Palangkaraya : Cruise Into Tropical Rainforests

Overview

Central Kalimantan, dominated by the indigenous Dayaks, is known as the lung of the world for its vast and fertile tropical jungles and forests. The northern mountain chain, the Schwaner Range, is home to some of the most pristine forests in Kalimantan. Certain areas are within WWF’s Heart of Borneo conservation initiative signed by the 3 nations, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei.
 

These mountains are the source of 11 mighty rivers intersecting the vast lowland peat swamps and finishing their journey in dense, crocodile infested mangroves along the estuaries of Central Kalimantan. Peat swamps are home to iconic Bornean fauna, the orangutan, the proboscis monkey and red leaf eating monkey and many bird species. Deer, clouded leopards, porcupines, sun bears, giant pythons, magnificent hornbills, monitor lizards and wild civet cats also share this jungle habitat.

Its capital, Palangkaraya is the natural starting point for exploring the region, having numerous daily flights to and from Java, and further into the interior. It is also the centre of a web of public road transport to all areas and to South Kalimantan. 

Palangkaraya, or Honoured and Sacred Great Place, is the capital city. Growing from Pahandut, a small stilt village on the banks of the Kahayan River, the first President of Indonesia, Sukarno, had decided that that it would become the next site of Indonesia’s capital. The new city was completely designed from scratch and built in grand proportions in the 1960’s.

After the passing of the Sukarno era, Palangkaraya was left as a back water, a tiny capital in a brand new province. Only in recent years has it realized its potential after the de-centralization of government to the provinces and the secret of its great natural bounty of resources was uncovered, ushering a period of break neck development. The idea of Palangkaraya as Indonesia’s capital has recently re-surfaced after Jakarta has become overcrowded and its traffic severely congested.

Eco tourism is yet to develop in the mountains, but in the lowland areas, orangutan and river eco tourism is well established.  

Palangkaraya has it own eco tourism pioneers in Kalimantan Tour Destinations, who have introduced a comfortably remodeled traditional ‘rangkan’ river boat. Cruises encompass the natural beauty and magnificent fauna, particularly the orangutan, of Borneo. Working with local communities to create a true ecotourism experience, one guest rated it as an iconic Indonesian experience, and went on the say:

The Rahai’i Pangun Jungle River Boat journeys offer minimal impact viewing of its rainforest, wildlife, especially orangutans, and riverside Dayak villages from the vantage point of a traditional river mode of transportation. It also benefits local communities by generating alternative livelihoods and teaching new skills that contribute to the development of a sustainable local eco-tourism economy (click www.wowborneo.com for details).

About 700km southwest of Palangkaraya lies the town of Pangkalan Bun which is an entrance to the Tanjung Puting National Park. Tanjung Puting National Park has long been a centre for orangutan research and rehabilitation. Founded by noted orangutan expert and former Richard Leakey student, Birute Galdikas, arrangements for cruising canals in the Park, and disembarking to walk through forests to orangutan feeding stations are beautifully established and maintained. Rehabilitated orangutans are free at the stations and jetties. Many tour companies operate cruises on local boats with simple sleeping arrangements, or use the Rimba Eco Lodge on the park boundary. For 3 or 4 days, enjoy the natural beauty of this park, and come face to face with the orangutan.

Get There

Flights depart daily for Jakarta and Surabaya. Current airlines operating services into Palangkaraya are Garuda Indonesia, Sriwijaya Air, Lion Air and Batavia Air. Flights from Palangkaraya to Surabaya are operated by Batavia Air.

Get Arround

Airport taxis are available on arrival to transport travelers to the hotels in Palangkaraya. There are numerous transport companies that are usually willing to rent out the car plus driver for differing periods. These transport companies also operate services to most towns and cities in Central Kalimantan. The larger hotels can assist guests obtain transport. Small orange mini buses service the city a.

To Buy

Most souvenir shops are located in Jalan Batam, near the traditional markets. This is the central shopping area for traditional handicrafts, foods and cheaper clothing. The Palma Mall has some boutiques, a bakery, coffee shop, food hall and cinema.

Tips

Palangkaraya is a small city of some 300,000 people. English is rarely spoken, so you will need to learn a few words of basic Bahasa Indonesia to get around. Normal Indonesian dress standard applies, women wear sleeves and trousers or longer skirt.

