Timang Beach

Adventure Never Ends in Timang Beach Gunungkidul Yogyakarta

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Timang Beach

Timang Beach

photo by: pierrenewmaster

If you come to Yogyakarta, though this city is well known for the cultural trip, you should try adventurous activity that this city has, the Gondola Timang. Timang is a lovely beach located in Gunungkidul Yogyakarta, about 70 km to east of Yogyakarta downtown. It takes 2 hours by car to get to Timang. You need to get there by private car or motorbike. If you need to rent car plus driver you can contact Pamitran Tours. You can also take our Jogja Timang beach tour package to ease your trip. We will escort you not only to Timang beach but also other tourist object near it.

Timang BeachTalking about the gondola in Timang, some say it as ‘the death gondola’. Why is it so? Gondola ride is common thing you can find in mountainous range. Modern gondola may have good look and easy way to be operated using electricity. But in Timang Beach, the gondola that we mean is the traditional one, entirely made of wood and ropes. It is operated with the help of clever pulley system. Then what is the exact function of this gondola?

Timang gondola is used as a ferry of the lobster fishermen. It connects the mainland to smaller rocky reef 20 meters offshore. The Watu Panjang (the island in the middle of the sea) is a home of thousands lobsters. Nowadays, the gondola become a thrilling experience many tourists want to try, since it attract many people since the first time Timang Beach was opened for the public. The tourist also likes to ‘dive into’ the story of the lobster fishermen’s life that connected to this gondola.

However if you are not keen on the gondola, the locals have built another new bridge to cross to the same island. For you who want to cross the mainland with gondola, you should not worry about the safety. The fishermen who operated the gondola are professional and the gondola itself is safe for anybody who wants to try it. But remember, this gondola only fit for one people with a maximum weight of 130 kg.

Attraction on Timang Beach Jogja

Timang Beach

photo by: instagram/@lisa_ang

Other attraction than the death Timang Beach gondola is the delectable culinary of lobster original from this area. The fresh lobster will be cooked with the secret recipe of Gunungkidul coast. The lobster that is cooked is the catches of lobster fishermen. So don’t forget to taste this one.

If you still think that this gondola Timang is not enough, there are still several other tourist objects near the Timang Beach. Such as the Nglambor Beach in which you can snorkeling and explore the underwater beauty of Jogja. Or, Jogan Beach where you will find the magical panorama of sunset in the beach and small waterfall in the shore.

Beside it, maybe you will go again for another adventure like rock climbing in Siung Beach or try also to camp in the shore of this beach. While Jomblang Cave is open for you who like to take journey deep below the earth.

How to Get to Timang Beach

Timang beach is in Purwodadi Village, Tepus subdistrict, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta. It is in the east of Yogyakarta downtown where you need private car or motorbike to get here. The trip takes two to three hours to go. The road along the journey is easy. But if you use car, after you get close to Timang you need to park it in the available parking area and is told to take motorbike taxis which will drive you to 3km more trip to get into the beach. The cost for this motorbike taxi is Rp 50.000. Other than this motorbike, timang beach jeep is the alternative to get into Timang. One jeep costs Rp 350.000.

Timang Beach Entrance Fee

There is still no ticket for Timang Beach Indonesia. It’s just the parking fee for your transportation that you need to pay. The gondola ticket is Rp 200.000, expensive enough but the view around Timang worth a try. And the Timang Bridge costs Rp 100.000.

Conquer These Diving Spots Komodo Island (Best Dive Spot Komodo)

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Diving Spots Komodo Island

People go to Komodo Islands because they want also feel the spectacular sensation of diving in deep water except for seeing the giant lizard. It is not surprising that many tourists want to try scuba diving because the water in Komodo Islands is so clear, fresh with blue tone and green, while the inhabitant of the sea are also interesting, fishes and corals are everywhere. So, what are you waiting for? Here it is some diving spots Komodo.

Best Dive Spot Komodo

Batu Bolong

Batu Bolong is the jewel in the crown of the central Komodo. The top of the rock rises out of the ocean so it is enough to provide a place which is commonly used to dive this site. In here you can do to 18 – 30 m at maximum. You will have a great dive to see wall and steeply shelving reef, napoleon wrasse, giant sweetlips, schooling fusiliers, barracuda, tuna, and white tip reef sharks. You can also say hi to the hawksbill turtles that chilling out or to dolphins and manta ray (if you are lucky).

Diving Spots Komodo Island

photo by: instagram/@jen_wrangham

Manta Point

Manta point is where you can dive into the sea to meet the great manta rays at their cleaning stations. You will need to dive with only shallow drift 2.5 km. The average depth to dive in this site is 8-12 m, but what makes it beautiful is in the shallows. Soft and hard coral become the home to moon wrasses and yellow butterfly fishes which are known as the primary cleaner fishes. But you can also spot bamboo sharks, black tips, and turtles. Of course, if you can take your eyes off the magnificent manta rays.

Tatawa Besar

Tatawa Besar is the only site that filled with the most colorful coral reefs. This dive spot Komodo is perfect for those who like to have the aquarium feeling. And fortune makes it better so you can see mantas, dolphins, and sharks. Tatawa which means smile, should give you great impression with the underwater life where cuttlefishes, batfishes, oriental sweetlips, and the colorful coral are best known in the area.

Wainilu

Wainilu is number one for muck diving activity. Not like any other places with clean and bright sea, Wainilu is filled with black sand at the bottom of the sea where fishes and any other sea animal may make their hiding house. However Wainilu is beautiful, suitable for the true divers who want to conquer all terrain. It surrounded by mangrove and a sloping soft coral garden. Commonly the frogfishes, mandarin fishes, seahorses, coleman shrimps, zebra crabs, fire urchins, ghost pope fishes, snake eels, and sea moths are the kind that can be found in Wainilu. The other treasure of the place is mimic octopus, blue ring octopus, Rhinopias, and harlequin shrimps. It is not expected that this muddy habitat turns out to save a lot of wealth.

Castle Rock

Beautiful blue water and reef is what Castle Rock known for. Divers can see giant trevallies either as well as the sharks, banner fishes, surgeon fishes, and huge schools of fusiliers. Grey reef sharks and white tips are the highlight of Castle Rock. But other than the two, dolphins sometimes come to play, and napoleon wrasses or groupers may lazily swimming.

Crystal Rock

You will go with the current in Crystal rock to see stunning rock formation, and while you stay in the split of current, grey reefs and white tips will join us at 22 meters. Incredible action of bat fish, dolphins, and eagle rays will be found here. Colorful corals and barrel sponges encrusted the rock make an exciting marine life. On the end of the dive, you will see protected fauna such as white tips, octopus, and pygmy sea horse. Enjoy Crystal Rock with or without current.

Best Diving Spot Komodo Island

Best Dive Spot Komodo Island

photo by: instagram/@imarem

Golden Passage

The next most famous diving spot Komdo Island is called Golden Passage. Golden Passage is a shallow channel between two islands. The dive site is perfect to see sharks, bump head parrotfishes, and groupers. Spectacular rock formation and vibrant coral will amaze you of the beautiful underwater. Some sharks and blue fin trevallies usually take shelter at the rock and feed themselves in the coral. If the current is not so strong, you can find leaf scorpion fish and mantis shrimp at the end of the dive.

