Holidays Destination on Indonesia: 2013

Loksado: Captivating Dayak villages amidst lush Meratus Mountain landscape

Overview

Driving Into the heart of the Meratus Mountain Range, some two and a half hours from Banjarmasin, capital of South Kalimantan Province, one will be welcomed by a lush landscape decorated with wonderful waterfalls, rushing rivers, and the enchanting culture of its indigenous people. That isolated piece of South Kalimantan’s paradise is known as Loksado, a sub-district of the Hulu Sungai Selatan Regency where the well preserved indigenous Dayak culture meets the stunning natural landscape.

This particular part of Kalimantan is home to the indigenous Dayak Meratus tribes–a sub ethnic group of the Dayak in Kalimantan that occupy traditional houses called Balai. Today, there are at least 43 of these Balai that can be found in 9 villages across Loksado. Among these, the most notable are Balai Hambawang Masam, Balai Adat Malaris, Balai Kacang Parang, Balai Haratai, and more. A Balai is a traditional wooden long house with tens of rooms measuring 3 by 4 meters and are occupied by tens of families.

Pura Agung Pulaki and the enchanting temples of North Bali’s Pemuteran Coast

7:58 PM | Labels: Bali

Overview

Aside from the spectacular underwater splendors off its coastline and around the nearby Menjangan Island, the serene little village of Pemuteran is also surrounded by Balinese distinct cultural charm which radiates from the beautiful temples that lie in some of the most dramatic natural settings. Among the most notable are the Pura Agung Pulaki, Pura Pabean, and Pura Melanting.

Centered on Pulaki Bay just to the east of Pemuteran Village, the temples located in separate places in this area form what is known as the Pulaki Temples Complex. The complex is centered at the Pura Agung Pulaki, while 6 other temples known as its pesanakan or families are Pura Pabean, Pura Kerta Kawat, Pura Melanting, Pura Belatungan, Pura Puncak Manik and Pura Pemuteran. According to local beliefs, the 7 temples represent the Hindu’s concept of the Sapta Loka and Sapta Patala or the seven layers of the universe.

Nestled magnificently between the mountain and the sea, Pura Agung Pulaki sits pleasantly in the perfect setting of what Balinese called Nyegara Gunung or where the mountain meets the sea – a place of very high spiritual energy. The temple is considered as one of the biggest and most important temples in Bali, and was said to have been built to commemorate the arrival of the Javanese Priest Saint Danghyang Nirartha to Bali in the early 16th Century. The temple is dominated by black granite stone in its architecture and decoration, perfectly blending with the hilly background as if some parts of the temple are actually carved out from the cliffs.

Singkawang, City of a Thousand Chinese Temples

7:46 PM | Labels: West Kalimantan

Overview

Located 145 km north of Pontianak , capital of West Kalimantan, Singkawang is the second largest city in the province, bordering the State of Sarawak, Malaysia. Unlike other towns in Indonesia, Singkawang has a distinct oriental atmosphere with hundreds of Chinese temples found around almost every corner of town. This is because over 70% of Singkawang’s population is of Chinese descent, predominantly of the Hakka tribe with some Teochew. Others are Malays, Dayaks and other Indonesian ethnic groups.

In the 18^th century, West Borneo lured many from mainland China to the gold mines at Monterado (today called the Bengkayang district). The Chinese came by the thousands, and on their way there they used to overnight in Singkawang. Most settled here and their descendents today form the majority population of Singkawang.

One of the oldest temples here is the Tri Dharma Bumi Raya temple , established in 1878 dedicated to the god of the forest, or Tua Peh Kong.

Normally a quiet city, Singkawang comes alive each Chinese New Year, reaching its climax at Cap Goh Meh, or the fifteenth day of Chinese New Year, closing the celebrations. For this event, Chinese from around the region, including those from Java and Sumatra but also from Singapore and Malaysia flock to Singkawang to celebrate the event with family and friends.

During these celebrations the Tatung or Chinese shamans will perform their supernatural prowess to the thousands gathered along the streets, while remaining totally unharmed. However, before performing their feats they first pray for blessing at the temple of Toa Peh Kong. (Tatungs are people endowed with supernatural powers performing during the Cap Go Meh Festival in Singkawang, ‘the city of a thousand shrines’, in West Kalimantan. Two of the tatungs are seen bending a sharp sword with their abdomen, remaining completely unharmed.)

Singkawang is also famous for its Chinese ceramics, still produced in the old style with “antique” designs. Center for ceramics is at Sa Kok, some 7 km. from Singkawang. Ceramics made in Singkawang is very popular on Java and can be bought in many parts of Jakarta and Surabaya.