To Stay
Amaris Hotel, Jalan S. Parma (0536) 322 3888
Aquarius Boutique Hotel, Jalan Imam Bonjol (0536) 322 0565
Batu Suli Hotel, Jalan Raden Saleh (0536) 322 6535
Batu Suli International, Jalan Raden Saleh (0536) 322 6535
Dandang Tingang Hotel, Jalan Yos Sudarso (0536) 322 1805
Grand Global Hotel, Jalan Cilik Riwut km 1 (0536) 322 2888
Lampang Hotel, Jalan A. Yani (0536) 322 0003
Luwansa Hotel, Jalan  G. O

Abang Island near Batam : Rare Coral Reefs in Crystal Clear Waters

Overview

Beautiful underwater gardens featuring fascinating coral reefs decorated with various shapes, sizes, and colors of many sea creatures, that is the view that awaits snorkelers and divers under the crystal clear waters of Abang Island, south of Batam in the province of the Riau Archipelago.

Abang Island is surrounded by many other small islands, most of which are conservation areas for coral reefs, while the main island of Abang only measures around 10 square kilometers. With relatively shallow waters –around 15 to 18 meters deep- this fascinating underwater wonder is a perfect spot for both diving and snorkeling. Its beauty is often compared to that of the waters around Komodo Island National Park, Bunaken, and Raja Ampat, since COREMAP (Coral Reef Rehabilitation and Management Programs) itself  has also designated the area as site for a special underwater coral reef observation center.

Above the surface, the landscape of Abang Island is still pristine with hills dominated by granite rocks. Most of the shores are still decorated with beautiful mangrove forests.

The most fascinating feature of the waters of Abang Island is the existence of a rare species of coral known as Blue Coral which only lives in clear waters with excellent water quality. Among some of the fish species that find shelter under its calm waves are Selar, Lencing, Red Snapper, Red Sand Fish, Blow Fish, Pinang, and many others.

Abang Island is inhabited by approximately 400 people in 100 families. Combined with its neighbouring islands, the total number  of inhabitants can reach 1.200 persons in 300 households. The settlements at the western part of the island are denser compared to the north. Most of their houses are located around the beach and constructed following the coastline. Over the years, the people of Abang Island have constantly been taught awareness of the importance to preserve the coral reefs both as tourism assets as well as their significance for the global environment. In turn, they can also benefit from tourism activities next to their daily activity as fishermen or traders. This has ultimately led to the well maintained beauty of Abang Island. 

Get There

Abang Island is located south from Batam or about 50 Km from Muka-Kuning, Batam Island. To reach the island, it takes approximately 1.5 hours drive from Batam to the Barelang Bridge. From there, the journey continues by boat along the River Burdus until you reach Abang Island which is about 12 Km away using motorized boats, which the locals call Bot Pompong.

To Do

There are three locations that you must visit when you make a trip to Abang Island, they are Abang Island (Pulau Abang besar), Ranuh Island, and Pengalap Island. To reach these spots you can take fast boats from Galang Baru Island.
The main activities here are obviously diving and snorkeling. Feast your eyes on the beauty of a world that lies beyond the surface with all the colorful sea creatures and some of the rarest coral reefs. There are 9 dive sites in the area, and all of them are relatively safe since aside from being surrounded by small islands they also do not directly face the open ocean.
Besides diving and snorkeling, there are also several spots which are favorites among fishing enthusiasts.

To Stay

Some of the houses in the fishing villages on Abang Island are available as your accommodation options. Prices vary,  mostly depending on your bargaining skills. Staying on the island will surely make a complete experience, but if convenience and modern facilities are features you seek, then it is better to find hotels or inns on Batam. For a list of hotels in Batam you can refer to our find a hotel in Batam.

To Eat

With all the diving and snorkeling that you will do, seafood is obviously the main highlight when it comes to dining. Smoked crabs, boiled shells, and various kinds of fish can be found in several warungs or food stalls on Abang.

Tips

For the perfect diving experience, the best time to come to Abang Island is from March to August, and from September to November. In these months, the currents are known to be the calmest.

Indonesia Travel

SAWAHLUNTO: Historic Coal Mining Town, and Silungkang Gold Songket Sarongs

Overview

After an hour’s drive from the city of Padang to its northeastern outskirts, the road splits.

Lake Singkarak lies to the left and Sawahlunto to the right, some 95 kilometers from Padang. 

