One of the 17,000 islands that make up the Indonesian archipelago, Java is the most populous and the most developed in the group. Though often overshadowed by its much, much popular next-door neighbor, Bali, it’s a scenic travel destination where beautiful countryside, gorgeous white sandy beaches, huge volcanic peaks and breathtaking ancient religious monuments predominate. This tropical paradise is also where the nation’s capital is located, which is another reason why many tourists flock to this lovely getaway. With hospitality being one of their hallmarks, visitors to Java are welcomed with warm smiles and great humor coming from the heart!
Geopolitically, Java island is divided into five states: special region of Jakarta; the special region of Yogyakarta; the province of West Java, the province of Central Java, and the province of East Java, each with its own destinations and places of interest. At Java, visitors will find long stretches of sandy beaches, a number of parks, monuments, museums, monasteries and archaeological sites, not to mention the many shopping destinations and entertainment venues. To bring you to the best Java has to offer, Travelvivi offers you to get acquainted with some of the most popular tourist attractions.
Bandung
The capital city of West Java, Bandung is a place to be with much to offer its visitors. Juanda Forest Park is situated minutes away from the park, and is one of the best spots of the city. It features numerous caves and tunnels dug out of cliffs for the defense of the area during the WWII, as well as unique flora and fauna, with native plant species that never fail to amaze nature lovers. Another unique attraction in Bandung is the stunning Patenggang Lake, one of the leading resorts on the island, bordered with cool forest on its eastern side and lush tea estate, reaching far out to the west and south. Do not miss out also Maribaya, known for its many hot water springs, fresh mountain air and breathtaking natural scenery; Zoological Museum and Jatiluhur Dam, dating back to the fifties that has been developed into a multi-purpose area with numerous swimming pools, tennis courts, a camping ground and speedboats for water skiing and cottages.
Borobudur
On the island of Java one can find the largest Buddhist monument in the world, Borobudur, built in the striking Mahayana tradition. Built to resemble a microcosm of the universe, and with the mission to provide a visual image of the teachings of the Buddha, showing in a practical manner, the steps through life each person must follow to achieve enlightenment, Borobudur can truly be called one of the wonders of the world. To capture the spirit of the temple that has survived damage from volcanoes, terrorist bombs and hordes of tourists, local companies organize many tours, which will give you the chance to see this marvelous site with its beautiful carvings and monuments.
Mount Bromo
The island’s number one tourist attraction, Mount Bromo, 2392 meters in height above sea level, is a volcano inside a volcano and a popular mountain all over the world because of its easy accessibility. Ideally nestled in the middle of vast plains called Sea of Sand, Mount Bromo has been a protected nature reserve since 1919. It’s an ideal hiking spot and a great place to enjoy the cool mountain air. From the top of the mountain visitors can see the carpet of sand 10 square kilometers, which is something truly fascinating. Besides the splendid view of the mountain, visitors can witness the ceremony Yadnya Kosada Festival, which aims at seeking blessing from the Almighty for the abundance of harvest and for being far from the disaster and disease.
Best Time to Visit
It’s highly recommended to visit the island during the dry season, from May to September, which is also the best time to visit. During this season the weather in Java is clear, roads and interiors are open and you’ll find temperatures at their best.