South East Sulawesi - Places of Interest

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

Napahale and Motonunu Lakes

LOMBOK

Beaches

Lombok has many gorgeous beaches such as Seger Beach, Kuta beach, Tanjung A’an beaches, Mawun beaches, Mawi beach, Gerupuk Beach, Ekas Bay, Senggigi beach, Sire beach and more! Come enjoy the breathtaking crystal blue waters and untouched white sand beaches!

Mountain

Standing at the majestic 3726 m, Rinjani Mountain is the second highest peak in Indonesia. For the people of Lombok, Sasak and Balinese alike, this mountain is a sacred place where, at the summit, the holy Gods live. To climb such an impressive mountain is unforgettable experience.

Flora and Fauna

The fictive ”Wallace Line” which separates Asia from Australia runs north-south between the island of Bali and Lombok. From the island of Lombok eastward, land becomes drier and less fertile. Also, the flora and fauna changes from the rest of Asia. Forests in west Nusa Tenggara are found mostly in mountain areas. Large parts of the Lombok mainland are coastal wetlands, irrigated fields and other wetlands. Extensive dry land areas are found on the island of Sumbawa. Species of plants growing in West Nusa Tenggara have specific importance for the life of the people. Species of plants found in the forests are Kesambi, Bungur, Sonokeling, Mahoni (Mahogani), Teak, Kelicung, Pala, Ipil and Bamboo Tutul. The island has the flower Dysspyros macrophylla as its symbol. Wild animals found on the island include wild pigs, small deer, deer, iguanas, porcupines, turtles and many kinds of poisonous snakes. Many kinds of bird are found here including Pring, Parrots, Bering, Koak Kaok, Cucak Rawa.

The Gili Islands

Off the North West coast of Lombok, about 20 km north of Senggigi, you can find the famous trio of islands known as “THE GILIS”: GILI AIR, GILI MENO, and GILI TRAWANGAN. All have spectacular white sandy beaches, sparkling blue waters and are encircled by beautiful Coral Reefs containing very rare blue coral and thousands of species of marine life. Snorkellers and divers flock to these islands to indulge in an under water fantasy.

Off the south west coast of Lombok (Sekotong Area), about one hour drive from Mataram, the capital city of West Nusa Tenggara, you can find some other Gili Islands such Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, Gili Tangkong and Gili Gede. There are a lot of small islands in this area. All of these islands have beautiful under water marine life, clear, white sand and gorgeous beaches. They are ideal places for sunbathing, snorkeling, feeding fish and of course, peacefully relaxing!

Senggigi

Senggigi is the large bay that forms the center of Senggigi, with the main road running parrarel to the beach, and large resorts occupying the space between. The beach provides picturesque views of Bali's Agung Mountain to the west and stunning sunsets with the volacano silhouetted on the horizon.

The resort area about 10 Kilometers north of Ampenan, and about 20 minutes drive from the Lombok international Airport. Nowhere near as large or as busy as its Bali conterparts, Senggigi is a great base for exploring the rest of the island. The pace is very laid back, with activities centered around the beaches and day trips to places of interest, which are all with in ferw hours drive from the town. At night dine in the many restaurants catering to all tastest and budgets, listen the live music at the cafes or Bars or dance the night away at the night clubs.

Kuta and the South Coast Lombok

Kuta beaches on Lombok's south coast is a world away from its more famous namesake in Bali. The beaches are clean, the sand blindingly white and the turquise ocean streches as far as eye can see, in contrast to the traffic and congestion of Kuta Bali; Kuta Lombok is a laid back paradise for surfers and sun seekers.

Kuta is the main town and center of tourism development on the south coast of Lombok, a big plan on the progres this year such the international airport and the five star Hotels such the Rizt group will build shortly. Kuta area about one and half hours drive from Mataram or Senggigi,

Kuta and the surounding region has gained an international reputation for some of the beast surfing destinations in south east Asia and consiering to be the best surf spot in Asia.

Mount Rinjani

Mt. Rinjani is the second highes peak in Indonesia standing at majestic 3726 meters, part of the celebrated ”ring of fire”. The dramatic landscape has been created over a millions of years of cone-building, violent explosions, and erosion. Forested slopes rising directly from the sea create their own weather pattern and act as water – collectors for the whole Lombok.

For the people of Lombok Sasak and Balinese alike, treat this mountain as a sacred place. They consider the Gods live at the summit of the mountain. One of the large craters called Segara Anak, located at 2000 meters above the sea level is the destination of many pilgrims, who make the annual trek up the step slopes in order to place offerings to the Gods in the lake it self. This magnificent crater lake now holds a new and active volcano, Mount Baru Jari which appeared this century. On the north side of the lake is a hot spring ( one of 4 Segara Anak hot springs found here) which is said to cure disease.