Secret Garden

As beautiful as its names, Secret Garden is one of the best places with no current and can be the best for a photographers dream. A small wall stretches from 14 to 28 meters. Close to the wall you can spot white tips, reef fishes and glass fishes that seeking protection in large tree like coral formation. Soft coral garden is a perfect place for frogfishes, seahorse, and cuttlefishes. Mobula rays and stingrays are often passing by in large number also in Secret Garden. What a perfect dive spot!

Cannibal Rock

A true world class site, Cannibal Rock, will make you have a great adventure in the sea. Just starting at 2 meters from the surface you can explore the huge rock to 30 meters below. Its medium current provides best protection. Cannibal Rock has all you want to see; sandy bottoms, slopes, walls, rock formation, sponges, pristine corals, large pelagic fishes, and overhangs.

Yellow Wall

The name Yellow wall is given due to the tiny yellow sea cucumbers that gather in the site in large numbers. The wall is dropping to over 30 meters but you can dive at any depth. Sponges and coral fill the wall provide shelter for variety of creatures such as frogfishes, nudibranch, and many other. Yellow Wall is probably the best wall dive in Komodo, where at the top of the wall there is a small plateau to wonder if any other place can be so beautiful than this.

The Cauldron

Want to dive with strong current? Just go to The Cauldron. Hidden between two islands in the middle of the channel, The Cauldron, a shaped bowl site carved by the current over hundred years ago takes place. This is the unforgettable dive site with strong current and average depth of 16 m. The Cauldron invites you to see busy canyon with midnight snapper, giant trevally, eagle rays and manta rays, turtle, and sharks.

Siaba Besar

Siaba Besar is a diving spot komodo for everyone; a protected bay with coral and reefs that become a home to green turtles and white tip reef shark. The sea grass is also a home to some animals. If the luck goes with you, you can see hairy frog fish, mimic octopus, rhinopias, and flamboyant cuttlefish.

How is it? Komodo Islands has so much diving sites komodo isn’t it? So better bring the swimsuit if you come here. You know that it is not only the dragon that you can get, but also the fun experience of diving in tropical sea. For the spectacular sensation of diving and trip adventure to Komodo Islands, please also check out Pamitran Tours Komodo Tour package. We offer the best of the best and you should not be disappointed in Komodo Islands trip.

Komodo Islands Tour

Komodo Island Travel Guide

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Komodo Islands Tour Guide

See the Largest Ancient Lizard in The World at Komodo Islands Tour

The island of Komodo is the habitat of Komodo dragon, largest-ancient-lizard on Earth, which is named after the island. Komodo Island is included as the new 7 wonders of nature in UNESCO, especially because the unique ancient man-eating lizard. So, when you think dinosaurs have already extinct, Indonesia introduce you to its friend, Komodo Dragon. Not only the dragon, when you come to Komodo Islands tour, you can enjoy diving, snorkeling, trekking, and visit a beach. There are three main islands to see the beauty of Komodo Islands in a whole; Rinca Island, Komodo Island, and Padar Island. And maybe, you can also visit other island like Sumbawa in the west and Flores in the east of Komodo Islands.

Introduction to Komodo Dragons

Komodo Island Tour

photo by: instagram/@xmskr

Before we talk so far about Komodo Islands tourism, we should know first the icon if the island, Komodo Dragons. It also called as Komodo monitor. Komodo is the largest living species of lizard on earth that can grow to 3 metres at maximum. While other mega fauna died out after the Pleistocene era, Komodo become the only one that survives. The fossils of Komodo even dating to greater than 3,8 million years ago.

Komodo Dragons is poisonous. They hide the toxic under its lower jaw which produce poisonous saliva. Its venomous bite can numb birds, invertebrates, mammals, and even human. In some case they attack humans also. The skin is reinforced by armoured scales. However it has poor vision at night. It only uses tongue to detect smell and taste.

Komodo prefers hot and dry places like savanna, tropical forest at low elevations, and grassland. They are solitary and active in the day. They only come together for breeding and eating. The mating period is between May and August. Eggs will probably laid in September. During this time, males guard the females and territory. The females will make many camouflage nests so the eggs will be save from other carnivore.

Komodo Indonesia Tourist Object

Komodo Island

Of course the first place to go in Komodo Islands Indonesia is the Komodo Island. It has been set by UNESCO as one of the world heritage. Except for the Komodo Dragons, Komodo Island has natural beauty characteristic of East Nusa Tenggara. In this island about 1.300 Komodo Dragons live and its population is growing every year since 2009. Meet the Komodo Dragons and admire its natural landscape.

Pulau Rinca

photo by: instagram/@pickkolder19

Rinca Island

Want to see the giant lizard in other place? Rinca Island is the answer. Besides Komodo Island, Rinca is the next habitat for the animal. You can explore the jungle with a guide to see the wild Komodo, wild pig, buffalo, and birds.

Gili Lawa Darat

Gili Lawa is famous as the entrance gate to Komodo National Park. What makes it gorgeous is the view of the sea and wide savannah. You don’t need to get into the summit, just go to the best spot you could have seen the unusual view of ocean and hills.

Kalong Island

Some prefer to go to Kalong in the end of the day, when sun is going to set. All your tired will be pay off when you see Kalong panorama. In sunset, you can see thousands of bats fly in the sky. This bat is that become the origin of the island. Kalong means bat.

Kelor Island

Kelor Island can be enjoyed by snorkeling or diving in the depth of the sea to see pretty fishes and coral reef. For you who are the beginner and afraid of komodo islands diving, Kelor Island can be explored by trekking to the summit of the hills. When you have arrived there, you can see the ocean from above. Capture the moments with photos.

Komodo Tours Destinations

Komodo Island Pink Beach

photo by: instagram/@hendrickhartono

Labuan Bajo

Flores is not so far from Komodo Islands. In Flores, there is one amazing harbor to visit, Labuan Bajo. The wonderful port city Labuan Bajo guarantees you will have perfect memories of sea, boats, and the magnificent green hills surrounding the area.

Komodo Island Pink Beach

What do you think of pink beach? It is where the sand on a beach has pink color, and that become the origin of its name. Pink Beach in Flores is very-very beautiful. Light blue and dark blue color of the sea blend together, the pink sand maximize the panorama, and added with the strong green hills surround the place, makes it a perfect tropical holiday.

Taka Makassar

Taka Makassar is a good place for snorkeling in Komodo islands tour. People can also see the sandbanks when the tide is low. The pristine water teases you to join them in the sea.

Padar Island

The third-largest island in Komodo National Park is a must-visit-places. It is also a home to Komodo Dragon. But what is popular here is the view from atop of the hill where you can see the body of the island and the ocean around it.

Places to Go in Komodo Island

Snorkeling with Manta or Turtles

Swimming or snorkeling with Manta Rays or turtles is not something difficult to get. Only in rainy season, the chance swimming with Manta is better. While sea turtles are almost everywhere in the ocean. Go dive or snorkel in Komodo Best Snorkeling Spot and you can easily find them.

