INDONESIA KU

Alms Punthuk Setumbu

2009-10-27T08:38:00.003+07:00

"Alms Punthuk Setumbu" expected to be the area of tourism events calendar Borobudur in Magelang regency, Central Java (Central Java). At the opening of "Alms Punthuk Setumbu" in the Village Karangrejo, Borobudur, Saturday.

Regent said it in his written speech read by the Head of History, Museum of Antiquities, Language, and Film Culture and Tourism Department Government of Magelang District, Djoni Susmiyarto, at Borobudur.

The tradition was marked by a procession on foot along approximately one kilometer by hundreds of people wearing traditional clothes from Javanese village up the hill Punthuk Setumbu (1300 meters from sea level). The place is located about two miles west of Borobudur Temple.

They appeared with a stretcher carrying a number of other cone-shaped mound of rice, produce, and diamond. Dozens of people led goats and cattle in the neck berkalung diamond.

Dozens of folk arts groups also participated in the procession such as dance and music grasak tambourine, while several young women dressed in kebaya, each carrying a pitcher of water and rose blossoms. All participants of the procession seen berkalung diamond.

The procession led by elders of local residents, Dul Rosyid (90), which begins with a splash of water against a pair of men to women in the village street.

Rosyid was leading the prayers, burning incense, and with a number of other community leaders planted trees in the hills as a symbol of community commitment to preserving the natural environment.

The tradition was held hereditary society every "prey kapat" in the Javanese calendar calculations.

Punthuk hill was a strategic Setumbu to see the beauty of Borobudur temple, especially during morning and evening, to coincide with sunrise and sunset.

In other places there were between two and five springs tamarind tree estimated was about 175 years old.

Head of Culture and Tourism Provincial Government of Central Java, Bambang Gatot Hastowo, in a written speech read by the Head of the History and Antiquities, Suhardi, said, needs a strong fabric of communication between communities and local government for the development of culture and tourism potential.

In the future, he said, performances (performances) that tradition serving quality should be improved and supported by marketing to both tourists and foreign archipelago.

Internal Supervisory Unit Head of PT Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan, and Ratu Boko, Jamari, stated, his side responded positively to the community effort to develop the tradition.

Activities include folk art performances enlivened by a number of groups came mainly from the area of Borobudur Temple and exhibitions of local food products and local handicrafts.

Manager Borobudur one community, "Public Info Cleguk Universe", Sucoro, confessed, he shared some of that community managers have the information that the tradition has been around since the 1960 era.

If the tradition is going to be a calendar of tourism events Borobudur, he said, needed study areas and a strong commitment from the local community especially with the support of local governments and other stakeholders.

Each tradition is sustainable and growing, he said, must be supported by a strong commitment to the community.

He said, the hill was often heard crowing chickens at night as a mark would happen pagebluk or malignant epidemic which claimed many victims so that people anticipate with mutual help clean up the surrounding natural environment.

Source : http://wisata-shikamaruken.blogspot.com/2009/10/destination-tradition-alms-punthuk.html

Mt. Bromo & Semeru

2009-10-16T11:31:00.003+07:00

Mt. Bromo & Semeru

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park covers some 800 square kilometers in the centre of East Java. It is the largest volcanic region in the province and there stands Mt. Semeru, which rises 3676 meters above sea level. At its northern end is the spectacular Tengger Caldera, Java's largest, with its 10 km barren desert-like sea of sand. Within the caldera rise the deeply fissured volcanic cones of Batok and Bromo, the latter is still active with a cavernous crater from which smoke blows skyward. Temperatures at the top of mount Bromo range about 5 to 18 degrees Celcius . To the south is a rolling upland plateau dissected by valleys and dotted with several small scenic lakes, extending to the foot of Mount Semeru, a towering grey forest-skirted cone dominating the southern landscape.

Tengger sandy area has been protected since 1919, and its believed to be the only conservation area in Indonesia, even probably in the world possessing a unique ocean and sand at the attitude about 2000 m above sea level. There are several mountains inside the calderas namely: Mt Watangan (2,661 m asl)., Mt Batok (2,470 m asl), Mt Kursi (2,581 asl), Mt Watangan (2,661 m asl), and Mt Widadaren (2,650 m asl).

On the fourteenth day of the Month Kasada, the inhabitants of Tengger Mountain range gather at the rim of Mount Bromo's active crater to present annual offerings of rice, fruit, vegetables, flowers, live stock and other local produce to the God of the Mountain, as adherents of religion combining elements of Hinduism and Mahayana Buddhism the Tenggerese ask for blessing from the supreme God, Sang Hyang Widi Wasa. This ceremony called Kesodo Ceremony.

While the Great Mountain or Semeru offer a wonderful place to 3 days hike. Serenity of small lakes and large meadows, a three hours struggling through loose screw to the peak and breathtaking views from peak Semeru explodes every half hour and sends billowing smoke upwards. These gases and belching lava make Semeru dangerous " stay well away from the vent. The fine scenery and bracing climate, easy access and reasonably visitor-oriented facilities make this one of the most popular reserves in Java.

Bromo Tengger Semeru can be reached by private and public vehicle. There are four gates to access the place, Probolinggo, Wonokitri, Ngadas and Lumajang. Probolinggo approach is the easiest and by fat the most popular route, especially if you go by public bus, Wonokitri is the closes and the easiest one if you go by private vehicle from Surabaya (5 hours journey). To get closer to Mt. Bromo you must rent 4x4 vehicles (there are many 4x4 vehicles rental there).

There are a few options that you can choose to stay. You can stay at The Bromo Guest House which is located at Ngadisari that lies 3 km from the crater rim. Or you can choose other hotels at Cemoro Lawang because it this situated at the crater rim.

Walking on the sea of sand and stepping up on the 249 steps to rim is worth to try. Enjoying the unique crater in crater, watching the dawn at Bromo is the main attractions in the area.

Its kindly hard to find some food at night, because mostly of warung are closed after 7.30 pm. If youre in Wonokitri area, theres some warung in Tosari market, which still open at 7-9 pm. There are many souvenir shops around Mount Bromo viewpoints who are selling T-shirts, scarf that are made from wool and others.

There are also street hawkers who are selling these things too at the caldera area. You can moving around on foot and normally it will takes 2 hours, or you can ride a horse or even rent a jeep (for this two, you are suggested to ask first and make a negotiation)

• Necessities for the trip include a torch, warm clothing, comfortable trekking shoes, and glove as a protection against the freezing temperature which hovers between zero to five degrees Celsius (33 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit).

• If you buy or rent something please Bargain.

• Sunrise starts at 5.00 am till 6.00 am (If werent cloudy), so you may leave from your hotel or guesthouse at 3 am or even less than that.

• Before start trekking, hiking or climbing, be sure that you already eat, or you can bring some food and drink from your places of stay.

• Otherwise, you can buy some food and drink on the nearest markets for your supply before you start your activities on mountain.