A model for echo tourism in Indonesia, It is trully an unforgetable experience to climb such impressive mountain as Rinjani and the 2 trek expeditions that offered and the spectacular scenery cwere contributing factors to Tinjani National Park winning the National Geographic World Tourism Award in 2004.

MANADO

Bunaken Sea Garden

The world fomaus Bunaken Marine National Park, with an area 75.26 hectares, is located very close to Manado and comprices of 5 island: Bunaken, Manado Tua, Siladen, Mantehage, and Nain. The superb diving and snorkling sites puts the Marine Park in one of the Top 10 dive area of the world and is a mecca for seasoned and begginner divers alike. Wall diving offers a spectacular drop off 100's of metters deep and the warm water is particularly inviting. The variety of fish and other marine life often spotted include: Coelacanth, Napoleon Wrasse, Anglefish, Turtles, Blue Ribbon Eels, Stingrays, Eagelrays, Snappers, Groupers, and sharks to name a few. There are hundreds of other species too numerous to list but easily located at a variety of sites.

Manado Tua Island

This island is the main island of its sister island group: Bunaken,Siladen,Mentehage and Nain, located just off Manado bay. The path to the top takes several hours to climb, but it offers a nice view of island of Manado bay. Superb for diving and snorkeling.

Siladen Island

This island is surrounded by beautiful white sandy beaches and many shells. Good diving for experience divers, but good snorkeling for all comers. To those who feel the need to escape from civilization, this tranquil place offer nice opportunity for diving, snorkeling, fishing, and sunbath.

Wolter Monginsidi & Pierre Tendean Monument

A monument to commemorate the meritorious young men from Notrh Sulawesi, Wolter Monginsidi and Pierre Tendean. Wolter Monginsidi died during the struggle of Indonesia Independence and Pierre Tendean died in the so-called "communist rebellion on 30 September, 1965. Located on the water front, facing the bay of Manado, it is usually crowded with people who want to relax while enjoying the beautiful panoramic view of the bay. The monument is located in Bahu at the intersection of Monginsidi and Piere Tendean Street.

Second World War Memorial

A memorial to commemorate the destruction of Manado which was heavily bombed and to honor the victims of World War II. It's located in the center of Manado next to Gereja Sentrum (City Center Church).

Golf

Wenang Golf Course, a nine hole course, located on the road from Manado to the International Airport covers an area of 1800 square meters. Clubs are available for hire as well as caddies.

Bitung

The city of Bitung is located on the northen coast of Sulawesi, approximately 47 km from Manado. Its land mass covers a total area of 30,400 Ha with a population of 118,633 people (1996). Bitung is a signifigant commersial port in eastern Indonesia and as a tourist gateway. The port is well equipped with a pier capable of accomodating modern cruise ships. A major assets for Bitung is the Lembeh Strait and Lembeh Island which acts as a natural shield protecting Bitung from wind and rough seas. Its believed that the name of "BITUNG" was taken from the name of a shady tree that grows in the coastal area, offering people shelter from sun, rain and wind. (click here to learn more about Bitung)

Tangkoko Batuangus Natural Reserve

Located at the foot of Dua Saudara Mountain, the area is comprised of rolling hills and valleys with a variety of hardwood trees and unusual plant life. The animal life is also quite varied , and one can often view Tarsius Spectrum ( world's smallest rimate), black tailess monkeys, Maleo Birds,wild pigs and kuskus ( marsupial family). Tangkoko Batuangus Reserve offers a suitable protective environment to help prevent these animals from becoming extinct. Tangkoko is located in the northen sector of Bitung, and comprises an area of 3,196 Ha, and takes about 1.5 -2.5 hours to reach from Bitung or Manado, respectively. Please note that the road to Tangkoko is some what difficult and visitors are recommended to visit with a local tour operators to ensure a safe journey and to take adventage of and experienced guide who assist in spotting the wildlife. Losmen (simple guesthouse) are available for overnights stays

Lembeh Strait

Lembeh strait is a 12 km. long strech of water separating Lembeh Island and the mainland. Bitung is actually the half way point along the shores of Lembeh Strait. This pristine section of water in North Sulawesi is home to many unique sea animals which include the pygmy seahorse, mimic octopus, ghost pipefish, as well as other larger species. It is a fantastic dive area for under water photographers and the diversity of smaller creatures ensures many memorable photo opportunities. There are several undevelope beaches on the shoreline of Lembeh Strait which are excellent for swimming and snorkling.

