Photo via yohannathalia

The Lodge Maribaya is not your ordinary natural camp with above standard service such as camping or trekking activities.

Photo via abee0110

The overall setting and location is designed to elevate your adventure in nature to the whole new level.

Photo via tiejuntak

The lodge’s natural surroundings include pine forests, Maribaya waterfalls, and a vista of wonderful mountain scenery.

The Lodge Maribaya aims to provide all the necessary refreshments that is much needed prior to, and after your escape to the nature.

Photo via aliluthfii

From staying in, dining, and hosting parties, to arranging activities fit for daredevils – it’s a real pleasure that can only make your adventure go that much better.

7. Coral Rocks at the Top of a Mountain: Goa Pawon and Stone Garden of Padalarang

After a 20-minute hike up Mount Pasigit, there lies the mouth of Goa Pawon (Pawon Caves), a significant historic site where ancient human remains (now on display in Bandung’s Museum Geologi) were found.

Photo via kepinhelmy

Photo via ds_djourney

Take a few steps further towards the peak of the mountain and you will find an array of calcium-rich rocks, which are usually found along a beach.

Photo via Gito Liem

Scientists believe that there once existed a sea stretching from Padalarang to Negreg, with Bandung lying hundreds of metres underwater. The theory is that a few volcanic eruptions later caused the valley to be formed.

Here, you can find seashells embedded on the rocks – bizarre indeed!

Photo via mocryans

Since not many people know about this spot yet, make sure you bring your own water as there are no warungs open at the venue (as of now!).

8. Witness the Weeping Rocks of Curug Batu Templek, Bandung

You might have a difficult time asking the locals for directions to Curug Batu Templek if you are in Central Bandung.

Photo Via: ricki_ip

Even though the curug isn’t too difficult to reach, its unsuspected location near stone quarries makes the Curug Batu Templek sound foreign to the ear.

A rare geological phenomenon, the rocks of Curug Batu Templek is actually a small notch on the Earth’s plate, formed by tectonic movements. This causes underground water to pour magically from the cracks into the rocks.

The best time to pay a visit is during the rainy season (usually between September and March) when the flow of the water is high and light brown in colour – a perfect hue to compliment the darker shades of the rocks.

Photo Via: chanderaaa

Since the roads leading to Curug Batu Templek are narrow semi-paved paths, one of the best ways to get there is on two wheels. After passing by stone craftsmen of Pasar Impun, riders will have to travel up a series of climbs up a couple of hills.

The climb ends with a rewarding view of East Bandung from above. Don’t be surprised to find that you’re the only visitor there!

Meanwhile, the sound of trickling water from a distance is a telling sign you are heading in the right direction.

9. Past Meets Present For The Most Ideal Natural Beauty – Gunung Putri, Lembang

It’s hard to believe that there is such magical natural attraction that isn’t all that far from the hustle and bustle of downtown Bandung.

Photo via irfangiri

Lembang is a popular leisure area just a few hours drive from the central of Bandung, and is most favored for its cool fresh air and the famous Mount of Tangkuban Perahu.

While not as known as Tangkuban Perahu, Mount Putri is starting to get the much deserved hype from travelers, as it’s impossible to dismiss its unique features.

Photo via emmaltfh

Unlike any others, you’ll find the remnant of a Dutch Colonial fort right on one of the hills of Mount Putri.

Built back in the 1st World War, the mysterious and white building stays intact and solid, despite having no certain maintenance.

Continuing upward, you’ll end up on the mountain top that overlooks a view of verdant pine forest overshadowed by the misty city landscape.

Photo via kusdinardani

Look up and take in the cool breeze, the sky from this height is a splendid view which will leave you with all sort of indescribable feelings.

10. An Aroma Tea-raphy With a Matching Peaceful Pond – Cukul Tea Plantation, Pangalengan

Tea plantations have long been one of the most appealing recreation choices when around Bandung.

Photo via fidz92

With the fresh breeze and a hint of fragrant tea leaves lingering in the air, the experience of being in the middle of green tea territory is simply a rewarding one.

Photo via dimaskaisar

So, what sets Cukul Tea Plantation apart from the dozen other tea plantations in the area?

For one, this tea plantation is located on the highland which means the air gets comfortably cool.

Photo via fidz92

Secondly, a brilliant and calming pond, Situ Cukul is right nearby.

Photo via budiyadin

As it goes alongside the tea plantation, there is also a private European style villa that adds to the overall picturesque beauty of Cukul Tea Plantation.

Lastly, the small pathway among the tea fields will lead you to the top of one of the hills, where you can soak in the total bliss in peace.