• If youre come in the right time, you may possible to watch the annual ceremony of Kesodo.

Yogyakarta

2009-10-16T10:46:00.003+07:00

YOGYAKARTA

Yogyakarta Special Region (Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, DIY) is officially one of Indonesia's 32 provinces. Yogyakarta is one of the foremost cultural centers of Java. This region is located at the foot of the active Merapi volcano, Yogyakarta was in the 16th and 17th centuries the seat of the mighty Javanese empire of Mataram from which present day Yogyakarta has the best inherited of traditions. The city itself has a special charm, which seldom fails to captivate the visitor.

This province is one of the most densely populated areas of Indonesia. The city came into being in 1755, after the Mataram division into the Sultanates of Yogyakarta and Surakarta (Solo). Gamelan, classical and contemporary Javanese dances, wayang kulit (leather puppet), theater and other expressions of traditional art will keep the visitor spellbound. Local craftsmen excel in arts such batiks, silver and leather works. Next to the traditional, contemporary art has found fertile soil in Yogya's culture oriented society. ASRI, the Academy of Fine Arts is the center of arts and Yogyakarta itself has given its name to an important school of modern painting in Indonesia, perhaps best personified by the famed Indonesian impressionist, the late Affandi.

Yogyakarta is often called the main gateway to the Central Java as where it is geographically located. It stretches from Mount Merapi to the Indian Ocean. There is daily air service to Yogya from Jakarta, Surabaya and Bali as well as regular train service and easy accessibility by road. Yogyakarta is commonly considered as the modern cultural of Central Java. Although some may prefer Solo as a good runner up, Yogyakarta remains the clear front-runner for traditional dance, Wayang (traditional puppetry) and music.

Yogyakarta has more than just culture though. It is a very lively city and a shopper's delight. The main road, Malioboro Street, is always crowded and famous for its night street food-culture and street vendors. Many tourist shops and cheap hotels are concentrated along this street or in the adjoining tourist area such Sosrowijayan Street.

The key attraction of Yogyakarta is 'Kraton' (the Sultan's Palace). The Sultan's palace is the centre of Yogya's traditional life and despite the advance of modernity; it still emanates the spirit of refinement, which has been the hallmark of Yogya's art for centuries. This vast complex of decaying buildings was built in the 18th century, and is actually a walled city within the city with luxurious pavilions and in which the current Sultan still resides. Yogyakarta is also the only major city, which still has traditional 'Becak' (rickshaw-style) transport.

Geographically
Yogyakarta Special Region is geographically located almost equidistant from Indonesia's two most important international gateways, about 600 km from Jakarta and 1000 km from Bali. Yogyakarta also has excellent transport connections by bus, train or plane to the rest of Java, Sumatra, Bali and Lombok. Yogyakarta's Adisucipto Airport is in the process of changing its status in order to receive not only domestics' flights from Bali and Jakarta, but also direct charter and scheduled flights from other countries.

Geographically, Yogyakarta Special Province is situated in the Southern part of Central Java and lies between 7 degree 33' and 8 degree 12', South altitude between 110 degree and 50' East longitude. Some regencies of central Java Province surround the administrative boundaries of this region:

Southern East: Wonogiri Regency

Eastern: Klaten Regency

Northwestern: Magelang Regency

Western: Purworejo Regency

The Indonesian Ocean borders the Southern part of Yogyakarta. The borderline of the seashore stretches from West to East of which the length is around 100 km, started from Congot Beach in Kulon Progo Regency and ended at Sadeng Beach in Gunung Kidul Regency.

Because of its location, Yogyakarta is strategically positioned for the economic activity network in Java as well as for the tourist destination area. The special region of Yogyakarta lies midway on the axis of several main tourist destination areas, Jakarta and West Java westward, Central Java northward, East Java and Bali eastward. It is linked by regular rail, road and air services to other parts of Indonesian archipelago.

Culture of Yogyakarta

The culture Yogyakarta province with its status as a special region lies in the Southern part of Central Java, in the heartland of Javanese culture. As the former capital and the center of several kingdoms in the past, this region and its people are very rich in a variety of cultures. It is widely known from to historical records that the civilization, art and culture had developed well in the center of those kingdoms respectively in the Ancient Mataram Kingdom (8th - 10th Century) era, the second Mataram Kingdom (17th - 18th Century) and Sultanate Ngayogyokarto from the mid of 18th Century up today.

It should be noted that the cultural heritage from the past includes the magnificent temples, the ruins of palaces and monasteries, the various kind of traditions, cultural events, traditional folk and performing arts, architecture and other traditional activities. It is important to note that this is all part of the living culture of Yogyakarta, color of daily activities of live and the local inhabitants behavior, particularly the Javanese community with its traditional way of life and customs. Therefore, because of its culture richness and heritage, Yogyakarta has long been known as the cradle of Javanese culture.

The other legendary name for Yogyakarta City, among the elders as well as the youth generation that is the City of Art and Culture. Traditional and modern exhibition are held almost every day and night about the art of theater, pantomime, music, classic and contemporary dances, poems, etc. Those are flow in the heart of the city. Even more, there are abundant of cultural ceremony, such as Sekaten, Gunungan, Labuhan, Malioboro Fair, etc, which make the city has high value of tradition, art, and culture.

Maluku (Moluccas)

2009-10-12T17:48:00.002+07:00

MALUKU

Maluku (Moluccas), a region of Indonesia formerly known as the Spice Islands, was once the source of cloves and nutmeg, spices highly valued for their aroma, preservative ability, and use in medicine before people learned how to cultivate the plants in other parts of the world. Maluku is a cluster of about one thousand islands totaling 74,504 square kilometers, forming part of the Malay Archipelago in eastern Indonesia near New Guinea. The region is divided into two provinces, Maluku with its capital in Ambon, and North Maluku (2002 estimated population 913,000), with its capital in Ternate; other important islands in the group include Halmahera, Seram, and Buru.

Its approximately 1000 islands support a population of less than 1.7 million people. The average population density figure is 19 people per-square kilometer, but the distribution is uneven. Air and sea transportation is the main means, which link the islands together. The province has 32 seaports and 20 airports, and only about 160 km of roads. However, good roads on many of the islands provide easy access to the often-remote places of tourists' interest.

Maluku lies in the transition zone between Asiatic and Australian flora and fauna and has a tropical climate. Maluku's flora includes meranti trees and many kinds of orchids; distinctive fauna includes cuscuses, birds of paradise, wild goats, and parrots. The economy is based on subsistence agriculture, especially sago (the sago palm, producing a starch used in food), and on the export of such products as spices, cacao, coffee, coconuts, fish, and minerals. Important indigenous groups include the Ambonese.

A great variety of endemic plant and animal species are found in the rugged forest-covered and mountainous hinterlands of most of the islands. A few of the best known are the Rucker-tailed kingfisher, the red-crested Moluccan cockatoo, and various brilliantly colored lorikeets and parrots. Most of Maluku sits astride one of the world's most volatile volcanic belts.

