No one knows exactly how many islands there are in Indonesia, but with over 17,000 of them, its total coast lines sweep a staggering 80,000 kilometres, and its territorial waters claim kilometres of sea. These are seas that hold some 15% of the world's coral reefs. They bloom in blue waters, awaiting a diver's discovery. The waters of Indonesia offer the last vestiges of untapped tropical diving left on our planet. Here, islands are still revealed and stolen by the sea, seeded by the geological activity that cuts a great 5,000 kilometre arc from mainland Southeast Asia to New Guinea.
Strewn with fractious volcanoes marking the edge of a tectonic plate, the arc is lyrically dubbed the "Ring of Fire." This arc is traced by rugged islands blanketed with tropical flora. Emerald canopies where the jungle still reigns, rice fields of jade and gold where man has stamped his claim. It is a beauty that spills into the seas, encircling islands with rainbow-hued coral reefs where a myriad of marine creatures play.
Depending on aptitude and attitude, there is diving to suit all desires. Land-based resort diving in gentle waters ideal for novices; offshore sites for the privilege of depths less known; luxury live aboards for those after the adrenalin high of waters remote and pristine. Coral gardens, reef walls, caves, underwater volcanoes, lagoon channels and wrecks. Indonesia has it all. And still more sites and depths are awaiting discovery... Come, discover the other side of Indonesia. And learn a new meaning to the rapture of the deep. Dive Indonesia!
Thursday, 5 March 2009
Indonesia Information: Shopping
Indonesia is a shoppers paradise whether you are one for market bargaining or expensive name brands Indonesia can offer it to you. All major cities in Indonesia have local markets at which you can bargain for items, the products for sale vary depending on the market type and the region. Craft markets often sell batik, beautifully carved wooden ornaments and furniture, and paintings (especially in Bali).
The capital city Jakarta is a good place to shop because it has a wide variety of goods that have originate from various islands in the archipelago, that are good quality. Blok M Kebayoran Baru Jakarta has a variety of shops all under one roof you can find just about anything here you want and more. Jalan Surabaya in Menteng, Jakarta has a wonderfully colourful antique market, that is worth a visit even if you are not planning to buy anything, because it is a feast for the eyes and mind to see all the hand crafted goods. Jakarta also has a good selection of markets Pasar Kembang is a flower market, if that does not suit your needs or tastes there is Pasar Pagi Mangga Dua selling clothes, shoes, bags and many other goods, Pasar Benhil a traditional market, and Pasar Cikini a food market, to name only a few of the markets in Jakarta.
With its giddy variety of insular environments, Indonesia has many beautiful traditional crafts which have been made for thousands of years. Superb craftsmanship and longest traditions are best seen in the simplest crafts: the palm weaving of Bali, the flute making of the Torajans, the basketry of the Rotinese, the Lizard motifs on Batak magic wands and houses, and infinite other examples of traditional domestic and cultural art.
Indonesian arts and crafts lend themselves especially to attractive decorative items and furnishings for contemporary Western homes. Batik, king of Indonesian art forms, can be fashioned into upholstery, and the superb ikat textiles make unique wall-hangings. Shopping in Indonesia is a real hit or miss treasure hunt; you must doggedly search every corner of a shop to find what you are looking for.
Many villages or city kampung specialize in their own crafts. If you want to know what crafts an area or city specializes in, just ask the locals what gifts they take to out-of-town relatives when they visit. This way, you find out what is cheap, unique or rare about that place. If the plastic arts interest you, head for ASRI (School of Fine Arts) art centres in the largers cities where painting, drawing, graphics, sculpture and the decorative arts are taught.
The capital city Jakarta is a good place to shop because it has a wide variety of goods that have originate from various islands in the archipelago, that are good quality. Blok M Kebayoran Baru Jakarta has a variety of shops all under one roof you can find just about anything here you want and more. Jalan Surabaya in Menteng, Jakarta has a wonderfully colourful antique market, that is worth a visit even if you are not planning to buy anything, because it is a feast for the eyes and mind to see all the hand crafted goods. Jakarta also has a good selection of markets Pasar Kembang is a flower market, if that does not suit your needs or tastes there is Pasar Pagi Mangga Dua selling clothes, shoes, bags and many other goods, Pasar Benhil a traditional market, and Pasar Cikini a food market, to name only a few of the markets in Jakarta.
With its giddy variety of insular environments, Indonesia has many beautiful traditional crafts which have been made for thousands of years. Superb craftsmanship and longest traditions are best seen in the simplest crafts: the palm weaving of Bali, the flute making of the Torajans, the basketry of the Rotinese, the Lizard motifs on Batak magic wands and houses, and infinite other examples of traditional domestic and cultural art.
Indonesian arts and crafts lend themselves especially to attractive decorative items and furnishings for contemporary Western homes. Batik, king of Indonesian art forms, can be fashioned into upholstery, and the superb ikat textiles make unique wall-hangings. Shopping in Indonesia is a real hit or miss treasure hunt; you must doggedly search every corner of a shop to find what you are looking for.
Many villages or city kampung specialize in their own crafts. If you want to know what crafts an area or city specializes in, just ask the locals what gifts they take to out-of-town relatives when they visit. This way, you find out what is cheap, unique or rare about that place. If the plastic arts interest you, head for ASRI (School of Fine Arts) art centres in the largers cities where painting, drawing, graphics, sculpture and the decorative arts are taught.
Wednesday, 4 March 2009
indonesia information: surfing
Indonesia has some of the best surfing spots in the world, the locations are exotic, with beautiful beaches and great waves. With so many waves to choose from there are numerous surfing holiday destinations throughout Indonesia. Surfing is commonly done off the coast of Bali., Java, Lombok, Sumbawa, Sumba Timor and Flores. Surfing in Indonesia caters for all surfers from the beginner to the professional, the best time to visit this surfers paradise is April to September
Bali is probably the most frequented destination for surfing, so be warned it can get crowded. The waves are good, and there is a wide range of accommodation to pick from and a vibrant nightlife. Padang Padang and Ulu Watu with its famous entry cave, are probably the most famous surfing spots in Indonesia, but both these locations are for the experienced surfer. Bali does also cater for the inexperienced surfer at Kuta beach.
If you're not keen on crowds then maybe try one of the surfing camps located on Nias Island - Lagundin Bay, Java - Garajagan and Ombak Tujuh and Sumbawa - Cempi bay. Waves in these places are less crowded, accommodation is simple, food is good and you are provided with a more local cultural experience. Indonesia is a real surfers paradise - so don't miss out.
http://www.asia-planet.net/indonesia/surfing.htm
Bali is probably the most frequented destination for surfing, so be warned it can get crowded. The waves are good, and there is a wide range of accommodation to pick from and a vibrant nightlife. Padang Padang and Ulu Watu with its famous entry cave, are probably the most famous surfing spots in Indonesia, but both these locations are for the experienced surfer. Bali does also cater for the inexperienced surfer at Kuta beach.
If you're not keen on crowds then maybe try one of the surfing camps located on Nias Island - Lagundin Bay, Java - Garajagan and Ombak Tujuh and Sumbawa - Cempi bay. Waves in these places are less crowded, accommodation is simple, food is good and you are provided with a more local cultural experience. Indonesia is a real surfers paradise - so don't miss out.
http://www.asia-planet.net/indonesia/surfing.htm
Indonesia Travel Tips
Immigration
Visas are required except for the nationals of 48 countries namely Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Hong Kong SAR, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom (Great Britain), United Arab Emirates, United States of America, Venezuela, Yugoslavia and Taiwanese holding MFA//M passports. The visa requirement is also waived for other nationals from friendly countries, attending a conference which has received official approval.
Visa free entry is for maximum of 60 days and is not extendable. Entry and departure must be through the airports of Polonia (Medan), Simpang Tiga (Pekanbaru), Hang Nadim (Batam), Tabing (Padang), Soekarno-Hatta (Jakarta), Husein Sastranegara (Bandung), Juanda (Surabaya), Adisumarmo (Solo), Ngurah Rai (Denpasar), Eltari (Kupang), Supadio (Pontianak), Sepingan (Balikpapan), Sam Ratulangi (Manado), Pattimura (Ambon), Hasanuddin (Makassar), Selaparang (Mataram), and Frans Kaisiepo (Biak), and the seaports of Belawan (Medan), Batu Ampar and Sekupang (Batam), Tanjung Priok (Jakarta), Tanjung Mas (Semarang), Tanjung Perak (Surabaya), Benoa and Padangbai (Bali), Bitung (North Sulawesi), Ambon (Maluku), and Tanjung Pinang (Bintan). There is only one land gateway, Entikong in West Kalimantan.
For other ports of arrival or departure, visitors must have visas, For others, tourist visas for thirty days can be obtained form any Indonesian embassy or consulate. Two photographs are required and a small fee is charged. Possession of passports is a must to all visitors to Indonesia valid for at least six months with proof of onward passage, either return or through tickets.
Transports
There are metered taxis in Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Solo, Semarang, Yogyakarta, Bali and Lampung. For air-conditioned taxis flag falls are Rp.2,000 (Rp. 900 for each additional kilometer) and Rp. 3,000 (Rp. 1,300 for each additional kilometer). For Silverbird flagfall is Rp. 3,500 and Rp. 1,500 for each additional km. Hire cars are available and rates differ form area to area and it is best to ask the transportation desk of your hotel for information concerning rates and distances.
From Soekarno-Hatta airport to Jakarta city, taxis add a surcharge ranging from Rp. 7,500/Rp. 9,000/Rp. 10,000 depending on the destination and the road tolls of Rp. 7,000. There are also Soekarno-Hatta International Airport buses which run every 20 minutes to five different points in the city. For those heading for the major hotels in the city center, take the bus to Gambir, a railway station, which is five to ten minutes away by taxi from the hotels. Bus fare is Rp, 5,000 per person plus luggage. At other airports there are transport counters with fixed fares for taxis.
Other forms of transport in Indonesia are bajaj for two passengers, small buses which ply regular routes, the man-driven pedicab "becak," all of which need advanced bargaining to come to a mutually accepted fare. Buses are very crowded, particularly in the cities and routes need to be identified. Trains traverse the island of Java and part of Sumatra. Fares are comparatively cheap but higher on air-conditioned express trains running between major cities.
7
Garuda Indonesia has an extensive network throughout the country. To all major cities on the archipelago, Garuda had daily services. Garuda services are supplemented by those of Merpati Nusantara, Bouraq, and Mandala, Lion Air, Awair and Pelita.
Communication and Electricity
Long distance calls within Indonesia are by direct dial. International Direct Dial (IDD) is available from major cities and hotels to 240 countries. Long Distance, IDD and facsimile services are also available at the telecommunications offices (Wartel) in major cities and hotels. Internet service is not a difficult things to find in big cities public internet services (Warnet). Most hotels in big cities use 220 volts 50 cycles and a two-pronged plug. However, some hotels in the provinces may still be using 110 volts. It is better to check before using an appliance.
Weather
Indonesia has two seasons, the dry season from June to October and the rainy season from November to March. There are occasional showers during the transitional periods and the general maximum temperature is 33°C (62°F) and the general minimum 21°C (41°F). Humidity is high at all times.
Customer
Customs allow on entry a maximum of one liter of alcoholic beverages, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100 grams of tobacco and a reasonable amount of perfume per adult. Cameras, video cameras, portable radios, cassette recorders, binoculars and sport equipment are admitted provided they are taken out on departure. They must be declared to Customs. Prohibited are firearms, narcotics drugs, pornography, Chinese printing and medicines, transceivers and cordless telephones. Films, pre-recorded video tapes and laser disks must be screened by the Censor Board.
There is no restriction on import or export of foreign currencies and travelers checks, however, the import and export of Indonesian currency exceeding Rp. 5 million is prohibited. Airport authority levies an airport tax of Rp. 50.000 for travelers on international routes and Rp. 11,000 for those on domestic routes.
Shopping and Tipping
At most hotels a service charge of 10% is added to the bill. In restaurants where a service charge is not additional, a tip of 5 to 10% would be appropriate depending on the service and type of establishment. An airport or hotel porter expects Rp. 5,000 per bag.
Tipping taxi drivers Rp. 1,000 or leaving the change is appreciated but not mandatory. It is advisable to carry small change as taxi drivers are often short of change. The big cities have shopping complexes, supermarkets and department stores where prices are fixed. They stay open from 8.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m. everyday and some even on Sunday. At small shops bargaining might be necessary.
Food and Health
The Indonesian staple food is rice steamed boiled or fried. Some accompanying dishes can be pepper hot - big red pepper or small green ones - so it is advisable to ask before ordering. Please be inform to also ask the price before ordering. There are many restaurants specializing in European, American and Oriental cuisine including the fast food restaurants.
A variety of beverages (both imported or locals) are available everywhere including very good Indonesian beer. Keep to bottled drinks if doubtful of water served in restaurants. Travelers coming from infected areas are required to submit International certificates of valid smallpox, cholera and yellow vaccinations.
source:http://www.asia-planet.net/indonesia/travel-tips.htm
Visas are required except for the nationals of 48 countries namely Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Hong Kong SAR, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom (Great Britain), United Arab Emirates, United States of America, Venezuela, Yugoslavia and Taiwanese holding MFA//M passports. The visa requirement is also waived for other nationals from friendly countries, attending a conference which has received official approval.
Visa free entry is for maximum of 60 days and is not extendable. Entry and departure must be through the airports of Polonia (Medan), Simpang Tiga (Pekanbaru), Hang Nadim (Batam), Tabing (Padang), Soekarno-Hatta (Jakarta), Husein Sastranegara (Bandung), Juanda (Surabaya), Adisumarmo (Solo), Ngurah Rai (Denpasar), Eltari (Kupang), Supadio (Pontianak), Sepingan (Balikpapan), Sam Ratulangi (Manado), Pattimura (Ambon), Hasanuddin (Makassar), Selaparang (Mataram), and Frans Kaisiepo (Biak), and the seaports of Belawan (Medan), Batu Ampar and Sekupang (Batam), Tanjung Priok (Jakarta), Tanjung Mas (Semarang), Tanjung Perak (Surabaya), Benoa and Padangbai (Bali), Bitung (North Sulawesi), Ambon (Maluku), and Tanjung Pinang (Bintan). There is only one land gateway, Entikong in West Kalimantan.
For other ports of arrival or departure, visitors must have visas, For others, tourist visas for thirty days can be obtained form any Indonesian embassy or consulate. Two photographs are required and a small fee is charged. Possession of passports is a must to all visitors to Indonesia valid for at least six months with proof of onward passage, either return or through tickets.
Transports
There are metered taxis in Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Solo, Semarang, Yogyakarta, Bali and Lampung. For air-conditioned taxis flag falls are Rp.2,000 (Rp. 900 for each additional kilometer) and Rp. 3,000 (Rp. 1,300 for each additional kilometer). For Silverbird flagfall is Rp. 3,500 and Rp. 1,500 for each additional km. Hire cars are available and rates differ form area to area and it is best to ask the transportation desk of your hotel for information concerning rates and distances.
From Soekarno-Hatta airport to Jakarta city, taxis add a surcharge ranging from Rp. 7,500/Rp. 9,000/Rp. 10,000 depending on the destination and the road tolls of Rp. 7,000. There are also Soekarno-Hatta International Airport buses which run every 20 minutes to five different points in the city. For those heading for the major hotels in the city center, take the bus to Gambir, a railway station, which is five to ten minutes away by taxi from the hotels. Bus fare is Rp, 5,000 per person plus luggage. At other airports there are transport counters with fixed fares for taxis.
Other forms of transport in Indonesia are bajaj for two passengers, small buses which ply regular routes, the man-driven pedicab "becak," all of which need advanced bargaining to come to a mutually accepted fare. Buses are very crowded, particularly in the cities and routes need to be identified. Trains traverse the island of Java and part of Sumatra. Fares are comparatively cheap but higher on air-conditioned express trains running between major cities.
7
Garuda Indonesia has an extensive network throughout the country. To all major cities on the archipelago, Garuda had daily services. Garuda services are supplemented by those of Merpati Nusantara, Bouraq, and Mandala, Lion Air, Awair and Pelita.
Communication and Electricity
Long distance calls within Indonesia are by direct dial. International Direct Dial (IDD) is available from major cities and hotels to 240 countries. Long Distance, IDD and facsimile services are also available at the telecommunications offices (Wartel) in major cities and hotels. Internet service is not a difficult things to find in big cities public internet services (Warnet). Most hotels in big cities use 220 volts 50 cycles and a two-pronged plug. However, some hotels in the provinces may still be using 110 volts. It is better to check before using an appliance.
Weather
Indonesia has two seasons, the dry season from June to October and the rainy season from November to March. There are occasional showers during the transitional periods and the general maximum temperature is 33°C (62°F) and the general minimum 21°C (41°F). Humidity is high at all times.
Customer
Customs allow on entry a maximum of one liter of alcoholic beverages, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100 grams of tobacco and a reasonable amount of perfume per adult. Cameras, video cameras, portable radios, cassette recorders, binoculars and sport equipment are admitted provided they are taken out on departure. They must be declared to Customs. Prohibited are firearms, narcotics drugs, pornography, Chinese printing and medicines, transceivers and cordless telephones. Films, pre-recorded video tapes and laser disks must be screened by the Censor Board.
There is no restriction on import or export of foreign currencies and travelers checks, however, the import and export of Indonesian currency exceeding Rp. 5 million is prohibited. Airport authority levies an airport tax of Rp. 50.000 for travelers on international routes and Rp. 11,000 for those on domestic routes.
Shopping and Tipping
At most hotels a service charge of 10% is added to the bill. In restaurants where a service charge is not additional, a tip of 5 to 10% would be appropriate depending on the service and type of establishment. An airport or hotel porter expects Rp. 5,000 per bag.
Tipping taxi drivers Rp. 1,000 or leaving the change is appreciated but not mandatory. It is advisable to carry small change as taxi drivers are often short of change. The big cities have shopping complexes, supermarkets and department stores where prices are fixed. They stay open from 8.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m. everyday and some even on Sunday. At small shops bargaining might be necessary.
Food and Health
The Indonesian staple food is rice steamed boiled or fried. Some accompanying dishes can be pepper hot - big red pepper or small green ones - so it is advisable to ask before ordering. Please be inform to also ask the price before ordering. There are many restaurants specializing in European, American and Oriental cuisine including the fast food restaurants.
A variety of beverages (both imported or locals) are available everywhere including very good Indonesian beer. Keep to bottled drinks if doubtful of water served in restaurants. Travelers coming from infected areas are required to submit International certificates of valid smallpox, cholera and yellow vaccinations.
source:http://www.asia-planet.net/indonesia/travel-tips.htm
Tuesday, 3 March 2009
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta, sometimes called Yogya and spelled Jogyakarta, is a bustling town of some 500,000 people and the most popular tourist destination on the island of Java, largely thanks to its proximity to the temples of Borobudur and Prambanan. Yogyakarta is known as a center of classical Javanese fine art and culture such as batik, ballet, drama, music, poetry and puppet shows. It is also famous in Indonesia as a center of higher education. The touristic heart of Yogyakarta is the kraton, or sultan's palace.
For visitors to Indonesia seeking a little history and culture to go with their beach holiday, Yogyakarta is a must-see.
Things to See and Do in Yogyakarta
Your visit could not come at a better time. On May 27, 2006, a Richter 5.9 earthquake struck the province of Yogyakarta, killing nearly 6,000 people and destroying 300,000 homes. Fortunately few historic sites suffered significant damage, but the area is still recovering economically. The money you spend as a tourist will help Yogyarkata get back on its feet.
Being one of the oldest cities in Indonesia, Yogyakarta has many historic buildings and monuments. The number one attraction is Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono's palace, known in Indonesian as Kraton Ngayogyakarta.
The Sultan's Palace
Yogyakarta is the only province in Indonesia that is still formally governed by a precolonial sultanate, known as the Sultanate of Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat. The current sultan, Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, was elected as governor of the region by the provincial house of representatives in 1998.
The sultan's palace, or kraton, encompasses the main palace, the sultan's resence and grounds, and a large residential area where the sultan's many servants used to reside. The kraton was completed in 1756. Notable attractions in the kraton complex include:
* The Main Court and the Residence. The Main Court showcases the grandeur of the sultan's monarchy, while in the Residence you'll see the private, but no less luxurious, lifestyle of the royal family.
* The Sultan's Carriage Museum. This museum houses the sultan's horse-drawn carriages, including two beautiful carriages imported from the Netherlands, known as the Golden Carts.
* Taman Sari. Also known by the Dutch name waterkasteel (water castle), this is a partly ruined complex built as a pleasure garden by the first sultan in 1765. One of the bathing pools was dedicated to the sultan's harem, and he had a tower overlooking the area so he could take his pick of the women below.
* Siti Hinggil Selatan. This palace is rarely used for formal occasions anymore. You can see wayang kulit, Javanese shadow puppetry, performed on weekend evenings.
* Masjid Gede Kauman, one of the oldest and largest mosques in Yogyakarta.
Located on the west of Alun-alun Utara, the palace square, this mosque is where the sultan performs his religious rites and ceremonies. Non-muslim visitors should wear modest clothing and abide by mosque rules.