11. A Mass Collection of Mother Nature’s Best – Curug Tilu Leuwi Opat, Ciwangun

What do you get when you have several waterfalls (curug), rivers (leuwi) and caves on a stretch of 5-hectare green land?

Photo via ristahp

It means that you may have found yourself in the midst of heaven, called Curug Tilu Leuwi Opat at Ciwangun Village of Parongpong, West Bandung.

In total, this area has 4 waterfalls, 4 rivers, and 2 caves which unite to bring the ultimate outdoor enjoyment.

Photo via sisadoe

One of the most adored waterfalls in this area is called Curug Tilu which has water running as clear as crystal, while the 4 rivers run smoothly across the green pine forest.

There is also popular tourist spot Ciwangun Indah Camp, with organised water excursions such as rafting, water outbound, to camping, cliff climbing, paintball, flying fox, and a shaking bridge in one adventure camp.

Photo via arethabudiastuti

This way, you’ll be able to enjoy the water and nature to its fullest.

12. Meet The Sweetest Waterfall Couple – Curug Penganten, Cisarua

Part of what makes a natural attraction even more attractive is the folktale that comes with it.

Photo by aiiphimurra 4

This is no exception for Curug Penganten, which translates to “ The Bride Waterfall”.

Story has it that it was named Curug Sewu but soon changed name, when the raft which carried 2 lovers was washed away by the heavy streams, yikes!

Another geographic reason to the name is how this area actually consists of 2 gorgeous waterfalls which overlook one another, just like 2 people in love.

Regardless, many tourists continue to search for Curug Penganten to see for themselves, the scenic natural wonder at the feet of the waterfalls.

Photo via dessycn

The water pond is a cool area surrounded by magnificent tall cliffs, and filled with water that is as cool as it is fresh.

Right when the sun shines down through the crystal clear water – the whole pond glistens with gleaming rays of light and it’ll be love at first sight for anyone.

Things to do in Garut and Ciamis (2 hours from Bandung)

13. Capture the exotic Grand Canyon of Garut at Leuwi Jurig

Located in Garut, which is two hours’ drive away from Bandung, sits a hidden canyon, Leuwi Jurig.

Photo by adorkableracer

Its name may mean ‘The Satan Pond’, but its beauty will make you believe in the higher powers. Locals believe that bathing in the pond will free you from all bad luck, thus the name.

Photo by candraganjar

Streams of fresh water flow through the exotic cliffs all the way down into a luscious emerald green pond. Its beauty has been likened to the Grand Canyon of Arizona, because it is that gorgeous!

Photo by gu2nw

14. Hike and Camp to catch the Sunrise: Mount Papandayan, Garut

For most people, hiking up a mountain may sound like a task too challenging to conquer – you have to navigate through the difficult terrain and hostile weather, just to sleep in a tent and eat canned food.

But this is already considered a beginner’s mountain by many outdoorsmen, as you can reach the camping ground of mount Papandayan after only 2 hours of trekking.

Photo via: Untung09

Once the tent has been set, hikers can wander off in the Edelweiss Meadows, also a great spot for watching the sunrise.

Another beautiful spot is the Hutan Mati (Dead Forest), which is where a patch of forest and vegetation was burnt off during a volcanic eruption, leaving only tree trunks behind.

 

Photo via: Pratomo Aribowo

15. The Inviting & Majestic Waterfall For A Soothing Dip – Curug Cibadak, Garut

Situated at the south area of Garut, Curug Cibadak is a bountiful gift from mother nature in the form of roaring waterfall – amidst the rich collection of large tall cliffs and a freshwater pond.

Photo by amazingwestjava 1

This waterfall is considered quite unique as it is hidden from the common area in Garut, yet is actually not that out of reach from the main road.

In fact, the grand display of it is directly visible from the side of the road.

While it is not hard to reach, the terrain and contour of the high cliffs pose certain challenges for those who wish to ascend it.

Photo by yudhieyudhiestira5

Hence, it is advisable to be extra careful, and avoid going during rainy season as the water debit will increase significantly.

The word Cibadak itself loosely translates to “ great volume”. Still, the pure charm ofthis waterfall is undeniable.

Photo by yudhieyudhiestira4

With the stream of water coming mainly from the top of the cliff – it means extra clean water without any soil deposits, and a divine water dipping experience.

16. A Beauty Worth Conquering – Gunung Guntur, Garut

Gunung Guntur or Gunung Gede, as better known by locals is located in Garut – the home to several mountains with extraordinary views.

