Bandung – Indonesia's Fashion Capital and Cool Mountain City
Bandung is the capital of West Java province and Indonesia's third-largest city, sitting at about 768 metres above sea level. With its relatively cool climate by Javanese standards, stunning art deco buildings, and vibrant cultural scene, it fully deserves the nickname 'The Paris of Java'. It's just 3 hours from Jakarta by train.
Attractions & Activities
Kawah Putih (White Crater) with its sulphurous turquoise-green lake offers a breathtaking sight – located inside the crater of the active Patuha volcano. Tangkuban Perahu volcano is easily accessible by car, and walking along the crater rim among steaming fumaroles is an unforgettable experience. Braga Street is lined with art deco buildings and cafés – often called the Indonesian Champs-Élysées. Dago and Cihampelas streets offer trendy boutiques and factory outlets.
Culture & Cuisine
Bandung is a street food paradise. Baso (meatball soup), siomay (steamed fish dumplings), nasi timbel (Sundanese rice plate), and pisang bolen (cream cheese banana pastry) are local favorites. The city is also known for its vibrant café culture and photogenic coffee shops.
Practical Information
From Jakarta: ~3 hours by Argo Parahyangan train, ~2.5 hours by car via the Cipularang toll road. Husein Sastranegara Airport handles domestic flights. Best time to visit: April to October (dry season).