The Palace Grounds
Alun-alun utara, the northern palace grounds, was originally used for the sultan's army training and hence closed to public, but the area was opened to the public during the reign of Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono IX. Now, alun-alun utara is the venue for the quarterly parade known as Garebeg, in which the sultan's servants place huge cone-shaped offerings of food on the alun-alun utara. After the parade, attendees scramble to get scraps of these offerings, as they believed these gifts from the sultan bring good luck.
Prior to the month of Indonesian month of Maulud, a public fair is held in alun-alun utara for 30 days. This fair is very popular and offers many kind of goods ranging from traditional handicrafts to melamine dishware from China. A unique snack sold in this event is galundeng, or deep-fried dough similar to a donut.
More Sightseeing in Yogyakarta:
* Tugu Monument. A well-known landmark located in the center of downtown Yogyakarta. Built by Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono VI in the 19th century, the top spire was originally a round sphere representing the universe. During the Dutch colonial era, the spire was replaced with a golden cylinder.
* Benteng Vredeburg. A Dutch fort dating from 1765 located in front of Gedung Agung (President's Palace). It's a great example of Dutch colonial architecture, complete with a moat and ramparts overlooking the sultan's palace.
* Kotagede. Before Indonesian independence in 1945, Kotagede was the central economic district of Yogyakarta, as it held the largest marketplace and was home to many wealthy batik merchants. Although some ancient buildings have been modernized or replaced with newer buildings, Kotagede remains a prime example of ancient Javanese architecture and city planning. Be sure to check out the local silver handicrafts.
* Imogiri, southwest of town, is the royal graveyard complex of the Yogyakarta and Surakarta royal families.
* Kotabaru, which was a residential area for Dutch officials, has a few historic homes as well as a colonial-style church, a monastery and a stadium.
Shopping
A variety of high-quality handicrafts are available throughout Yogyakarta, including traditional wayang puppets, sculpture, ceramics and silverware. Yogyakarta is also the home of batik fabric, which is sold everywhere. Countless handicrafts from outside Yogyakarta can also be found. For example, don't be surprised if you come across souvenirs from Bali or Asmat, often at better prices than those on the islands. A modern, growing city, Yogyakarta has several stylish malls and a trade center that offers interesting goods and services at a reasonable cost.
Pasar Beringharjo. Literally meaning "slanted land," Beringaharjo is the largest traditional marketplace in Yogyakarta. The vendors sell many kind of goods, ranging from basic household items to handicrafts. Haggle furiously!
Eating
Originally, Yogyakarta dishes were known for their sweetness. However, as more and more people move to Yogyakarta, the city is beginning to see greater food diversity. Now you can find many kinds of interesting foods, ranging from sweet to spicy to fiery hot, and sometimes a fusion of other cuisines such as Chinese or Western.
The following dishes should be on every traveler's agenda:
* Gudeg, a curry of jackfruit, chicken and egg served with rice, is the most famous local dish. A syrupy liquid in various shades of brown, gudeg doesn't look particularly appetizing, but it can be tasty if done right.
* Ayam Goreng Mbok Berek (Mbok Berek's Fried Chicken). Fried free range chicken with mild garlic and coriander flavor served with crunchy crackers.
* Nasi Langgi, locally known as Sego Langgi (Langgi Rice). Warm rice served with various side dishes.
* Kipo, bite size snacks made of green colored tapioca dough filled with sweetened grated coconut.
* Jadah Tempe, sandwich of rice cake and sweet beancake
* Es rujak or rujak es krim, a fruit salad made from mangos, papayas, apples, pineapples, cucumbers etc., mixed with palm sugar, lime juice, salt, chillies and (of course) ice cream (es krim). All flavors (sweet, sour, bitter, spicy, salty) in one plate.
Borobudur
Borobudur temple is about 40 minutes north of Yogyakarta by car. Built over a period of some 75 years in the 8th and 9th centuries by the kingdom of Sailendra, Borobudur is the largest Buddhist monument in the world.
Constructed out of an estimated 1,600,000 blocks of volcanic stone dredged from the river and assembled solely by human labor, the nine-terraced temple is a representation of the transition towards nirvana and is famed for its 1,500 intricately carved reliefs, covering a total length of four miles end-to-end. The volcanic Mount Merapi, one of the most active volcanoes on Java, can be seen steaming on the horizon directly north of the site.
The first archaeological study of the site was initiated in 1814 by Sir Stamford Raffles, the British founder of Singapore. Restored in 1907, the monument suffered from neglect and war and was again heavily restored in the 1970s under the guidance of UNESCO, which designated Borobudur as a World Heritage Site. The massive restoration process involved the removal and refurbishing of over one million blocks, rebuilding the foundation and adding drainage systems.
Borobudur consists of a single stupendously large structure, which can be divided into layers as follows:
* The platform at the base of the structure, which was clearly added on later and hides some reliefs, is of uncertain provenance and function. The main theories are that the platform was added to censor reliefs depicting earthly desires or--rather more likely--to buttress the subsiding structure and prevent it from collapsing. A section of the platform has been excavated at the southeast corner, showcasing some of the hidden reliefs underneath.
* The bulk of the structure consists of four square terraces connected by steep staircases. Each terrace has reliefs in two layers on both sides, recounting the story of the Buddha's past lives and his enlightenment. The "correct" way to view the reliefs is to start from the east gate (the main entrance) and circulate clockwise
* After the square terraces the structure suddenly opens up to reveal the final four circular terraces. Comparatively plain and unadorned, there are no more reliefs here, just several hundred domes housing half-hidden Buddha statues (many headless, some lost entirely
* The peak of the structure is a central stupa. The two chambers inside the stupa are empty, and it is unclear whether they were empty from the beginning as a representation of nirvana, or whether they originally contained now-lost statues.
On Waisak--Buddha's birthday (held on the night of the full moon in May)--an elaborate and colorful multi-day Buddhist festival is held at Borobudur, culminating in a candle-lit, five mile procession by monks in saffron robes from the village of Mendut to Borobudur.
Prambanan
Prambanan is a collection of massive Hindu temples (candi) built by the 10th century Mataram Kingdom, rulers of central Java and defeaters of the Sailendra Dynasty. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, in most any other country constructions on the scale of Prambanan would be quickly designated as a national symbol, but in Indonesia they are somewhat overshadowed by the even more awe-inspiring bulk of Borobudur just next door. The two sites are quite different in style though, with Prambanan being a collection of sharp, jagged pyramids instead of the vast horizontal bulk of Borobudur, and both are well worth a visit.
Visiting Prambanan
About 10 miles from Yogyakarta, the main site of Prambanan contains four temples scattered about a large, landscaped park. Note that some parts of the temple complex are still closed off and undergoing restoration following the May 2006 earthquake.
Candi Lara Jonggrang, or simply Candi Prambanan, is the largest and most-visited of the temples, just to the left of the entrance. While there were 232 temples originally built, most have long since crumbled and the main remaining attractions are the six temples of the central court, richly decorated with carved reliefs. Three of them, known as the Trisakti ("three sacred places"), are particularly important:
* Candi Shiva, dedicated to Shiva the Destroyer, is the largest of the six, rising to a height of 147 feet. There are fine reliefs in its forecourt and four chambers with statues. The largest chamber, to the east, contains a statue of Shiva himself, while the south has the sage Agastya, the west his son Ganesh (the elephant-headed) and the north his wife Durga. Durga is also known as Lara Jonggrang ("Slender Virgin"), a legendary beautiful princess turned to stone.
*Candi Brahma, to the south, has a statue of Brahma the Creator inside.
*Candi Vishnu, to the north, tells the story of Vishnu's avatar Krishna and has a statue of Vishnu the Preserver inside.
Opposite the three large temples are three smaller temples originally dedicated to the vehicles of the gods. Only the statue of Nandi, Shiva's bull, has survived.
* Candi Lumbung and Candi Bubrah, two Buddhist temples, are located several hundred feet further north.
* Candi Sewu, a large Buddhist temple complex meaning "one thousand temples", is less than a mile north of the entrance gate and contains a large central temple surrounded by a cluster of smaller ones. The sheer size of the recently renovated and intricately decorated central temple is impressive, but the statue niches are all empty.
For visitors to Indonesia seeking a little history and culture to go with their beach holiday, Yogyakarta is a must-see.
Things to See and Do in Yogyakarta
Your visit could not come at a better time. On May 27, 2006, a Richter 5.9 earthquake struck the province of Yogyakarta, killing nearly 6,000 people and destroying 300,000 homes. Fortunately few historic sites suffered significant damage, but the area is still recovering economically. The money you spend as a tourist will help Yogyarkata get back on its feet.
Being one of the oldest cities in Indonesia, Yogyakarta has many historic buildings and monuments. The number one attraction is Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono's palace, known in Indonesian as Kraton Ngayogyakarta.
The Sultan's Palace
Yogyakarta is the only province in Indonesia that is still formally governed by a precolonial sultanate, known as the Sultanate of Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat. The current sultan, Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, was elected as governor of the region by the provincial house of representatives in 1998.
The sultan's palace, or kraton, encompasses the main palace, the sultan's resence and grounds, and a large residential area where the sultan's many servants used to reside. The kraton was completed in 1756. Notable attractions in the kraton complex include:
* The Main Court and the Residence. The Main Court showcases the grandeur of the sultan's monarchy, while in the Residence you'll see the private, but no less luxurious, lifestyle of the royal family.
* The Sultan's Carriage Museum. This museum houses the sultan's horse-drawn carriages, including two beautiful carriages imported from the Netherlands, known as the Golden Carts.
* Taman Sari. Also known by the Dutch name waterkasteel (water castle), this is a partly ruined complex built as a pleasure garden by the first sultan in 1765. One of the bathing pools was dedicated to the sultan's harem, and he had a tower overlooking the area so he could take his pick of the women below.
* Siti Hinggil Selatan. This palace is rarely used for formal occasions anymore. You can see wayang kulit, Javanese shadow puppetry, performed on weekend evenings.
* Masjid Gede Kauman, one of the oldest and largest mosques in Yogyakarta.
Located on the west of Alun-alun Utara, the palace square, this mosque is where the sultan performs his religious rites and ceremonies. Non-muslim visitors should wear modest clothing and abide by mosque rules.
The Palace Grounds
Alun-alun utara, the northern palace grounds, was originally used for the sultan's army training and hence closed to public, but the area was opened to the public during the reign of Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono IX. Now, alun-alun utara is the venue for the quarterly parade known as Garebeg, in which the sultan's servants place huge cone-shaped offerings of food on the alun-alun utara. After the parade, attendees scramble to get scraps of these offerings, as they believed these gifts from the sultan bring good luck.
Prior to the month of Indonesian month of Maulud, a public fair is held in alun-alun utara for 30 days. This fair is very popular and offers many kind of goods ranging from traditional handicrafts to melamine dishware from China. A unique snack sold in this event is galundeng, or deep-fried dough similar to a donut.
More Sightseeing in Yogyakarta:
* Tugu Monument. A well-known landmark located in the center of downtown Yogyakarta. Built by Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono VI in the 19th century, the top spire was originally a round sphere representing the universe. During the Dutch colonial era, the spire was replaced with a golden cylinder.
* Benteng Vredeburg. A Dutch fort dating from 1765 located in front of Gedung Agung (President's Palace). It's a great example of Dutch colonial architecture, complete with a moat and ramparts overlooking the sultan's palace.
* Kotagede. Before Indonesian independence in 1945, Kotagede was the central economic district of Yogyakarta, as it held the largest marketplace and was home to many wealthy batik merchants. Although some ancient buildings have been modernized or replaced with newer buildings, Kotagede remains a prime example of ancient Javanese architecture and city planning. Be sure to check out the local silver handicrafts.
* Imogiri, southwest of town, is the royal graveyard complex of the Yogyakarta and Surakarta royal families.
* Kotabaru, which was a residential area for Dutch officials, has a few historic homes as well as a colonial-style church, a monastery and a stadium.
Shopping
A variety of high-quality handicrafts are available throughout Yogyakarta, including traditional wayang puppets, sculpture, ceramics and silverware. Yogyakarta is also the home of batik fabric, which is sold everywhere. Countless handicrafts from outside Yogyakarta can also be found. For example, don't be surprised if you come across souvenirs from Bali or Asmat, often at better prices than those on the islands. A modern, growing city, Yogyakarta has several stylish malls and a trade center that offers interesting goods and services at a reasonable cost.
Pasar Beringharjo. Literally meaning "slanted land," Beringaharjo is the largest traditional marketplace in Yogyakarta. The vendors sell many kind of goods, ranging from basic household items to handicrafts. Haggle furiously!
Eating
Originally, Yogyakarta dishes were known for their sweetness. However, as more and more people move to Yogyakarta, the city is beginning to see greater food diversity. Now you can find many kinds of interesting foods, ranging from sweet to spicy to fiery hot, and sometimes a fusion of other cuisines such as Chinese or Western.
The following dishes should be on every traveler's agenda:
* Gudeg, a curry of jackfruit, chicken and egg served with rice, is the most famous local dish. A syrupy liquid in various shades of brown, gudeg doesn't look particularly appetizing, but it can be tasty if done right.
* Ayam Goreng Mbok Berek (Mbok Berek's Fried Chicken). Fried free range chicken with mild garlic and coriander flavor served with crunchy crackers.
* Nasi Langgi, locally known as Sego Langgi (Langgi Rice). Warm rice served with various side dishes.
* Kipo, bite size snacks made of green colored tapioca dough filled with sweetened grated coconut.
* Jadah Tempe, sandwich of rice cake and sweet beancake
* Es rujak or rujak es krim, a fruit salad made from mangos, papayas, apples, pineapples, cucumbers etc., mixed with palm sugar, lime juice, salt, chillies and (of course) ice cream (es krim). All flavors (sweet, sour, bitter, spicy, salty) in one plate.
Borobudur
Borobudur temple is about 40 minutes north of Yogyakarta by car. Built over a period of some 75 years in the 8th and 9th centuries by the kingdom of Sailendra, Borobudur is the largest Buddhist monument in the world.
Constructed out of an estimated 1,600,000 blocks of volcanic stone dredged from the river and assembled solely by human labor, the nine-terraced temple is a representation of the transition towards nirvana and is famed for its 1,500 intricately carved reliefs, covering a total length of four miles end-to-end. The volcanic Mount Merapi, one of the most active volcanoes on Java, can be seen steaming on the horizon directly north of the site.
The first archaeological study of the site was initiated in 1814 by Sir Stamford Raffles, the British founder of Singapore. Restored in 1907, the monument suffered from neglect and war and was again heavily restored in the 1970s under the guidance of UNESCO, which designated Borobudur as a World Heritage Site. The massive restoration process involved the removal and refurbishing of over one million blocks, rebuilding the foundation and adding drainage systems.
Borobudur consists of a single stupendously large structure, which can be divided into layers as follows:
* The platform at the base of the structure, which was clearly added on later and hides some reliefs, is of uncertain provenance and function. The main theories are that the platform was added to censor reliefs depicting earthly desires or--rather more likely--to buttress the subsiding structure and prevent it from collapsing. A section of the platform has been excavated at the southeast corner, showcasing some of the hidden reliefs underneath.
* The bulk of the structure consists of four square terraces connected by steep staircases. Each terrace has reliefs in two layers on both sides, recounting the story of the Buddha's past lives and his enlightenment. The "correct" way to view the reliefs is to start from the east gate (the main entrance) and circulate clockwise
* After the square terraces the structure suddenly opens up to reveal the final four circular terraces. Comparatively plain and unadorned, there are no more reliefs here, just several hundred domes housing half-hidden Buddha statues (many headless, some lost entirely
* The peak of the structure is a central stupa. The two chambers inside the stupa are empty, and it is unclear whether they were empty from the beginning as a representation of nirvana, or whether they originally contained now-lost statues.
On Waisak--Buddha's birthday (held on the night of the full moon in May)--an elaborate and colorful multi-day Buddhist festival is held at Borobudur, culminating in a candle-lit, five mile procession by monks in saffron robes from the village of Mendut to Borobudur.
Prambanan
Prambanan is a collection of massive Hindu temples (candi) built by the 10th century Mataram Kingdom, rulers of central Java and defeaters of the Sailendra Dynasty. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, in most any other country constructions on the scale of Prambanan would be quickly designated as a national symbol, but in Indonesia they are somewhat overshadowed by the even more awe-inspiring bulk of Borobudur just next door. The two sites are quite different in style though, with Prambanan being a collection of sharp, jagged pyramids instead of the vast horizontal bulk of Borobudur, and both are well worth a visit.
Visiting Prambanan
About 10 miles from Yogyakarta, the main site of Prambanan contains four temples scattered about a large, landscaped park. Note that some parts of the temple complex are still closed off and undergoing restoration following the May 2006 earthquake.
Candi Lara Jonggrang, or simply Candi Prambanan, is the largest and most-visited of the temples, just to the left of the entrance. While there were 232 temples originally built, most have long since crumbled and the main remaining attractions are the six temples of the central court, richly decorated with carved reliefs. Three of them, known as the Trisakti ("three sacred places"), are particularly important:
* Candi Shiva, dedicated to Shiva the Destroyer, is the largest of the six, rising to a height of 147 feet. There are fine reliefs in its forecourt and four chambers with statues. The largest chamber, to the east, contains a statue of Shiva himself, while the south has the sage Agastya, the west his son Ganesh (the elephant-headed) and the north his wife Durga. Durga is also known as Lara Jonggrang ("Slender Virgin"), a legendary beautiful princess turned to stone.
*Candi Brahma, to the south, has a statue of Brahma the Creator inside.
*Candi Vishnu, to the north, tells the story of Vishnu's avatar Krishna and has a statue of Vishnu the Preserver inside.
Opposite the three large temples are three smaller temples originally dedicated to the vehicles of the gods. Only the statue of Nandi, Shiva's bull, has survived.
* Candi Lumbung and Candi Bubrah, two Buddhist temples, are located several hundred feet further north.
* Candi Sewu, a large Buddhist temple complex meaning "one thousand temples", is less than a mile north of the entrance gate and contains a large central temple surrounded by a cluster of smaller ones. The sheer size of the recently renovated and intricately decorated central temple is impressive, but the statue niches are all empty.
Sunday, 8 February 2009
South East Sulawesi The Province
The south-eastern peninsula and Buton group of islands are inhabited by descendents of the Torajans and Bugis peoples, and due to the strong influence of the Islamic Bone kingdom most of the people in this part of Sulawesi are Muslim. There are five diverse cultural groups the Tolaki, Morunene, Buton, Muna (locally called the Wuna), and the Bajo.
Most of the land area of Southeast Sulawesi is covered by natural jungle, with extensive plantations of teak and ironwood, which are used for local handicrafts and contribute to the local economy. The warmth of the Sulawesi people, the local flora, fauna and untouched beaches are the highlights of this unique locale. Up to the present day it has avoided inundation by tourists, and is waiting to several its natural beauty and the spirit of the people who live in it.
Kendari
Southeast Sulawesi's capital is Kendari, seat of government and tourist center of the province. It lies on a sloping hill overlooking beautiful Kendari Bay. Kendari artists are known for their artistic handicrafts in traditional designs, using indigenous roots and ironwood. Visitors will find quality products at good prices at the Berlin Handicraft Center and the Handicraft Exhibition Center, both belong the local Association of Government Wives (PKK).
To be present at one of the colorful ceremonial events so frequent in Kendari is to be invited to participate. The closing of any ceremonial event. will be highlighted by the "Modero Dance" performed by local men and women. On-lookers arc invited to join the dance, ensuring a harmonious farewell.
Moramo Waterfall
No other in Indonesia is quite like the Moramo Waterfall. It traverses a 2km plateau, with 127 separate terraced plumes, the top of the waterfall some 100 meters above its basin pool. There are seven main terraces, each with its own natural bathing pool.
Surrounded by lush jungle, this is the perfect. Place for those who love nature at its most sublime. Only 65 km east of Kendari, Moramo Waterfalls is easily accessible by car, or by crossing Moramo Bay by boat, and enjoying panoramic views of the sea.
Moramo Bay
This pristine bay is only one and one half -hours by car or speedboat from Kendari. The white sand beaches of Moramo Bay are host to a endless water activities and sports: from sun bathing to water skiing, swimming to boating, highlighted by snorkeling or diving in the crystal clear water.
Batu Gong Beach and Toli-Toli Hill
20 km from Kendari to the north, Batu Gong beach is a new recreational resort along a 3 km white-sand beach. At the edge of the beach are huge stones, which when hit sound like a gong, hence the name of this area. Gorgeous view's the sea can be enjoyed from the top of nearby Toli-Toli hill resort.
Sea Garden of Pulau Han
In Indonesian "hari" means daylight. Because of the way the sun's rays reflect off the waters surrounding this island, the local people call it the "Island of Daylight", Pulau Hail. Swimming, boating and other marine sports hod a natural home along these shores. Pulau Hart is blessed with an amazing coral reef with excellent snorkeling and diving.
Baton Island Group
Baubau is the principal on Buton Island, the former capital of the Sultan of Wolio, who ruled Buton and the nearby islands of Muna, Kabaena, Wowini and Tukangbesi. The people conducted trade communicated with both China and the Majapahit Kingdom, on the Island of Java. Interestingly enough, the first ruler who governed this region was a queen, and the last was a king. The most fascinating cultural appeal of Buton Island can be enjoyed when local people conduct ceremonies, celebration celebrations and folk events, which welcome honored guests.