Kanawa Island

It is a private-like island perfect for relaxing or barbeque-ing. You can swim and marvel the marine life beauty, the white-sandy beach, and more. Take your friends with you and the day here is almost perfect.

Rangko Cave

The cave is located near Labuan Bajo. What makes it interesting is the natural pool of the pristine-blue water in the cave. It contains salt, so even though it is deep enough you can floating easily.

How to Go to Komodo Islands

Komodo Islands is in the east of Java, Lombok, and Bali. You can go by airplane from Jakarta or Bali. There is no direct international flight to Komodo Islands tours. You will be arrived to Labuan Bajo Airport. From the airport you will need to take a boat to Komodo Islands. But for some money reason, you can also choose to go by ship from Lombok to Komodo.

Culinary Tour in Komodo Islands

Komodo Islands are included in the area of East Nusa Tenggara, so it has typical of Flores culinary and East Nusa Tenggara.

  • Se’i: Se’i is a name for a food where meat is cooked by the heat of smoke and not in fire. The cooking stove is made away from the flame tongue so that the meat is not too burnt. The meat used is varies from pork, beef, and venison which is a bit rare in this region.
  • Bose Corn: Corn is used to replace the use of rice. It is usually served on a traditional event. Corn that is used is white corn which is then mixed with salt and coconut milk.
  • Kolo: it is roasted rice. It is a traditional food from Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. Rice is cooked by using bamboo and burned. Rice will be mixed with seasoning before entering into bamboo and being burned.

How to Plan a Trip to Komodo

Komodo Islands might be an unknown world for you as it is has different weather, climate, and condition. You need to pay attention to some important tips to make sure your trip to Komodo Islands is not a waste.

  • Choose the best time. The best time to get into Komodo Islands is from April to June and September to November. This is the perfect time where you can Komodo dragon sightseeing, snorkeling, and diving in the calm ocean.
  • Pay attention to menstrual period. This is for ladies, please make sure that you are not going to see Komodo Dragons while you get your menstrual period. Komodo can be aggressive if they smell the blood.
  • Plan Your Destination. Search which places you will visit in Komodo Islands. You may also desire to go to nearest places surround the island such as those in Sumbawa or Flores. Make the list and eliminate which are not so important. Then ask your tour agent whether those places can be visited in your trip or not. Pamitran Tours in this way will give you the best advice. We also guarantee you will have alternatives for several options.
  • Packing Important Thing. Komodo is a hot and dry island. So just take cotton-based cloth that can absorb your sweat. Bring also casual style clothes that will not bother you when you need to trek the hills and the national park. Swimsuit is a must thing as Komodo has dreamiest beach and sea. Bring also the sunblock with you to avoid skin damage because of the heat.

Other Tips to Komodo Tour

  • Camera Ready Wonderful panorama from land to land and sea to sea in Komodo Islands is all photogenic. Always prepare your camera in your bag to take memorable photo or magnificent landscape of Komodo island.
  • Cash Only. There will be no ATM in Komodo Islands, so before you go here prepare your cash first.
  • Join an Open Trip. If you want to be accompanied by many people, you can join Komodo Tour open trip. Besides going in a group is better than alone. It is also better if you go by choosing a trusted Komodo Tour Packages as those in Pamitran Tours. Pamitran Tours is the best travel agent to get trip to Komodo. You can also choose your own destination. If it is possible then going to Komodo trip as you like is an easy thing.
  • Be Safe. Komodo will not threaten you if you don’t threaten them. Don’t make sudden move or if you suddenly chased by the dragon, run in zigzag rather than straight and hide on the houses in the national park. Don’t climb the tree. Follow the guide instruction. Don’t go alone as Komodo might be attracted to a lone prey.
Kotagede Yogyakarta

Kotagede Yogyakarta: Classic, Artistic, Rich

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Kotagede Yogyakarta: Classic, Artistic, Rich

Kota Gede Walking TourKotagede is a historic administrative subdistrict in Yogyakarta. It keeps the remains of the first capital of Mataram Sultanate which established in 16th century. Some of the remains are the royal cemetery, the royal palace, defensive walls, moats, and the royal mosque. For international world, this Kotagede may popular for its silver crafting. It’s true, but you should notice also that Kotagede is the center of culture in Yogyakarta where historical heritages from the Mataram Sultanate still can be seen. We recommend you to join our Kotagede Walking Tour to get to know well about Yogyakarta and its ancestors. Or, join the Kotagede Cycling Tour in Pamitran Tours where you can get around Kotagede while cycling casually.

About Kotagede

Kotagede was a forest named Mentaok. Until in 16th Century, Ki Ageng Pemanahan (ruler of Islamic Kingdom of Pajang) opened the forest. Since then, he established settlement and named after his title ‘Ki Gedhe Mataram’ means the Lord of Mataram. After Ki Ageng Pemanahan died, his son Sutawijaya continued the development and pembangunan. Sutawijaya then conquer surrounding kingdom near Mataram and make Kotagede as the capital city. The name Kotagede was used to show that Kotagede is a great city. During this time Kotagede was fortified with walls.

By the end of 19th century, transportation and economy improved in Kotagede. Because of that, this place started to produce silverware. Since then Kotagede is popular for the best silver craft in Yogyakarta and nowadays the place is become a tourist center where many historical relics of Mataram Sultanate are still found such as the great mosque, Mataram cemetery, fort, and many more.

Kotagede Yogyakarta Tourist Attraction and Surroundings

In our cycling and walking Kotagede tour, you will find many interesting things. Kotagede tourist attraction as if it does not want to bore you even though it includes historical stories that can sometimes make you tired. The splendor architectural of its buildings, as well as the artistic aspect that cannot be released from Kotagede, will make you know the history of Java and admire its beauty.

Kotagede Mataram Royal Cemetery

Kotagede Mataram Royal Cemetery is a must visit place. There is no entrance fee and this is the place where the rulers of Mataram buried. The building uses brick as its walls. The architecture is similar to temple building in Bali. To enter the main cemetery you need to change clothes with the one available in the place. You need to wear jarik kemben (fabrics from batik that are used from chest to ankles)

The Great Mosque Kotagede

Beside the cemetery, the Great Mosque Kotagede is the next place to go in kotagede. The Javanese architecture can be seen very well, shows that this building belongs to Keraton. Dominated by the dark green color which is the icon color of yogyakarta.

Kotagede Silvercraft

There are many silver craft shops in this area. Every shops sell high quality silver craft. You can find rings, necklaces, earrings, and other items such as home decoration, tea set, and many other. You can also join the silver craft class.