Sawahlunto is known as the town of the ‘black pearl’ harking back to the once-abundant coal which was the town’s prominent product.

Today, approaching the town one finds deserted rail roads, stepped rice fields, and the familiar Minangkabau rumah gadang upsweeping roofs dotting the wayside between the busy town of Solok and Koto Sungai Lasi and on to the town of Sawahlunto, a quiet cluster of heritage charm on the slopes of Muara Bungo’s valleys, set among rainforests. The town is quite small, but there is a lot to discover.

It was William Hendrik de Greeve, a Dutch Geologist, who discovered the site in the early 19^th century, and found it rich in coal deposits, known as the Black Pearl.  And so Dutch  first investments in coal mining was made here beginning in the  19^th century, building infrastructure, public facilities , offices, hotels, housing areas, and stores, to manage and transport this precious mineral resource.  Transportation networks were also developed, connecting Sawahlunto with Muaro Kalaban, Pulau Aie, Padang Panjang, Bukittinggi, Solok and then to Padang,  investing no less than  20 million Dutch Guilders at that time. History noted that coal mining in Sawahlunto was launched on 1 December 1888, and became famous as the Ombilin mines.

As a small town that built itself on the success of the coal mining industry, Sawahlunto today has become an attractive tourist destination that offers nostalgic traces of an old mining town. The heritage hotel built to cater Dutch scientists and geologists still stands gallantly among other century-old buildings.

Get There

When travelling from outside West Sumatra, it is recommended that you come to Padang first. Please refer to HOW TO GET THERE in the Padang article.

You can go by bus or a rented car to Sawahlunto from Padang or Bukittinggi. The distance to the quiet town is 95 kilometers, or around 2 hours by car from bustling downtown Padang. Follow the road to the town of Solok, and continue the trip on the trans-Sumatra road heading south to Java.

After approximately 20 kilometers from Solok, there is a crossroad at Muaro Kalaban. Pay attention to the road sign and direction. Follow the direction to Sawahlunto, and you will pass a winding road with lines of trees that sometimes discourage most travelers to Sawahlunto. Do not worry about the unsettling road as it will eventually take you to the destination.

If you are in  Bukittinggi area 138 kilometers from Sawahlunto, take the road to Batusangkar and then follow the same direction as you find the crossroad in Muaro Kalaban. From Batusangkar, the town of Sawahlunto is about 40 kilometers.

Taxi from Padang to Sawahlunto is around IDR 200,000 to 250,000 (price is subject to change). A public bus from Padang is IDR 8,000 and a group tour to Sawahlunto in one of the tour operators in Padang is around IDR 20,000 per person.

In Sawahlunto, there is daily trip to Muaro Kalaban by an old train as a tourist attraction. It will cost you IDR 75,000. The maximum passenger load is 12 persons chugging along for around 5 kilometers to take one on a nostalgic trip on the old railway lines.

To Do

Rumah Walikota, the Mayor’s residence, is one of the heritage buildings in town. It was built in 1920 and used to be the residence of the town’s mayor.

Pek Sin Kek House is also a gem among Sawahlunto’s heritage buildings. Pek Sin Kek is the name of a Chinese merchant who had successfully built his business and reputation in Sawahlunto in the early 20^th century. His house was once converted into a theatre, then a Minangkabau Community Center, and also an Ice Factory. Now, the building is owned by a Chinese family from Cirebon, West Java who has converted it into a souvenir shop and a heritage house. 

The town’s Cultural Center Building was once called the rumah bola, or bowling house as it used to be a place to play bowling and pool during the Dutch era. Built in 1910, the other name for the building was the “Gluck Auf” or the Societeit. It was a center for Dutch workers for their leisure activities after a long day working the coal mine. Once rented to the Mandiri Bank in the early  2000s, the building is now restored and conserved as a heritage asset of Sawahlunto.

The Railway Museum is there to explain the history of the trains in West Sumatra. The development of the railway from Sawahlunto to Padang began on July 6^th, 1889. The purpose of the development was to effectively transport coal from Sawahlunto to Emmahaven seaport, now called the Teluk Bayur seaport. The railway started its development in 1889 up to 1894, connecting Sawahlunto, Muaro Kalaban, Pulau Aie, Padang Panjang, Bukittinggi, Solok and Padang.