One is the "Pakandekandea", when food and cakes are offered to visitors and traditional dances are performed. Buton Island is well known for its asphalt, called Buton or Butas Asphalt, and for its teak and ironwood. Nirwana Beach is located 12 km from the village of Baubau, and is popular for swimming and its fine white sand beach. The small adjoining island, only thirty minutes away by sailboat, is a fisherman's paradise. There is daily boat service from Kendari, with a over in Raha, the capital city of the island of Muna.
Napabale and Motonunu Lakes
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Most of the land area of Southeast Sulawesi is covered by natural jungle, with extensive plantations of teak and ironwood, which are used for local handicrafts and contribute to the local economy. The warmth of the Sulawesi people, the local flora, fauna and untouched beaches are the highlights of this unique locale. Up to the present day it has avoided inundation by tourists, and is waiting to several its natural beauty and the spirit of the people who live in it.
Kendari
Southeast Sulawesi's capital is Kendari, seat of government and tourist center of the province. It lies on a sloping hill overlooking beautiful Kendari Bay. Kendari artists are known for their artistic handicrafts in traditional designs, using indigenous roots and ironwood. Visitors will find quality products at good prices at the Berlin Handicraft Center and the Handicraft Exhibition Center, both belong the local Association of Government Wives (PKK).
To be present at one of the colorful ceremonial events so frequent in Kendari is to be invited to participate. The closing of any ceremonial event. will be highlighted by the "Modero Dance" performed by local men and women. On-lookers arc invited to join the dance, ensuring a harmonious farewell.
Moramo Waterfall
No other in Indonesia is quite like the Moramo Waterfall. It traverses a 2km plateau, with 127 separate terraced plumes, the top of the waterfall some 100 meters above its basin pool. There are seven main terraces, each with its own natural bathing pool.
Surrounded by lush jungle, this is the perfect. Place for those who love nature at its most sublime. Only 65 km east of Kendari, Moramo Waterfalls is easily accessible by car, or by crossing Moramo Bay by boat, and enjoying panoramic views of the sea.
Moramo Bay
This pristine bay is only one and one half -hours by car or speedboat from Kendari. The white sand beaches of Moramo Bay are host to a endless water activities and sports: from sun bathing to water skiing, swimming to boating, highlighted by snorkeling or diving in the crystal clear water.
Batu Gong Beach and Toli-Toli Hill
20 km from Kendari to the north, Batu Gong beach is a new recreational resort along a 3 km white-sand beach. At the edge of the beach are huge stones, which when hit sound like a gong, hence the name of this area. Gorgeous view's the sea can be enjoyed from the top of nearby Toli-Toli hill resort.
Sea Garden of Pulau Han
In Indonesian "hari" means daylight. Because of the way the sun's rays reflect off the waters surrounding this island, the local people call it the "Island of Daylight", Pulau Hail. Swimming, boating and other marine sports hod a natural home along these shores. Pulau Hart is blessed with an amazing coral reef with excellent snorkeling and diving.
Baton Island Group
Baubau is the principal on Buton Island, the former capital of the Sultan of Wolio, who ruled Buton and the nearby islands of Muna, Kabaena, Wowini and Tukangbesi. The people conducted trade communicated with both China and the Majapahit Kingdom, on the Island of Java. Interestingly enough, the first ruler who governed this region was a queen, and the last was a king. The most fascinating cultural appeal of Buton Island can be enjoyed when local people conduct ceremonies, celebration celebrations and folk events, which welcome honored guests.
One is the "Pakandekandea", when food and cakes are offered to visitors and traditional dances are performed. Buton Island is well known for its asphalt, called Buton or Butas Asphalt, and for its teak and ironwood. Nirwana Beach is located 12 km from the village of Baubau, and is popular for swimming and its fine white sand beach. The small adjoining island, only thirty minutes away by sailboat, is a fisherman's paradise. There is daily boat service from Kendari, with a over in Raha, the capital city of the island of Muna.
Napabale and Motonunu Lakes
source www.travel-indonesia.com
North Sulawesi The Province
North Sulawesi is a land of magnificent coral reefs protecting virgin -white beaches, mountains and active volcanoes, reminding the islanders and the world of the potential power of one of the earth's most awesome forces. The people of North Sulawesi can be classified into four groups: Minahasa, Bolaang Mongondow, Gorontalo and the Sangir-Talaud. The Minahasans are centered around the Provincial capital of Manado, but the entire province has a strong tra-dition of trade and contact with the outside world. The Sangir-Talaud island to the north of the mainland, form a natural bridge to the Philippines providing a convenient route for peoples and cultures to easily move between Indonesia and the Philippines, and many traces of Filipino culture can still he found here. Apart from introducing a Strong political and religious structure, the Filipinos encouraged the local populations to raise coconuts, copra and nutmeg. Today the main industries of the province are copra and cloves. North Sulawesi has a larger concentration of coconut trees than any other part of Indonesia.
The Dutch, however, have had the strongest influence on the development of the region. First contact with European traders came in the 16th century with the arrival of the Spanish and Portuguese, and with them they brought Chris-tianity. It wasn't until the arrival of the Dutch that Christianity became the predominant religion of the area. The provincial capital of Manado is one of the international gateways into Indonesia. Regular flights to all parts of the Indonesia archipelago service this beautiful town, as well as the smaller airports of Gorontalo, Tabuna and Talaud. Manado's main attractions are off-shore: the truly incredible coral reefs off nearby Bunaken island are now a protected Marine Park and offer some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world.
Other Places of Interest
Manado
North Sulawesi is a land of magnificent coral reefs protecting virgin -white beaches, mountains and active volcanoes, reminding the islanders and the world of the potential power of one of the earth's most awesome forces. The people of North Sulawesi can be classified into four groups: Minahasa, Bolaang Mongondow, Gorontalo and the Sangir-Talaud. The Minahasans are centered around the Provincial capital of Manado, but the entire province has a strong tra-dition of trade and contact with the outside world. The Sangir-Talaud island to the north of the mainland, form a natural bridge to the Philippines providing a convenient route for peoples and cultures to easily move between Indonesia and the Philippines, and many traces of Filipino culture can still he found here. Apart from introducing a Strong political and religious structure, the Filipinos encouraged the local populations to raise coconuts, copra and nutmeg.
Today the main industries of the province are copra and cloves. North Sulawesi has a larger concentration of coconut trees than any other part of Indonesia. The Dutch, however, have had the strongest influence on the development of the region. First contact with European traders came in the 16th century with the arrival of the Spanish and Portuguese, and with them they brought Chris-tianity. It wasn't until the arrival of the Dutch that Christianity became the predominant religion of the area. The provincial capital of Manado is one of the international gateways into Indonesia. Regular flights to all parts of the Indonesia archipelago service this beautiful town, as well as the smaller airports of Gorontalo, Tabuna and Talaud. Manado's main attractions are off-shore: the truly incredible coral reefs off nearby Bunaken island are now a protected Marine Park and offer some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world.
Bunaken
About half an hour by a motorized outrigger canoe from Manado, Bunaken Island is a veritable paradise for snorkelers and scuba enthusiasts. The coral reef off Bunaken Island is particularly noted for the drop-off at Liang Cove. It is des-cribed by international divers as being among the most spectacular anywhere in the world, with caves, gullies, and caverns harboring an immense wealth of marine life. The water averages a balmy 28 degrees C and visibility is sensational (over) 30 m.
Manado Tua Island
ManadoTua is the main island of the Manado Bay group. A path to the top of the central mountain takes several hours to climb, but the view takes in all the islands in the Manado Bay Superb snor-keling and skin diving. The beach is a mixture of white sand and coral formations. The reef lines the coast of Tangkoko Batuangus in a nature reserve. A permit should be obtained from Sub Balai Konservasi Suinber Daya Alam (Nature Conservation Office) in Manado, before heading for this reserve.
Tasik Ria
Tasik Ria is situated about 20 km southwest of Manado and has a beautiful sandy beach fringed with coconut trees. Ideal for sunbathing, swim-ming, fishing, diving and snorkeling, Tasik Ria seashore resort hosts the four-star Manado Beach Hotel, with 250 rooms, a swimming pool, bar & discotheque. Easily reachable by public bus or taxi from Manado.
Tara-tara
15 km further southwest from Tasik Ria this village has traditionally been the center of Minahasan culture and arts. Traditional dances enthrall on the open air at Kemer Garden. There are World War II at Japanese caves at the Ranowangko dam, and the Kenier natural bathing spot nearby in the shadow of the volcano Lokon, Mount Kasehe and mount Tatawiran. Easily reachable from Manado by public bus or taxi.
Watu Pinabetengan
According to Minahasa history, this is the place where the ancestors first divided up the land among the people. Watu Pinabetengan means "The stone of discussion about the division".
The famous megalithic stone here is covered with crude, mysterious drawings and a script which has never been deciphered. It is located in Tompaso, about 45 km from Manado.
Waruga Cemetery
This ancient cemetery of Minahasan ancestors consist of 144 stone sarcophagi, remnants of the Megalithic age. "Waruga" sarcophagi are unique square stones with holes in the middle and prism shaped lids. The tombs are carved with various motifs such as human beings, plants, animals, and traditional geometrical motifs like clouds, strings, curls and double braids. The cemetery is located in Sawangan village, about 24 km from Manado.
Tangkoko Batuangus
An open grassland nature reserve covering the slopes of Mt. Dua Saudara, the park is composed of impressive green hills and valleys with wondrous scenic views of natural beauty. Black apes, maleo birds, snakes, wild pigs, hornbills and rusa deer live in the 3,196-hectare reserve.
There are several cottages and small restaurants nearby. It is only reachable by four-wheel drive jeep from Girian village over a rough road.
Dumoga Bone National Park
Located on the border between two districts, approximately 260 km from Manado, this park straddles Dumoga in Bolaang Mongondow and Bone in Gorontalo. Its mountains and hills are blanketed in dense forests, making it an ideal habitat for rare species like maleo birds, anoas, hornbills and tarsius spectrums. An entry permit should be obtained from Sub Balai Konservasi Sumber Daya Alam (Nature Conservation Office) in Manado in advance.
Lake Tondano - Rembakon Tourist Site
About 36-km southwest of Manado is Lake Tondano, 600 in above sea level. The drive to Tondano passes through charming villages and sprawling clove plantations. Situated right on the edge of the lake is the Remboken Tourist site, an ideal place for water skiing, fishing, and boating. Bungalows, a natural hot-water swimming pool and restaurants are available.
Saronde Island
This tiny but exquisite Island with white-sand beaches for swimming, boating, snorkeling, diving, and water-skiing is located in the district of Gorontalo.
Lake Moat
Situated in the highlands about 900 m above sea level the lake is surrounded by a dense forest abounding with birds of various species. It is located in the district of Bolaang Mongondow.
Ranopaso
Sparkling clean natural hot springs set in a gorgeous setting of terraced rice fields make this a popular tourist destination. Bungalows are available at Koya village, about 3 km from Tondano.
Wale Papataupan
Situated at Sonder village, about 37 km from Manado, Wale Papataupan is a sumptuous tourist spot with bungalows, a swimming pool, steam bath facilities, restaurants, fish ponds, and an open stage for cultural performances. It is easily reachable from Manado by public bus or taxi.
Japanese Monument
Since Bitung play an important role during the Pacific War as a home base for the Japanese Imperial forces, it become the last resting place for their soldiers who died in the area. The Japanese and North Sulawesi governments jointly founded this monument.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
The Dutch, however, have had the strongest influence on the development of the region. First contact with European traders came in the 16th century with the arrival of the Spanish and Portuguese, and with them they brought Chris-tianity. It wasn't until the arrival of the Dutch that Christianity became the predominant religion of the area. The provincial capital of Manado is one of the international gateways into Indonesia. Regular flights to all parts of the Indonesia archipelago service this beautiful town, as well as the smaller airports of Gorontalo, Tabuna and Talaud. Manado's main attractions are off-shore: the truly incredible coral reefs off nearby Bunaken island are now a protected Marine Park and offer some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world.
Other Places of Interest
Manado
North Sulawesi is a land of magnificent coral reefs protecting virgin -white beaches, mountains and active volcanoes, reminding the islanders and the world of the potential power of one of the earth's most awesome forces. The people of North Sulawesi can be classified into four groups: Minahasa, Bolaang Mongondow, Gorontalo and the Sangir-Talaud. The Minahasans are centered around the Provincial capital of Manado, but the entire province has a strong tra-dition of trade and contact with the outside world. The Sangir-Talaud island to the north of the mainland, form a natural bridge to the Philippines providing a convenient route for peoples and cultures to easily move between Indonesia and the Philippines, and many traces of Filipino culture can still he found here. Apart from introducing a Strong political and religious structure, the Filipinos encouraged the local populations to raise coconuts, copra and nutmeg.
Today the main industries of the province are copra and cloves. North Sulawesi has a larger concentration of coconut trees than any other part of Indonesia. The Dutch, however, have had the strongest influence on the development of the region. First contact with European traders came in the 16th century with the arrival of the Spanish and Portuguese, and with them they brought Chris-tianity. It wasn't until the arrival of the Dutch that Christianity became the predominant religion of the area. The provincial capital of Manado is one of the international gateways into Indonesia. Regular flights to all parts of the Indonesia archipelago service this beautiful town, as well as the smaller airports of Gorontalo, Tabuna and Talaud. Manado's main attractions are off-shore: the truly incredible coral reefs off nearby Bunaken island are now a protected Marine Park and offer some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world.
Bunaken
About half an hour by a motorized outrigger canoe from Manado, Bunaken Island is a veritable paradise for snorkelers and scuba enthusiasts. The coral reef off Bunaken Island is particularly noted for the drop-off at Liang Cove. It is des-cribed by international divers as being among the most spectacular anywhere in the world, with caves, gullies, and caverns harboring an immense wealth of marine life. The water averages a balmy 28 degrees C and visibility is sensational (over) 30 m.
Manado Tua Island
ManadoTua is the main island of the Manado Bay group. A path to the top of the central mountain takes several hours to climb, but the view takes in all the islands in the Manado Bay Superb snor-keling and skin diving. The beach is a mixture of white sand and coral formations. The reef lines the coast of Tangkoko Batuangus in a nature reserve. A permit should be obtained from Sub Balai Konservasi Suinber Daya Alam (Nature Conservation Office) in Manado, before heading for this reserve.
Tasik Ria
Tasik Ria is situated about 20 km southwest of Manado and has a beautiful sandy beach fringed with coconut trees. Ideal for sunbathing, swim-ming, fishing, diving and snorkeling, Tasik Ria seashore resort hosts the four-star Manado Beach Hotel, with 250 rooms, a swimming pool, bar & discotheque. Easily reachable by public bus or taxi from Manado.
Tara-tara
15 km further southwest from Tasik Ria this village has traditionally been the center of Minahasan culture and arts. Traditional dances enthrall on the open air at Kemer Garden. There are World War II at Japanese caves at the Ranowangko dam, and the Kenier natural bathing spot nearby in the shadow of the volcano Lokon, Mount Kasehe and mount Tatawiran. Easily reachable from Manado by public bus or taxi.
Watu Pinabetengan
According to Minahasa history, this is the place where the ancestors first divided up the land among the people. Watu Pinabetengan means "The stone of discussion about the division".
The famous megalithic stone here is covered with crude, mysterious drawings and a script which has never been deciphered. It is located in Tompaso, about 45 km from Manado.
Waruga Cemetery
This ancient cemetery of Minahasan ancestors consist of 144 stone sarcophagi, remnants of the Megalithic age. "Waruga" sarcophagi are unique square stones with holes in the middle and prism shaped lids. The tombs are carved with various motifs such as human beings, plants, animals, and traditional geometrical motifs like clouds, strings, curls and double braids. The cemetery is located in Sawangan village, about 24 km from Manado.
Tangkoko Batuangus
An open grassland nature reserve covering the slopes of Mt. Dua Saudara, the park is composed of impressive green hills and valleys with wondrous scenic views of natural beauty. Black apes, maleo birds, snakes, wild pigs, hornbills and rusa deer live in the 3,196-hectare reserve.
There are several cottages and small restaurants nearby. It is only reachable by four-wheel drive jeep from Girian village over a rough road.
Dumoga Bone National Park
Located on the border between two districts, approximately 260 km from Manado, this park straddles Dumoga in Bolaang Mongondow and Bone in Gorontalo. Its mountains and hills are blanketed in dense forests, making it an ideal habitat for rare species like maleo birds, anoas, hornbills and tarsius spectrums. An entry permit should be obtained from Sub Balai Konservasi Sumber Daya Alam (Nature Conservation Office) in Manado in advance.
Lake Tondano - Rembakon Tourist Site
About 36-km southwest of Manado is Lake Tondano, 600 in above sea level. The drive to Tondano passes through charming villages and sprawling clove plantations. Situated right on the edge of the lake is the Remboken Tourist site, an ideal place for water skiing, fishing, and boating. Bungalows, a natural hot-water swimming pool and restaurants are available.
Saronde Island
This tiny but exquisite Island with white-sand beaches for swimming, boating, snorkeling, diving, and water-skiing is located in the district of Gorontalo.
Lake Moat
Situated in the highlands about 900 m above sea level the lake is surrounded by a dense forest abounding with birds of various species. It is located in the district of Bolaang Mongondow.
Ranopaso
Sparkling clean natural hot springs set in a gorgeous setting of terraced rice fields make this a popular tourist destination. Bungalows are available at Koya village, about 3 km from Tondano.
Wale Papataupan
Situated at Sonder village, about 37 km from Manado, Wale Papataupan is a sumptuous tourist spot with bungalows, a swimming pool, steam bath facilities, restaurants, fish ponds, and an open stage for cultural performances. It is easily reachable from Manado by public bus or taxi.
Japanese Monument
Since Bitung play an important role during the Pacific War as a home base for the Japanese Imperial forces, it become the last resting place for their soldiers who died in the area. The Japanese and North Sulawesi governments jointly founded this monument.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
South Sulawesi The Province
Situated at the crossroads of strategic sea lanes steeped in history, the province of South Sulawesi consists of the narrow southwestern peninsula of this mountainous, orchid-shaped island. The capital and chief trad-ing port, Ujung Pandang, is still the gateway to eastern Indonesia.
Spanish and Portuguese galleons, followed by British and Dutch traders, sailed these seas In search of the spice trade, escorted by their Men-of-War to protect them from the daring raids of the Bugis and Makassar pirates. Famed for their seafaring culture, the Bugis are still the driving force behind the world's last commercial sailing fleet. Bugis vessels have sailed as far as Austra-lia, leaving behind images of their ships carved in stone, and Bugis words which were integrated into the Aboriginal language of northern Australia.
The seafaring Bugis dominate the southern tip of Sulawesi, but in the rugged and remarkable coun-try further north is Tana Toraja, often referred to as the "Land of the Heavenly Kings". The tradi-tional culture of the Torajans rivals any in the archipelago, making this area one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia.
Believing that their forefathers descended from heaven in a boat some twenty generations ago, the Torajas have a unique Christian animist culture .the majority of the people still follow an ancestral cult called "Aluk Todolo", which governs all traditional ceremonies. Their ancestor worship includes elaborate death and after life ceremonies, which are essentially great feasts. A strict social hierarchy is followed in the villages, and for an important figure wedding and burial ceremonies can take days to perform. Water buffalo and pigs are sacrificed In numbers appropriate to social rank, and the deceased's remains are placed in a coffin and interred in caves hollowed out In high cliffs. The mouth of the cave is guarded by lifelike statues, called Tau Tau, who look out from a balcony near the burial caves, watching over the families and friends they have left behind.
Tongkonan, the family houses, are built on stilts with the roof rearing up at either end, represent-ing the prows of the first ship to arrive in the area with the Torajan ancestors. The houses all face north and some say that this is because it was from the north that the ancestors of the Toraja came. Others however will say that the north (and east) is regarded as the realm of the gods, on the compass of life.
South Sulawesi is also famous for its tremen-dous scenery and the quality and talent of its silk and silverwork industries, but the economy is largely based on agriculture. The provincial capi-tal of Ujung Pandang, formerly Makassar; how-ever, has excellent facilities for water sports and is easily accessible by air. There are four daily flights from Jakarta and also daily services from Bali, Surabaya and Manado.
Other places of interest:
Ujung Pandang
Situated at the crossroads of strategic sea lanes steeped in history, the province of South Sulawesi consists of the narrow southwestern peninsula of this mountainous, orchid-shaped island. The capital and chief trad-ing port, Ujung Pandang, is still the gateway to eastern Indonesia.
Spanish and Portuguese galleons, followed by British and Dutch traders, sailed these seas In search of the spice trade, escorted by their Men-of-War to protect them from the daring raids of the Bugis and Makassar pirates. Famed for their seafaring culture, the Bugis are still the driving force behind the world's last commercial sailing fleet. Bugis vessels have sailed as far as Austra-lia, leaving behind images of their ships carved in stone, and Bugis words which were integrated into the Aboriginal language of northern Australia.