GEOGRAPHICALLY
Maluku province with its capital Ambon, stay at 30 north latitudes 8,300 south latitudes and 1250 - 1350 east longitudes with the area boundaries:
North side: North Maluku Province
South side: Timor Leste and Australia
West Side: Southeast Sulawesi and Central Sulawesi
East Side: Irian Jaya Province

THE WIDE AREA

The wide area of Maluku province is 712.479,69 km_, with the land wide is 54.185km_ and sea wide is 658.294,69km_.

The Maluku Province plain is 85.728 km2 width or 8.572.800 Ha contain of 3 part that is:
- Flat Land: 1.251.630 Ha width (14,6%)
- Wavy Land: 2.417.530 Ha width (28,2%)
- Hilly and Mountainous Land: 4.903.640 Ha width (57,2%)
Almost, Maluku has no upland. The mountain is a back that spread in the middle of the island, forming the mountain with the highest of 3.055 m.

Riau Archipelago

2009-10-12T17:30:00.001+07:00

RIAU ARCHIPELAGO

Its waters are the backyard of native seafaring nomads who fish and trade for a living. Their traditional wooden sailing craft, called 'pinisi' still do the forested channels of these islands, along with other indigenous craft, fishing vessels and cargo ships which call at the archipelago's main town and Tanjung Pinang port. Tanjung Pinang lies on the largest island of Bintan archipelago. Once known as Riau, it was the heart of an ancient Malay kingdom. Today, Bintan is the latest hot spot of development in Indonesia's surging economy.

A master plan is underway to turn it into a major tourist destination. Barely an hour away from Singapore by ferry, tourist accommodation has begun to appear to take advantage of its gateway from it all appeal. It consists of Riau Archipelago, Natuna Islands and Anambas Archipelago. Originally part of Riau Province, Riau Archipelago was split off as a separate Province in July 2004 with Tanjung Pinang as its capital. Anambas Archipelago, located between mainland Malaysia and Borneo were attached to the new province. By population, the most important Riau islands are Bintan, Batam and Karimun. Size wise, however, the sparsely populated Natuna Islands are larger.

Riau Archipelago with its thousands of island has plenty of scenic beaches and diving spots, among them Trikora on Bintan and Pasir Panjang on Rupat Island. The first is about 50 kilometers south of Tanjung Pinang on the eastern side of the island. Pasir Panjang, on the northern side of Rupat facing to Malacca Strait, is stretched out natural beaches are also found on Terkulai and Soreh islands, about an hour's distance by boat from Tanjung Pinang. One of the most popular beaches is Nongsa on Batam Island. From here one can see the Singapore skyline.

West Irian Jaya

2009-10-12T17:10:00.002+07:00

WEST IRIAN JAYA Irian Jaya is a tropical island with primeval rain forests, powerful rivers, beautiful beaches, lakes, and mountains. The highest mountain is Mount Jayawijaya, with snowcaps covering its 5,000-meter-high peaks. The area is also rich in natural resources, including fish, timber, and precious metals. These, however ever, have become a source of conflict between the central government and local peoples. West Irian Jaya is a hot, humid island rising from the sea with some of the most impenetrable jungles in the world and yet also has snowcaps covering 5,000meter - High Mountain peaks, towering over glacier lakes. West Irian Jaya is Indonesia's largest and easternmost province and covers the western half of the world's second largest island. It is a land of exceptional natural grandeur, with beautiful scenic beaches, immense stretches of marshlands, cool grassy meadows and powerful rivers carving gorges and tunnels through dark and dense primeval forests. The most heavily populated and cultivated parts of the island are the Paniai Lakes district and the Baliem Valley to the east. The people of the island can be divided into more than 250 subgroup, which are closely related to the islands along the southern rim of the Pacific and include among others, the Marindanim, Yah'ray, Asmat, Mandobo, Dani and Afyat. Those in the central highlands still maintain their customs and traditions and because of the terrain have virtually been untouched by outside influences. Communications hove always been difficult here and different tribes have lived, for the most part, in isolation even of each other, resulting in an incredibly diverse mixture of cultures. POPULATION The province has a population of approximately 800,000, making it one of the least populous of all Indonesian provinces. The capital of Irian Jaya Barat is Manokwari. The most populated and cultivated parts of the island are Paniai Lake district and Baliem Valley to the east. The population comprises migrants from Java and indigenous people from diverse tribes, such as Dani of Baliem Valley in the central highlands, Asmat of the southern coastal region, and Ekari of Wissel Lakes region. The official language is Indonesian, but the indigenous people, reflecting the isolation and small numbers of the tribes, speak at least 250 languages.

Mentawai Island

2009-10-12T16:34:00.000+07:00

Mentawai Island

Located in the middle of Indian Ocean, 150 km and takes 9 hours trip from Padang, West Sumatra-Mentawai glowing with all the nature spirits and make it an extraordinary escaping spot from a hectic life. Mentawai is the natural habitat for 16 endemic species, and some of them categorized as endangered species e.g. Simakobu monkey (simias concolor-eat leaf as primary food).

The present life of Mentawai people categorized as the legacy from Neolithic era and they have a strong believe in nature spirit, for their life strongly affected by nature. They believe that nature is the center of life. All the genuine attributes make Mentawai a perfect place to gain cultural experiences, here you will notice a very fascinating and indigenous culture, like traditional cloths, art, music and the way of life. The entire culture attributes strongly reflects their respect to nature.

Tattoo is one of the most important symbol for Mentawai people, its reflect maturity, manhood and status. The art of this body painting inherit from their ancestor. The tattoos ink naturally made from leaf.

Among the surfers, Mentawai is the best place to fill their demand for challenges and natures beauty. The beaches offer one of the highest wave in the world, 3 to 4 meters, totally challenge your gut. Once you grounded your self in this hidden Paradise Island, next you will paddle out to the worlds best surf. Dont call your self Surfer if you havent ride Mentawais waves said most of the surfer to expressed their surfing experiences in Mentawai

There are four ultimate diving spot here in Mentawai ,Siberut, Sipora, Pagai Utara (north Pagai) and Pagai Selatan (south Pagai). You can find great waves here year round, but the best waves are during dry season, March to October. Make sure you have the gut to explore all the glassy waves, because the best way to entitled your surfing experiences remarkable is through finding your own.

Bali Bird Park

2009-10-09T12:50:00.002+07:00

BALI BIRD PARK

Find yourself at the Bali Bird Park to witness the largest and finest collection of Indonesian birds in the world plus fantastic birds from Africa & South America.
Encompassing two hectares of botanical landscape, the park provides sanctuary to almost 1000 birds of 250 different species.
Our innovative approach towards the display of rare and tropical birds has progressed from traditional exhibits to that of showcasing mixed species in their natural habitats & in large walk in Aviaries and free range throughout the park.
The park accommodates an amazing display of flora with more then 2000 tropical plants including 50 varieties of palms alone and attracting numerous butterflies.
Incorporating a breeding, research and veterinary facility within the complex, the park has a high success rate in the captive reproduction of exotic birds such as the Bird. of Paradise and Hornbill.