Japanese Monument

As Bitung played an important role in WW II as a home base for Japanese Forces, it become the last resting place of their soldier who died during the War. To commemorate this time in history and the men who died. the Japanese and North Sulawesi Government constructed this monument located at Manembo-nembo 7 KM from Bitung center.

BANJARMASIN

1. Kampung Kraton: Unfortunately the Dutch pit paid to most of this magnificent building and its grounds during the occupation of the archipelago, however, you can still visit it remnants and it is here you can see the 300 year old Masjid Sultan Suriansyah. This was the first Mosque in South Kalimantan and built during the rule of Pangeran Samudera. There is also a royal burial site.

2. Masjid Raya Sabilal Muhtadin: The intricately adorned interior of this giant modern mosque that was completed in 1981 will astound you and it’s the second largest in Indonesia. It is a tranquil place set in lawn grounds.

3. Museum Waja Sampai Ka Putting: At one time this was an old Banjarese traditional house in the style of Bubungan Tinggi. Interesting collection of artifacts will hold your interest here.

4. Floating Markets: Get yourself an early start with this site as it trades is from dawn until around 9am. The canoes bounding off each other on the waters are a colourful plethora of foods from the area being traded and haggled over. Journey takes around 20 minutes by boat. The one great thing about this floating market is that you can sit at one of the cafes along the waters edge and the boats will come to you from which you can select your breakfast!.

5. Pulau Kembang: Translated it means ‘flower island’. Here you can visit the long-tailed macaques at a rather decrepit looking Chinese temple and you can buy nuts to feed them, however, the monkeys are quite aggressive and will try to steal it from you so be extra careful.

6. Pulau Kaget: A great place to see the famous Proboscis Monkey. There is no guarantee that you will see them though as they are really shy. But that is part of exploring anywhere – surprises happen.

JAKARTA

Teater Imax Keong Emas (Golden Snail Theatre) Located in the Taman Mini is the Imax Theatre that presents "Beautiful Indonesia" on a gigantic screen using the latest Imax system.

Lubang Buaya Heroes Monument Situated in the Southeast of the city about 20 km from down town, it is a memorial park dedicated to the six army generals and one army officer who were

lain on October 1, 1965, in an abortive communist inspired coup d'etat. The centerpiece is the Pancasila Monument with statues of the seven heroes, standing near the old well in which their bodies were thrown after having been tortured and executed by communist militia squads.

Museum Perangko The stamps Museum at Taman Mini has an attractive collection of stamps once issued in the country over the years. The museum is ideal for the philatelist. T.I.M. Art Center The focal point of cultural activities in Jakarta Art Centre, known as Taman Ismail Marzuki or TIM in short. It is said to be the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia and consists of exhibition halls, theatres, and an academy of arts, archives building and a planetarium. A monthly programme of events, available at hotel counters, includes exhibitions, plays, and musical and poetry recitals, dance performances, exhibitions, folk art and drama from the various regions of Indonesia.

Pulau Seribu This group of Islands in the Jakarta Bay offers a haven away from the bustle of city life. There are golden beaches fringed with coconut palms. The surrounding waters are a paradise for skin divers. They are filled with a myriad of tropical fish, which live among the multicolored corals. The islands can be reached from Tanjung Priok or Pasar Ikan (Sunda Kelapa) by ferry or by chartered

boat. Some of the islands in these groups developed for tourism are Pulau Bidadari. Pulau Anyer, Pulau Laki and Pulau Putri. Pulau Tanjung near Putri has an airstrip. There are cabins for hire, having fresh water on Pulau Air and Pulau Bidadari only. The Pulau Putri Paradise Co. has developed Pulau, Pulau Melintang, Pulau Petondan and Pulau Papa Theo as a holiday resort with cottages, restaurants diving and sailing facilities.

The Marina Jaya Ancol These is a special port for yachts, motor and sail boats the port of departure for Pulau Seribu, the scattered islands in the Bay of Jakarta. This is also the place for marine recreation and sports where each facility is amply provided; water cycles, canoes, sail boats, fishing gear and many others. Stalls along the beach serve drinks and snacks while tents are available for sunbathers and sea-overs.