The seafaring Bugis dominate the southern tip of Sulawesi, but in the rugged and remarkable coun-try further north is Tana Toraja, often referred to as the "Land of the Heavenly Kings". The tradi-tional culture of the Torajans rivals any in the archipelago, making this area one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia.
Believing that their forefathers descended from heaven in a boat some twenty generations ago, the Torajas have a unique Christian animist culture .the majority of the people still follow an ancestral cult called "Aluk Todolo", which governs all traditional ceremonies. Their ancestor worship includes elaborate death and after life ceremonies, which are essentially great feasts. A strict social hierarchy is followed in the villages, and for an important figure wedding and burial ceremonies can take days to perform. Water buffalo and pigs are sacrificed In numbers appropriate to social rank, and the deceased's remains are placed in a coffin and interred in caves hollowed out In high cliffs. The mouth of the cave is guarded by lifelike statues, called Tau Tau, who look out from a balcony near the burial caves, watching over the families and friends they have left behind.
Tongkonan, the family houses, are built on stilts with the roof rearing up at either end, represent-ing the prows of the first ship to arrive in the area with the Torajan ancestors. The houses all face north and some say that this is because it was from the north that the ancestors of the Toraja came. Others however will say that the north (and east) is regarded as the realm of the gods, on the compass of life.
South Sulawesi is also famous for its tremen-dous scenery and the quality and talent of its silk and silverwork industries, but the economy is largely based on agriculture. The provincial capi-tal of Ujung Pandang, formerly Makassar; how-ever, has excellent facilities for water sports and is easily accessible by air. There are four daily flights from Jakarta and also daily services from Bali, Surabaya and Manado.
Clara Bundt Orchid Garden
Mr. Bundt, a Dutchman, has his private residence at No. 15 Jalan Mochtar Lutfi. His spacious garden is filled with rare Indonesian orchids and hybrids. He also has an enormous collection of seashells and coral. A visit is worthwhile and several of the collections are on sale. Mr. Bundt is registered in the Sander's List of London as an expert in orchid cultivation.
Jalan Penghibur
Sunset in the Mekassar Strait can be viewed from a promenade at Jalan Penghibur or the Paotere anchorage in the north end of the city, where the Bugis schooners are berthed.
Across the harbour is Kayangan Island, which can be reached in 15 minutes by ferry. A popular escape from the city, there is entertainment in the evenings and on Sundays.
Samalona Island
Across the harbour of Ujung Pandang is Samalona Island, which has been developed into a pleasant recreational resort. It can be reached by boat in 45 minutes and has simple accommodation. Recreational sports include diving, snorkeling, water skiing and fishing. Best months to visit are from February to October.
Sungguminasa
Formerly the seat of the kings of Gowa, Sungguminasa is an old wooden palace about 11 kms from Ujung Pandang. Now the Ballalompoa Museum, weapons and Royal costumes are display. The royal regalia which include a stone, studded gold crown weighing 1769 grams, can be seen only on special request.
Tomb of Sultan Hasanuddin
Sultan Hasanuddin (1629-1690) was famous for his exceptional bravery in his struggle against colonial encroachment in South Sulawesi. His huge crypt and those of other kings of Gowa are located in a secluded cemetery not far from Sungguminasa, About 8 km from Ujung Pandang. Just outside the walls of the cemetery a small fenced -off plot contain the Tomaurung stone on which the kings of Gowa were crowned in pomp and the splendour. Not far from the tombs is the oldest mosque in the area, built in 1603
Bulukumba
You will find pristine white sand beaches at Bira, 178 kms from Ujung Pandang.to the south . Traditional shipbuilding is still practiced in this area. This is also the jumping off point for the island of Selayar.
Goa Mampu
The largest cave in South Sulawesi, the legendary cave of Mampu is about 140 kms from the capital. In addition to amazing stalagmites ans stalagtites there are rock formations resembling human figures and animals, all of which have their own particular legend.
Bantimurung
To the north - east of Ujung Pandang are the Bantimurung waterfalls, about 41 kms from the capital. A cascade of sparkling water gushes out between rocky cliffs into a stream shaded by tall trees. The brightly-coloured ornithoid butterflies indegenous to this area are considered among the most beautiful in the world.
Leang-Leang
An important archeological site, these prehistoric caves have strange rock carving of hands and a wild pig believed to be 5,000 years old. The road leads from Maros through the cave-riddled limestone hills to the site, about half an hour's drive from the airport.
Sengkang
The capital town of Wajo Regency is well - known as the center of Bugis silk industry, 240 kms to the northeast of Ujung Pandang in Soppeng a spinning mill produces thread from silk worms. Weaving can be seen in many private homes along this route. The finest silk is handloomed by village women, each of which can produce two metres of silk a month. Visitor is welcome to stop and watch, or make a purchase if there is any readily available. Nearby Lake Temple, is a tourist resort where you can enjoy boating and sailing.
Tana Toraja
The center of tourism in Tana Toraja is Rantepao, 328 kms north - east of Ujung Pandang. Sitting 700 meters above sea level, Rantepao has cool, pleasant evenings. The entry to Tana Toraja is marked by a gate built in traditional boat-shaped style. The road passes the spectacular mountains of Kandora and Gandang on which, according to Toraja mythology, the first ancestors of celestial beings descended from heaven.
Two villages with easily accessible cliff graves are Lemo and Londa. Londa is one of the oldest hanging gravesites, in which are buried many members of local nobility. A large balcony is filled with effigies of the dead, the Tau Tau. Young village guides with kerosene lamps can be hired to enter the caves and see skeletons and old coffins. At lemo, burial chambers are cut out of the rock and several balconies filled with Tau Tau over look new caves being dug to serve as family graves.
Palawa is an excellent village to visit a " Tongkonan", or a burial place still warming with celebrations and festivals. Visitors are welcome but they are expected to adhere to local dress custom, and to bring a token present, such as cigarettes or coffee. Take a side trip from Rantepao Kete, a traditional village with excellent handicraft shops. Behind the village on a hillside is a grave site with lifesize statue guarding over old coffins. As roads are not always paved, it is necessary to use jeep or walk, even when the weather is good, (between May and October).
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Spanish and Portuguese galleons, followed by British and Dutch traders, sailed these seas In search of the spice trade, escorted by their Men-of-War to protect them from the daring raids of the Bugis and Makassar pirates. Famed for their seafaring culture, the Bugis are still the driving force behind the world's last commercial sailing fleet. Bugis vessels have sailed as far as Austra-lia, leaving behind images of their ships carved in stone, and Bugis words which were integrated into the Aboriginal language of northern Australia.
The seafaring Bugis dominate the southern tip of Sulawesi, but in the rugged and remarkable coun-try further north is Tana Toraja, often referred to as the "Land of the Heavenly Kings". The tradi-tional culture of the Torajans rivals any in the archipelago, making this area one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia.
Believing that their forefathers descended from heaven in a boat some twenty generations ago, the Torajas have a unique Christian animist culture .the majority of the people still follow an ancestral cult called "Aluk Todolo", which governs all traditional ceremonies. Their ancestor worship includes elaborate death and after life ceremonies, which are essentially great feasts. A strict social hierarchy is followed in the villages, and for an important figure wedding and burial ceremonies can take days to perform. Water buffalo and pigs are sacrificed In numbers appropriate to social rank, and the deceased's remains are placed in a coffin and interred in caves hollowed out In high cliffs. The mouth of the cave is guarded by lifelike statues, called Tau Tau, who look out from a balcony near the burial caves, watching over the families and friends they have left behind.
Tongkonan, the family houses, are built on stilts with the roof rearing up at either end, represent-ing the prows of the first ship to arrive in the area with the Torajan ancestors. The houses all face north and some say that this is because it was from the north that the ancestors of the Toraja came. Others however will say that the north (and east) is regarded as the realm of the gods, on the compass of life.
South Sulawesi is also famous for its tremen-dous scenery and the quality and talent of its silk and silverwork industries, but the economy is largely based on agriculture. The provincial capi-tal of Ujung Pandang, formerly Makassar; how-ever, has excellent facilities for water sports and is easily accessible by air. There are four daily flights from Jakarta and also daily services from Bali, Surabaya and Manado.
Other places of interest:
Ujung Pandang
Situated at the crossroads of strategic sea lanes steeped in history, the province of South Sulawesi consists of the narrow southwestern peninsula of this mountainous, orchid-shaped island. The capital and chief trad-ing port, Ujung Pandang, is still the gateway to eastern Indonesia.
Spanish and Portuguese galleons, followed by British and Dutch traders, sailed these seas In search of the spice trade, escorted by their Men-of-War to protect them from the daring raids of the Bugis and Makassar pirates. Famed for their seafaring culture, the Bugis are still the driving force behind the world's last commercial sailing fleet. Bugis vessels have sailed as far as Austra-lia, leaving behind images of their ships carved in stone, and Bugis words which were integrated into the Aboriginal language of northern Australia.
The seafaring Bugis dominate the southern tip of Sulawesi, but in the rugged and remarkable coun-try further north is Tana Toraja, often referred to as the "Land of the Heavenly Kings". The tradi-tional culture of the Torajans rivals any in the archipelago, making this area one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia.
Believing that their forefathers descended from heaven in a boat some twenty generations ago, the Torajas have a unique Christian animist culture .the majority of the people still follow an ancestral cult called "Aluk Todolo", which governs all traditional ceremonies. Their ancestor worship includes elaborate death and after life ceremonies, which are essentially great feasts. A strict social hierarchy is followed in the villages, and for an important figure wedding and burial ceremonies can take days to perform. Water buffalo and pigs are sacrificed In numbers appropriate to social rank, and the deceased's remains are placed in a coffin and interred in caves hollowed out In high cliffs. The mouth of the cave is guarded by lifelike statues, called Tau Tau, who look out from a balcony near the burial caves, watching over the families and friends they have left behind.
Tongkonan, the family houses, are built on stilts with the roof rearing up at either end, represent-ing the prows of the first ship to arrive in the area with the Torajan ancestors. The houses all face north and some say that this is because it was from the north that the ancestors of the Toraja came. Others however will say that the north (and east) is regarded as the realm of the gods, on the compass of life.
South Sulawesi is also famous for its tremen-dous scenery and the quality and talent of its silk and silverwork industries, but the economy is largely based on agriculture. The provincial capi-tal of Ujung Pandang, formerly Makassar; how-ever, has excellent facilities for water sports and is easily accessible by air. There are four daily flights from Jakarta and also daily services from Bali, Surabaya and Manado.
Clara Bundt Orchid Garden
Mr. Bundt, a Dutchman, has his private residence at No. 15 Jalan Mochtar Lutfi. His spacious garden is filled with rare Indonesian orchids and hybrids. He also has an enormous collection of seashells and coral. A visit is worthwhile and several of the collections are on sale. Mr. Bundt is registered in the Sander's List of London as an expert in orchid cultivation.
Jalan Penghibur
Sunset in the Mekassar Strait can be viewed from a promenade at Jalan Penghibur or the Paotere anchorage in the north end of the city, where the Bugis schooners are berthed.
Across the harbour is Kayangan Island, which can be reached in 15 minutes by ferry. A popular escape from the city, there is entertainment in the evenings and on Sundays.
Samalona Island
Across the harbour of Ujung Pandang is Samalona Island, which has been developed into a pleasant recreational resort. It can be reached by boat in 45 minutes and has simple accommodation. Recreational sports include diving, snorkeling, water skiing and fishing. Best months to visit are from February to October.
Sungguminasa
Formerly the seat of the kings of Gowa, Sungguminasa is an old wooden palace about 11 kms from Ujung Pandang. Now the Ballalompoa Museum, weapons and Royal costumes are display. The royal regalia which include a stone, studded gold crown weighing 1769 grams, can be seen only on special request.
Tomb of Sultan Hasanuddin
Sultan Hasanuddin (1629-1690) was famous for his exceptional bravery in his struggle against colonial encroachment in South Sulawesi. His huge crypt and those of other kings of Gowa are located in a secluded cemetery not far from Sungguminasa, About 8 km from Ujung Pandang. Just outside the walls of the cemetery a small fenced -off plot contain the Tomaurung stone on which the kings of Gowa were crowned in pomp and the splendour. Not far from the tombs is the oldest mosque in the area, built in 1603
Bulukumba
You will find pristine white sand beaches at Bira, 178 kms from Ujung Pandang.to the south . Traditional shipbuilding is still practiced in this area. This is also the jumping off point for the island of Selayar.
Goa Mampu
The largest cave in South Sulawesi, the legendary cave of Mampu is about 140 kms from the capital. In addition to amazing stalagmites ans stalagtites there are rock formations resembling human figures and animals, all of which have their own particular legend.
Bantimurung
To the north - east of Ujung Pandang are the Bantimurung waterfalls, about 41 kms from the capital. A cascade of sparkling water gushes out between rocky cliffs into a stream shaded by tall trees. The brightly-coloured ornithoid butterflies indegenous to this area are considered among the most beautiful in the world.
Leang-Leang
An important archeological site, these prehistoric caves have strange rock carving of hands and a wild pig believed to be 5,000 years old. The road leads from Maros through the cave-riddled limestone hills to the site, about half an hour's drive from the airport.
Sengkang
The capital town of Wajo Regency is well - known as the center of Bugis silk industry, 240 kms to the northeast of Ujung Pandang in Soppeng a spinning mill produces thread from silk worms. Weaving can be seen in many private homes along this route. The finest silk is handloomed by village women, each of which can produce two metres of silk a month. Visitor is welcome to stop and watch, or make a purchase if there is any readily available. Nearby Lake Temple, is a tourist resort where you can enjoy boating and sailing.
Tana Toraja
The center of tourism in Tana Toraja is Rantepao, 328 kms north - east of Ujung Pandang. Sitting 700 meters above sea level, Rantepao has cool, pleasant evenings. The entry to Tana Toraja is marked by a gate built in traditional boat-shaped style. The road passes the spectacular mountains of Kandora and Gandang on which, according to Toraja mythology, the first ancestors of celestial beings descended from heaven.
Two villages with easily accessible cliff graves are Lemo and Londa. Londa is one of the oldest hanging gravesites, in which are buried many members of local nobility. A large balcony is filled with effigies of the dead, the Tau Tau. Young village guides with kerosene lamps can be hired to enter the caves and see skeletons and old coffins. At lemo, burial chambers are cut out of the rock and several balconies filled with Tau Tau over look new caves being dug to serve as family graves.
Palawa is an excellent village to visit a " Tongkonan", or a burial place still warming with celebrations and festivals. Visitors are welcome but they are expected to adhere to local dress custom, and to bring a token present, such as cigarettes or coffee. Take a side trip from Rantepao Kete, a traditional village with excellent handicraft shops. Behind the village on a hillside is a grave site with lifesize statue guarding over old coffins. As roads are not always paved, it is necessary to use jeep or walk, even when the weather is good, (between May and October).
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Central Kalimantan The Province
Central Kalimantan is the biggest province on the island, covering 153,800 square kilometers, most of which is jungle. The northern area is mountainous and difficult to reach. The central area is dense tropical forest. The southern are is swampy and has many rivers. The climate is hot and humid.
The three sub-tribes who inhabit this province are the Ngaju, Ot Danum, and Ma'ayan Ot Siang. The Ngaju are nomadic, adhering to the old Kaharingan religion, which is a form of ancestor worship mixed with elements of animism. With approximately 6,000 people, the Ot Danum is the largest among the three sub-tribes. The Ot Danum live in long houses, which sometimes have as many as 50 rooms. The women are known for their skill in plaiting rattan, palm leaves, and bamboo. Like other Dayaks, the men are good hunters, using simple tools.
The art of Central Kalimantan clearly bears the marks of the Kaharingan religion, which is the traditional belief of the Dayaks in the hinterland of Central Kalimantan. Building styles, statues and carvings have been influenced by the Hindus, Chinese, and Hindu-Javanese. Aside from their aesthetic properties, many objects are appreciated for their magic value.
Other places of interest:
Palangkaraya
In the local Dayak language, Palangkaraya means 'holy container'. Palangkaraya can easily be reached from Jakarta, Banjarmasin, Samarinda, Balikpapan and other points on the island by air. The town has become the center of government, trade and education of the province. The Regional Museum of Palangkaraya contains a collection of historical and cultural interest from all over Central Kalimantan. The Nature Reserve of Tangkiling lies 34 kilometers north of Palangkaraya.
Kualakapuas
Kualakapuas is the capital of the Kapuas regency, on the Kapuas River 40 kilometers from Banjarmasin. A well-known tourist attraction is Telo Island, a pleasant fishing village and port. For the adventurer, white-water rafters and nature's lovers, there is Gohong Rawai, known for its beautiful and challenging rapids. The gold mines of Teweh and Batu Api, Rungan district, are also interesting sites to be visited. In this region, gold mining is a major source of livelihood for the people, who pan for the valuable metal using the old traditional method. Gold mines are found in many places in Central Kalimantan.
Sampit
Sampit is the biggest timber port in Kalimantan and Indonesia. Pandaran Beach is a park on the seaside at the mouth of the Sampit river. The Orchid Park of Pembuangan Hulu is home to a number of rare and beautiful orchid varieties. Hunters can engage in their favorite pastime in the hunting park of Kotawaringin Barat.
Pangkalanbun
Pangkalanbun is the capital of the Kotawaringin Barat regency, in the western part of Central Kalimantan. Make sure to visit the old Palace of Pangkalabuan, constructed completely out of ulin (ironwood). It is the only Banjar royal legacy found in Central Kalimantan. The Mosque of Kyai Gede is more than 300 years old. Tanjung Puting National Park is a well-known nature and wildlife reserves in the lowland and swamp forests, inhabited by orang utans, owa-owa, bekantan and other primates. One can visit the Orang Utan Rehabilitation Center, which is supported by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
source www.travel-indonesia.com
The three sub-tribes who inhabit this province are the Ngaju, Ot Danum, and Ma'ayan Ot Siang. The Ngaju are nomadic, adhering to the old Kaharingan religion, which is a form of ancestor worship mixed with elements of animism. With approximately 6,000 people, the Ot Danum is the largest among the three sub-tribes. The Ot Danum live in long houses, which sometimes have as many as 50 rooms. The women are known for their skill in plaiting rattan, palm leaves, and bamboo. Like other Dayaks, the men are good hunters, using simple tools.
The art of Central Kalimantan clearly bears the marks of the Kaharingan religion, which is the traditional belief of the Dayaks in the hinterland of Central Kalimantan. Building styles, statues and carvings have been influenced by the Hindus, Chinese, and Hindu-Javanese. Aside from their aesthetic properties, many objects are appreciated for their magic value.
Other places of interest:
Palangkaraya
In the local Dayak language, Palangkaraya means 'holy container'. Palangkaraya can easily be reached from Jakarta, Banjarmasin, Samarinda, Balikpapan and other points on the island by air. The town has become the center of government, trade and education of the province. The Regional Museum of Palangkaraya contains a collection of historical and cultural interest from all over Central Kalimantan. The Nature Reserve of Tangkiling lies 34 kilometers north of Palangkaraya.
Kualakapuas
Kualakapuas is the capital of the Kapuas regency, on the Kapuas River 40 kilometers from Banjarmasin. A well-known tourist attraction is Telo Island, a pleasant fishing village and port. For the adventurer, white-water rafters and nature's lovers, there is Gohong Rawai, known for its beautiful and challenging rapids. The gold mines of Teweh and Batu Api, Rungan district, are also interesting sites to be visited. In this region, gold mining is a major source of livelihood for the people, who pan for the valuable metal using the old traditional method. Gold mines are found in many places in Central Kalimantan.
Sampit
Sampit is the biggest timber port in Kalimantan and Indonesia. Pandaran Beach is a park on the seaside at the mouth of the Sampit river. The Orchid Park of Pembuangan Hulu is home to a number of rare and beautiful orchid varieties. Hunters can engage in their favorite pastime in the hunting park of Kotawaringin Barat.
Pangkalanbun
Pangkalanbun is the capital of the Kotawaringin Barat regency, in the western part of Central Kalimantan. Make sure to visit the old Palace of Pangkalabuan, constructed completely out of ulin (ironwood). It is the only Banjar royal legacy found in Central Kalimantan. The Mosque of Kyai Gede is more than 300 years old. Tanjung Puting National Park is a well-known nature and wildlife reserves in the lowland and swamp forests, inhabited by orang utans, owa-owa, bekantan and other primates. One can visit the Orang Utan Rehabilitation Center, which is supported by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
source www.travel-indonesia.com
East Kalimantan The Province
As a major producer of oil and timber, East Kalimantan is at present the most industrially advanced province of the island and the second largest province in Indonesia. It is also the home of the original inhabitants of Kalimantan, the Orang Gunung or Mountain People. The tribes to collectively called Dayak although this name is not embraced by many tribes-people themselves, who prefer to be known by Separate tribal names such as Iban, Punan and Banuaq.
Local tribes traditionally live in communal long houses called Lamin or Umaq Daru. They are built on wooden piles, sometimes 3 metres high as protection against wild animals and flooding. The Punan people are nomadic hunter-gatherers, and only use the long house at the height of the rainy season. Steeped in tradition, the interior of the long house is typically divided into separate family quarters with communal areas connect-ing each of the families. It is in these communal areas that village meetings are held and ceremonies performed thereby reinforcing the strong tribal bonds in the face of rapidly advancing 20th century technology.