Join us for an adventure that has no boundaries as we take you on a journey across the Indonesian archipelago, Latin America and South Africa.
The park is divided into regions that recreate the natural habitats of our birds, complete with indigenous plant life and traditional artefacts for authenticity.
Experience the original Jungle birds of Bali and encounter the world's rarest bird, the Bali Starling.

Discover the exotic birds of Papua and one of the most comprehensive collections of Bird of Paradise in the whole world.
Travel to Far East Indonesia, home to an amazing array of birds as well as the extraordinary Komodo Dragon, a giant carnivorous lizard which is a direct descendant of the dinosaur and rarely seen in captivity.
See the fantastic Javan Hawk and Serpent Eagles - & listen to the sweet sounds of Java's song birds echoing through the foliage.
Visit the deep jungle and misty mountain ranges of Sumatra for rare and strange endemic birds.

Venture to other tropical continents to view our collection of South American exotics such as the Scarlet Macaw and Toucan, witness the Congo Grey Parrot and other birds of the African Savannah.
See Cassowaries, Cranes, Storks & Pelicans and many more birds as they wander freely living and breeding uninhibited throughout the park.

Stroll within the boundaries of our giant walk-through aviaries that replicate the natural eco-systems of the Bali Jungle and Papuan Rainforest.
Pathways and bridges are carved through the dense foliage where only filtered sunlight manages to penetrate the canopy of greenery overhead.
Several vantage points have been strategically positioned to catch glimpses of free flying birds as they follow their survival instincts of foraging for food, nesting and mating.

These protected enclosures safeguard rare species from outside predators, whilst still exposing them to the various aspects of living in the wild.
Within 2 hectare of Balinese landscape and a free range birds, Bali Bird Park is a popular place for :
• arranged a special program for family gatherings
• corporate program
• group arrangements
• student group special education
• other creative competition such as photo shooting
• painting
• drawing or
• annual gathering

Bali Bird Park plays a key role in protecting and conserving Indonesia’s endangered wildlife.

The Park have successfully bred many species, including the rare Pesquet’s Parrot and numerous Bali Starlings. We accommodate more than 40 species of protected Indonesian birds in the park, a growing number of which are now breeding successfully under the care of our staff.
The staff are proud of their new additions some of which can be seen in their incubators through the observation windows of the laboratory & nursery building.

Bali Bird Park
Jl. Serma Cok Ngurah Gambir
Singapadu, Batubulan - Gianyar – Bali
Telephone: 62 361 299352
Fax: 62 361 299614
E-mail: sales@bali-bird-park.com, Website: www.bali-bird-park.com

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah

2009-10-09T11:37:00.005+07:00

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah or Beautiful Indonesia Miniature Park was built to be the showcase of Indonesia, in this park visitors will find many Indonesia natural & cultural richness such as unique replication of traditional houses (pavilion) from all around Indonesia, an Indonesia archipelago shaped lake and many other fascinating attraction. The park is an Ideal spot for week-end family outing and also international tourist who did not have enough time to explore Indonesia.

It started with the idea of the late Ibu Tien Soeharto (former Indonesia first lady). The construction of TMII began in 1971 and it was official inaugurated on April 20, 1975.

Since its existence and in the course of time TMII continues to grow and developed in line with the dynamism of the community life of Indonesia. People are the more aware of the great advantages of the existence of TMII, with the mission to be a vehicle for the preservation and development of the culture and a means to strengthen the unity and integrity of the people of Indonesia.

TMII is considered as a vehicle presenting the diversity of the people of Indonesia and the variety of cultural wealth enables the community to gain interesting experience, knowledge and information regarding various aspect of culture, tradition, customs, forms of art as far as the introduction of cultural objects.

The beauty and cultural wealth presented by TMII can easily be observed by the community through the availability of a more complete and interactive means of information. It is expected that through the website the information can be disseminated widely all over the Archipelago and even abroad so that it will facilitate the community to better know about the culture and customs of the people of Indonesia.

Province Pavilions

The bulk of the facilities at TMII is made up of the regional pavilions. With more than twenty five pavilions to walk through, representative of the architecture of each province of Indonesia, the visitor is provided a very unique opportunity to view the breadth and scale of the full range of regional architecture. Each pavilion presents at least three typical examples of the regional style it represents.

Don`t have the time or the fortitude to venture to distant or out-ot-the-way locations? No need. Visit every pavilion and you will come away with a very clear impression of the diversity and richness of Indonesian architectural and living styles. To point out just a view, there is the `Bogonjong` house of the Ranah Minang from West Sumatra, a `Lamin` of the Dayak people from deep in the interior of East Kalimantan, a `Tongkongan` from Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi, a traditional Batak `Bolon` house from North Sumatra; a `Joglo` house from Central Java, etc.

Attractions

Istana Anak-anak Indonesia: Indonesia Children Castle, featuring fairy tales painting from Indonesia and all over the world.

Perahu Angsa Arsipel Indonesia: Swan Boat to explore Indonesia archipelago shaped lake.

Taman Among Putro: An amusement park for children fully equipped with games and fun activities.

Taman Ria Atmaja: a 60 Sq m stage in an 4000 Sq m area, well known as Dangdut Terminal (Dangdut: popular unique music genre in Indonesia).

Taman Renang Ambar Tirta: Swimming pool for adult and children, equipped with trainer and lifeguard.

Teater Imax Keong Emas: A shopisticated IMAX technology snail shaped theatre, with several IMAX movies featuring Indonesia natural and cultural richness.

Desa Wisata: When a day is not enough to explore TMII, there is Desa Wisata, a hostel for individual or groups visiting TMII from outside Jakarta to stay overnight.

Transportasi TMII: The means of transportation, get you around the "Archipelago".

Titihan Samirono/Aeromovel: Another way to get around is the fast train, Aeromovel. This is an example of the fast and efficient train that could provide nowaday mass transportation for Indonesia.

Sky Lift Indonesia (Kereta Gantung): Want a quick and easy geography lesson? Take the Sky Lift for an aerial tour of the park and one of the sights that will stay with you is a scale model of the islands of Indonesian archipelago set in a smalll lake.

Teater Tanah Airku: The "Tanah Airku" Theatre is the first in Indonesia equipped with high technology to an international standard. The physical aspect of the "Tanah Airku" Theatre is a marriage of the typical Indonesian and the international aesthetic. Indonesian ornamentation such as 'gunungan' (mountains), elements from Javanese puppet shows, the roof shapes of Sumatra and Sulawesi, with a touch of Kalimantan Dayak style, all is harmoniously blended. Combine this with modern sound and lighting effects and the complete stage equipment of a stateof the-art theatre and you have a dramatic experience long remembered.