Legi Market

This is the only traditional market in Kotagede. Legi Market still operated until now and become the support of the lives of the people in Kotagede. This market becomes crowded in Legi day in Javanese calendar.

cycling tour kotagedeTraditional Houses

It is not strange if in Kotagede you will see traditional houses. Joglo building can be found in Omah UGM. This place ever been used for filming purposes some time. Antique goods are still neatly stored inside the house. Other than Omah UGM, Rumah Pesik or Pesik House is also famous. Pesik House was a house for Kalang people, the Balinese descendant who is quite influential when the Mataram Sultanate established. Pesik House bergaya Java, Dutch, and Islam. The next is Langgar Dhuwur, a family mushola that build rather high. In the past Langgar Dhuwur was found a lot. Today you can find it in Jagalan. The architecture is a blending of Dutch and Java classic style.

Monggo Chocolate Factory

The new popular tourist destination around Kotagede is the Monggo Chocolate Factory. Monggo is a original chocolate brand from Jogjakarta. It is very unique because there are many flavors such as mango, rendang, ginger, white chocolate and many other strange flavors. In the factory you can see how the chocolate is made and packed.

Kotagede Alleyways

Other uniqueness in Kotagede is the narrow alleyways. Nobody knows why the alleyways in Kotagede are made very narrow, some of it even just enough for one person. Whether this is intentional or not, the explanation is never certain. The one that certain is it will be very fun to pass these small alleys by cycling. You can stop at some ancient and classic houses or buildings that you meet.

Get to Kotagede

Kotagede is not so far from Malioboro. It is easily reached by any kind of transportation. You can use bus (TransJogja), taxi, car, or motorbike. You can also use traditional transportation such as andong (a cart drawn by horse) or becak. Other transportation you can use is bicycle. To rent it you can contact Pamitran Tours. Cycling in Kotagede is very relaxing. For this, make sure you contact us. Or you can also use our Kotagede cycling tour. In this tour we will escort you to some popular Kotagede. This way your vacation to Kotagede is more secure and certain.

Raja Ampat Islands, Paradise on Earth

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Raja Ampat Islands, Paradise on Earth

Raja Ampat is the hidden paradise in Indonesia. Located in the east part of Indonesia, the place is a home for the natural wealth and underwater beauty. Included as one of the world heritage in UNESCO, Raja Ampat is a must be visited destination. You will see islands, small islands, cays, bay, flora and fauna, and many other things you probably did not see before.

About Raja Ampat Islands

Raja Ampat IslandsRaja Ampat or the Four Kings islands is an archipelago in the east part of Indonesia consist of over 1.500 small islands, shoals surrounding the main islands and cays. It is a part of Coral Triangle, means that it has the richest marine biodiversity on earth. Raja Ampat Islands is located in West Papua province, which formerly was known as Irian Jaya. It is off the northwest tip of Papua Bird’s Head Peninsula. It becomes a new regency after separated from Sorong in 2004. Cendrawasih Bay as the largest marine national park in Indonesia is also included to this area.

The four main islands in Raja Ampat is Salawati, Misool, Batanta, Waigeo, and also the smaller island called as Kofiau. Most of the archipelago in Raja Ampat is in the southern hemisphere with a few small islands in the northern hemisphere such as Sajang Island.

Fishing is the main occupation for local people around Raja Ampat area since it is dominated by sea. They still live in small colony of tribes and where traditional culture still strongly exists. However they are very friendly to visitors. The people characteristic some say are more like Ambonese than Papuan people. One more interesting thing about vacation in Raja Ampat is when you come at the Arborek Tourism Village, you will be shown a traditional welcome dance right at the dock and they entertained the guest with various Papuan folk songs.

History of The Name of Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat IslandsRaja Ampat is taken from the local mythology in Papua that tells of a woman who finds seven eggs. Four of the eggs then hatch and become kings who occupy four biggest islands in Raja Ampat (Salawati, Misool, Batanta, and Waigeo), while the other three eggs become a princess, a ghost, and a stone. Salawati, Misool, Batanta, and Waigeo become the biggest kingdom in Raja Ampat. The name of the kings once are Betani king of Salawati, Dohar king of Misool, War king of Waigeo, and Mohamad king of Batanta.

The area of Raja Ampat was once being a part of Sultanate of Tidore, a big kingdom from Maluku. But after the Dutch invaded Maluku, Raja Ampat was claimed by the Netherlands. The first recorded landing by Europeans was by the Portuguese (Jorge de Menezes) in 1526 who explored Biak and Waigeo to Halmahera. There is also English explorer, William Dampier that gave his name to Dampier Strait, the strait which separates Batanta from Waigeo. While other strait that separates Batanta from Salawati called as Pitt Strait, after Captain Willian Wilson in 1759 sailing in the East Indiaman Pitt.

Raja Ampat Sea Wealth

Raja Ampat IslandsMarine life diversity in Raja Ampat is the highest that ever been recorded on earth. It is considered greater than any other area in Indonesia. The oceanic resources make it potential as tourist area. Moreover Raja Ampat has top ten most popular spots for diving. The diving spots have been very famous throughout the world recently. Not surprising that many people, foreigner especially, come into this place to feel diving in this beautiful place.

The Coral Triangle in Raja Ampat is the heart of the world’s coral reef biodiversity, probably the richest coral reef ecosystems in the world. While in many other are of the world, coral reefs are continue to suffer from the high sea surface temperature, coral bleaching, and coral disease, Raja Ampat islands are undisturbed by humans and still remote, so that the coral reefs are protected well.

Thanks to its position that located between Indian and Pacific Oceans, Raja Ampat now has high marine diversity as coral and fishes are more easily shared between those two oceans. 1.508 fish species (tuna, manta rays, batfish, barracudas, snappers, giant trevallies, etc), 537 coral species, and 699 mollusk species live here. The coral species is the richest in the world, 75% of all coral species that exist in the world are here. The harmless jellyfish can be found all in the Misool area. Other than that, school fish, sharks, and wobbegongs are in these islands. Wobbegong is the name for carpet shark species that are around the eastern Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean, precisely around Indonesia and Australia.Raja Ampat is also home for 1.700 species of reef fish, endangered and rare marine mammals such as dugongs, whales, dolphins, and orcas, giant sea clams down at the sea floor, and turtle.

Jungle in Raja Ampat

The life in Raja Ampat is not only about the sea and its underwater beauty. In the land, dozens of enchanting jungle hide spectacular bird species that is Cendrawasih, the bird of paradise. There are also still many other birds in beautiful colors.

Maleo Waigeo is a species of endemic bird that can only be seen in Waigeo Island. Meanwhile, birds of king shrimp kofiau can only be found on Kofiau Island. Total of birds in Raja Ampat is reaching 173 species of birds and 11 of them are endemic birds (red cendrawasih, kehicap kofiau, maleo waigeo, bald cendrawasih, black lorry, etc). If you are lucky you can also see dozens of birds like dwarf cassowary, mambruk victoria, black wing parrot, single wolf cassowary, hooded pitohiu, and many more other.

Except for the birds, jungle in Raja Ampat also keeps animals like the endemic species of cuscus called the Waigeou cuscus, tree kangaroos, bird wing butterflies, and reimani turtles which are snake-headed turtles.