Due to the declining activities in the coal mining industry since the early year 2000, the train to Sawahlunto ceased operation. In 2005, the local government and the train company agreed to establish a railway museum. It is the second railway museum built in Indonesia after the one at Ambarawa,in  Central Java.The  Sawahlunto Railway Museum is now part of the mining tour offered by tour operators in Padang.

The Grand Mosque of Sawahlunto, also called Nurul Iman, was once a steam-generated power plant of Kubang Sirakuak, built in 1894. When the water dried out in the nearby river, the power plant was moved to Salak Village close to the Batang Ombilin river. The abandoned power plant at Kubang Sirakuak was then converted into a weapon storehouse and after the Indonesia’s revolutionary era  in 1950s, the building was converted into a mosque, with the 75-meter chimney serving as the grand tower of the mosque today.

While in the town, visit some of the town’s bests to complete the heritage experience. Wisma Ombilin is the oldest hotel in town, and it’s worth the long travel all the way to this point. Goedang Ransoem, meaning the food storage, was once a place to provide food for orang rantai or the chained men or slaves working for the mine. Now, you can see the old cooking utensils used during the Dutch colonial era. Lubang Mbah Suro is a tunnel built by the Dutch to mine the abundant coal slacks. The Cooperation Building for PT BA UPO which was the ‘market’ known as ‘Ons Belang’ is another site to take in. 

Ride the train from Sawahlunto to Muaro Kalaban. Today It is operated only for tourists.

To Eat

There are quite a few Padang food restaurants in Sawahlunto. Some of them are:

Dendeng Batokok in Muaro Kalaban, Silungkang

Riko-riko in Muaro Kalaban, Silungkang

Chimpago in Pasar, Lembah Segar

Ferdi in Pasar, Lembah Segar

Gumarang Baru in Pasar, Lembah Segar

Dendeng Balado in Silungkang

Memok in Silungkang

Sederhana in Talawi

Kito Juo in Talawai

Kurnia in Talawi

Bunda in Sijantang, Talawi

Early cake in Pasar Kecil, Lembah Segar

Sate Marno in Muara Kalaban, Silungkang

Try Kerupuk Jangat and Kerupuk Ubi that you can bring home and fry them as you hit the kitchen. They are very delicious, with a little addition of chili paste to add to the mouth-watering flavor.

To Buy

The road to Sawahlunto passes Silungkang village known for its creative artisans who turn colorful threads into folds of silky fabrics, named Silungkang Songket. Songket here is sold much cheaper than that in the city of Padang, especially at last-minute shopping at souvenir stores by the airport. There is a name you might want to say during a short conversation with the locals; kampong tenun (pronounced: ter-noon). You will likely observe directly the process of hand weaving a songket fabric, done not only by women, but also by men.

It is obvious that contacts with Chinese and Indian traders  have enriched the variety of their products, which was initially made of local resources such as tree bark tissues and fibers, which was believed to have been learnt from the locals in Pattani, Thailand. Golden threads and silks were later imported and to enhance the local  songket fabric to  a new height in quality.  Songket also gives out a pleasant scent from the assorted fibers used.

In 1974, a cultural exhibition held in Jakarta presented a 234 year-old songket that was made of fine threads of maroon Mokou Bulek Soriang, with Pucuk Rebung motif, owned by the Den Haag Museum of Holand. Another wellknown motif from Silungkang and exhibited overseas is the itiak pulang patang. 

Songket is believed to originate from Southeast Asia around 1,000 years ago, specifically from Siam or Thailand. Its fame made it easy to spread and found its way to Malaysia’s Selangor, Trengganu, and Kelantan, all the way to Brunei Darussalam. The skill of weaving Songket in Silungkang was brought by Baginda Ali of Dalimo Singkek Village from Selangor, Malaysia. From Silungkang, songket made  its way to the Pandai Sikek Village that is also famous for its beautiful songket.

In Silungkang, the local people are also into rattan handicrafts. Again, here you can enjoy watching the process of making baskets and other forms of artistic crafts, such as rattan chairs, desks, tables, cabinets, to simple brooms, and small souvenirs. 

Suiseki stones are among the souvenirs offered by Sawahlunto and Silungkang Village. The stones are naturally formed and become more beautiful after some honing process. If you are interested, the small ones can be nice souvenirs for your parents or loved ones. The mid size can be very expensive, reaching millions in Indonesian Rupiahs.