Panggung Parkir Utara: The North Parking Stage is a permanent stage for various entertainment activities for the visitors. Situated next to the Pancasila Flame Monument Plaza and belonging to the North Parking area the open stage has been built by the participation of private enterprises that care about the national cultural wealth presented in TMII. The 20 m x 18 m large stage with a triangular roof is the biggest stage in Taman Mini.

Other Things to See or Do

1. Take a trip on the cable car. You'll be able to see TMII from the top a delightful experience.

2. Watch Indonesia movies at Theater Imax Keong Emas.

3. Visit several museums in this area.

4. Visit the parks orchid garden and bird park.

Further Information:

TMII Management Office
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah Complex
Phone : 021-8409214, 8409210, 8409270, 8409236, 8409239 ,
Fax : 021-8400709
Email : info@tamanmini.com
Website: http://www.tamanmini.com

ASMAT CARVING

2009-09-03T08:41:00.004+07:00

Asmat crude yet unique design of human figures made the carving coveted by art collectors around the world. Asmat people carve statues to respect the souls of their ancestors. In their dreams, Asmat people can see their ancestors and then they carve the statues to resemble the ancestors. But that’s not all. They also make use of the carvings. After being used in the traditional ceremony, the carvings are left in marshes and sago and palm plantations to guard these food sources

ENCHANTMENT OF BADUY

2009-09-02T08:09:00.001+07:00

It was our long trip which was preceded by the difficulties in following the complicated red-tape of a country to enable us to see our fellow citizens, the unacculturated Baduy community. Our weariness gradually disappeared when we arrived at the gate of the outer Baduy village.

The village which is inhabited by a group of families is far from the touch of technology and modernization is not very easy to reach. After going over a curving and rocky footpath, we arrived at the outer Baduy village which is inhabited by approximately 120 families. The dominantly magic atmosphere caused us to properly act in good manners, such manners are also reflected in the life of the Baduy community. They are very sincere in following the tradition which have been applied and passed on from generation to generation without daring to question such tradition because they believe that every thing has been determined by the “Supreme Ruler” and that they must follow their tradition. Their life is very modest and plain because their life heavily depends on the nature surrounding them and their skill, and their works is sold to the surrounding village or to the visitor who visit them.

Money is not everything to them, but they consider dedication and perseverance as most important in leading their life. All experience they have undergone in their life make them find their real, true self. So, it is not surprising that magic is so intimate with them. What they actually seek in order to attain perfect life is magic. The more knowledge they have about the magic the closer they are to the “Supreme Ruler”. When they are, according to their belief, closer to the “Supreme Ruler”, they will get the greatest honor.

In order to attain such perfection they must exercise their bodies and souls and live plainly. We observe a very extraordinary uncommon condition and such condition induces our conscience as we have become accustomed to the life with every convenience. Their way of living is so simple, plain, humble and far from greed and human ambition. Baduy is a true reflection of the life of men in proper place and they have their real, true self.

STONE JUMPING

2009-08-31T09:31:00.002+07:00

The warring villages in Nias used to fortify themselves with two-meter-high bamboo fences. Each village encouraged their youth to jump over-meter-high big stone structure as a practise to attack other villages. Being able to jump over the megalithic structure also attests to bravery and manhood of a young man.

VACATION PARADISE - TANJUNG LESUNG

2009-08-29T09:09:00.001+07:00

Tanjung Lesung is located about 31 kilometers to the south of Labuhan. Now Tanjung Lesung is a favourite choice for those who are every day in noise of big cities to enjoy their weekend together their families by making a seashore tour in Banten. Tanjung Lesung is considered as vacation “paradise at the west end of the Island of Java.

It takes about 3.5 hours to drive from Jakarta to Tanjung Lesung if the trip runs smoothly. The route to be followed is the toll road of Jakarta - Merak and exit for Cilegon by taking the road to Anyer, then take the high-way to Carita, Labuhan and Tanjung Lesung while enjoying the coast scenery along the Sunda Straits, Province of, Banten.

Tanjung Lesung is different from the seashore left behind, Tanjung Lesung offers something more special, nearly along 15 kilometers the beautiful coast scenery is found, As the sea is clear and blue with its calm shore waves, at the limit of the blue horizon the mountain of Anak Krakatau (Smaller Krakatau) which is very exotic can be seen; the spread-out green grass and green trees around the resting places/hotels and the breeze of sea wind prevent the heat of the sun.

Atmosphere

The Tanjung Lesung Resort Hotel area takes up a piece of land of 1,500 hectares which was formerly marches and has 61 resort buildings with 114 rooms has become a “paradise” for vacation at coast. The resort buildings were constructed using the concept of local architecture, specific architecture of Banten, combined with Mediterranean style. The atmosphere of Tanjung Lesung is completely different from that of the Anyer and Carita resorts. Besides the location of the area stick out at the end of Teluk Lada (Bay of Lada) and is far from the noise of public traffic, the available facilities are complete enough.

In addition to the resort in this area, there are also private estates which have their own boats and beach clubs. The rented facilities, such as speedboats for the purpose of fishing and adventure to Krakatau and Ujung Kulon, are available to those who want to make sea tour. It should be noted that it takes only one hour to go from Tanjung Lesung to Krakatau and 1.5 hours to the National Park Ujung Kulon.

Another choice is of the activities which are not less attractive such as jet skiing, banana boating, canoeing, etc. In addition, Tanjung Lesung is also known as a fishing area for marlin fish and fish living at the bottom of the sea. For those who want to play golf, there is a private golf course at Cemara which can be reached in a few minutes before the island of Handeuleum.

Various resort facilities are available, among others, the gazebos at the seashore as resting places and for gazing at the sea while enjoying green coconuts, In addition, a restaurant which can serve tens of people at the same time with a see view gives a pleasant atmosphere. Every night of the weekend, Friday and Saturday, at the time of supper the live music is presented and the Banten traditional program is also presented every Saturday night. Until now, every weekend and every long weekend Tanjung Lesung is overwhelmed by visitors, most of them are families.

Tanjung Lcsung is considered as a good location to see the natural events, namely the sunrise at 06,00 a.m. and the sunset at 18.00 p.m. The events of the sunrise and Sunset enjoyed by adventures at the Sunda Straits are the special pride and satisfaction because these two objects can be found on one trip.

Until now, the Tanjung Lesung Resort Hotel is always overwhelmed by visitors at weekend and at long weekend.

CULTURE HUB

2009-08-28T10:26:00.002+07:00

Want to enjoy traditonal culture, but have no idea where to go and what to see? Here’s the ultimate culture map for you so you won’t get lost. What are you waiting for? Go for our unique culture, have fun of being part of all this culture richness.

Miss Tjitjih Building

Address : Jl. Cempaka Putih Utara, Jakarta

Are you a fan of Sundanese culture or just curious about it? This is the right place to drop by if you want to see Sundanese traditional performance.