Camp Leakey: Renowned Orangutan Research and Rehabilition Center

7:37 PM | Labels: Central Kalimantan

Overview

Established in 1971 by Dr. Biruté Galdikas and Rod Brindamour, Camp Leakey in the Tanjung Puting National Park in Central Kalimantan is the oldest orangutan Research and Conservation Center in the world. The name was taken to honor paleo-anthropologist Louis Leakey, mentor and inspiration to Dr. Biruté Galdikas. Louis Leakey also supported Diane Fossey in the research and protection of the gorillas in Africa and Dr. Jane Goodall in chimapanzees.

Originally consisting of only two simple huts and meant as Research Center for the great ape in Borneo, Camp Leakey has grown through the years and expanded to include conservation and rehabitlitation efforts to save the endangered orangutans and release captured primates back into the wild. The Orangutan Foundation International organization is now also active in the conservation of rainforests to protect the habitat of the apes.

OFI also organizes special eco-tours led personally by Dr. Biruté Galdikas (click here for details: To do)

It is through the publication of research in Camp Leakey that the world has come to know about the orangutans. Until today, the organization remains active in supporting research by various universities in Indonesia and the United States, not only on the orangutan but also on the tropical environment that supports the primates

Because of her unfailing devotion to the preservation of the orangutan, Dr. Galdikas is the most respected authority on these primates. Dr.Galdikas has received countless awards, including the Kalpataru Award from the Government of Indonesia, the highest award handed to pioneers in the preservation of Indonesia’s nature and environment. She also received the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement, Gold Medal for Conservation, Chester Zoological Society (UK), PETA Humanitarian Award, United Nations Global 500 Award, and many more prestigious recognitions.

White Beach

7:27 PM | Labels: Lampung

Overview

White Sand Beach, or Pantai Pasir Putih, in Indonesian truly describes the atmosphere. The enticing white sand refreshes the eyes and feeds the soul with the burning energy to explore. Only 20 kilometers away from Bandar Lampung, this spot has gained more and more popularity these days.

To Stay

You can stay at inns and hotels in Bandar Lampung. Should you wish to spend the night in the middle of the island, you can stay at an inn in Condong Island. The furnishing is simple yet comfortable. A luxurious villa is available in Bule Island. Also, you can find inns on the road to Pasir Putih.

To Do

You can ride a motorboat to circle the beach and visit Condong & Bule island. Bule Island has many varieties of fish, coral reefs, and marine biota that will amaze you.You can also rent a boat and view the marine life through the wooden boxes that have a glass on them in one side. If you put the box in the sea water using the glassy side on the bottom, you'll be able to view the life in the sea. You can also have a picnic in this beach.

Get There

By a car passing Trans Sumatera road from Lampung, you will reach this place in about 30 minutes. You can also ride public transportation from Lampung straight to Pantai Pasir Putih.

To Buy

You can buy souvenirs related to this beach in the area, or better yet in Bandar Lampung.

Green Canyon

2:38 AM | Labels: West Java

Overview

Green Canyon, yes, make no mistake it’s not America’s Grand Canyon, but it is Pangandaran’s Green Canyon on the southern coast of West Java. Originallya called “Cukang Taneuh”- the local Sundanese meaning for Soil Bridge- Green Canyon has a 3 meter wide bridge made up of soil above the twin cliffs on both river banks. This natural wonder is surely a spectacular scene that you will not find anywhere else.

The name Green Canyon is believed to have been dubbed by a French tourist who came to the location in 1993. It is said that the clear green water of the river and the abundant green moss on the cliff had given it its popular name. This little natural wonder is located at the Kertayasa Village, in the Ciamis Regency, West Java Province, about 31 Km or 45 minutes’ drive from Pangandaran Beach.

Yogyakarta Street Food Scene

2:27 AM | Labels: DI Yogyakarta

Overview

Yogyakarta is truly a unique city. Ruled by a king (sultan) whose lineage can be traced to centuries, this city offers plenty cultural and historical heritage. Here you can eat lesehan style without chairs. The rather sweet cuisine of Yogyakarta might surprise you first, but many people have been longing for good Javanese food after trying it once, so you might have the same experience.

This city offers many luscious delicacies. From bakpia cookies, wingko babat, to enting-enting kacang, visitors will be delighted to find there are so many delicious choices here in this town.

Sipora Island

1:59 AM | Labels: West Sumatra

Overview

Whether you are an experienced surfer, looking for a challenge, a solo backpacker with a more adventurous side, or thinking of just getting away from your routine daily life, this island is a haven of activity. With its challenging surfing spots, white sandy beaches with exotic fish and colorful corals, Pulau Sipora offers a little something for everyone.

Dieng Plateau

1:39 AM | Labels: Central Java

Overview

The name ‘dieng’ which literally translates as ‘abode of the Gods’ says all you need to know about this collection small ancient temples set in the remarkable volcanic landscape of the Dieng Plateau. The misty location, sulphurous springs and colored lakes truly make this a place of natural wonder and cultural significance.