Guardian statues are normally placed in front of long houses to protect them against evil' spirits who bring disease and bad fortune. The more remote and traditional tribes -people have pierced earlobes which over the years have become stretched by the weight of heavy gold or brass rings, and beautifully elaborate tattoos. Local jewellery and designs are intricate and powerful, often giving messages to he passed down from generation to generation.
The most common starting points for many journeys and adventures inland are Balikpapan and Samarinda, the provincial capital. Traveling along the extensive Mahakam river system is a fascinating adventure. River boats slide unobtru-sively through heavily silt-laden waters, wild orchids drip off trees, Proboscis monkeyssignal your arrival to the crocodiles and legendary horn bills.
A 5,000 acre Orchid Reservation close to the village of Kersil Luwai cultivates 27 different species of orchid including the very rare Colo-genia Pandurata or black orchid.
Other places of interest:
Samarinda
Samarinda is known for its fine sarong cloth. The City shows some signs of being the capital of a prosperous province. New government office and public utilities arc rising everywhere. Samarinda has a number of modest but comfortable hotels.
Balikpapan
Balikpapan, the center of Kalimantan's oil industry, is also the Gateway to East Kalimantan with air and sea connections to Jakarta and other major points in Indonesia. Balikpapan has a number of good hotels, including one of international standard, as well as recreation facilities. It has the second busiest airport in the nation after Jakarta.
Berau and Marine Tourism on Derawan Island
Found here are the remains of a king called the Keraton Gunung Tambur and The keraton Sambaliungderawan island is + 3 hours by a long boat from tanjung Redep. There are many rare animals sush as green turtle, the Scalet turtle, star fruit turtle and sea cow.
Tanah Merah Indah - Lempake
This is recreational park called Tanah Merah Indah-Lemapake with a waterfall, located + 16 km from downtown Samarinda. It can be reached by car or public transportation.
Tenggarong
Tenggarong, up the Mahakam river from Samarinda, is the capital of the Kutai regency' and was once the seat of the Kutai sultanate. The Sultan's palace at the riverside is now a museum where the old royal paraphernalia are kept, as well as an excellent collection of antique Chinese cera-mics. Dayak statues can be admired in the yard. A curious thing about the royal paraphernalia is that they display a strong resemblance with Java's court traditions. Every 24th of September, the former palace becomes a stage of dance and music performances given to celebrate the towns' anniversary.
Tanjung Isuy
This little settlement around Lake Jempang, In the lake-studded East Kalimnantan hinterland, has a traditional Dayak long house, which have been turned into lodges for visitors. The grave of a Benuaq Dayak chief lies aside the hamlet's only road.Visitors are usually given a traditional Benuaq Dayak welcome. The trip to Tanjung Isuy over the Mahakam River is a long but interesting one past floating villages and forest scenery. If you are lucky, you can watch a belian, or witch doctor dressed in his skirt of leaves, cures his patients at night by performing the rites prescribed by ancestors to the frenzied accompaniment of gongs and drums. Many Benuaq Dayaks still prefer the old cures to the modern ones at government public health center, which are nearby.
Melak - Kersik Luway
Melak is a little village further ustream on the Mahakam River in the heart of the land of Tanjung Dayak. Not far from the village is the Kersik Luway nature reserve, where the 'Black Orchid' grows.
Muara Ancalong - Muara Wahau
Dances of the Kenyah Dayak are often performed here for visitors at a traditional long house.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Local tribes traditionally live in communal long houses called Lamin or Umaq Daru. They are built on wooden piles, sometimes 3 metres high as protection against wild animals and flooding. The Punan people are nomadic hunter-gatherers, and only use the long house at the height of the rainy season. Steeped in tradition, the interior of the long house is typically divided into separate family quarters with communal areas connect-ing each of the families. It is in these communal areas that village meetings are held and ceremonies performed thereby reinforcing the strong tribal bonds in the face of rapidly advancing 20th century technology.
Guardian statues are normally placed in front of long houses to protect them against evil' spirits who bring disease and bad fortune. The more remote and traditional tribes -people have pierced earlobes which over the years have become stretched by the weight of heavy gold or brass rings, and beautifully elaborate tattoos. Local jewellery and designs are intricate and powerful, often giving messages to he passed down from generation to generation.
The most common starting points for many journeys and adventures inland are Balikpapan and Samarinda, the provincial capital. Traveling along the extensive Mahakam river system is a fascinating adventure. River boats slide unobtru-sively through heavily silt-laden waters, wild orchids drip off trees, Proboscis monkeyssignal your arrival to the crocodiles and legendary horn bills.
A 5,000 acre Orchid Reservation close to the village of Kersil Luwai cultivates 27 different species of orchid including the very rare Colo-genia Pandurata or black orchid.
Other places of interest:
Samarinda
Samarinda is known for its fine sarong cloth. The City shows some signs of being the capital of a prosperous province. New government office and public utilities arc rising everywhere. Samarinda has a number of modest but comfortable hotels.
Balikpapan
Balikpapan, the center of Kalimantan's oil industry, is also the Gateway to East Kalimantan with air and sea connections to Jakarta and other major points in Indonesia. Balikpapan has a number of good hotels, including one of international standard, as well as recreation facilities. It has the second busiest airport in the nation after Jakarta.
Berau and Marine Tourism on Derawan Island
Found here are the remains of a king called the Keraton Gunung Tambur and The keraton Sambaliungderawan island is + 3 hours by a long boat from tanjung Redep. There are many rare animals sush as green turtle, the Scalet turtle, star fruit turtle and sea cow.
Tanah Merah Indah - Lempake
This is recreational park called Tanah Merah Indah-Lemapake with a waterfall, located + 16 km from downtown Samarinda. It can be reached by car or public transportation.
Tenggarong
Tenggarong, up the Mahakam river from Samarinda, is the capital of the Kutai regency' and was once the seat of the Kutai sultanate. The Sultan's palace at the riverside is now a museum where the old royal paraphernalia are kept, as well as an excellent collection of antique Chinese cera-mics. Dayak statues can be admired in the yard. A curious thing about the royal paraphernalia is that they display a strong resemblance with Java's court traditions. Every 24th of September, the former palace becomes a stage of dance and music performances given to celebrate the towns' anniversary.
Tanjung Isuy
This little settlement around Lake Jempang, In the lake-studded East Kalimnantan hinterland, has a traditional Dayak long house, which have been turned into lodges for visitors. The grave of a Benuaq Dayak chief lies aside the hamlet's only road.Visitors are usually given a traditional Benuaq Dayak welcome. The trip to Tanjung Isuy over the Mahakam River is a long but interesting one past floating villages and forest scenery. If you are lucky, you can watch a belian, or witch doctor dressed in his skirt of leaves, cures his patients at night by performing the rites prescribed by ancestors to the frenzied accompaniment of gongs and drums. Many Benuaq Dayaks still prefer the old cures to the modern ones at government public health center, which are nearby.
Melak - Kersik Luway
Melak is a little village further ustream on the Mahakam River in the heart of the land of Tanjung Dayak. Not far from the village is the Kersik Luway nature reserve, where the 'Black Orchid' grows.
Muara Ancalong - Muara Wahau
Dances of the Kenyah Dayak are often performed here for visitors at a traditional long house.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
West Kalimantan Land of the Equator
Lying directly on the equator and serving as the main gateway into the Province of West Kalimantan is the provincial capital of Pontianak. Founded in 1771 by Syarif Abdul Rahman Al-Kadri of Saudi Arabia, the city is now a bustling economic hub as well as home to a sizeable university and a giant indoor sports stadium. Canals crisscross the city and one of Indonesia's longest rivers, the Kapuas (1143 km long), divides the town in two, providing an essential and historical communications link. Like Java and Sumatra, West Kalimantan was once an important cultural crossroads.
Hinduism reached West Kalimantan by about the year 400 and evidence of both early Hindu and Buddhist civilizations in the region have been discovered. Stone carvings and ceramics can be traced as far as the 5th century, but it is the influence of Islam that has had the most impact on this region.
The advent of Islam in West Kalimantan occurred at about the same time as the rise of the first Islamic Kingdom in Aceh in the 15th century. Islam was rapidly embraced and various kingdoms grew in strength and power, particularly because of Kalimantan's strategic importance along trade routes to China and the Philippines.
West Kalimantan covers an area of over 146.807 sq km, rich in a variety of minerals and precious stones, and remains largely unexplored. Coastal areas are mainly swamp lands with more than 100 rivers sculpting the flat plains. In the mountainous eastern parts of the province, away from the city and plains, there are many Dayak villages.
The Dayaks have ancient traditions and beliefs which are expressed in various forms; earlobes elongated by heavy earnings, tattoos, intricate paintings, designs and carvings and wonderful dances of respect, heroism, welcome cure. A large Chinese population, Malays and other Indonesian ethnic groups account for the rest of the inhabitants of the province.
West Kalimantan is easily accessible from Jakarta or Singapore by air and boat and overland journeys provide a rare opportunity to see the interior of one the world's largest and richest islands.
Other places of interest:
Pontianak
The best way to see Pontianak is by boat along the canals that crisis-cross the city. Special places of interest include: Equator Monument, Kadariah palace in Kampung Dalam, the State Museum, and the Kapuas and Landak Bridges. No visit to Pontianak would be complete without an adventure into one of the famous floating markets. The nearby beach resort for diving, fishing and sailing.
Betang (Long House)
There is a traditional Dayak long house at Saham village. The structure measures 186m long and 6m wide, with 269 people living together under a single roof! There is no accommodation here.
Pasir Panjang
17 km from Singkawang in the Sambas regency, is the beach resort of Pasir Panjang, ideal for swimming and tennis. Comfortable cottages are available. In the vicinity of Singkawang, the Gunung Poteng Hill Resort is a good place for nature lovers.
National Park and Nature Reserve
The Gunung (Mount) Palung National Park, located in the Ketapang regency, is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna. Hot springs, lakes and caves are among the many special features here.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Hinduism reached West Kalimantan by about the year 400 and evidence of both early Hindu and Buddhist civilizations in the region have been discovered. Stone carvings and ceramics can be traced as far as the 5th century, but it is the influence of Islam that has had the most impact on this region.
The advent of Islam in West Kalimantan occurred at about the same time as the rise of the first Islamic Kingdom in Aceh in the 15th century. Islam was rapidly embraced and various kingdoms grew in strength and power, particularly because of Kalimantan's strategic importance along trade routes to China and the Philippines.
West Kalimantan covers an area of over 146.807 sq km, rich in a variety of minerals and precious stones, and remains largely unexplored. Coastal areas are mainly swamp lands with more than 100 rivers sculpting the flat plains. In the mountainous eastern parts of the province, away from the city and plains, there are many Dayak villages.
The Dayaks have ancient traditions and beliefs which are expressed in various forms; earlobes elongated by heavy earnings, tattoos, intricate paintings, designs and carvings and wonderful dances of respect, heroism, welcome cure. A large Chinese population, Malays and other Indonesian ethnic groups account for the rest of the inhabitants of the province.
West Kalimantan is easily accessible from Jakarta or Singapore by air and boat and overland journeys provide a rare opportunity to see the interior of one the world's largest and richest islands.
Other places of interest:
Pontianak
The best way to see Pontianak is by boat along the canals that crisis-cross the city. Special places of interest include: Equator Monument, Kadariah palace in Kampung Dalam, the State Museum, and the Kapuas and Landak Bridges. No visit to Pontianak would be complete without an adventure into one of the famous floating markets. The nearby beach resort for diving, fishing and sailing.
Betang (Long House)
There is a traditional Dayak long house at Saham village. The structure measures 186m long and 6m wide, with 269 people living together under a single roof! There is no accommodation here.
Pasir Panjang
17 km from Singkawang in the Sambas regency, is the beach resort of Pasir Panjang, ideal for swimming and tennis. Comfortable cottages are available. In the vicinity of Singkawang, the Gunung Poteng Hill Resort is a good place for nature lovers.
National Park and Nature Reserve
The Gunung (Mount) Palung National Park, located in the Ketapang regency, is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna. Hot springs, lakes and caves are among the many special features here.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
South Kalimantan -The Region
The Meratus Mountains divided South Kalimantan into two distinct regions. The eastern part of the province is filled with the mountains covered with dense tropical rain forests, home to the "Orang Gunnung" or Mountain Peoples.
Collectively called the Dayak, they form the minority of the region's population. The Southern section of the province is much flatter with large rivers, meandering through lowlands to vast mangrove swamps along the coast, helping to make South Kalimantan an exceptional fertile land. Many villages and settlements have been built along these rivers, particularly the Barito River, by the indigenous majority, the Banjar.
South Kalimantan is full colorful and distinctive traditional arts and cultures which can be seen in its people's ways of life, art, dance, music, ancestral dress, games and ceremonies. Exquisite traditional and commercial hand-crafts are all made from local raw materials which include a variety of precious and semi-precious stones, gold, silver, brass, iron and a wide variety of trees such as ironwood, meranti, pinups and rubber have helped to make the province a unique and rich natural resource.
The provincial capital, Banjarmasin, lies a short distance from the mouth of the Barito River at its confluence with the Martapura River. The rivers are literally the lifeblood of the city and everything revolves around them. They are lined with tightly packed stilt houses. A lot of business is done on the water ways; floating markets flourish selling an enormous variety of goods including a tropical selection of fresh fruit such as Kesturi, a rare aromatic species of mango, durian, rambutan, butter fruit, pineapple, watermelon and banana.
South Kalimantan is well connected with cities all over the Indonesian Archipelago through Syamsuddin North airport, which is about 25 km from Banjarmasin. This busy airport handles DC-9's, allowing Merpati Nusantara, Bouraq and Sempati dan Dirgantara Air to service the prov-ince. South Kalimantan can also be reached by sea at Trisakti arid Banjarmasin. For interior travel there are roads, but the waterways are the pre-ferred form of travel.
Other places of interest:
Banjarmasin and its surroundings
Banjarmasin, the capital city, lies at the delta of the Barito river. Nicknamed ‘River City’, it is crisscrossed by numerous rivers of various sizes and lengths, the major two being the Martapura and Nagara. Local people build traditional floating houses made of wood or bamboo facing the rivers called "lanting". There is a virtual flood of lively floating markets. To experience Banjarmasin you must take to the river, either by "klotok" (river bus), or a speedboat for longer trips.
Banjarmasin is developing as a tourist city. Supermarkets such as Mitra Plaza,Ujung Murung Central Market, and Pasar Barn provide for the travelers needs. There are 7 starred hotels and 20 lesser hotels. For entertainment there are 21 movie theatres, Karaoke bars, cultural theatres and restaurants serving local as well as international foods.
Floating Market
There are floating markets of all sizes everywhere on the river, but one of the best is at the junction of the Kuin and Barito rivers. Get there early, everyone packs up and heads home by 9am.
Flower Island
The island on the Barito River is not far from the floating market. Although there are many species of monkeys on the island, most of the action is at the old Chinese temple where local Chinese bring offerings of fresh fruit and peanuts to a tribe of aggressive macaques in hopes of being blessed with even greater prosperity.
Kaget Island
It takes about 1 1/2 hours by klotok boat or 1 hour by speedboat to get to this island reserve, home to a wide variety of birds and monkeys, most notably the humorous long-nosed proboscis monkeys.
Diamond Digging at Cempaka & Martapura
Cempaka is a small village 10-km from Banjarbaru, and 45 minutes from Banjannasin. It is an old site of traditional diamond dig, using very simple equipment. In 1985 a large raw diamond of 116.7 carats was found. Martapura is the center of diamond and precious stone polishing.
Loksado
Loksado is an important market town in the mountains east of Kandangan, and an excellent place to base yourself for exploring the area. There are a few small losmen and hotels for accommodation. The trekking is wonderful, over 20 villages in the surrounding area are inhabited by peoples lying in the traditional ways.
Adventure River Rafting
The Amandit River runs through Loksado and then joins the mighty Barito River. Visitors usu-ally use the river to get back after visiting Loksado. The river trip, by either bamboo or rubber boat, includes some exciting white water sections. The trip can be made in two parts. The first is from Loksado to Muara Hatip. The second is from Muara Hatip to Batu Laki. The first stretch has rapids ranked grades t to 2 1/2. The second includes rapids of grade 3.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Collectively called the Dayak, they form the minority of the region's population. The Southern section of the province is much flatter with large rivers, meandering through lowlands to vast mangrove swamps along the coast, helping to make South Kalimantan an exceptional fertile land. Many villages and settlements have been built along these rivers, particularly the Barito River, by the indigenous majority, the Banjar.
South Kalimantan is full colorful and distinctive traditional arts and cultures which can be seen in its people's ways of life, art, dance, music, ancestral dress, games and ceremonies. Exquisite traditional and commercial hand-crafts are all made from local raw materials which include a variety of precious and semi-precious stones, gold, silver, brass, iron and a wide variety of trees such as ironwood, meranti, pinups and rubber have helped to make the province a unique and rich natural resource.
The provincial capital, Banjarmasin, lies a short distance from the mouth of the Barito River at its confluence with the Martapura River. The rivers are literally the lifeblood of the city and everything revolves around them. They are lined with tightly packed stilt houses. A lot of business is done on the water ways; floating markets flourish selling an enormous variety of goods including a tropical selection of fresh fruit such as Kesturi, a rare aromatic species of mango, durian, rambutan, butter fruit, pineapple, watermelon and banana.
South Kalimantan is well connected with cities all over the Indonesian Archipelago through Syamsuddin North airport, which is about 25 km from Banjarmasin. This busy airport handles DC-9's, allowing Merpati Nusantara, Bouraq and Sempati dan Dirgantara Air to service the prov-ince. South Kalimantan can also be reached by sea at Trisakti arid Banjarmasin. For interior travel there are roads, but the waterways are the pre-ferred form of travel.
Other places of interest:
Banjarmasin and its surroundings
Banjarmasin, the capital city, lies at the delta of the Barito river. Nicknamed ‘River City’, it is crisscrossed by numerous rivers of various sizes and lengths, the major two being the Martapura and Nagara. Local people build traditional floating houses made of wood or bamboo facing the rivers called "lanting". There is a virtual flood of lively floating markets. To experience Banjarmasin you must take to the river, either by "klotok" (river bus), or a speedboat for longer trips.
Banjarmasin is developing as a tourist city. Supermarkets such as Mitra Plaza,Ujung Murung Central Market, and Pasar Barn provide for the travelers needs. There are 7 starred hotels and 20 lesser hotels. For entertainment there are 21 movie theatres, Karaoke bars, cultural theatres and restaurants serving local as well as international foods.
Floating Market
There are floating markets of all sizes everywhere on the river, but one of the best is at the junction of the Kuin and Barito rivers. Get there early, everyone packs up and heads home by 9am.
Flower Island
The island on the Barito River is not far from the floating market. Although there are many species of monkeys on the island, most of the action is at the old Chinese temple where local Chinese bring offerings of fresh fruit and peanuts to a tribe of aggressive macaques in hopes of being blessed with even greater prosperity.
Kaget Island
It takes about 1 1/2 hours by klotok boat or 1 hour by speedboat to get to this island reserve, home to a wide variety of birds and monkeys, most notably the humorous long-nosed proboscis monkeys.
Diamond Digging at Cempaka & Martapura
Cempaka is a small village 10-km from Banjarbaru, and 45 minutes from Banjannasin. It is an old site of traditional diamond dig, using very simple equipment. In 1985 a large raw diamond of 116.7 carats was found. Martapura is the center of diamond and precious stone polishing.
Loksado
Loksado is an important market town in the mountains east of Kandangan, and an excellent place to base yourself for exploring the area. There are a few small losmen and hotels for accommodation. The trekking is wonderful, over 20 villages in the surrounding area are inhabited by peoples lying in the traditional ways.
Adventure River Rafting
The Amandit River runs through Loksado and then joins the mighty Barito River. Visitors usu-ally use the river to get back after visiting Loksado. The river trip, by either bamboo or rubber boat, includes some exciting white water sections. The trip can be made in two parts. The first is from Loksado to Muara Hatip. The second is from Muara Hatip to Batu Laki. The first stretch has rapids ranked grades t to 2 1/2. The second includes rapids of grade 3.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Lampung
Ancient Chinese travel chronicles refer to a place in the most southerly part of Sumatra called "Lampung" or "place of the Southerly winds". Megalithic sculptures discovered in Kebontebu, Kenali, Pugung and Batubedil also help to date the province to Indonesia's greatest maritime empire, Sriwajaya. Strategically located looking towards krakatau and Java across the Sunda Strait, Lampung has along history of trade is still an important gateway into Sumatra, particularly from Jakarta.
The Province is generally flat with the highest mountains of Gunung Pesagi, Tanggamas,
Seminiung, Sekincau and Raya all are being doormat volcanoes. Pundar Lampung, the Provincial capital, was formerly two separate towns, Tanjungkarang and the port of Telukbetung, which after the infamous eruptions of Krakatau were both completely covered in volcanic ash. In the course of development, however, these towns have merged together to become one single city. Being blessed with incredibly fertile soil, agriculture has naturally become the main industry of the province. Clove, coffee and coconut plantations are abundant along the southern coast while pepper, coffee, cassava, cocoa and rice are preferred in the eastern sections of the region. The area around Lake Ranu is primarily a tobacco growing area.