Sampan – Matsuda Center

Address : Jl. Cik Dikrito II/I, Menteng, Jakarta

Phone : 021 -3923930

Smartly designed both as resturant and traditional theater, this place offers seafood on its menu. Live performance are scheduled every Saturday, but the restaurant opens daily from 6 to 10 PM.

Setu Babakan

Address : Jl. Moch. Kahfi II Jagakarsa, Jakarta

Phone : 021-7862861

If you want to know the real Betawi culture, go to Setu Babakan on Sunday. There you can see dance, comedy, and lenong performance. You can also taste the many varieties of Betawi’s cuisine: toge goreng, kreak telor, bor pletok, and many more!

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah

Jakarta

Phone : 021-8409214

No explanation is needed to describe what you can see here since it’s Indonesia in minature, where we can enjoy cultural performance from different tribes in Indonesia.

Gedung Kesenian Jakarta

Address : Jl. Gedung Kesenian No.1, Pasar Baru, Jakarta

Phone : 021-3808283

The heritage building has lots of performance to offer, almost daily. Don’t forget to check out the website www.gkjonline.com for performace dates.

Wayang Orang Barata

Address : Jl.Kali Lio No.1, Senen, Jakarta

With a weekly performance Saturday night at 8 PM, WO Barata has gained lots of loyal watchers.

Saung Angklung Udjo

Address : Jl.Padasuka No.118, Bandung

Phone : (022) 7271714

See what : Angklung performance, Sundanese dances, and angklung training for beginners.

Dago Tea House

Address : Jl. Bukit Dago Selatan, Bandung

Phone : (022) 2504912

See what : Sundanese traditional performance and art exhibitions.

Selasar Sunaryo

Address : Jl. Bukit Pakar Timur No. 100, Bandung

Phone : (022) 2507939

See what : Traditional music, theater performance, etc!

Gedung Kesenian Rumentang Siang

Address : Jl. Baranang Siang No.I, Bandung

Phone : (022) 4233562

See what : Traditional performing arts, especially Sundanese.

Asia Africa Cultural Center

Address : Jl. Asia Afrika No.65, Bandung

Phone: (022) 4234239

See what : Sundanese and other ethnic cultural performaces.

RAMBU SOLOK RITES FOR THE DEAD IN TANA TORAJA

2009-08-27T10:26:00.001+07:00

What do you wish to see and explore when traveling? Breath-taking views, exotic food? Well, none of those would be a good reason t visit Tana Toraja. Most people visit the mystical Tana Toraja for the graveyards and burial ceremonies.

The Graveyards

Three villages, Lemo, Londa, and Kete Ketsu have attracted many tourist because of their unique graveyards. In Lemo the graves are chiseled into the side of a sheer, vertical rock face. Corpses are then placed into these horizontal shafts. Carving the Shafts into the sides of the sheer cliffs requires exceptional dedication and courage. Placing the body of the deceased into the grave is extremely perilous work. In Londa, the bodies are entombed in cave. Coffins are placed among the stalactites and stalagmites. When the coffin fall apart, the skeletons fall onto the floor and remain there. The graveyards at Kete Ketsu are famous because of their proximity to the traditional Torajan houses in the area. The graves have distinguished characteristic. Each grave is marked with tau-tau, a wooden statue which is dressed just like the deceased.

The Burial Ceremony

To the Torajans, death is not the end of the journey of life. Rather, death, as will as birth, is viewed as a major milestone of a person’s life. It is the beginning of an eternal journey to meet the ancestors and the loved ones who passed away. That why the Torajans welcome death with both expressions of relief and mourning. They feel relieved because they know that the deceased will soon be \ unites with his or her ancestors. On the other hand, they also feel sad because \ they know the deceased in no longer be with them.

In Tana Toraja, the burial ceremony, known as rambu solok, involves the sacrifice of three kinds of animals: buffaloes, Pig, and chickens. The spirit of the buffaloes will accompany the spirit of the deceased to the land of the dead.

At a single ceremony of high status person, more than 300 animals are sacrificed. The ceremony usually involves around 10.000 people and last for about 6-8 days. Often, the family of the deceased have to wall for a long time to raise funds for the ceremony. While waiting, the family keeps the body preserved with herbs.

The Cockfight

An integral part of the ritual is a cockfight known as bulangan londong. It was considered sacred. The tradition dictates the sacrifice or at least three cocks. However, it id mow common to sacrifice more cocks for the fight. These ‘extra rounds’ are held for the pleasure of the participant. However, bulangan londong has been corrupted. Nowadays only a few people regard the cockfight as a sacred event. Most of then take part in the accompanies it.

It addition to the cockfight, the ceremony also involves a mourning dance known as mabadong., In this dace members of the family of the deceased hold hands and form a large circle. The dance is followed by a poetry recitation which describes man’s journey from birth to death.

The Burial Procession

The burial procession is led by the elder of one village. The family members of the deceased, dressed in black, march slowly and solemnly behind the leader. They cry and weep to express their grief.

Finally, lakkian, the tower that contain the coffin, is brought slowly and carefully to the grave and towed by a very thick rope to the high shaft and left there. For a couple of months, close relatives of the deceased are still in mourning and wear black in their daily activities. Two times a year, they visit the grave and bring offerings to respect and show their love to the dead. They also pray, asking the dead to guide them to enter the after life, when the day of their death has come.

DAYAK TATTOO

2009-08-26T08:15:00.002+07:00

A few modern theorists believe that certain design (jungle animals and plants) and dark colouring used in Dayak Tattoos serve as perfect camouflage for hunter hunting in the jungle . It blends nicely within the natural surroundings. A tattoo, in some Dayak beliefs, signifies a torch for the dead, a guidance theta leads them trough the darkness into the eternity in the longhouses (traditional houses) of their ancestors in the afterlife. Beside that, a tattoo in Dayak also, among other things, signifies :

Social status : the hornbill or burung enggang motif is designated only for the noble. Only women of high rank and have their calves and upper legs tattooed.

Spritual Protection : the hornbill, scorpion, and centipede designs are used as protection against evil sprits.

Achievements : great warriors got tattooed after a war or a hunting expedition. In Kayan and Kenyah tribes, tattoos of different in a man indicate that he travels a lot.

Expertise : tattoo markings, like rings, on finger indicate that a person is an expert in helping others, such as a traditional healer. The more tattoos a person has, the more expert he/sehe is.

Fertility : The Lahanan tribe use tendril hooks and bamboo shoot imagery as symbols of fertility.

Elongated Earlobes

In some Dayak sub-tribes, men and women elongate their earlobes using weight like metal rings, pendants, beads and other heavy object. Kayans would elongate their earlobes to show high social status, nobility, and debt-free status. But in many villages upstreams of the Mahakam River, the weights (belahongs) simply age, Dayak people begin this practise in infancy, adding one metal ring or bead each years. So a woman with 60 belahongs dangling from her ears mean to show she’s 60 years. Some people believe that Dayak people elongate their earlobes also for self-discipline it certainly takes a great deal of patience and endurance to wear heavy belahongs for the rest on one’s life.