 

Taman Sari Water Castle Yogyakarta

Taman Sari Water Castle Yogyakarta: The Beauty of History and Art

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Taman Sari Water Castle Yogyakarta: The Beauty of History and Art

City Tour Yogyakarta

The Taman Sari Water Castle Yogyakarta is the site of a former royal garden belongs to Keraton Yogyakarta. This place had multiple functions in the past; as resting area, meditation area, workshop, defense area, and hiding place. Taman Sari Water Castle is a world heritage site. It is a must visit place in Jogjakarta. And don’t forget, if you want to come here, please use Jogja tamansari tour package from Pamitran Tours where you can enjoy the wonderful building of Taman Sari with unequaled convenience.

Taman Sari Water Palace Yogyakarta

The name Taman Sari derived from the Javanese words taman means garden and sari means beautiful or flowers. In the past this place was indeed a beautiful garden with flowers everywhere and bathing complex. It was built in 18th century by Sultan Hamengkubuwono I and finished in Sultan Hamengkubuwono II era. Before functioned as royal garden, this place was known as bathing place. Then after it was constructed Taman Sari became a wide complex consists of 59 buildings including meditation chamber, mosque, swimming pools, and 18 water gardens and pavilions with artificial lake.

Taman Sari Water Castle Jogja though was built in Javanese style, in fact also taking some Europeans architecture under the order of the first architect Tumenggung Mangundipura who has travelled to Batavia twice to learn about European architecture. After Java War during 1825 – 1830 and earthquake in 1867, the complex destroyed in many parts and now only the bathing complex has been completely restored.

Taman Sari is divided into four areas. The first will be the artificial lake called Segaran Lake. The second is the bathing complex called Umbul Binangun. The third area is gone and the forth is in the east of Umbul Binangun. Nowadays the place included in Taman Sari tour is the bathing complex and artificial lake, the long tunnel into the underground mosque, Sumur Gumuling (the underground tunnel), and the ruins of Pulo Kenongo near Ngasem Market.

Around Taman Sari

Kampung Taman is the name of a village around Taman Sari Water Castle. Inhabit by expert artist, known the best for painting, batik, and other craft. If you have enough time you can visit the workshop or boutique and buy their creation. You can also go around Taman Sari village to get to know Jogja’s art and culture better.

Taman Sari Water Castle Opening Hours

Taman Sari Water Castle opening hours is from Monday to Sunday at 8 a.m until 2 p.m.

Taman Sari Water Castle Entrance fee

Taman Sari Water Castle entrance fee:

Foreign touristRp
Ticket for CameraRp

How to Get to Taman Sari

Taman Sari is in the south of Keraton Yogyakarta. The distance is only about 1 km from the south square. You can go here by foot from Keraton. Ask the people around to get the exact direction to Taman Sari. Other than that, you can use becak or andong from Malioboro or Keraton. If you use becak and andong you can also stop by to other object such as bakpia factory and so on.

Yogyakarta Palace Keraton

Yogyakarta Palace Keraton: A Live History of Culture and Art

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Yogyakarta Palace Keraton: A Live History of Culture and Art

Yogyakarta Palace KeratonJogja Palace or also known as the Keraton Hadiningrat Yogyakarta is a place used by rulers and kings of Islamic Mataram. Keraton itself means a magnificent palace where important people or king in an area lived. So there are also other Keraton in other parts of Indonesia.

Keraton today is used as a museum that keeps artifacts and other historical heritage. Even the palace itself is a valuable heritage. Of course this unique museum is not boring like most museums in Jogja. By only visiting this place, you will be entertained with the beauty of an extraordinary tourist spot, witnessing the true Jogja local art, and get acquainted with its history and custom. Ngayogyakarta Palace Complex is very spacious, special and fascinating. Not surprisingly, many foreign tourists interested to come into the Yogyakarta Palace. Let’s dive into the Palace of Jogjakarta to make your vacation more memorable.

Yogyakarta Palace KeratonThe History of Keraton Yogyakarta Palace

Classic nuance will be found as soon as your feet step into the palace. As if you were taken to the past to be the son and daughter of Keraton. In terms of buildings, the Kraton royal palace Yogyakarta in the past was not much different from the present. Keraton palace Yogyakarta was established in 1755 after the Giyanti Agreement. This agreement made the Islamic Mataram Sultanate divided into two, Surakarta Palace (Solo) and Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat Palace (Jogja). This agreement occurred due to two parties’ disapproval of Dutch rule in the land of Java. Until finally the first sultan of Kraton of Jogja, Sultan Hamengku Buwono I, chose to establish a new sultanate in Jogja area which was more in line with classic Java characteristics.

Jogja and Surakarta Palace are actually brothers from one kingdom. For this reason, until now the two palaces are still often related in various affairs. Keraton Yogyakarta once was thought to have been built as a resting place for the bodyguards who accompanied the body of kings of Mataram who will be buried dikuburkan, and given name as Garjitawati. But there are also those who say that the palace was before a spring in the middle of the Beringan forest.

Yogyakarta Keraton is quite spacious and consists of seven complexes and still has other parts around the Keraton that belong to the king. The seven main complexes are Siti Hinggil Ler which is the northern hall, Kamandhungan Ler, Sri Manganti, Kedhaton (the main palace), Kamagangan, Kamandhungan Kidul, and Siti Hinggil Kidul or the south hall.

The Kraton sultan palace Yogyakarta is a legacy of the Islamic empire that developed since at the hands of its first founder. This extraordinary architecture was designed by the Sultan HB I. In addition to the main part of the palace, the construction of a small gate and fortress in the corners of the palace complex was further developed by his descendants. Those included in Yogyakarta palace complex are North Square, South Square, Gladag Pangurakan Gate, Gedhe Mosque, Pagelaran Complex, Plengkung Nirbaya, Plengkung Gadhing, Pracimosono Complex, Roto Wijayan Complex, Taman Sari, Istana Putra Mahkota Complex, Keraton Kilen Complex , Baluwerti Fortress, Pal Putih Monument, Gedhong Krapyak, Beringharjo Market, and Ndalem Kepatihan (Prime Minister’s Palace).

The function of Keraton Yogyakarta as a home for the king to remain as the Jogjakarta government is increasingly visible with the architectural splendor it makes. The number of carvings and ornaments shows that it is not a place for just anyone. Even each building has a function tailored to its interests and position. Also no one ever thought that the sand in the main yard of the Keraton was sand originating from the South Coast which was later planted by certain trees. The door is made of thick teak wood and is called Regol by the Javanese. But despite being very traditional in style, the fact that Keraton Yogyakarta is adopted ornaments of Dutch, Portuguese, Chinese and Islamic styles cannot be avoided.

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Keraton Jogja Special Events and Performance

Now you already know that Keraton is a place where Jogja’s art and custom continue to be maintained and preserved. No wonder if regular events and performances in Keraton are held to attract the visitors and give knowledge to children and student who visit this palace. You can see traditional dance, gamelan, and puppet show. Below is the schedule of the performances:

  • Monday and Tuesday: Yogyakarta kraton Gamelan music  starts at 10:00 a.m.
  • Wednesday: Wayang Golek Menak (puppet show  starts at 10:00 a.m.
  • Thursday: The traditional dance performance (The kind and name of the dance performed is varied since there are many traditional dances in Jogja. To know what dance will be performed ask the information from your guide)  starts at 10:00 a.m.
  • Friday: Macapat (  starting at 9:00 a.m.
  • Saturday: Leather Puppet Show  starts at 9:30 a.m.
  • Sunday: Human Puppet show & Yogyakarta palace dance performance  starting at 9:30 a.m.