Indonesia Travel

The Thuderous Telun Smoky Falls in Jambi

Overview

Deep within the Telun Seblat National Park, neatly concealed behind a tangle of thick foliage, the sounds of roaring waters splashing over rocks can be heard. After a laborious yet rewarding climb up Mount Kerinci, or perhaps a leisurely stroll through the Kayu Aro tea plantations,Telun Smoky Falls is the decoration atop the cake, or the final step in a perfect adventure through the Kerinci Regency in Jambi Province. As with many waterfalls, Telun Smoky Falls was created by erosion, through the process of fast flowing waters passing through a large rock formation. Telun Smokey Falls, however, retains its own distinct allure.

The waters of Telun Smokey Falls begin at Lake Gunung Tujuh, or Lake Of Seven Mountains. The streams then pass through steep rifts and ravines amidst rocks and boulders before crashing down from a height of approximately 50 meters into the rocky pool below. The sheer height of the waterfall causes the fallen droplets to create a sort of mist around the falls, hence giving it its name: Smoky Falls. The suspended fog of water in turn allows the refraction of passing light, producing a spectacle of colorful rainbows projected across the waterfall as well as the pool below. A cave is hidden behind the curtain of raging water, but till now no one has been able to enter.

The trek to the Telun Smokey Falls is quite a challenge and involves a 300 meter uphill trek from Telun Berasap Village. Steps lead the way to the falls, but can become slippery in the case of rain. Despite the possibly arduous journey, depending on your level of fitness, the trek through the magnificent tropical landscapes of TelunSeblat National Park is not one to be missed. The path is bordered on either side by majestic and towering trees which locals say are hundreds or even thousands of years old. The park is also home to nearly 400 species of bird and is said to be habitat to more tigers than China, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam combined.

Small wooden lodges are set around the falls for visitors to relax after a tiring trek and enjoy the dazzling view. Take a dip in the sparkling cool waters or test your skill at scaling the rocks around. Visitors should be advised not to attempt diving, however, as the pool at the foot of the falls is fairly rocky.

Get There

The two closest cities to Sungai Penuh, capital city of Kerinci Regency, are Jambi and Padang.

Getting to Sungai Penuh from Jambi city takes about 10 hours by car over a distance of approximately 500 km. This can be done using public transportation or rental car. Jambi airport serves just Jakarta and Batam.

The alternative route through Padang is much faster, at a total distance of under 300 kilometers. Sungai Penuh can be reached via public transport, car rental or private car. Minangkabau International Airport in Padang serves Jakarta, Medan, Pekanbaru, Batam and Kuala Lumpur.

From Sungai Penuh Village, proceed about 60 km more to Telun Berasap Village. This leg of the journey is best accomplished with the use of a four-wheel drive. From Telun Berasap Village, you can continue on foot to the falls.

To Stay

No accommodations are available in Telun Berasap village, so lodging is best in Sungai Penuh, capital city of Kerinci District – but do not expect to find any sort of luxury hotel. Budget hotels and guest houses in Sungai Penuh are simple, but comfortable and provide friendly service. Here are a few of the hotels in Sungai Penuh

Hotel Jaya
Jl. Re. Martadinata no. 22 Sungai Penuh.Tel. 0748-2122

To Eat

While in the Kerinci Regency , the local delights that are worth a try are Bera Payo, GulaiIkan Semah, Denden Beteko and Kacang Tojin. For coffee lovers, don’t forget to try Kerinci Coffee, and for tea drinkers, of course the famous Kayu Aro Tea.

“All Time Nias” Surfing at Sorake Bay and Lagundri Beach

Overview

As far as surfing goes in Indonesia, the Bay of Sorake and Lagundri Beach on Nias island is THE ultimate destination. Nias’ Sorake Bay is an internationally renowned surfing spot, and has become one of surfing’s most exotic wave-searching destinations. Every year, surfers flock from across the globe for a chance at its legendary point break. International surfing competitions have been held in Nias since 1993, and even the World Championship Surfing competition in 2000. Touted as the second best surfing spot in the world after Hawaii, the bay is located in the district of Teluk Dalam on the Southern tip of Nias Island.

Nias is the name of the archipelago off the west coast of North Sumatra consisting of 131 islands. Nias Island is the largest, covering an area of about 5,000 square kilometers—slightly smaller than Bali. Of the 27 islands immediately surrounding Pulau Nias, only 11 are inhabited. Pulau Nias itself is approximately 125 km west of Sumatra.