Tamansari

1:26 AM | Labels: DI Yogyakarta

Overview

When a traveler is browsing in Kraton, then she/he should not miss The Water Castle or known as Tamansari, less than 1 Km west of Kraton. Just west of the Kraton, are the ruins, pools, arches and underground passages of the former pleasure gardens. It was built in 1758 by Sultan Hamengkubuwono I as a rest house and pleasure park for the Royal family. Tamansari means beautiful garden. It was badly damaged due to an earthquake in 1867. Some parts of it, for instance "Umbul Binangun" bathing pools have been restored.

Kelimutu Lakes

7:00 AM | Labels: East Nusa Tenggara

Overview

Some people may only dream about trekking to Mt Kelimutu on the island of Flores with its three colored lakes, while others make it a reality. The challenging trip in a rented polished 7-seater car can make one entertained for hours because of the endless winding road. However, being shaken by the sharp curves in the road that cuts through the 350-km long Flores Island is a worthy price to pay to witness the ultimate top-drawer panoramas that Flores has to offer.

Gili Trawangan

2:14 AM | Labels: West Nusa Tenggara

The largest of the three islands, Gili Trawangan attracts the majority of visitors, it is around thirty minutes boat ride from the northwest mainland of Lombok and regular daily fast boats depart Bali directly to Trawangan islandand all boats stop off at Teluk Nare on mainland Lombok as part of the return journey.

Wayag Island

1:46 AM | Labels: West Papua

Wayag Island is one of the islands within the Raja Ampat district in the province of West Papua. The island is known for its beautiful atolls and amazing underwater life covering a total area of 155,000 hectares (about 383,013.3 acres).

Here, you find pristine beaches with unique Karst islands that look like mushrooms sprouting out from the sea. Along these beaches, tourists can see fairy tale panorama, more captivating than Leonardo DiCaprio’s getaway in “The Beach”. The crystal clear waters around Wayag Island appear like unreal windows to various types of flora and fauna that live underwater.

Mount Dempo

1:19 AM | Labels: South Sumatra

Overview

At 3,195 meters above sea level, Mount Dempo is the highest mountain in South Sumatra. Along with Mount Marapi on Sumatra, (not to be confused with Mt. Merapi in Central Java), Mt. Dempo is the highest peak in the Bukit Barisan mountain range that stretches along the entire island of Sumatra, forming tis backbone. After sipping a cup of hot sweet tea in the cool dawn, listening to birds chirp in the trees and watching the sun slowly rising on the horizon, this is the perfect morning to hike up to the top of Mount Dempo
Located right on the border between the provinces of South Sumatra and Bengkulu on Sumatra’s west coast, Mount Dempo lies in the district called Pagar Alam. And, as the name implies, Pagar Alam, meaning nature’s fence, is entirely surrounded by hills and mountain ridges. It takes some 7-hours driving to reachPagar Alam from Palembang, and then another 15 kilometers from the center ofPagar Alam to Mount Dempo itself. The trip will not be dull, since you will be presented with fantastic scenery of cliffs and valleys accompanied by fresh, unpolluted air. A vast tea plantation greets you as Mount Dempo comes into view: Here is the source of the energizing cup of tea.

Mount Rinjani

12:32 AM | Labels: West Nusa Tenggara

The mighty Rinjani mountain of Gunung Rinjani is a massive volcano which towers over the island of Lombok. A climb
to the top is one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have in Indonesia. At 3,726 meters tall, Gunung Rinjani is the second highest mountain in Indonesia. The climb to the top may not be easy but it’s worth it, and is widely regarded as one of the best views in the country.
Part of the famous ‘ring of fire’ this mountain also holds spiritual significance for the local people. It’s thought that the name Rinjani comes from an old Javanese term for ‘God’.
Around the slopes of Rinjani there are lush forests sprinkled with waterfalls and surrounded by stunning scenery.
Within the mountain is a crescent shaped lake, the breathtaking Segara Anak which is about 6km across at its widest point. This lake of sulfur is located 600 meters below the crater rim. Rising from the waters of this lake is a new volcano, Mt. Baru, which is a result of a series of eruptions during the 1990’s. Segara Anak is a spiritual place. The Balinese come here each year and perform a ceremony called pekelan where jewelry is placed in the lake as an offering to the mountain spirit. The Wetu Telu people also regard the lake as holy and come here to pray on full moon nights.
Mt Rinjani lies within the Gunung Rinjani National Park. The park covers 41,330 hectares and sits inside a major bio-geographical transition zone (Wallacea). This is where the tropical flora and fauna of South East Asia meets that of Australasia. This National Park was established in 1997 and is one of over 40 throughout Indonesia.
For visitors, the three-day Rinjani trek route from Senaru to the crater rim, down to the Crater Lake then on to Sembalun Lawang, is considered one of the best treks in South East Asia. More adventurous trekkers may want to head all the way to the summit of the volcano. This is best reached from Sembalun Lawang and takes four days, finishing up in Senaru.

12.12.6666 (jaka Permadi)

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