Information of Keraton Yogyakarta

Location of Keraton Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta palace sultan location is not difficult to find. Jogja Palace is located on Rotowijayan Street Blok No. 1, Panembahan, Kraton, Yogyakarta City, Yogyakarta Special Region. The distance between the Yogyakarta Palace and Malioboro is very close to around 50 meters. Then, how to go to Keraton Yogyakarta? From Malioboro many choose to walk because they want to enjoy also the Malioboro shopping area. Besides, the distance is very close. But there are also those who use horse cart and becak. From Keraton you can go to other nearest must visit place, Tamansari, by walking or either by becak.

Kraton Palace Entrance Fee

Do you wonder how many Yogyakarta Palace entrance fee is?

Kraton Palace Opening Hours

Jogja Palace is open at 8 a.m to 2 a.m every day. Usually from the morning, visitors are already crowded, especially if there is a study tour group or joint tourism work. Especially on Friday this place closes at 12 a.m.

Yogyakarta Kraton Tour

With the increasing number of study tours and other private tours to Kraton, there are now many travel agents offering convenient Jogja Keraton tour. Complete facilities and routes and the ability of a reliable agent can make a vacation more meaningful. Like in Pamitran Tours, there are many vacation packages to Jogja that include Keraton as one of its destinations. So if you don’t want to be complicated and definitely get to Yogyakarta Palace and the surrounding tour right away, don’t forget to contact Pamitran Tours team.

Yogyakarta Palace Facilities

Jogja Palace facilities are complete. Because it is located in the center of the city, there were many restaurants, batik and souvenir shops, traditional snacks shops like bakpia, chocolate factory, and café in this millennial era.

Restaurants around Jogja Palace

  • Gardi Resto A classic Jogja restaurant with authentic Jogja food à Rotowijayan Street No.5 (west of Yogyakarta Palace).
  • Pendopo Ndalem Resto An exclusive angkringan with cheap prices à Jl. Sompitan, 200 m from the Palace.
  • Royal Garden Resto Combining modern and classic Javanese style. The location is close to North Square. Chinese food and Asian food menus are presented here.
  • Ndalem Ngabean A restaurant plus hotel mostly foreign tourist will choose. 15 minutes walk from the Palace. Provide traditional Jogja menu and accompanied by gamelan music.

Café Around the Palace

There are many cafes around the Palace at this time. Surely is suitable for young people. Chating with friends and partner while accompanied by a glass of coffee, milk, or traditional drinks and snacks to make you relax.

  • Alun-Alun Café Jl. Langenastran lor no.16
  • Ruang Tengah Café Jl. Patehan Lor No. 8
  • Kedai & Galeri Ndalem Wong Kito Jl. Langenarjan Kidul No.3, Alun-Alun Kidul.
  • Tamansari Café Kompleks jl. Taman Sari No. 1/310
  • Mari_ngopi Jl. Ngadisuryan No.12
  • Kopine Eyang Jl. Panembahan Mangkurat No.9
  • Wedangan Rondjeng
  • Warung Bajigur & Bandrek Budhe Warsi Jl. Alun-Alun Utara No.1
  • Media Corner Avocado Jl. Langenastran Lor No. 22
  • Sastakarta Coffee Jl. Dagen no.14
  • Wanderlust Coffee Division Jl. Sosrowijayan Wetan Gg. 1
  • Kedai Kopi Mataram Jl. Mataram No.55

Malioboro Street Yogyakarta: The Best Place to Refresh Your Mind

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Malioboro Street Yogyakarta: The Best Place to Refresh Your Mind

Malioboro is name of a famous street in the center of Yogyakarta. Often called as Malioboro, this is the icon of the city and become the most finding for tourist. Along Malioboro visitors can shop cheap to expensive items such as batik, souvenir, local food, or even only strolling around to refresh your mind.

Malioboro Street is the shopping center of Yogyakarta and the center of tourist object. There are several reasons that make it so. Besides for its historical story, Malioboro is located near with other popular destinations like Keraton, Tamansari, Vrederburg Fort, Sonobudoyo Museum, Bringharjo Market, and many more. Don’t forget to visit Malioboro with the fascinating Jogja tour package from Pamitran Tours.

Malioboro Jogja Brief History and Fact

Before talking so far about Malioboro tourism, it is better for you to know the brief history and fact about this street. The name of ‘Malioboro’ once said taken from the sanskerta language (ancient language in Java) which means garland. Named so because Malioboro was a place to buy and sold garland for Keraton Yogyakarta. But some people guess that this name taken from the name of an Englishman, Marlborough. He was lived in Malioboro Street in 1811 to 1816 in colonial era.

Malioboro after that became more and more crowded since Vrederburg Fort own by the Dutch was built. The city offices like Java Bank, Dutch Club, Post Office, and The Dutch Governor’s Residence then showed up. But of course not only the Dutch that enliven this street, but also the Chinese descendant that finally opened up stall and vendors. In 1887, Tugu Station was finally built.

From the historical side, Malioboro Street was also the witness for the fight of freedom of Indonesia. The battle of March 1, 1949 (in Indonesia called Serangan Umum Satu Maret Jogja) happened in the south of Malioboro.

Whether in the past or in today, Malioboro still functioned as jogja shopping center. The local government continues to give any potential resources and modern facilities needed by the tourist. Even so, Jogja still keep the original concept of Malioboro. Some traditional or heritage building maintained its authenticity to attract tourist interest.

Things To Do in Malioboro Street Yogyakarta

Like stated before, Malioboro Street offers many things to its visitors. You can do anything from morning till night such as shopping, tasting local food near Malioboro, stay overnight near Malioboro, riding andong, and hang out. Here are some things to do in Malioboro Street Yogyakarta we recommend for you.

Shopping

There are many stalls and vendor in Malioboro. You can visit any of them. They sell cheap items like accessories, t-shirt, and local craft. But the most popular place for shopping is Bringharjo Traditional Market. This is the center to shop batik. Yes, that batik Jogjakarta that popular throughout the world! Buy also daster (negligee). The relaxed and comfortable model is often used by Jogjanese as a casual dress at home. Just buy them in the street vendor with cheap prices. From north to south, it is guaranteed that Malioboro will not disappoint you.

Ride Traditional Transportation

There are two traditional transportations in Malioboro that still exist. First is Becak or pedicab and the second is Andong or ricksaw. Becak is easily found out in the center of Yogyakarta, moreover in Malioboro. Along this street you can find many of them. The driver will offer you to escort you to Bakpia stall or factories, batik boutique, chocolate factory, Dagadu (similar to Joger, Bali), Tamansari, Keraton, and many places more near Malioboro.

Different with becak, Andong is withdrawn by horse. The price is varied depend on how long track you will have when you ride it. Same as Becak, Andong also can escort you to tourist object near Malioboro. One Andong is enough for four people.