Photo via dipowisnuaji

Compared to other mountains in the area, Gunung Guntur is not particularly magnificent in height, but it does require a certain lengthy process and effort to reach.

However, it doesn’t stop many visitors from making it a new favorite camping site in Garut.

Photo by miraafianti 3

Dubbed by mountain climbing communities as the Rinjani of Garut, Gunung Guntur certainly has what it takes to be referred to the famously beautiful Lombok volcanic mountain.

Photo by infopaguci 2

Other than the challenging track, it also has its own valleys, waterfalls, rivers, craters, and the panoramic sight of surrounding mountains.

Eventually, all hard work pays off as this is one view definitely worth fighting for.

17. Visit a Traditional Village with an Ancient Culture: Kampung Naga, Garut

Just an hour away from the city of Garut lies a village called Kampung Naga (or ‘Dragon Village’ in English).

Photo via: Dany13 – Flickr

Unlike almost every other village, Kampung Naga still relies on a traditional governance system used since hundreds of years ago, where the Head of the Village is the most powerful person in the village.

As they refraining from using electricity, the residents of Kampung Naga have little or no communication to the outside world.

If you want to visit, you’ll need to inform the head of the village. After which, you will be given a sharing session on how the village is run, and will also be shown around, such as the places where the people farm crops and livestock, and even a tour of one of their houses!

Photo via: Lina Sasmita

18. Travel Back in History at Situs Karangkamulyan

This is an archeological site where the remains of the Galuh Kingdom, one of the earliest kingdoms of Indonesia dating back to the 7th century, lies.

Home to several historical objects and monuments, such as the king’s throne, the queen’s bathing area and the chambers holding treasures and weapons, this site is pretty well-preserved to this day.

Photo via: Merdeka, Kaskus

If you ask for a tour guide on the site, you’ll learn some local beliefs – some of the objects on display are linked to superstition, like the prosperity stone, or a slab of rock that is said to increase a woman’s fertility when sat upon!

19. Soak in the Mesmerizing Atmosphere by the Lake at the Situ Bagendit

Legend claims that there used to live a wealthy merchant who forced villagers to work hard for small wages. And this lake was where she drowned in the tears of the people who suffered under her, along with all her wealth.

The lake itself is surrounded by mountains, and for those looking for a peaceful retreat, look no further – noise levels here are paid special attention by the authorities.

Photo by Andreas Suwardy via Flickr

You can indulge in the atmosphere by renting a raft ride around the lake for as little as 25,000 IDR (USD 2) for 15 minutes.

Photo by Memorabilia via Flickr

Things to do in Majalengka (3 hours from Bandung)

20. Soul-Healing Green Remedy Everyone Deserves – Argapura, Majalengka

While it shares the same district border with Indramayu and Cirebon, Majalengka is a regency in the province of West Java with an almost unrivalled beauty.

PHoto via Felgra Photography

Within reach after 4-hour drive from Bandung, Argapura is a picturesque village in Majalengka with its stretch of panoramic rice terraces.

It is so extraordinary that Argapura may have just given Bali’s famous view of rice fields a run for the money.

Photo via daniarnovendas, titaniumcyan

Still considered a hidden site, Argapura holds the best seat to its greenery on top of Sunda British Hill.

Photo by adryanans 4

The stunning beauty promises a collection of nature consisting of clear blue sky and white fluffy clouds, as well as other silhouettes of hills in the distance, and of course, the crisp and fresh cool breeze.

If they say nature is the best medicine, then Argapura surely is the most perfect healing therapy that everyone will appreciate.

21. A Fine Walk Among The Clouds – Gunung Ciremai, Majalengka (Mount Cereme)

Mount Cereme or Ciremai is a hauntingly symmetrical beauty in the form of a stratovolcano mountain.

Photo via clvns

Situated on the border of 2 prominent regencies which are Kuningan and Majalengka – there is now a national park dedicated to preserve the beauty of Ciremai Mountain namely the National Park of Mount Cereme.

As the highest mountain in West Java, it is consequently quite challenging to climb. This mountain consists of 2 summits with the highest one requiring a long upward track encircled by a mystical caldera.

Photo via kang adzo

Once you reach it, it’s easy to surrender to the awesome and magical feeling of being surrounded by the silky and luminous white clouds.

The contours of other adjacent mountains also gives a completely exquisite bliss of looking at the vast soft cotton carpet made entirely by nature.

Bandung offers more than just the typical modern holiday – as it always balances the experience with such wonderful and unique alternatives like natural exploration.

If you have a soft spot for adventures in nature, get to Bandung for a change and explore to your heart’s content!

This post is made possible by Indonesia Tourism Board

PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

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