UNVEILING THE ENCHANTMENTS IN THE WESTEND OF THE ISLAND JAVA

2009-08-25T09:50:00.002+07:00

The southwest end of the island of Java which id popularly known as the area of the National Park Ujung Kulon including Mount Krakatau in the Sunda Straits is an enchanting natural world heritage. A number of tourist who had ever visited the area called it a a tropical paradise. Another world, Baduy, a community of the ethnic group called Baduy live around the mountain chain of Kendeng, Banten. They live in peace with their customs and traditions in leading their life and appreciating the nature.

National Park Ujung Kulon
Ujung Kulon is one of the most beautiful national park dan natural conservation areas in the hemisphere. The area is one of the natural forest remainders in Java with an area of 120,551 hectares, 76,214 hectares out of the area on land is used for flora and fauna conservation and the remaining part at sea of 44,337 hectares is used foe marine conservation.

Ujung Kulon is the most important wildlife reserve and the first national park in Indonesia. It is a remaining tropical forest area and the last protection for several kinds if faunas which are threatened with extinction. The designation of Ujung Kulon is actually intended for a cap which is triangular bird-headed or like the head of the Sundanese rhinoceros. It is definitely located at the end of the furthest southwest of island of Java included in the area of the province of Banten. Taking account of biological diversity living in Ujung Kulon as a Natural World Heritage Site.

Rhinoceroses
Ujung kulon is identical with a vast forest with the hills and the big trees which have attained the age of hundreds of years and also has various wild animals. Historically, the eruption of mountain Krakatu in 1883 which one shook the world caused a part of coast forest of Ujung Kulon to be inundated by big waves. Such inundation has brought about an impact on the Vegetation of the area. The lowland along the edge of palm species such as “salak” (Zalacca palm) and rattans, the trees and stems of which are high and liked by Sundanese (one-horned) rhinocerose (Rhinocceros sunaicus) which are categorized as rare and their population is approximately 45 heads.

Traveling to Ujung Kulon dan be made trough the route of Jakarta-Serang – Pandelang- Labuhan or through the route of Jakarta-Cilegon-Anyer-Carita Labuhan then crossing the sea by speedboad or fishing boat with a fare. The other two ways can be also alternatively taken, the one is from the Tanjung Lesung Resort Hotel. The other is from the Taman Jaya Village contiguous with the last inhabited village in Ujung Kulon.

However any person should not dream he will see a rhinoceros when he tries to find adventure in Ujung kulon. Not only because the population of rhinoceros is small in number, but also the rhinoceroses are very dangerous of a person directly meets this kind of animal. The shocked rhinoceros will right away run after the person before it. The Forest Control and nature Protection Unit of The Forest Service of the Regency of Labuhan, Banten, has developed seven regional tourist destinations in the National Ujung Kulon Park, and two of them are very popular, namely Pulau Peucang (the Island of Peucang) and Pulau Handeuleum (the Island of Handeuleum) Where inns are available. Both Islands area located in Teluk Tamanjaya (Bay of Tamanjaya) in which one can see the most beautiful sea gardens and decorated with the fish of various kinds.

One of the main of attractions of Pulau Peucang which is actually separate from the Island of Java is that the white beach stretches along the shore around the harbor where boats and ships moor to, while the white beach has the green jungle as a back ground.

The tourist can also enjoy their holidays by making fun of the animals such as tame deer (Cervus timorensis) or seeing the monitor lizard (Veranus salvator) which look like komodo dragons (Veranus komodoensis) freely wandering around on the land or at the seashore. In addition, the tourist can also do tracking together with the forest guards (rangers) by entering into the forest in which there are various big trees while seeing the forest animals such as mouse deer (Tragulus javanicus), monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) hornbills (Buceros rhinoderos)., peacocks/peahens (Pavo muticus). In Cidaon, the tourist can see the wild oxen of Java (Bos javanicus) gazing in the fields in the morning or the afternoon.

Pulau Handeuleum which is surrounded by mangrove forest has its own special powers of attraction, for example, on land there can be found animals such as monkeys, snakes, etc. Sailing along the Cigenter River by canoe, you are provided with a very exciting and fascinating adventure. The adventures are brought along to get through the tropical thick forest and see various plants and animals on the right and left banks of the river. Or if you are in good luck, estuary crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) will emerging in Cigenter River and while you are sailing along the river you could see the snakes hanging onto the tree branches not far from your canoe passing by. It is a very exotic experience and not easy to find at any other places.

PANAITAN
Another island in the National Park area but not so popular as the former Islands, is the island of Panaitan. The Islands is not so far from the island of Peucang, it takes only about one hour to sail there. Exactly, Panaitan is located in the southwest of the Cape of Ujung Kulon. Its location is very good for surfing and snorkeling.

At Mount Raksa on the island of Panaitan, there can be found a relic in the from of the statue of Ganesha which is often visited by visitors (to such a cared place). In the mean time, in the Peninsula of Ujung Kulon there can also be found a place which is often visited by visitor (to such a sacred place), namely the Cave of Sanghyang Sirah. They say cave was a stopover of Prabu Siliwangi (King Siliwangi, the founder of the Pajajaran Kingdom in West Java).

The National Park Ujung Kulon has more than 700 kinds of plants which are well preserved and not many of them or less then 60 kinds are classified into the rare plants. One of the rare animals in the world, which lives in the park is rhinoceros or also called as Javanese Rhinioceros.

Those who want to visit Ujung Kulon should be physically prepared and the visit should be made at any time during April up to August. During these months the season is calm and also there is a calm sea which has no high waves do that such condition will bring about a great help to a safe travel with safety.

SAUCER DANCE

2009-08-24T22:48:00.001+07:00

Many of us know the traditional performances in Minangkabau have been greatly influence by Islam. Well, not all of them,. The Saucer Dance or Tari Piring is a preislamic tradition that pays homage to Dewi Sri (The rice goddess) and expresses gratitude for an abundant harvest. Some of the movements in the dance symbolize the farmers’ daily activities like tilling the land, weeding and harvesting.

BUKITTINGGI FROM THE TOP OF THE HILL

2009-08-24T22:40:00.001+07:00

Sumatra, the island of gold has provinces of great beauty, one of which is West Sumatra.

Who doesn’t know Bukittinggi, one of the wonderful places in West Sumatra? Bukittinggi is the oldest nagari in West Sumatra located south of Mount Merapi. (A nagari is an autonomic area in Ranah Mingkabau). It takes approximately two hours to get there from Minang International Airport. In a car which you can rent from around the airport. During the trip you can stop by Lembah Anai, a waterfall where you can take a pictures, or touch the cold water. Rice fields, hills, rumah gadang are amazing views that you can also enjoy on the winding roads to Bukittinggi. No need to worry about accommodation because convenient hotels and inns are spread out here.