Before the island’s discovery by three wandering surfers in 1975, Nias was known only by a few hard-core travellers—the island’s main visitors being archaeologists who went there to study its ancient culture and megalithic traditions. The “tourism boom” brought about by the surfers caused a rapid growth in eateries, accommodations and attractions, but much of the culture and tradition have survived and maintained their authenticity despite outside influences.

Sorake Bay is enclosed by the beaches of Lagundri and Sorake, giving it both left and right hand breaks. Unaffected by winds and tides, the constant flow of waves is perfect for novice and professional alike to practice, play and perform! Waves are typically 3 to 5 meters, but have been said to reach as high as 15 meters. Some start from as far as 200 meters from the beach, can have up to 5 levels, and even rolls unbroken all the way to shore. The catch-phrase “All time Nias,” comes with the understanding that unlike most parts of the world, Sorake Bay delivers non-stop waves throughout the entire year, making any time of year the best time for surfing. The highest waves are between May and September, with most competitions being held from June till July.

On December 26, 2004, an earthquake of enormous proportions struck just a few kilometres north of Pulau Nias. Measuring 9.2 on the Richter scale, it was one of the deadliest recorded natural disasters in history. The tsunami that followed the earthquake changed the island’s coastline remarkably, with the coast moving 50 meters inland in some areas, and as much as 100 meters of new land exposed in others. Hundreds were killed and much of Nias was destroyed. The number of tourists declined dramatically after that, but now they are slowly beginning to filter back in.

Watch the video about North Sumatera. Here.

To Do

Offering some of the best waves in the world, surfing in Nias is the absolute highlight for professional and advanced surfers. For beginners, the best time to surf is in the morning, before the waves get too big, and the current too strong and dangerous. Boards can be rented from the beach surf resorts, and reliable surf trainers are ready to help you balance and catch your first waves.

Aside from surfing, spend the day partaking in other available water sports, playing beach volleyball, sunbathing, or just taking a leisurely splash in the cool waters. If you stop and observe, you may even catch a glimpse of sea turtles and other marine life swimming alongside you.  A myriad of beautiful beaches surround the coast of Pulau Nias, many of which are most often deserted. The beaches are not only plenteous, but also diverse; from gently sloping, soft, white sands, to rocky reef lagoons and high cliffs.  

From Lagundri beach, you can take a walk to visit the traditional villages of Batuhili, Hilimaetano and Lagundri. In times past, villages were built on top of hills for security, and were usually rectangular with a row of houses on each side. The people of Nias built their houses on colossal ironwood pillars with towering roofs. Not only were they almost impenetrable in former tribal warfare, but their flexible, nail-less construction proved effectively resilient to earthquakes. Each village functioned as a separate entity, and up until just a few decades ago, mini-wars would break out with people killed. Warriors would attack other villages to find slaves, and in many villages you will find the sites that were once used to sacrifice victims. Ancient stone sculptures can still be found, as well as huge, round stones which were used for money.

The people of Nias have an interesting history of Animism and Ancestral worship, although the majority is now Christian. 

Towards central Nias, in the Gomo area, ancient stone carvings as well as free-standing menhir stones can still be found today. All menhirs are erected at least 500 meters above sea level, to avoid possible destruction by tsunamis, which have frequently swept the island for thousands of years. Many of Nias’ menhirs are carved in the form of the female body. They stand 2 to 3 meters tall and are symbolic of human fertility. In many areas of the world, Menhirs have lost their function as a sacred object, and are left merely as archaeological remains. But not on Nias. Till today, Niasans preserve the megalithic rituals, and new menhirs are still erected.

Great megalithic structures can also be found built in circular or arch shapes, some dating back over 3,500 years—the oldest found in Indonesia. They were built in commemoration of the great ancestral chiefs who had died, or in praise to the Creator of the universe. These monuments can be found in LahusaIdanotae, Tetegewo and Tundrumbaho.  

Due to the island’s remote location, it’s easy to presume the people of Nias to have lived for centuries in isolation. Strangely though, this is not so. This marvellous island holds almost prehistoric records of trade with merchants from the Middle East, Europe and Mainland Asia.  In fact, until the 19th century, Nias was known as the location of the slave trade. Though not alienated from the outside world, Nias has managed to keep its own unique culture remarkably intact; bypassing Indian, Islamic and European Influences that have swept across Asia. Some historians and archaeologists argue the island to be one of the few remaining Megalithic cultures still in existence. The predominant religion today is Christian Protestant at about 86%. The remaining 14% are equally divided as Muslim and Catholic. Nonetheless, until this day, Niasans continue to practice their indigenous culture and tradition.