The Way Kambas Nature Reserve in the west of the province is a perfect place to see Sumatran elephants being trained to work in thick tropical jungles as well as hundreds of species of exotic birds. Tigers still roam this land although they are rare. The largest flower in the world, Rafflesia, can be seen at the Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park.
Other places of interest:
Bandar Lampung
The capital of Lampung has a several interesting places such as the Monument of the Krakatau Eruption, as well as Tapis textile art and dance performances.
Krakatau
An uninhabited island, Krakatau is located on the southern part of the Bay of Lampung. Krakatau is reachable in three hours by boat from Canti, a fishing village near Kalianda, South Lampung. Anak Krakatau (Child of Krakatau) is still growing, first emerging from the sea in early 1928, 45 years after the legendary eruption in 1883.
Pugung Archeological Site
Located in Pugung Raharjo village, 40 kms northeast of Bandar Lampung is a site of megalith and pre-historic relics, as well as those of the classical Hindu-Buddhist period.
Merak Belatung Beach
Located 40 kms south of Banar Lampung, on the way to the seaport of Bekauheni, the beach is ideal for swimming and wind surfing. Cottages are available.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
The Province is generally flat with the highest mountains of Gunung Pesagi, Tanggamas,
Seminiung, Sekincau and Raya all are being doormat volcanoes. Pundar Lampung, the Provincial capital, was formerly two separate towns, Tanjungkarang and the port of Telukbetung, which after the infamous eruptions of Krakatau were both completely covered in volcanic ash. In the course of development, however, these towns have merged together to become one single city. Being blessed with incredibly fertile soil, agriculture has naturally become the main industry of the province. Clove, coffee and coconut plantations are abundant along the southern coast while pepper, coffee, cassava, cocoa and rice are preferred in the eastern sections of the region. The area around Lake Ranu is primarily a tobacco growing area.
The Way Kambas Nature Reserve in the west of the province is a perfect place to see Sumatran elephants being trained to work in thick tropical jungles as well as hundreds of species of exotic birds. Tigers still roam this land although they are rare. The largest flower in the world, Rafflesia, can be seen at the Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park.
Other places of interest:
Bandar Lampung
The capital of Lampung has a several interesting places such as the Monument of the Krakatau Eruption, as well as Tapis textile art and dance performances.
Krakatau
An uninhabited island, Krakatau is located on the southern part of the Bay of Lampung. Krakatau is reachable in three hours by boat from Canti, a fishing village near Kalianda, South Lampung. Anak Krakatau (Child of Krakatau) is still growing, first emerging from the sea in early 1928, 45 years after the legendary eruption in 1883.
Pugung Archeological Site
Located in Pugung Raharjo village, 40 kms northeast of Bandar Lampung is a site of megalith and pre-historic relics, as well as those of the classical Hindu-Buddhist period.
Merak Belatung Beach
Located 40 kms south of Banar Lampung, on the way to the seaport of Bekauheni, the beach is ideal for swimming and wind surfing. Cottages are available.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Riau- The Islands
The 3,000 Islands of the Rim province straddle the Straits of Malacca, one of the oldest and busiest trading routes in the world. For centuries the islands have provided a safe haven to traders and sailors from Europe, India and China, retaining today the flavor of an ancient 'crossroads of the world'. The romantic history of this region is rich with tales of piracy and inter-national conflict. Riau, which includes a large part of East Sumatra, is homeland to the Malays and the source of Indonesia's Malay-based natio-nal language. The first book of Malay grammar, called Bustanul Katibin, was written and published here in 1857.
Since its founding in 1402 by Parameswara, the Kingdom of Malacca played a leading role in the history of the area. With the arrival of the Portu-guese a period of wars for control of the Straits began. The situation was aggravated by the arrival of the Dutch and British in the early 17th century.
A turbulent conflict followed, which was partially resolved by the Treaty of London in 1824, giving the Dutch control of all European territories south of Singapore. This area Included Riau, and effectively severed its links with Johor and the mainland. The Dutch subjugated and dissolved the rebellious Riau Sultanate in 1911, but the province's Influence remained strong.
Pekanbaru in Sumatra became the provincial capi-tal in 1959, taking over from the former capital of Tanjungpinang on the Island of Bintan. Tanjung-pinang is, however, still the most Important town in the province. Its proximity to Singapore has made it a main business and shopping port and together with the nearby island of Batani, it is promising to become an area of major investment and development in the years ahead. The future looks bright for Riau; because of its strategic position with the rest of Asia it is rapidly being developed as a major economic zone.
Other places of interest:
Pekanbaru
About 160 kms upstream on the Siak river, Pekanbaru, Riau's provincial capital, has a number of buildings in the traditional style of the area, among them the Balai Dang Merdu, the Balai Adat and Taman Budaya Riau, or Cultural Park.
The Siak Sultanate's Park
This Moorish style palace of the Sultan of Siak, 120 kms upstream from Pekanbaru on the siak river, was built in 1889 by Sultan Syarif Hasyim Abdul Jalil Syarifuddin. Now a museum, the palace contains the sultanate's royal paraphernalia and other items of historical interest. Established during the 16th century, the Siak Seri Inderapura sultanate lasted until 1946, when it became a victim of the popular upheavals following the Japanese surrender at the close of World War II.
Candi Muara Takus
Like many other structures of its kind in Sumatra, this Buddhist stupa near the village of Muara Takus in the Tigabelas Koto district was built with red bricks and sand. The temple is believed to have been built at around the 9th or 10th century AD when the power of the South Sumatra-based Sriwijaya empire was at its peak. Excavations are still being made to deter-mine the precise age and function of the stupa.
Tanjung Pinang
A busy little town on Bintan Island, visited by traders from Jakarta, Medan, Palembang and other big cities in Indonesia, Tanjung Pinang is only a two-hour boat ride from Singapore. A large section of the old part of the town was built in traditional local fashion, on stilts, over the water. Bintan is a good point of departure to other islands in the area.
Penyangat Island
This island, six kilometers from Tanjung Pinang, can be reached in 15 minutes by boat. The seat of the powerful Bugis viceroys of Riau during 18th century, Penyangat still bears the traces of its illustrations past. Ruins, abandoned for almost 70 years, were recently restored. The old ruler's palace and royal tombs are among the legacies left by the Riau sultanate. Still in use is the old vice royal mosque, the Mesjid Raya. There is also a newly built cultural center for stage performances of Malay music and dance.
Kerumutan Nature Reserve
Located on mainland Riau in the Kuala Kampar district, this 120,000 hectares (30.000 acres) nature reserve can be reached in 18 hours by motor boat from Pekanbaru. Journey by boat up a peaceful river into the heart of virgin forests for a unforgettable experience of Indonesia's wilderness.
Batam Island
Batam is one of the 3,000 islands, which make up the Riau Archipelago and is closest to Singapore, which is only 20 kms away or twenty minutes by air-conditioned ferry. It has a rapid-growing population of around 100.000. As the island develops into a major industrial and tourist area, it attracts an ever increasing population from other Indonesian islands who see Batam as a haven of opportunity. Once almost uninhabited, save for a few scattered fishing communities, Batam's history took a sharp turn beginning 1969, when it became support base for the State-owned Pertamina oil company and its offshore oil exploration. In 1971 a presidential decree designated it as an industrial area and in 1975 the Batam Authority was formed. In 1978 Batam was established as a bonded area.
Beaches
Riau's thousands of islands have innumerable scenic beaches and diving spots, among them Trikora on Bintan and Pasir Panjang on Rupat Island, which also has excellent surfing. Great beaches are also found on the Islands Terkulai and Soreh, about an hour's boat ride from Tanjung Pinang. Check with local travel agents for other alternatives.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Since its founding in 1402 by Parameswara, the Kingdom of Malacca played a leading role in the history of the area. With the arrival of the Portu-guese a period of wars for control of the Straits began. The situation was aggravated by the arrival of the Dutch and British in the early 17th century.
A turbulent conflict followed, which was partially resolved by the Treaty of London in 1824, giving the Dutch control of all European territories south of Singapore. This area Included Riau, and effectively severed its links with Johor and the mainland. The Dutch subjugated and dissolved the rebellious Riau Sultanate in 1911, but the province's Influence remained strong.
Pekanbaru in Sumatra became the provincial capi-tal in 1959, taking over from the former capital of Tanjungpinang on the Island of Bintan. Tanjung-pinang is, however, still the most Important town in the province. Its proximity to Singapore has made it a main business and shopping port and together with the nearby island of Batani, it is promising to become an area of major investment and development in the years ahead. The future looks bright for Riau; because of its strategic position with the rest of Asia it is rapidly being developed as a major economic zone.
Other places of interest:
Pekanbaru
About 160 kms upstream on the Siak river, Pekanbaru, Riau's provincial capital, has a number of buildings in the traditional style of the area, among them the Balai Dang Merdu, the Balai Adat and Taman Budaya Riau, or Cultural Park.
The Siak Sultanate's Park
This Moorish style palace of the Sultan of Siak, 120 kms upstream from Pekanbaru on the siak river, was built in 1889 by Sultan Syarif Hasyim Abdul Jalil Syarifuddin. Now a museum, the palace contains the sultanate's royal paraphernalia and other items of historical interest. Established during the 16th century, the Siak Seri Inderapura sultanate lasted until 1946, when it became a victim of the popular upheavals following the Japanese surrender at the close of World War II.
Candi Muara Takus
Like many other structures of its kind in Sumatra, this Buddhist stupa near the village of Muara Takus in the Tigabelas Koto district was built with red bricks and sand. The temple is believed to have been built at around the 9th or 10th century AD when the power of the South Sumatra-based Sriwijaya empire was at its peak. Excavations are still being made to deter-mine the precise age and function of the stupa.
Tanjung Pinang
A busy little town on Bintan Island, visited by traders from Jakarta, Medan, Palembang and other big cities in Indonesia, Tanjung Pinang is only a two-hour boat ride from Singapore. A large section of the old part of the town was built in traditional local fashion, on stilts, over the water. Bintan is a good point of departure to other islands in the area.
Penyangat Island
This island, six kilometers from Tanjung Pinang, can be reached in 15 minutes by boat. The seat of the powerful Bugis viceroys of Riau during 18th century, Penyangat still bears the traces of its illustrations past. Ruins, abandoned for almost 70 years, were recently restored. The old ruler's palace and royal tombs are among the legacies left by the Riau sultanate. Still in use is the old vice royal mosque, the Mesjid Raya. There is also a newly built cultural center for stage performances of Malay music and dance.
Kerumutan Nature Reserve
Located on mainland Riau in the Kuala Kampar district, this 120,000 hectares (30.000 acres) nature reserve can be reached in 18 hours by motor boat from Pekanbaru. Journey by boat up a peaceful river into the heart of virgin forests for a unforgettable experience of Indonesia's wilderness.
Batam Island
Batam is one of the 3,000 islands, which make up the Riau Archipelago and is closest to Singapore, which is only 20 kms away or twenty minutes by air-conditioned ferry. It has a rapid-growing population of around 100.000. As the island develops into a major industrial and tourist area, it attracts an ever increasing population from other Indonesian islands who see Batam as a haven of opportunity. Once almost uninhabited, save for a few scattered fishing communities, Batam's history took a sharp turn beginning 1969, when it became support base for the State-owned Pertamina oil company and its offshore oil exploration. In 1971 a presidential decree designated it as an industrial area and in 1975 the Batam Authority was formed. In 1978 Batam was established as a bonded area.
Beaches
Riau's thousands of islands have innumerable scenic beaches and diving spots, among them Trikora on Bintan and Pasir Panjang on Rupat Island, which also has excellent surfing. Great beaches are also found on the Islands Terkulai and Soreh, about an hour's boat ride from Tanjung Pinang. Check with local travel agents for other alternatives.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Aceh-the province
Aceh, at the northwestern end of Sumatra, was the first area in Indonesia to have significant contact with the outside world.
Chinese chronicles of the sixth century speak of a kingdom called Po-Li on the northern tip of what is now Sumatra. 9th century Arabic and Indian writings mention Aceh as an important trade center. The first Islamic kingdom in Indonesia was established in 804 in Aceh, and the region's position as an Islamic stronghold grew as the city became a center for Islamic learning and the gateway for Indonesians making the pilgrimage to Mecca.
Over the centuries, a constant influx of traders nail immigrants established Aceh as a wealthy and influential trading nation, possessing a strong sense of independence. Aceh's decline began with the death of Sultan Iskandar Thani in 1641, when the British and the Dutch began with the death to battle for control of the region. - The London Treaty of 1824 gave the Dutch control of all British possessions in Sumatra, in return for their withdrawal from India and Singapore.
The Acehnese are famous throughout Indonesia for their courage and fierce sense of independence, and the Dutch lost over 10.000 men during the Aceh Wars, which lasted from 1872 to 1942
Although industrialization and global communication have created a greater openness to western ideas and practices, visitors should keep in mind that the Acehnese take their religion, their manners and their morals very seriously.
Other places of interest:
Baiturrahman Grand Mosque
Sitting in a vast expanse of green fields, the white-washed walls and minarets, and charcoal blacks domes of the Grand Mosque are the most famous landmark in Aceh. You can climb the stairs iii one of the minarets for a fantastic view of the city.
Museum Negeri
The museum has 3 floors filled with antique weapons, gold jewelry, serene onion costumes and household finishing. The 'Runiah Aceh' is an excellent example of traditional architecture, built completely without nails, being held together by cord and pegs. Among the exhibits is a huge cast-iron bell, a gift from die Emperor of China and brought to Aceh by the famed Admiral Cheng Ho in 1414.
Gunongan
Sultan Iskandar Muda (1607-36) as a private playground and bathing place for his wife erected Gunungan. This whimsical architectural fantasy had access to the sultan's palace through the traditional 'Pintu Aceh', used by royalty only.
Kerkhof
The cemetery here holds the remains of over 2,000 Dutch, Eurasian, Javanese and Ambonese soldiers who died fighting in the Aceh Wars.
The Syiah Kuala Grave
Teungku Syiah Kuala was one of Aceh's great Moslem mamas, and his grave is a shrine for local visitors and Muslims from Indonesia and Malaysia. It stands near the mouth of Krueng Aceh River, about 2-kilometer from the city.
Beaches
Lhok Nga is a great beach for picnicking. Ujung Bate is a black sand beach nice for walking and collecting seashells. For swimming the best is the exquisite white sand beach at Lampu'uk. Remember to dress appropriately, local women swim fully clothed.
Other Places of Interest
Sea Gardens
Pulau We, (We Island), is a dramatic island of dense jungle, high hilltop views, palm-lined beaches and mysterious rocky coves. There is also a fresh water lake and semi-active volcano on the island. Nearby Pulau Rubiah is famous for its excellent coral reef and spectacular array of tropical fish. It is a great place for both snorkel-ing and diving.
Gunung Leuser National Park
This is one of the largest national parks in the world, containing over 800,000 hectares of virgin rainforest. The park is home to orang-utan, gib-bons, monkeys, elephants, tigers, and among the last of the Sumatran rhinoceri. There are research facilities for the study of primates, birds and insects, the Oran-utan Rehabilitation Center at Bukit Lawang being the most popular with tourists. It is possible to raft the Sungai Alas River from Ketambe to the Indian Ocean on a 4-5 day expedition. Your journey takes you through exciting white-water rapids to the calmer, crocodile-infested waters of the lowlands. Basic accommodation is available at Ketambe.
Laut Tawar Lake
Laut Tawar Lake is located in Aceh Tengah. Takengon, the capital of the region, lies on the West Side of the lake, 1,120 meters above sea level. With an average temperature of 20 degree C. the scen-ery is lovely and the area is being developed as a tourist resort with water recreation such as ski-ing and boating being readily available. There is excellent hiking in forests filled with exotic or-chids and trekking to the Telong and Tetek volca-noes for the more energetic.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Chinese chronicles of the sixth century speak of a kingdom called Po-Li on the northern tip of what is now Sumatra. 9th century Arabic and Indian writings mention Aceh as an important trade center. The first Islamic kingdom in Indonesia was established in 804 in Aceh, and the region's position as an Islamic stronghold grew as the city became a center for Islamic learning and the gateway for Indonesians making the pilgrimage to Mecca.
Over the centuries, a constant influx of traders nail immigrants established Aceh as a wealthy and influential trading nation, possessing a strong sense of independence. Aceh's decline began with the death of Sultan Iskandar Thani in 1641, when the British and the Dutch began with the death to battle for control of the region. - The London Treaty of 1824 gave the Dutch control of all British possessions in Sumatra, in return for their withdrawal from India and Singapore.
The Acehnese are famous throughout Indonesia for their courage and fierce sense of independence, and the Dutch lost over 10.000 men during the Aceh Wars, which lasted from 1872 to 1942
Although industrialization and global communication have created a greater openness to western ideas and practices, visitors should keep in mind that the Acehnese take their religion, their manners and their morals very seriously.
Other places of interest:
Baiturrahman Grand Mosque
Sitting in a vast expanse of green fields, the white-washed walls and minarets, and charcoal blacks domes of the Grand Mosque are the most famous landmark in Aceh. You can climb the stairs iii one of the minarets for a fantastic view of the city.
Museum Negeri
The museum has 3 floors filled with antique weapons, gold jewelry, serene onion costumes and household finishing. The 'Runiah Aceh' is an excellent example of traditional architecture, built completely without nails, being held together by cord and pegs. Among the exhibits is a huge cast-iron bell, a gift from die Emperor of China and brought to Aceh by the famed Admiral Cheng Ho in 1414.
Gunongan
Sultan Iskandar Muda (1607-36) as a private playground and bathing place for his wife erected Gunungan. This whimsical architectural fantasy had access to the sultan's palace through the traditional 'Pintu Aceh', used by royalty only.
Kerkhof
The cemetery here holds the remains of over 2,000 Dutch, Eurasian, Javanese and Ambonese soldiers who died fighting in the Aceh Wars.
The Syiah Kuala Grave
Teungku Syiah Kuala was one of Aceh's great Moslem mamas, and his grave is a shrine for local visitors and Muslims from Indonesia and Malaysia. It stands near the mouth of Krueng Aceh River, about 2-kilometer from the city.
Beaches
Lhok Nga is a great beach for picnicking. Ujung Bate is a black sand beach nice for walking and collecting seashells. For swimming the best is the exquisite white sand beach at Lampu'uk. Remember to dress appropriately, local women swim fully clothed.
Other Places of Interest
Sea Gardens
Pulau We, (We Island), is a dramatic island of dense jungle, high hilltop views, palm-lined beaches and mysterious rocky coves. There is also a fresh water lake and semi-active volcano on the island. Nearby Pulau Rubiah is famous for its excellent coral reef and spectacular array of tropical fish. It is a great place for both snorkel-ing and diving.
Gunung Leuser National Park
This is one of the largest national parks in the world, containing over 800,000 hectares of virgin rainforest. The park is home to orang-utan, gib-bons, monkeys, elephants, tigers, and among the last of the Sumatran rhinoceri. There are research facilities for the study of primates, birds and insects, the Oran-utan Rehabilitation Center at Bukit Lawang being the most popular with tourists. It is possible to raft the Sungai Alas River from Ketambe to the Indian Ocean on a 4-5 day expedition. Your journey takes you through exciting white-water rapids to the calmer, crocodile-infested waters of the lowlands. Basic accommodation is available at Ketambe.
Laut Tawar Lake
Laut Tawar Lake is located in Aceh Tengah. Takengon, the capital of the region, lies on the West Side of the lake, 1,120 meters above sea level. With an average temperature of 20 degree C. the scen-ery is lovely and the area is being developed as a tourist resort with water recreation such as ski-ing and boating being readily available. There is excellent hiking in forests filled with exotic or-chids and trekking to the Telong and Tetek volca-noes for the more energetic.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
West Sumatra
West Sumatra is composed of three regions: volcanic highlands, a long coastal plane and a series of jungle-covered islands just offshore. Much of the province is still wilderness; virgin jungle inhabited by elephants, tigers, leopards and rhinos. It is the traditional homeland of the Minangkabau, who are known far and wide through the archipelago for their shrewd business sense, their firey-hot dishes and ancient matriarchal customs. The women own property and the men leave home to seek their fame and fortune. Travelling is considered a mark of success and West Sumatrans and their Minang or Padang restaurants are found in all major towns across the nation. The people are hospitable and eloquent, with a poetic style of speech. West Sumatran days are filled with colorful ceremonies and festivals. Legend has it the Minangkabau are descendants of the youngest son of Alexander the Great, King Maharjo Dirajo.
West Sumatra’s center of culture and tourism is Bukittinggi, nestled in the highlands north of the provincial capital of Padang. Surrounded by high mountains, picturesque valleys and lakes, Bukittinggi considered by many tourists to be the most hospitable sity in all of Sumatra.
Padang’s Tabing Airport is the main gateway to west Sumatra and is serviced by Merpati Nusantara airline. The MV Kerinci sails every two weeks for Jakarta from Teluk Bayur harbour. Smaller vessels from Muara harbour sail to small towns along the entire West coast of Sumatra. Regular bus services run between Padang, Bukittinggi and other major cities of Sumatra, as well as via the Trans-Sumatra Highway to Jakarta.