Spend Night in Malioboro

When you are bored, just spend your night in Malioboro. In the night this street is increasingly full of visitors. Colder weather make the street is the right place to hang out with friends. You can strolling around, stop by when you find buskers who play music. Creative music and art will flow because the center of artists in Indonesia is Jogjakarta. Visit also South Square and Tugu Jogja to taste local food.

Visit Angkringan Jogja

This one is quite popular in Malioboro Street, Angkringan. Angkringan is a traditional food vendor which sells nasi kucing (wrapped rice in small portions), satay, snacks, and drinks. Today angkringan is designed modern with the addition of several modern snacks and side dishes. Angkringan become popular because it is unique and the price for each items is really cheap. You can eat until full without spending a lot of money. Here are some popular Angkringan around Malioboro:

  • Angkringan Lek Man Located in the north of Tugu Station, famous for its legendary kopi joss.
  • Angkringan KR Located in front of KR (Kedaulatan Rakyat) newspaper office.
  • Angkringan Ndalem Located near with Ngasem traditional market, popular for its classical Keraton style and food.
  • Angkringan Wijilan Located in Wijilan Street, Angkringan Wijilan is the best to find vary Jogja side dishes and vegetables.

Tasting the Local Food

For some of you, local food may draw your interest. If that is the case then try the local food in Jogjakarta. When you visit Malioboro, it is the best time for you to taste snacks, food, and drinks ala Jogja. We will give you recommendation of some Malioboro Street food like lumpia, gado-gado (Javanese salad), pecel, fried rice, chicken soto, gudeg, and many more. Find them along Malioboro Street or in the night around South Square. Try also the Javanese noodle Pak Pele.

Malioboro Street Opening Hours

There is no Malioboro street opening hours. The street is open for 24 hours every day. But of course usually vendors and stores open from 9 a.m until 9 p.m. The location of Malioboro is in the center of the city Yogyakarta. From the Adisutjipto International Airport to Malioboro takes about 20 minutes by car. You can also go to Malioboro using public transportation such as busway, TransJogja. This TransJogja is available in the airport parking lot. The ticket is Rp 3.600.

If you used transportation like train to get into Yogyakarta, you can get off at Tugu Station, in the north side of Malioboro Street. From Tugu Station to Malioboro only needs 15 minutes by car, while if you want to go to Tugu Jogja spends the same time. In Malioboro you can reach other nearest tourist object by foot such as Bringharjo Market, Keraton, Tamansari, and Vrederburg Fort.

Yogyakarta Malioboro Hotels

There are many hotels available ranging from the 5 star hotel until backpacker hotel. You just need to arrange it with the budget you have. You don’t need to worry of the facilities and cleanliness. Because they are located in the center of tourism, the owner knows and always provides the best for their guests. If you want to stay overnight in Malioboro Street, please read: Malioboro Street Hotel.

 

 

Derawan Island

Derawan Island Travel Guide

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Derawan Island Travel Guide

One of the most exciting places in Indonesia is Derawan. When you go to Indonesia make sure you also visit Derawan Islands. Derawan is beautiful, natural, and peaceful. Not like any other famous places in Indonesia that usually crowded, Derawan prefers tropical impressive natural beauty.

Read also : Kalimantan Travel Guide

Where is Derawan Island

Derawan is located in Berau regency, East Kalimantan. The islands are well known for the best marine tourism. Its underwater park always attracts people’s heart, make several top international divers go here. Derawan has three sub-districts; Derawan Island, Maratua, and Biduk-Biduk in Berau. There are at least four popular islands that is Maratua Island, Derawan island, Sangalaki Island, and Kakaban Island. This Kakaban is inhabited by endangered species of green turtles and hawksbill turtles.

Geographically, Derawan is located in the north peninsula of the sea waters of Berau regency. Total all the islands in Derawan is 31.

Places to visit in Derawan

  • Derawan
  • Maratua
  • Sangalaki
  • Kakaban

In this island coastal ecosystem has been found. Coral reef, mangrove forest, seagrass, and other species of inhabitants of this ecosystem is dolphin, clams, coconut crabs, green turtle, hawksbill turtles, whale, and still many other. They are well protected here. As a visitor, you can see turtle laying process and also enjoy Derawan typical seafood hard to resist. That is why Derawan Islands in 2005 successfully entered in UNESCO World Heritage.

What To Do in Derawan

  • Boat tour to Maratua, Sangalaki, Kakaban
  • Snorkeling
  • Swimming with jellyfish in Kakaban
  • Swimming with manta rays in Sangalaki
  • Diving
  • Relaxing

Derawan Islands is like the typical dream of tropical paradise with private white sandy beaches, clear blue water that keeps the beauty of coral reefs, fishes, and many other sea animals. Of course diving and snorkeling become the main attraction of this place. There are at least 28 diving spots available for all diving lovers around the world.

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How To Go To Derawan Island

By Air

Get to Berau by plane from Bali, Jakarta, Surabaya, Lombok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore. Continue to Tanjung Batu (2 hours drive) to go by speed boat to Derawan (30 minute).

Maratua Jazz & Dive Fiesta

Every years starting since 2015, tourism activities are held in the form of Maratua Jazz & Dive Fiesta. The agenda in this festival is to dive together to explore the underwater beauty of Derawan and see the jazz performance in Maratua. The activity was initiated by WartaJazz and Berau Lestari Foundation and supported by Bupati Berau and Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries of the Republic of Indonesia.

Protected Flora and Fauna in Derawan Island

Several important tropical ecosystems that are protected in Derawan is coral reef ecosystem, mangrove ecosystem, and sea grass ecosystem. Many of the species are also unique and that’s why they are protected. Some species in Derawan Islands are coconut crab, dolphins, whale, green turtle, dugong, hawksbill turtle, and manta ray. Coconut crab usually found in Kakaban and Maratua Island, whale in Maratua Island, and dolphin is around Semama, Sangalaki, Kakaban, Maratua, and Muaras sandbanks. While if you want to see turtle, they can be found in Panjang Island, Derawan Island, Semama, Sangalaki and Maratua. Other than the turtles, Panjang Island and Semama has species of dugong.

Manta ray can be found in Sangalaki Island. You can swim with them in the conservatorium and usually this activity is desired by tourists. Barracudas and tiny pigmy seahorses are also protected in Derawan. But if you want to know the icon of Derawan, it is the stingless jellyfish. They can be found in Kakaban Lake. They are many and friendly to humans.

Read also : East Kalimantan Travel Guide

 

 

Tana Toraja Sulawesi

Tana Toraja Sulawesi, Where Death is Something Sacred

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Tana Toraja Sulawesi Travel Guide 

Where Death is Something Sacred

Tana Toraja Sulawesi

Recently, Tana Toraja has been released as one of the must visit places in Indonesia after Bali. Together with other newest tourist destination such as Raja Ampat, Bunaken, Lombok, and etc, Tana Toraja is published to the world with uniqueness second to none. The portrait of Indonesia natural beauty can be seen here. And other than that, if you visit Tana Toraja, you will know the tradition, custom, art, and the most popular in here is the ritual to the ancestors and the graveyard. Yes, graveyard in Tana Toraja is quite a lot, and you will only see some of them in this land. Well, if you are interested in visiting Tana Toraja, let’s take a look at the all information about it.