Get There

Like most places worth going, Nias Island is not easy to reach. To go by sea, start at the Sibolga Port in Sibolga city on the Northwest coast of Sumatra. Take the ferry to the port of Gunung Sitoli on Nias Island. The trip takes between 8 and 13 hours, depending on the weather.

By air, start at the Polonia Airport in Medan, North Sumatra and catch a flight to Binaka Airport,Gunung Sitoli. Daily flights are available from Medan to Gunung Sitoli on Merpati Nusantara Airlines and Wings Air.

International flights to Medan are from Singapore, Bangkok in Thailand, and Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Ipoh, Malacca and Subang in Malaysia. Domestic flights are available from all major cities in Indonesia including but not limited to Jakarta, Surabaya, Aceh, Bandung, Padang and Pekanbaru.  

Once in GunungSitoli, continue by land to Sorake Beach via minibus. Sorake Bay is about 60 kilometers from Gunung Sitoli. Tourists are advised to bring enough cash, as ATMs are few and far between. Malaria has also been reported, so be sure to take the proper precautions.

To Stay

There are a large number of accommodations on the beaches of Sorake and Lagundri, most of which are homestay style guesthouses and a few bungalows facing out to sea. Rooms are generally simple, but clean and inexpensive. It is possible to book ahead, or just show up and shop around.  

Keyhole Surf Camp is a convenient and economical guest house, with the Sorake beach right at your doorstep. 7 rooms are complete with sheets and beddings, private bathrooms for each room and large wall fans. Food and drinks are available, including cold beers. Fresh fruit such as bananas, watermelon, apples and papaya, as well as tea, coffee, fruit juices and bottled water are all included in the surf camp package price, and are available at all times. Surf lessons are also available.

Keyhole Surf Camp
Sorake Beach, FanayamaTelukDalam 2281, Nias Island
Phone: 62 – 8137 469 2530
           62 – 8139 666 1419
Email: timmy_wau@yahoo.co.id
Nias1timmy@gmail.com
Website: www.niaskeyholesurfcamp.com

Oichoda Losmen and Surf Stayis located just 100 meters from the legendary Nias Break, Sorake Beach. It is owned and operated by a local Nias family, who have opened their home to surfers since 1985. 12 rooms are available, each with private bath and three excellent meals a day included in the packages.

Oichoda Losmen and Surf Camp
Sorake Beach – Botohilitano,TelukDalam South NIAS
Phone: 62 – 812 6411 8520
           62 – 812 6376 5554
Email: oichodasurfcamp@gmail.com
Website: www.niasoichodasurfcamp.com

Check this link for a more complete list of Sorake and Lagundri accommodations – the ones that come with websites at least : www.indonesian-surf-travel.com

Moramo Waterfall : The magnificent multi-level Waterfall

Overview

Situated within the Tanjung Peropa Nature Reserve at the  Sumber Sari Village, Moramo District, in the Konawe Regency, some  60km from Kendari, capital city of South Sulawesi,  is the Moramo Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Indonesia.

Formed by thousands of  years of natural processes, the waterfall truly offers a magnificent view of rushing water cascading over huge granite boulders with  heights  somewhere between a half  to 3 meters. The beauty of the  Moramo waterfall even led the local Konawe people to believe that angels frequently descend from heaven to bathe in its refreshing stream. The enchanting beauty of the waterfall is often enhanced  with the appearance of colorful rainbows crowning over  the rushing waters.

With a total area of 38.937 hectares,the  Moramo Waterfall is surrounded by the splendors of lush green sceneries accompanied by  the soothing sounds of chirping birds and other harmonic music of nature. Here, you can also see some fascinating creatures such as butterflies, black monkeys, anoa, different kinds of birds, and more.

The most fascinating  feature of the Moramo Waterfall is its multi-level stages which cascade the waters from an approximate height of 100 meters. The waterfall consists of 7 main stages with over 60 smaller sub stages. Among these stages, small ponds are formed which make a perfect place for bathing or just playing around. Another unique feature of Moramo Waterfall is that it is located in a karst area which makes that its rocks are  not slippery and are easy to climb.