Other places of interest:
Padang
The capital of West Sumatra, Padang is the largest port on the West Coast of Sumatra, it's bustling harbour a crossroads for rubber, cinnamon, coffee, tea and nutmeg. The excellent Provincial Museum is built in the traditional Minang style and houses prehistoric artifacts, ceramics, manuscripts and modern art. In Kampung Cina (Chinatown) you can wander streets lined with turn-of-the-century houses, Chinese herbalists and coffee shop. Good hiking and wonderful views of the city can be had a Bukit Monyet and Gunung Padang.
Bukittinggi
The heart of the highlands, Bukittinggi is a pleasant two-hour drive from Padang through the gorgeous Anai Valley up to the Again Plateau. Located 930 metres above sea level, Bukittinggi, (formerly called Fort De Cock by the Dutch), has a cool climate and is surrounded by three volcanoes: Tandikat, Singgalang and Merapi. The central landmark is the town’s clocktower, referred to by the local people as Jam Gadang. It overlooks the Market Square, a beehive of activity and fantastic place to do some souvenir shopping. Also worth visiting is the Rumah Gadang Museum, a traditional extended family house built in the 19th century There are dance performances on the museum’s open stage every Sunday and on public holidays. The famous bullfights at Padang Lawas (6 km south of Bukittinggi) are every Tuesday at 05.00. P.m., where tin antics of local owners and bettors are as much fun as the fights themselves! Nearby Kota Gadang it renowned for its fine silver filigree and hand embroidery.
Pandai Sikat
The village of Pandai Sikat is 10 km from Bukittinggi and famous for its hand - weaving and carving industry the village has thousands of looms and turning out richly colored cloth. Carved wooden ornaments and furniture are also made here.
Ngarai Sianok (Sianok Canyon)
The 150 meter deep canyon lies on the outskirts of Bukittinggi. It is an incredibly picturesque area, lush green with a river winding through the bottom of the steep-walled canyon. West Sumatrans claim it is unrivalled for natural beauty in all of Indonesia, and locals frequently take visitors and friends on outings here.
Batusangkar
50 km southeast of Bukittinggi, this is the largest town in the Tanahdatar area, and a center of the ancient Minangkabau culture. Fascinating historical sites abound, among them Pagaruvung, home to ancient inscribed stones at Batu Basurat, literally meaning ‘Inscribed Stone'.
Pariangan
Legend has it that this is the cradle of the Minang kabau culture, the first village of the Minang ancestors who descended from Mt. Merapi. It is village of traditional houses, some said to be over 300 years old. The surau, or men’s house, is one of the last of its kind still in use. Make sure to visit the open council grounds with ancient stone seats, the mosque and hot spring.
Lake Maninjau
A winding road with 44 sharp turns descends Lake Maninjau, one of West Sumatra's most famous sights. A Crater Lake, its scenery rivals Lake Toba, on a smaller scale. There are facilities for swimming and water skiing, and a good selection of hotels and restaurants. The village of Matur, overlooking the lake, arranges dance performances on request.
Lake Singkarak
36 km from Bukittinggi is another ideal place for recreation and water sports at Singkarak Lake, the longest in West Sumatra. There are several hotels and restaurants in the area. A nice sidetrip from the lake is up to that villages of Sulitair, where there is a huge 64-meter communal house now occupied by four families.
Taman Hutan Raya Bung Hatta
The 70, 000-hectare botanical garden lies at 1,000 m above sea level, on the way to Solok. Monkeys and other indigenous are protected by the Park Warden, as are the innumerable varieties of exotic flora. The Cool Mountain air and panoramic views make this area a popular resort for both the young and old.
Kerinci-Seblat National Park
Sumatra's largest national parks the Kerinci sprawls across four provinces. It is home to rhinos, tigers, elephants, bears and orang-utan. The scenery is magnificent, dominated by volcanic cones, including the highest peak in western Indonesia, Mt. Kerinci. Lake Kerinci is the best place to sight the park's famous bird life: hornbills, banded-broadbills and drongos, whose tails give the illusion that the birds is constantly being chased by two black butterflies.
Harau Valley
Steep granite walls shelter this fertile valley. The Harau Valley is a nature and wildlife reserve, where tapir, siamangs, boars, wild goats and tigers still roam.
Ngalau Indah Caves
On the road from Bukittinggi to Payakhumbuh, these caves extend deep into the mountainside. Th domain of thousands of bats, the main entrance has the outline of an elephant visible on its face. The path through these caves leads out to the top of the mountain and panoramic views.
Rimba Panti Nature Reserve
Rimba Panti Nature Reserve, 103 km from Bukittinggi, is a refuge for the Rafflesia Arnoldi, the largest flower in existence, blooming only once a year. A guide can be obtained from the office at the reserve. The provincial office of the Directorate of Nature Conversation (BKSAA) at Padang can give you complete information.
Mentawai Islands
Four islands make up the Mental cluster off the West Sumatra coast: Siberut, Sipora, Pagai Utara and Pagai Selatan. The people of these islands still live in comparative isolation, maintaining their age-old ways. Siberut is becoming increasingly popular as an area for trekking and visiting these ancient cultures. It is well known for its virgin rainforest, inhabited by a number of animal species not found anywhere else In the world, among them some rare monkey species. Beautiful coral reefs are found offshore.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
West Sumatra’s center of culture and tourism is Bukittinggi, nestled in the highlands north of the provincial capital of Padang. Surrounded by high mountains, picturesque valleys and lakes, Bukittinggi considered by many tourists to be the most hospitable sity in all of Sumatra.
Padang’s Tabing Airport is the main gateway to west Sumatra and is serviced by Merpati Nusantara airline. The MV Kerinci sails every two weeks for Jakarta from Teluk Bayur harbour. Smaller vessels from Muara harbour sail to small towns along the entire West coast of Sumatra. Regular bus services run between Padang, Bukittinggi and other major cities of Sumatra, as well as via the Trans-Sumatra Highway to Jakarta.
Other places of interest:
Padang
The capital of West Sumatra, Padang is the largest port on the West Coast of Sumatra, it's bustling harbour a crossroads for rubber, cinnamon, coffee, tea and nutmeg. The excellent Provincial Museum is built in the traditional Minang style and houses prehistoric artifacts, ceramics, manuscripts and modern art. In Kampung Cina (Chinatown) you can wander streets lined with turn-of-the-century houses, Chinese herbalists and coffee shop. Good hiking and wonderful views of the city can be had a Bukit Monyet and Gunung Padang.
Bukittinggi
The heart of the highlands, Bukittinggi is a pleasant two-hour drive from Padang through the gorgeous Anai Valley up to the Again Plateau. Located 930 metres above sea level, Bukittinggi, (formerly called Fort De Cock by the Dutch), has a cool climate and is surrounded by three volcanoes: Tandikat, Singgalang and Merapi. The central landmark is the town’s clocktower, referred to by the local people as Jam Gadang. It overlooks the Market Square, a beehive of activity and fantastic place to do some souvenir shopping. Also worth visiting is the Rumah Gadang Museum, a traditional extended family house built in the 19th century There are dance performances on the museum’s open stage every Sunday and on public holidays. The famous bullfights at Padang Lawas (6 km south of Bukittinggi) are every Tuesday at 05.00. P.m., where tin antics of local owners and bettors are as much fun as the fights themselves! Nearby Kota Gadang it renowned for its fine silver filigree and hand embroidery.
Pandai Sikat
The village of Pandai Sikat is 10 km from Bukittinggi and famous for its hand - weaving and carving industry the village has thousands of looms and turning out richly colored cloth. Carved wooden ornaments and furniture are also made here.
Ngarai Sianok (Sianok Canyon)
The 150 meter deep canyon lies on the outskirts of Bukittinggi. It is an incredibly picturesque area, lush green with a river winding through the bottom of the steep-walled canyon. West Sumatrans claim it is unrivalled for natural beauty in all of Indonesia, and locals frequently take visitors and friends on outings here.
Batusangkar
50 km southeast of Bukittinggi, this is the largest town in the Tanahdatar area, and a center of the ancient Minangkabau culture. Fascinating historical sites abound, among them Pagaruvung, home to ancient inscribed stones at Batu Basurat, literally meaning ‘Inscribed Stone'.
Pariangan
Legend has it that this is the cradle of the Minang kabau culture, the first village of the Minang ancestors who descended from Mt. Merapi. It is village of traditional houses, some said to be over 300 years old. The surau, or men’s house, is one of the last of its kind still in use. Make sure to visit the open council grounds with ancient stone seats, the mosque and hot spring.
Lake Maninjau
A winding road with 44 sharp turns descends Lake Maninjau, one of West Sumatra's most famous sights. A Crater Lake, its scenery rivals Lake Toba, on a smaller scale. There are facilities for swimming and water skiing, and a good selection of hotels and restaurants. The village of Matur, overlooking the lake, arranges dance performances on request.
Lake Singkarak
36 km from Bukittinggi is another ideal place for recreation and water sports at Singkarak Lake, the longest in West Sumatra. There are several hotels and restaurants in the area. A nice sidetrip from the lake is up to that villages of Sulitair, where there is a huge 64-meter communal house now occupied by four families.
Taman Hutan Raya Bung Hatta
The 70, 000-hectare botanical garden lies at 1,000 m above sea level, on the way to Solok. Monkeys and other indigenous are protected by the Park Warden, as are the innumerable varieties of exotic flora. The Cool Mountain air and panoramic views make this area a popular resort for both the young and old.
Kerinci-Seblat National Park
Sumatra's largest national parks the Kerinci sprawls across four provinces. It is home to rhinos, tigers, elephants, bears and orang-utan. The scenery is magnificent, dominated by volcanic cones, including the highest peak in western Indonesia, Mt. Kerinci. Lake Kerinci is the best place to sight the park's famous bird life: hornbills, banded-broadbills and drongos, whose tails give the illusion that the birds is constantly being chased by two black butterflies.
Harau Valley
Steep granite walls shelter this fertile valley. The Harau Valley is a nature and wildlife reserve, where tapir, siamangs, boars, wild goats and tigers still roam.
Ngalau Indah Caves
On the road from Bukittinggi to Payakhumbuh, these caves extend deep into the mountainside. Th domain of thousands of bats, the main entrance has the outline of an elephant visible on its face. The path through these caves leads out to the top of the mountain and panoramic views.
Rimba Panti Nature Reserve
Rimba Panti Nature Reserve, 103 km from Bukittinggi, is a refuge for the Rafflesia Arnoldi, the largest flower in existence, blooming only once a year. A guide can be obtained from the office at the reserve. The provincial office of the Directorate of Nature Conversation (BKSAA) at Padang can give you complete information.
Mentawai Islands
Four islands make up the Mental cluster off the West Sumatra coast: Siberut, Sipora, Pagai Utara and Pagai Selatan. The people of these islands still live in comparative isolation, maintaining their age-old ways. Siberut is becoming increasingly popular as an area for trekking and visiting these ancient cultures. It is well known for its virgin rainforest, inhabited by a number of animal species not found anywhere else In the world, among them some rare monkey species. Beautiful coral reefs are found offshore.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Borobudur
In the Kedu region, about 30 kilometres north of Yogya is a triad of temples: Borobudur Pawon and Mendut. They are connected with one another by well-kept roads.
Borobudur is the largest and most magnificient of the three. It lies on the confluence of the rivers Progo and Elo. Such a site is considered holy in accordance with the situation in India, where the confluence of the Ganges and the Yamuna is also a holy place.
Borobudur is surrounded by hills and mountains: in the south by the Menoreh chain of hills, where Prince Diponegoro fought against the Dutch (1825 1830), in the west by Mt. Sumbing, Mt.Prahu and Mt.Sindoro, in the north is the Ungaran - Andong - Telomoyo range of hills and in the east the active Merapi (api = fire) and Merbabu (abu = ash).
Before its restoration Borobudur was covered with earth and forests to such an extent that only a small part of it was visible. And yet, in spite of this, it was not unknown. In a Javanese historical work is recorded how about in the middle of the 19th century a Yogya prince went to Borobudur to see "the thousand statues", standing on a natural hill and also "a holy man in a cage".
Borobudur is a creation of the Hindu Javanese art, that's to say a product of the mixed Indian and Indonesian culture as it has developed since the beginning of the Christian era in this part of the Indonesian archipelago. The monument is probably erected in the 8th century as a central sanctuary of the Buddhist religion.
The shape is immediately connected with its religious meaning: it is not a temple, which can be entered, but a massive monument, a so-called stupa. Such an edifice was originally put on a relic of the Buddha or on the spot, where an important event had taken place in his life. In the long run the stupa itself became a sacred monument, symbolizing the Buddhist doctrine and spreading its beneficial influence far and wide around. And at the same time it had also to give the image of the cosmos according to the Buddhist conception.
In order to obtain the required shape the designer of Borobudur, who according to tradition had the name of Gunadharma, has wrapped as it were a natural hill with a mantle of stone. The sides of that hill were flattened in the form of terraces for the purpose and in this way, each time at a higher level, running round the monument, came first five square galleries and above them three round terraces. On the walls of the galleries rise temple shaped niches, on the terraces are little clock-shaped edifices, in the walls of which diamond and square holes have been left. In the centre of the top terrace, on the central but also on the highest point of the sanctuary, has been erected a large clock-shaped stupa, the walls of which are completely closed.
Usually old monuments on the form of a chandi are given the name of the village or the Javanese Period" of the Hindu - Javanese history, i.e. 732 - 928 A.D.
Thirdly: the Borobudur monument is a reflection of what is called the Vajrayana sect of the Tantric School. This sect emerged during the 7th century and found acceptance in Indonesia about 700 A.D.
All these indications have given a key to trace back the date of Borobudur, and it can be fixed at about 850 A.D. This monument was built by Indonesians themselves under the influence of the Hindu - Javanese cultures. The mixture of cultures commenced with the migration of Hindus into Indonesian territory. From several linguistic peculiarities the conclusions may be drawn that it was the two highest castes, the Brahmins and the Ksatryas, that introduced the Hindu culture into Indonesia.
The ruling dynasty during the above-mentioned Central Javanese period were the monarchs bearing the title of Rakai or the Rakarayan. These Rakais wielded their sceptre and feudal landlords in Central Java until a Prince, not belonging to the Rakai, overthrew their power and established a new dynasty, and adopted the title of Sang Ratu. History has it that Sang Ratu conducted a successful expedition beyond his borders and even into Indo-China (Viet Nan).
The term Rakarayan comprises the honorific Ra and Karayan, the latter being a substantial form of Raja (which means high or foremost), Rakai originates from the words Ra and Kaya, substantive of Aya (high or honourable). Thus the two mentioned titles stand for His or Her Highness. It is to be compared with the still existing title of nobility in South Sulawesi "Karaeng" who believe themselves to be descendants of the To Manurung (He who descends from Kahyangan - Heaven).
The Buddhist prasastis record that the kings who ruled in Central Java were called Çailendras (king from the Mountains: Caila - Mountain; Indra - King).
A prasasti found in 732 A. D. records that King Sanjaya himself professed the Civaitic religion; he confirmed the founding of his kingdom by erecting a lingga a symbolic image of a phallus. In the stone inscription he was referred to as Mount Meru, the legendary origin of kings (Chandi Canggal, sub-district of Ngluwar district of Muntilan, regency of Magelang).
Sang Ratu Sanjaya's successor Sri Maharaja of the Cailendra dynasty, had brought Buddhism to prosperity in Central Java. No wonder that. Rakai Panangkaran, the first Buddhist king was referred to as "an ornament of the Sailendra dynasty" in the Buddhist prasasti.
It might be that an alliance by marriage with a scion of the Sri Wijaya dynasty in Sputh Sumatra resulted in a change in the Sailendra Hose. In the years afterwards, since the Sri Wijaya dynasty had reggined power in Central Java, the kings of this House considered themselves as descendants of Sailendra.
The rapid progress of Buddhism in Java coincided with the flourish of this religion in Nalanda (near Tajgir city of today) under the protection of the Pala kings from Bengal.
A prasasti found in Kelurak, near Prambanan, dating from 782 A.D., probabbly decreed by Rakay Panangkaran, makes mention of a Teacher from Bengal whom the king held in high esteem.
International relations carried out by experienced missions had brought upon changes within the dynasty in Central Java. Sri Maharaja Rakai Panangkaran's successors also professed the Buddhist religion, but in the second half of the 9th century there was a sudden rise of Sivaism (+856 A.D.) as is recorded in prasastis and monuments of that period.
Scholars call this a "Restoration" of Civaisrn. This phenomenon is called "syncretism" (a mixture of two religions as it is to be found in Java and Bali.
Spectacular monuments such as Borobudur, Sewu and Loro Jonggrang of the Prambanan temple complex cannot possibly be accomplished by one king alone.
Borobudur was the symbol of power and glory of the then ruling monarch. According to the Hindu culture, the proportions of a temple denoted the degree of power of the king. Borobudur also reflected the ardour of the newly converted proselytes. This monument was meant not only as a propaganda medium of Buddhism, but it also exercised a beneficial influence upon Mankind. To the king Borobudur constituted the fulfilling of his highest plight towards the Creator, or a dharma in order to-receive a reward in the hereafter. The larger the temple the greater the reward would be! Seen in this light, Borobudur was not only built for the benefit of the Buddhist religion, but also for the worship of the ancestral spirits.
The founder of the Buddhist religion was Prince Siddharta of Kapilavastu (in Nepak Tarai), a scion of the Saka clan, born about 560 B.C. As an ascete he was called Sakyamuni or Gautama, and after having received the Bodhi (Supreme Wisdom) he was given the name of Buddha (One who has achieved the Bodhi).
The marrow of His Teaching is in short that life in this profane world with its weal and woe is nothing but suffering, and this suffering will always" be repeated as long as a human being is reborn on this earth (re-incarnation). The suffering will only come to an end, if man has achieved Nirvana (Paradise).
Buddha's Teachings show the Way how to deserve Nirvana by keeping aloof the worldly pleasures of life, by leading an ascetic life, by walking on the Eightfold Path: 1. correct view, 2. correct thought and purpose, 3. correct speech, 4. correct conduct, 5. correct livelihood or occupation, 6. correct zeal, 7. correct remembrance and 8. correct meditation.
In the very first place Buddhism points out the way to free oneself from the chain of sufferings (the re-incarnation).
After Prince Siddharta had attained the Bodhi in Both Gaya City, and after having preached the Buddha doctrine in the Deer park of Benares, many hermits became his disciples. Not only hermits, but also laymen who felt attracted to his teachings became his faithful followers, and strictly obeyed his rules in the conviction that they would be rewarded in the hereafter.
Mainly with the help and stimuli of the kings, Buddhism quickly gained influence and it soon became widespread all over Asia, including Indonesia. However, after Buddha Gautama's death a controversy arose among his followers, not only about the monarchial discipline, but also concerning metaphysical problems, e.g. how Nirvana looked like, and what was Buddha etc. etc., even to such an extent that the unintricate teachings of Buddha Gautama split up into two sects, the Mahayana and the Hinayana (the Great Vehicle and the Small Vehicle).
Based on the fact that the relief panels, carved against the balustrades and the main walls of the Borobudur sanctuary, representing miraculous occurrences, we may conclude, that Borobudur is the reflection of the sect of Tantrism, which exists by schims between the Mahayana and the Hinayana sects. After its magic spells the sect of Tantrism is called Mantrayana.
Chandi Borobudur is quite different from all other chandis in Indonesia. It has often been suggested that it is a stupa and not a chandi at all. A stupa was originally intended as a shrine for relics of the Lord Buddha. Later, it is quite possible that the corporeal remains of distinguished Buddhist saints were enshrined in such stupas. Sometimes a stupa was erected merely as a symbol of the Buddhist creed.
A chandi was mainly intended to house a deity, but relics were essential for its functioning. Certain parts of the chandi were set aside for relic boxes. The relics, however, were not corporal remains, but metals, precious stones and seeds, really meant as mementos of the god, symbolically representing the divine power.
No such relics have yet been found in Chandi Borobudur, relics of holy persons or mementos of a divinity. It is unlikely that bodily remains were ever enshrined in the monument. For such purposes, other kinds of stupas would be erected and, indeed small stupas were excavated at the beginning of the present century at the north- eastern foot of the hill. The scanty contents cannot be identified with certainty as bodily remains, but similar stupas in the courtyard of Chandi Kalasan proved to contain ashes of the dead and the remains of articles used by monks.
The vertical division of Chandi Borobudur into base, body and super-structure, making the big stupa merely the top of the monument, perfectly accords with the idea of the chandi as representing the cosmic mountain. The three super-imposed part represent the three spheres of the Universe, viz. the bhurloka or the Sphere of the Mortals, the bhuvarloka or the Sphere of the Purified, and the svarloka or the Sphere of the Gods.
According to Dr. Stutterheim the division of the temple into three parts is closely connected with the Buddhist faith which divides life into three phases:
1. Kamadhatu: a stage in which man is still closely tied to wordly wealth. This is in accordance with the structural base of Chandi Borobudur. It is the Sphere of the Desires.
2. Rupadhatu: a stage where man has been able to free himself from passion but is still tied to form. While it is said that Kamadhatu is a heaven in the world of passions, Rupadhatu on the other hand is a heaven of a higher "degree" (world of lustre). It is the Sphere of Forms.