Jaya Ancol Dreamland This is Jakarta's largest and most popular recreation park. It is built on reclaimed beach land at the Bay of Jakarta, having, sea and fresh water aquariums, swimming pools, an artificial lagoon for fishing, boating, bowling, an assortment of nightclubs restaurants, a steam bath and massage parlors. Daily shows are held at the Aquarium where dolphins and sea lions perform. The Ancol complex includes a marina, Dunia Fantasi (fantasyland), a golf course, hotels and a drive-in theatre. The "Pasar Seni"

or art market has a varied collection of Indonesian handicraft, paintings and souvenirs on sale. At a nearby open-air theatre art performances are held using the local dialect.

Fantasy Land The latest addition to Jakarta's growing recreation facilities is the fantasyland, a 9.5-hectare (23.75 acres) entertainment park located inside the Ancol Dreamland. Planned to eventually become a part of a 200-hectare (500 acres) park designed to usher the visitor into the fascinating world of modern science and technology, the present facility takes him on an imaginative tour of old Jakarta, Africa, America, Indonesia, Europe, Asia and the Palace of Dolls. The park also offers a number of restaurants and souvenir shops.

The Wayang Museum This puppetry museum on the western side of Tama Fatahillah in "The Old Town" area has displays of wayang puppets from all parts of Indonesia and some from other parts of Southeast Asia as well. The wooden and leather puppets displayed here represent the finest craftsmanship in this particular form of traditional theatre. The museum also shows shortened performances of the wayang kulit leather puppets.

BANDUNG

Gedung Sate
Gedung Sate is the central government office. Its name is taken from the shape of the roof which many think looks like a sate (satay) stick.


Mount Tangkuban Perahu
Mount Tangkuban Perahu is the famous volcano above the city. There are a number of caves and tunnels here; dug out by the Japanese forces during the Japanese occupation, and it is irreverent to leave these holes in such a beautiful place. The peak of Tangkuban Perahu provides such an amazing scenery with a gentle breeze that serenades as though through your soul, that it is a must to visit here. You can take a walk right to the smoking crater or hike around the surrounding bush land.

YOGYAKARTA

The mornig after, in your first walk by the city, you will discover the station on its more corlorful aspect and with a busy trafic.Today's Yogyakarta in some 500,000 people are living and welcoming a large number of tourists, as 'Jogja', how it is often spelt nowadays, is the most popular destination on Java.

The Central Javanese cities of Yogyakarta and Surakarta (Solo) are centres of classical Javanese culture. The ancient arts have been encouraged by the royal families of these two sultanates under whose patronage the performing arts and others aspects of Javanese culture have flourished. There are numerous music and dance schools, brilliant choreographer, drama and poetry workshops, folk theatre and wayang troupes, artists excelling in the plastic arts.

The Bird Market (Pasar Burung Ngasem)
Besides a house, a keris (dagger), a wife and a horse, a perkutut (turtle dove) is very much cherished for its mellow cooing, which makes it one of the five items the old Javanese hold up as a symbol of prestige A Javanese man should have these five possessions to show his success in society. A slight variety in the tone and pitch of its voice make quite a difference in price, while a real "champion" would easily reach the value of brand new motor car.
The price of possessing of a lovely singing turtle dove would be an acceptable reason for the passionate attachment of the owner to his pampered pet. No wonder despite the hard day life, there is money for the Yogyanese to spare for birds. There are singing contests organized annually and much care is given to this branch of hobby.
Although turtle doves predominate, other kinds of bird are sold at Ngasem Market. Ornithologists may find a variety of tropical birds available, and the interesting and beautiful bird cages displayed on the wayside near the market place is a fascinating sight. Business is from 9am to 4pm.


Parang Tritis Beach
A popular seaside resort 27 kms south of Yogyakarta on the Indian Ocean, Parang Tritis is famous in Javanese mythology as the home of the goddess of the South Seas, who was married to Panembahan Senopati, founder of the Mataram Kingdom. Every year the sultans of Yogyakarta make special offerings to her in a beach side ceremony called “Labuhan”.


Mendut Temple
The Mendut temple is another km east, back towards Muntilan. It may be small and insignificant compared with its mighty neighbor, Borobudur, but this temple is the most outstanding statue of any temple in Java can still be seen in its proper place - a magnificent three meter high figure of Buddha, flanked by the Budhisattravas Lokesvara on the left and Vairapana on the right. The Buddha is also notable for his posture, for instead of the usual lotus position he sits Western style, with both feet on the ground.
The Mendut temple, known as the temple in the bamboo grove, was discovered in 1836 and attempts to restore it were made by the Dutch between 1897 and 1904. Although parts of the roof and entrance remain unfinished, it is nevertheless a fine temple and the gracefully carved relief panels on its outer walls are among the finest and largest examples of Hindu-Javanese art.