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Tana Toraja Culture

Tana Toraja or in English have meaning Land of The Heavenly Kings, is the only one place famous for its burial rites in Indonesia. The rites and the graveyard are so many and they are spectacular to be seen. After a person dead, the body is kept even for several years. They also held funeral ceremony that can be lasted into a week. During the ceremony ritual dances, buffalo fight, and buffalo and pig slaughter done. To bury the death, the how is much more unique. They are buried in a small cave accompany with tau-tau statue, inside a hollow tree, or some even left exposed to the elements in a bamboo frame hanging from a cliff.

Beside for the burial ritual and graveyard, Tana Toraja also has attraction that is Tongkonan, a Torajan traditional house. The house has a roof like a horse saddle or buffalo horn. The walls stand traditional geometric and abstract patterns and natural realms. Tongkonan is the centre of Aluktodolo rites (part of the ancestors religion) functioned as store for the harvest in the carved rice barns, and place to hold buffalo slaughter.

Believe in Tana Toraja

People in Tana Toraja holds Christian at majority, and some of them are Muslim, Hindu, and many more. But at the same time they keep believe and tradition of their ancestors, especially in the believe of eternal cycle of life and death on earth. So though they believe in one God, many rituals from the ancestors, on the death especially, easily found and held in Tana Toraja. That’s why this is the land where death is something sacred. They are very unique in a way the combine their religious belief with mysticism and magic. It is one that makes visitors curious about Tana Toraja.

Torajan, the tribe, also consider the Toraja nobility as the descendant of god that come into earth through the heaven stairs to live in this beautiful world. Rituals are held to celebrate those who have died and still live in this world. Some of the ritual is held in planting season. To see the traditional custom and believe of the Torajan, you can visit Rantepao city that become one of the Torajan culture center.

Rambu Solo’ (The Unique Death Ceremony)

Come to Tana Toraja in June, July, or December. You will get the chance to see Rambu Solo’ Death Ceremony. This is a ceremony from Tana Toraja to honor the spirit which lasts for one to seven nights at maximum. During that time dozens of buffalo slaughtered. Buffalo for Torajan is an animal that can be sacrificed for a death ceremony, which can be a means of transportation for deceased spirits to head to Puya (heaven).

Tana Toraja Attractions to Visit

Lemo

Lemo is graves on rock cliffs. In this graveyard tau-tau exist. Tau-tau is little wooden statue with form of a human. The function of tau-tau is to be a place of the spirit. At the appointed times, the cloth in tau-tau will be changed through the Ma’nene ceremony.

Londa

Londa is the most famous graveyard in Tana Toraja. This site is located 7 km south of Rantepao city. To reach Londa you need to go down several stairs. From far after you arrive on the site you will meet steep cliffs overgrown with green trees. Several coffins were tucked in the cracks of this cliff wall. Also make natural caves that become graves. For nobles or important people of Toraja is buried in a coffin (erong). The crates will be supported by wood safe on the cliff. The higher the position of the crate on the cliff, the higher the degree of the corpse during his life. Be careful, in the cave of Londa you may see bone or skull on the ground, so don’t take them, don’t move them, or even step into it.

Tampang Allo

One of the oldest graveyard sites is Tampang Allo. The cave of Tampang Allo kept the oldest chest and skulls of Toraja nobility. Tau-tau is also found here. Two skulls of a lover were also buried here. According to the story they were lovers whose parents did not approve of, so they decided to take suicide, just like the story Romeo and Juliet.

Suaya

If you come to Suaya, you can see the tomb of the king of Toraja family and the baby tree grave. Babies who die here are buried in the tree so that the tree grows around the chest.

Tana Toraja Things to Do

Ke’te Kesu Village

Ke’te Kesu is the most visited village for you who want to get acquainted with indigenous Torajans. Toraja traditional house called Tongkonan is also here. Tongkonan has strata according to nobility such as gold, bronze, iron, and brass. The walls are limited with abstract and geometric patterns with natural colors of black, white, and red. The village is also famous for bamboo craft and other traditional crafts.

Bori Kalimbuang

This is also a grave but with megalithic stones which were stood upright. The stones are to celebrate the good action by dead nobles which were buried here. There is also the baby trees in this site.

Loko Mata

It is the biggest graveyard in the boulder. Dozens of tombs carved in the rock, with some small Tongkonan near the graveyard.

Batutumonga

Nowadays, Tana Toraja natural panorama has increasingly attracted tourist interest. In Batutumonga, for example, we can see breathtaking panorama of the rice terrace and greenery.

Pallawa

Pallawa is similar to Kete Kesu, where the village has some of the best and well-preserved Tongkonan houses. This one is underrated though some say it has better condition Tongkonan house. You can expect calmness while exploring the site here, because usually the site is not crowded day to day.

Toraja Weaving

Tourist can get to know crafts and most important Toraja weaving. One of the most famous Torajan culture is the weaving. So many patterns, so rich in philosophy. Tourist can bought some of the best fabrics with interesting motives.

Best Time to Visit Tana Toraja Sulawesi

Anytime is actually the best time to visit the place. But if you want to avoid rain during your tour, then it is advisable to come between June to October. Also, consider if you want to see Toraja funerals and Ma’Nene ceremonies, then you should come in between July to September. But especially August.

Some Tips to Remember:

  • Tana Toraja is cooler than any area in Sulawesi, 23 degree of Celcius in usual day. Tourist can wear comfortable clothes, not so thick yet not so thin.
  • Always remember to behave yourself in the places you visit, especially at funerals. Because human skulls and bones can be anywhere. So watch your step.
  • Torajan people are eco-friendly. Things related to home needs are usually made from natural materials, such as dishes, home decorations, etc. Always respect their culture.
  • Always brings your cash in Tana Toraja Sulawesi.
  • You don’t need to bother about facility in the hotels since the development is quite fast, there will be wifi and so on.

How to Get to Tana Toraja Sulawesi?

  • By Air

The best way is to go by air. Though it is not the cheapest recommendation but it is practice and saving time. You can go to Tana Toraja by transit first into Makassar, and then directly flying to Tana Toraja Airport. It takes one hour. From Tana Toraja Airport you can hire taxi to go to the center of Tana Toraja. The driving also spend 1 hour with the cost up to 250k IDR.

  • By Bus

You need to fly first to Makassar if you want to go by bus. Then take bus ticket in Makassar terminal. The journey takes 9 – 10 hours from Makassar to Rantepao (center of Tana Toraja). It is not advisable except for them who want to go to Tana Toraja with budget.

  • Renting Car or Taking Tana Toraja Tour Package

The best we can recommend is by renting car and taking Tana Toraja Tours Packages. In Pamitran Tours, you don’t need to plan everything one by one. We understand simplicity and good prices is all that you need. If you take our tour, the price has included the accommodation, transportation, entrance fees, other acilities, and more.