JAM GADANG

There are many interesting places to see in Bukittinggi.one of them is the town square where the city icon, a big clock or Jam Gadang (that’s the way people here call it) stands in the center. Reading a book, listening to music, chatting with pals, or just watching people milling around the park are some of the enjoyable things that you can do on a bench under the big trees, or you can use these places as a meeting point with you friends. If you need a money, no need to worry because you can make use of one of the ATM machines near the park. Feeling hungry? Well, just take a walk to the traditional market north of Jam Gadang. You can find lots of traditional food here in Pasar Atas. Nasi Kapau is a kind of meal that you can have for lunch. This spicy food is served with vegetables such as cabbage, cassava leaves and peas in addition to meat, chicken. Or fish. If you need to buy traditional food or snacks, clothes, or Minang handicrafts, you can explore the market and get what you want. Don’t forget to bargain!

NGARAI SIANOK

In Bukititmngii you can enjoy the marvelous view of Nagarai Sianok from a ark called Panorama locate at one ridge of a valley. By paying Rp.4000,- per person, you can feast your eyes on this unforgettable Panorama of a big valley between mount Singgalang and Marapi with a river running through it. You can else throw peanuts to monkeys here the park. But don’t ever have any food in your hands because mongkey will delighted in this area. Going down more that hundred steps win an underground space you will see rooms where Japanes troops used to hide during the 2^nd Dutch invasion and from wehre they could escape through the many exit tunnels. You can hire a guade who will be happy to escort you and tell you about the historical places.

Bukittinggi, a small town where you can walk the late Mr.Mohannad Hatta our first vice president was born, has many things that makes you want to come back, again and gain.

ONDEL-ONDEL

2009-08-19T09:05:00.000+07:00

The giant couple that often scares little children is believed to represent figures of ancestors who look after their descendants. But can you see the Ondel-Ondel’s resemblance to a certain character dressed in old clothes and wearing fake hair that’s put on farm fields to scare the birds away? Yup, some historians believe that once the giants were used as scarecrows in rice fields in Betawi.

THE WONDERS OF KRAKATAU

2009-08-18T09:48:00.000+07:00

More then one century ago, Mount Krakatau shook the world and caused a great disaster. Now the mountain often temps anybody’s attention ti visit it. Not only the tourists from foreign countries are attracted but also the local adventures often make trips to Krakatau to admire one of their greatest creation of god and at the same time ti implant the feeling of love to the his fatherland. When Krakatau discharge lava at night and if the weather is clear, its activity is clearly visible and can be seen fantastically from the Sunda Straits.

When Krakatu discharge lava at night and if the weather is clear, its activity is clearly visible and can be seen fantastically from the Sunda straits. This active volcano in te sea at the Sunda Straits id included in the area of province of Lampung. It can also be easily reached from the shore of the province of Banten. Among the tourism objects, it has the specific power of attraction. A number of tour operators in the Indonesia and the star-hotels along the shore of Sunda straits in Banten also offer the tourism program for the visit to Krakatau.

The eruption of the volcano on the island of Kakatau (old) on August 27,1883 was exactly more dreadful than the atomic bombs of the United State of America when they were dropped in cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan. Some people said that the sound of its eruption was 21,547.6 multiplied the sound of the bombs dropped in Hiroshima. The eruption of the volcano caused 40,000 people dead, and the other two volcanoes were disappeared into the sea, they were Mount Perbuwatanan, Mount Danan where was the remaining and appearing part of the Island of Rakata can be seen now. The other awesome happenings which were recorded are the matter discharged from the volcano areas over an area of 827,000 square kilometers which caused the climate to be variable because the sun was obstructed by the dusty for a month. Even the dust resulting from the eruption of Krakatau reached the continent of Europe, such as the Netherlands and England. The dust also reached the Philipines, the continent of Australia, Madagaskar and America. The big waves (Tsunami) of 30 meters in height also caused the navigation of ship to be disturbed.

Geographically, the ‘mountain in the middle of the sea”, Krakatau, is located in the Sunda Straits, between the island of Java (the province of Banten) and the island of Sumatera (the Province of Lampung). The archipelago of Krakatau consints of four islands namely the island of Sertung with area of 1,060 hectares, the Island of Smaller Rakata with an area of 310 hectares, the Island of large with an area of approximately 1,400 hectares, and the island of Krakatau Hill with an area of approximately 320 hectares.

Owing to the fact the Mount Krakatu is very attrractiva, whereas its activities must be monitored because at any time the lava nay flow from it. As the Volcano is so attractive and active that it has become an object of research for scientist. The scientist call it the “Laboratory of Nature and they expect that the Unesco will include it in World Heritage List.

When you make a pleasure trip to the Krakatau you will find the clumps of earth and slabs of stone of various sizes, blackish brown which constitutes the remain of the matter discharge from the volcano. Its top part is rather hot because of the past discharge of hot volcanic mudflow or lava. In some part of location there is the remainder of green plants, among others, casurina trees (Casurina equisetifoia), waru trees (Hibicus filiocus), Fig trees (Ficuas ampelas), bisoro (Ficus hispida), morinda (Morinda citrifolia), artorcarpus (Artocapus communis). And you possibly find the animals of the kinds of insect, amphibians, birds, reptiles ad mammals.

In order to be safe in your plesure trip you have to report and result for permission to the nearest appropriate authorities who know and always monitor the development and activities of Krakatau with regard to safety.

SUNDA KELAPA

2009-08-17T06:48:00.000+07:00

Better known as Pasar Ikan or Fish Market, Sunda Kelapa is set in the mouth of the Ciliwung river. Formerly a port city where the Portuguese traded with the Hindu Pajajaran kingdom at the beginning of the 16^th century.

Dutch domination of Indonesia began in this area. The remains of Batavia castle, an old fort ang a Dutch East Indies Company trading post can still be seen.

Sunda Kelapa is at present a fishermen’s wharf and inter island port. Tall masted Bugis schooners drom South Sulawesi anchoring there offer a picturesque scene. They belong ti one of the last fleets of sail boats in the world and still ply the seas between the island as they did centuries ago carrying merchandise

TAMAN SAFARI BOGOR

2009-08-16T07:39:00.000+07:00

This park was built in 1980 and opened for the public in 1986. Located near Cibeureum Village, Cisarua, about 3 kilometers from the Bogor Puncak highway. In an area of 55 hectares there are different kinds of animals living free. Among the animals kept here are some comparatively rare species as the anoa, rhinos, giraffes, white tiger and European, American as well as Asian bears.

Visitor must use closed vehicles when driving through the park. The available facilities in this area recreational grounds with swimming pool, tennis courts, an artificial lake, a waterfall and children’s playground with facilities such ass circus arena, merry go round and small circuit, house of horror and restaurant.

The visitors hours are from 08.00 to 16.30 daily.