3. Arupadhatu: Man has reached perfection and is no longer tied to worldly wealth. Here Man is illustrated by the circular terraces. It is the Sphere of Formlessness.
Everybody who devotes his attention to Chandi Borobudur is struck by the highly important place which the Buddha statues occupy at that monument. This was one of the reasons why it was supposed that the name Borobudur might have been a corruption of the word "Parabuddha", the many Buddhas. But this supposition is linguistically unjust, anyhow it is an indication that the Buddha statues were seen to be the main element of this structure.
Each Buddha statue sits on a lotus seat. The lotus flower is the symbol of purity. Each cardinal point is ruled by a Dhyani Buddha.
1. The east cardinal point is ruled by the Dhayani Buddha Aksobhya with the handpose Bhumisparsa mudra, which means the symbol of calling the earth to witness. The open left hand rests on the lap, the right hand is placed on the right knee with the fingers pointing downwards.).
It is deprived from the great moment at which Sakyamuni, shortly before attaining the Buddhahood called up the earth by touching it as a witness of the numerous deed he had done in former incarnations for the salvation of the creatures and to make himself suitable for the task that would await him. There are 92 Aksobhyas in the East (the rupadhatu).
2. The south cardinal point is ruled by the Dhyani Buddha Ratnasambhva (handpose: Vara mudra), which means the symbol of charity, of granting favours. It resembles the Bhumisparsa mudra, but the palm of the right hand is turned upwards, while the fingers rest in the right knee. There are 92 Ratnasambhvas in the south (26 at the first, 26 at he second, 22 at the third, and 22 at the fourth balustrade).
3. The west cardinal point is ruled by Dhyani Buddha Amithaba (handpose: dhyana mudra), which means the symbol of meditation. Both hands are opened and placed on the lap, the right hand above the left hand, the thumbs touching.
4. The north cardinal point is ruled by Dhyani Buddha Amoghasiddhi (handpose: abhaya mudra), which means the symbol of dispelling fear. Naturally it is not meant here that the Buddha himself is afraid, but he preaches that nobody needs to have fear.
These are the Buddhas of the lower rows of niches, whose mudras have been discussed alternatingly according to the cardinal points.
5. In the fifth or upper row of niches, turned to all sides, 64 in total, the Buddhas show a mudra, which means the symbol of argumentation or reasoning. This is the Dhyani Buddha Vairochana, ruling the Zenith.
6. The Buddhas of the three round terraces all the same. There are 72 in total, placed in clocks (the small stupas). These are the Dhyani Buddhas in heaven and are called Vairochanas too (Handpose: Dharma Chakra mudra), which is the symbol of turning the Wheel of the Law of Cause and Effect. Both hands are held before the breast, the left hand below the right. The left hand is turned upwards with the ring finger touching the thumb, while the finger of the right hand touches the little fingers of the left.
The particular position of Chandi Borobudur among Indonesian monuments derives not only from the exceptional architecture, but also from the striking abundance of elaborately carved bas-reliefs which cover the facades of the walls and the balustrades - a total surface of 2,500 square metres.
The reliefs can be divided into two types: narrative and decorative. The 1,460 narrative panels are arranged in eleven rows that go all around the monument for a total length of over 3,000 m. The 1,212 decorative panels, although arranged in rows, are treated as individual reliefs.
The first series of 160 narrative panels are on the hidden foot and consequently not visible. Fortunately, a complete set of photographs was made not long after they were rediscovered, and they can be identified as depicting the operation of the law of karma according to the Mahakarmavibhangga text.
The other ten series of narrative reliefs are distributed throughout the rupadhatu on the walls and balustrades of the four galleries. The first gallery is flanked by four series; the remaining three successively mounting galleries have only two series each.
The wall of the first gallery, over 3.5 m high, has two super-imposed series of reliefs, each consisting of 120 panels. The upper row relates the biography of the Buddha according to the Lalitavistara text. The lower row depicts his former lives as told in the jatakas and avadanas; these earlier incarnations before being born to become the historical Buddha are also narrated in the two super-imposed rows of reliefs on the balustrade.
The balustrade of the second gallery has another jataka and avadana series but the wall panels take a new theme. As there is only one row of them on the almost 3 m high wall, they are considerably larger than those on the wall of the first gallery. The 128 panel series deals with tireless wanderings of Sudhana in search of the Ultimate Truth, as told in the Gandavyu text.
The walls and balustrades of the third and fourth galleries are devoted to the futher wanderings of Sudhana, terminating with the attainment of the Highest Wisdom.
There are in all 1,460 panels. The following summary shows how the various series of reliefs are arranged:
Wall of hidden foot - Karmavibhangga - 160 panels.
First gallery
- main wall
:a) Lalitavistara - 120 panels.
:b) Jataka/Avadana - l20 panels.
- balustrade
:a) Jataka/Avadana - 372 panels.
:b) Jataka/Avadana - 128 panels.
Second gallery
- main wall : Gandavyuha - 128 panels.
- balustrade : Jatakai Avadana 100 panels
Third gallery
- main wall : Gandavyuha - 88 panels.
- balustrade : Gandavyuha - 88 panels.
Fourth gallery
- main wall : Gandavyuha - 84 panels.
- balustrade : Gandavyuha - 72 panels Total: 1,460 panels.
The narrative reliefs on the walls read from right to left, those on the balustrade from left to right. This was done for the purpose of the pradaksina, i.e. the ritual circumambulation which the pilgrim makes, moving in a clockwise direction and keeping the sanctuary to his right.
The narrative starts at the left and ends at the right of the eastern stairway, confirming that this stairway is the real entrance to the monument.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
Borobudur is the largest and most magnificient of the three. It lies on the confluence of the rivers Progo and Elo. Such a site is considered holy in accordance with the situation in India, where the confluence of the Ganges and the Yamuna is also a holy place.
Borobudur is surrounded by hills and mountains: in the south by the Menoreh chain of hills, where Prince Diponegoro fought against the Dutch (1825 1830), in the west by Mt. Sumbing, Mt.Prahu and Mt.Sindoro, in the north is the Ungaran - Andong - Telomoyo range of hills and in the east the active Merapi (api = fire) and Merbabu (abu = ash).
Before its restoration Borobudur was covered with earth and forests to such an extent that only a small part of it was visible. And yet, in spite of this, it was not unknown. In a Javanese historical work is recorded how about in the middle of the 19th century a Yogya prince went to Borobudur to see "the thousand statues", standing on a natural hill and also "a holy man in a cage".
Borobudur is a creation of the Hindu Javanese art, that's to say a product of the mixed Indian and Indonesian culture as it has developed since the beginning of the Christian era in this part of the Indonesian archipelago. The monument is probably erected in the 8th century as a central sanctuary of the Buddhist religion.
The shape is immediately connected with its religious meaning: it is not a temple, which can be entered, but a massive monument, a so-called stupa. Such an edifice was originally put on a relic of the Buddha or on the spot, where an important event had taken place in his life. In the long run the stupa itself became a sacred monument, symbolizing the Buddhist doctrine and spreading its beneficial influence far and wide around. And at the same time it had also to give the image of the cosmos according to the Buddhist conception.
In order to obtain the required shape the designer of Borobudur, who according to tradition had the name of Gunadharma, has wrapped as it were a natural hill with a mantle of stone. The sides of that hill were flattened in the form of terraces for the purpose and in this way, each time at a higher level, running round the monument, came first five square galleries and above them three round terraces. On the walls of the galleries rise temple shaped niches, on the terraces are little clock-shaped edifices, in the walls of which diamond and square holes have been left. In the centre of the top terrace, on the central but also on the highest point of the sanctuary, has been erected a large clock-shaped stupa, the walls of which are completely closed.
Usually old monuments on the form of a chandi are given the name of the village or the Javanese Period" of the Hindu - Javanese history, i.e. 732 - 928 A.D.
Thirdly: the Borobudur monument is a reflection of what is called the Vajrayana sect of the Tantric School. This sect emerged during the 7th century and found acceptance in Indonesia about 700 A.D.
All these indications have given a key to trace back the date of Borobudur, and it can be fixed at about 850 A.D. This monument was built by Indonesians themselves under the influence of the Hindu - Javanese cultures. The mixture of cultures commenced with the migration of Hindus into Indonesian territory. From several linguistic peculiarities the conclusions may be drawn that it was the two highest castes, the Brahmins and the Ksatryas, that introduced the Hindu culture into Indonesia.
The ruling dynasty during the above-mentioned Central Javanese period were the monarchs bearing the title of Rakai or the Rakarayan. These Rakais wielded their sceptre and feudal landlords in Central Java until a Prince, not belonging to the Rakai, overthrew their power and established a new dynasty, and adopted the title of Sang Ratu. History has it that Sang Ratu conducted a successful expedition beyond his borders and even into Indo-China (Viet Nan).
The term Rakarayan comprises the honorific Ra and Karayan, the latter being a substantial form of Raja (which means high or foremost), Rakai originates from the words Ra and Kaya, substantive of Aya (high or honourable). Thus the two mentioned titles stand for His or Her Highness. It is to be compared with the still existing title of nobility in South Sulawesi "Karaeng" who believe themselves to be descendants of the To Manurung (He who descends from Kahyangan - Heaven).
The Buddhist prasastis record that the kings who ruled in Central Java were called Çailendras (king from the Mountains: Caila - Mountain; Indra - King).
A prasasti found in 732 A. D. records that King Sanjaya himself professed the Civaitic religion; he confirmed the founding of his kingdom by erecting a lingga a symbolic image of a phallus. In the stone inscription he was referred to as Mount Meru, the legendary origin of kings (Chandi Canggal, sub-district of Ngluwar district of Muntilan, regency of Magelang).
Sang Ratu Sanjaya's successor Sri Maharaja of the Cailendra dynasty, had brought Buddhism to prosperity in Central Java. No wonder that. Rakai Panangkaran, the first Buddhist king was referred to as "an ornament of the Sailendra dynasty" in the Buddhist prasasti.
It might be that an alliance by marriage with a scion of the Sri Wijaya dynasty in Sputh Sumatra resulted in a change in the Sailendra Hose. In the years afterwards, since the Sri Wijaya dynasty had reggined power in Central Java, the kings of this House considered themselves as descendants of Sailendra.
The rapid progress of Buddhism in Java coincided with the flourish of this religion in Nalanda (near Tajgir city of today) under the protection of the Pala kings from Bengal.
A prasasti found in Kelurak, near Prambanan, dating from 782 A.D., probabbly decreed by Rakay Panangkaran, makes mention of a Teacher from Bengal whom the king held in high esteem.
International relations carried out by experienced missions had brought upon changes within the dynasty in Central Java. Sri Maharaja Rakai Panangkaran's successors also professed the Buddhist religion, but in the second half of the 9th century there was a sudden rise of Sivaism (+856 A.D.) as is recorded in prasastis and monuments of that period.
Scholars call this a "Restoration" of Civaisrn. This phenomenon is called "syncretism" (a mixture of two religions as it is to be found in Java and Bali.
Spectacular monuments such as Borobudur, Sewu and Loro Jonggrang of the Prambanan temple complex cannot possibly be accomplished by one king alone.
Borobudur was the symbol of power and glory of the then ruling monarch. According to the Hindu culture, the proportions of a temple denoted the degree of power of the king. Borobudur also reflected the ardour of the newly converted proselytes. This monument was meant not only as a propaganda medium of Buddhism, but it also exercised a beneficial influence upon Mankind. To the king Borobudur constituted the fulfilling of his highest plight towards the Creator, or a dharma in order to-receive a reward in the hereafter. The larger the temple the greater the reward would be! Seen in this light, Borobudur was not only built for the benefit of the Buddhist religion, but also for the worship of the ancestral spirits.
The founder of the Buddhist religion was Prince Siddharta of Kapilavastu (in Nepak Tarai), a scion of the Saka clan, born about 560 B.C. As an ascete he was called Sakyamuni or Gautama, and after having received the Bodhi (Supreme Wisdom) he was given the name of Buddha (One who has achieved the Bodhi).
The marrow of His Teaching is in short that life in this profane world with its weal and woe is nothing but suffering, and this suffering will always" be repeated as long as a human being is reborn on this earth (re-incarnation). The suffering will only come to an end, if man has achieved Nirvana (Paradise).
Buddha's Teachings show the Way how to deserve Nirvana by keeping aloof the worldly pleasures of life, by leading an ascetic life, by walking on the Eightfold Path: 1. correct view, 2. correct thought and purpose, 3. correct speech, 4. correct conduct, 5. correct livelihood or occupation, 6. correct zeal, 7. correct remembrance and 8. correct meditation.
In the very first place Buddhism points out the way to free oneself from the chain of sufferings (the re-incarnation).
After Prince Siddharta had attained the Bodhi in Both Gaya City, and after having preached the Buddha doctrine in the Deer park of Benares, many hermits became his disciples. Not only hermits, but also laymen who felt attracted to his teachings became his faithful followers, and strictly obeyed his rules in the conviction that they would be rewarded in the hereafter.
Mainly with the help and stimuli of the kings, Buddhism quickly gained influence and it soon became widespread all over Asia, including Indonesia. However, after Buddha Gautama's death a controversy arose among his followers, not only about the monarchial discipline, but also concerning metaphysical problems, e.g. how Nirvana looked like, and what was Buddha etc. etc., even to such an extent that the unintricate teachings of Buddha Gautama split up into two sects, the Mahayana and the Hinayana (the Great Vehicle and the Small Vehicle).
Based on the fact that the relief panels, carved against the balustrades and the main walls of the Borobudur sanctuary, representing miraculous occurrences, we may conclude, that Borobudur is the reflection of the sect of Tantrism, which exists by schims between the Mahayana and the Hinayana sects. After its magic spells the sect of Tantrism is called Mantrayana.
Chandi Borobudur is quite different from all other chandis in Indonesia. It has often been suggested that it is a stupa and not a chandi at all. A stupa was originally intended as a shrine for relics of the Lord Buddha. Later, it is quite possible that the corporeal remains of distinguished Buddhist saints were enshrined in such stupas. Sometimes a stupa was erected merely as a symbol of the Buddhist creed.
A chandi was mainly intended to house a deity, but relics were essential for its functioning. Certain parts of the chandi were set aside for relic boxes. The relics, however, were not corporal remains, but metals, precious stones and seeds, really meant as mementos of the god, symbolically representing the divine power.
No such relics have yet been found in Chandi Borobudur, relics of holy persons or mementos of a divinity. It is unlikely that bodily remains were ever enshrined in the monument. For such purposes, other kinds of stupas would be erected and, indeed small stupas were excavated at the beginning of the present century at the north- eastern foot of the hill. The scanty contents cannot be identified with certainty as bodily remains, but similar stupas in the courtyard of Chandi Kalasan proved to contain ashes of the dead and the remains of articles used by monks.
The vertical division of Chandi Borobudur into base, body and super-structure, making the big stupa merely the top of the monument, perfectly accords with the idea of the chandi as representing the cosmic mountain. The three super-imposed part represent the three spheres of the Universe, viz. the bhurloka or the Sphere of the Mortals, the bhuvarloka or the Sphere of the Purified, and the svarloka or the Sphere of the Gods.
According to Dr. Stutterheim the division of the temple into three parts is closely connected with the Buddhist faith which divides life into three phases:
1. Kamadhatu: a stage in which man is still closely tied to wordly wealth. This is in accordance with the structural base of Chandi Borobudur. It is the Sphere of the Desires.
2. Rupadhatu: a stage where man has been able to free himself from passion but is still tied to form. While it is said that Kamadhatu is a heaven in the world of passions, Rupadhatu on the other hand is a heaven of a higher "degree" (world of lustre). It is the Sphere of Forms.
3. Arupadhatu: Man has reached perfection and is no longer tied to worldly wealth. Here Man is illustrated by the circular terraces. It is the Sphere of Formlessness.
Everybody who devotes his attention to Chandi Borobudur is struck by the highly important place which the Buddha statues occupy at that monument. This was one of the reasons why it was supposed that the name Borobudur might have been a corruption of the word "Parabuddha", the many Buddhas. But this supposition is linguistically unjust, anyhow it is an indication that the Buddha statues were seen to be the main element of this structure.
Each Buddha statue sits on a lotus seat. The lotus flower is the symbol of purity. Each cardinal point is ruled by a Dhyani Buddha.
1. The east cardinal point is ruled by the Dhayani Buddha Aksobhya with the handpose Bhumisparsa mudra, which means the symbol of calling the earth to witness. The open left hand rests on the lap, the right hand is placed on the right knee with the fingers pointing downwards.).
It is deprived from the great moment at which Sakyamuni, shortly before attaining the Buddhahood called up the earth by touching it as a witness of the numerous deed he had done in former incarnations for the salvation of the creatures and to make himself suitable for the task that would await him. There are 92 Aksobhyas in the East (the rupadhatu).
2. The south cardinal point is ruled by the Dhyani Buddha Ratnasambhva (handpose: Vara mudra), which means the symbol of charity, of granting favours. It resembles the Bhumisparsa mudra, but the palm of the right hand is turned upwards, while the fingers rest in the right knee. There are 92 Ratnasambhvas in the south (26 at the first, 26 at he second, 22 at the third, and 22 at the fourth balustrade).
3. The west cardinal point is ruled by Dhyani Buddha Amithaba (handpose: dhyana mudra), which means the symbol of meditation. Both hands are opened and placed on the lap, the right hand above the left hand, the thumbs touching.
4. The north cardinal point is ruled by Dhyani Buddha Amoghasiddhi (handpose: abhaya mudra), which means the symbol of dispelling fear. Naturally it is not meant here that the Buddha himself is afraid, but he preaches that nobody needs to have fear.
These are the Buddhas of the lower rows of niches, whose mudras have been discussed alternatingly according to the cardinal points.
5. In the fifth or upper row of niches, turned to all sides, 64 in total, the Buddhas show a mudra, which means the symbol of argumentation or reasoning. This is the Dhyani Buddha Vairochana, ruling the Zenith.
6. The Buddhas of the three round terraces all the same. There are 72 in total, placed in clocks (the small stupas). These are the Dhyani Buddhas in heaven and are called Vairochanas too (Handpose: Dharma Chakra mudra), which is the symbol of turning the Wheel of the Law of Cause and Effect. Both hands are held before the breast, the left hand below the right. The left hand is turned upwards with the ring finger touching the thumb, while the finger of the right hand touches the little fingers of the left.
The particular position of Chandi Borobudur among Indonesian monuments derives not only from the exceptional architecture, but also from the striking abundance of elaborately carved bas-reliefs which cover the facades of the walls and the balustrades - a total surface of 2,500 square metres.
The reliefs can be divided into two types: narrative and decorative. The 1,460 narrative panels are arranged in eleven rows that go all around the monument for a total length of over 3,000 m. The 1,212 decorative panels, although arranged in rows, are treated as individual reliefs.
The first series of 160 narrative panels are on the hidden foot and consequently not visible. Fortunately, a complete set of photographs was made not long after they were rediscovered, and they can be identified as depicting the operation of the law of karma according to the Mahakarmavibhangga text.
The other ten series of narrative reliefs are distributed throughout the rupadhatu on the walls and balustrades of the four galleries. The first gallery is flanked by four series; the remaining three successively mounting galleries have only two series each.
The wall of the first gallery, over 3.5 m high, has two super-imposed series of reliefs, each consisting of 120 panels. The upper row relates the biography of the Buddha according to the Lalitavistara text. The lower row depicts his former lives as told in the jatakas and avadanas; these earlier incarnations before being born to become the historical Buddha are also narrated in the two super-imposed rows of reliefs on the balustrade.
The balustrade of the second gallery has another jataka and avadana series but the wall panels take a new theme. As there is only one row of them on the almost 3 m high wall, they are considerably larger than those on the wall of the first gallery. The 128 panel series deals with tireless wanderings of Sudhana in search of the Ultimate Truth, as told in the Gandavyu text.
The walls and balustrades of the third and fourth galleries are devoted to the futher wanderings of Sudhana, terminating with the attainment of the Highest Wisdom.
There are in all 1,460 panels. The following summary shows how the various series of reliefs are arranged:
Wall of hidden foot - Karmavibhangga - 160 panels.
First gallery
- main wall
:a) Lalitavistara - 120 panels.
:b) Jataka/Avadana - l20 panels.
- balustrade
:a) Jataka/Avadana - 372 panels.
:b) Jataka/Avadana - 128 panels.
Second gallery
- main wall : Gandavyuha - 128 panels.
- balustrade : Jatakai Avadana 100 panels
Third gallery
- main wall : Gandavyuha - 88 panels.
- balustrade : Gandavyuha - 88 panels.
Fourth gallery
- main wall : Gandavyuha - 84 panels.
- balustrade : Gandavyuha - 72 panels Total: 1,460 panels.
The narrative reliefs on the walls read from right to left, those on the balustrade from left to right. This was done for the purpose of the pradaksina, i.e. the ritual circumambulation which the pilgrim makes, moving in a clockwise direction and keeping the sanctuary to his right.
The narrative starts at the left and ends at the right of the eastern stairway, confirming that this stairway is the real entrance to the monument.
source www.travel-indonesia.com
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