The waterfall has its source in the Biskori River stream that flows down from the Tambolosu mountain range. The stream from the Biskori River is also used by locals to irrigate farms and plantantions as well as for other needs. The people who inhabit the area are mostly migrants from Java and Bali island who took part in the “transmigration” project and were re-allocated to South East Sulawesi.

Moramo Waterfall was first discovered by “transmigrants” from Java somewhere in 1980. Connecting roads were not built until 1989, and in 1990, the waterfall was officially opened as a tourist destination.

The Tanjung Peropa Nature Reserve itself is considered to have the largest marble (onyx) deposit in the world. It is estimated that there are over 860 billion cubic meters of marble in the area, making it the largest marble reserve in Indonesia.

Get There

The Moramo Watefall is situated approximately 45km,  or about an hour and a half drive south from Kendari. The only way to reach this area is by rented car, since there are no public transportation serving the route and the road is relatively  not in very good condition.

Stepping out of your car, you still need to walk about 2 km after passing the main entrance. But you do not need to worry, since you will be provided with a conveniently paved footpath and presented with the beauty of the tropical forests.

Your trip will also include some wooden bridges and stone stairs which will make your adventure a bit more dynamic. Your fatigue will truly pay off once you hear the roaring sounds of water and the magnificent Marimo Waterfall come into view.

To Do

Along the 2km road from the main entrance, you will be greeted by rows of hundreds of years old topical trees. There is also a small waterfall with crystal clear water that  you will encounter before you reach the great Moramo Waterfall.

Among the many ponds formed by the stages in the Moramo waterfall, there is one which is particularly wide and deep enough to swim. The water is refreshingly clear and calming which is perfect for swimming or just to soak yourself in the beauty of nature and release all the tensions of daily city life.

Within the Tanjung Peropa Nature Reserve surrounding the waterfall you will also get to chance to see some  unique animals of Sulawesi’s forests such as the  anoa, babirusa, toucans, and more.

To Stay

Considering its  proximity to Kendari, you can simply stay in Kendari . Here are some of the accommodation options you can find in Kendari:

Putri Wisata Hotel
Jl. MT Haryono No. 104 Kendari

Hotel Athaya
Jl. Syech Yusuf No. 100 Kendari
Phone: +62 401331033

Hotel Aden
Jl. A Yani 54 Kendari 93117

Hotel Garden Palace Kendari
Jl. H. Abdul Silondai No. 1 Kendari
Phone: +62 815 24 75755

Indonesia Travel

The Mystical Lake Tamblingan of North Bali

Mount Lesung, - or Gunung Lesung - in North Bali is decorated with three lakes, which are: Lake Buyan , Lake Beratan and Lake Tamblingan, where nature has been kept almost untouched.  All three lakes are the life-source for the surrounding communities.

Located by the village of Munduk in the sub-regency of Banjar in the regency of Bulelemg, Tamblingan is a relatively small lake covering  a surface of only around 1.5 square kilometers with a depth of 90 meters. The name Tamblingan is derived from the word  tamba meaning medicine or medicinal, and  elingang meaning spiritual.

Legend goes that between the 10th to the 14th century the residents of  four villages surrounding the lake, namely the villages of  Munduk, Gobleg, Gesing, and  Umejero were tasked to guard over the sanctity of the lake.

But one day suddenly all four villages were stricken by an infectious disease. Hereupon, a holy priest went down to the lake to fetch water. He prayed at the lake and through his spiritual powers the sick in the four villages were  cured, cleansed by the lake's healing  waters.

From that time on,  people built many temples on and surrouding Lake Tamblingan. These are  Pura Endek, Pura Dalem Tamblingan, Pura Sang Hyang Kawuh, Pura Ulun Danu, Pura Pengukiran, Pura Gubug, Pura Embang, Pura Batulepang, Pura Pengukusan, Pura Naga Loka, and Pura Tirta Mengening. While two other  temples, the  Pura Tukang Timbang and Pura Embang are built of ancient stones, believed to originate from the pre-Hindu era even prior to the 10th century. The many  temples together with the lake now form a beautiful landscape that emits its own fascinating aura.

As Lake Tamblingan lies 1,000 meters above sea level, the climate here is cool. The early morning mist that hangs over the waters, strangely  enhances its mystical appeal.  According to folklore, centuries ago the area was once inhabited by a people who lived peacefully under a well ordered government,and  a well organized welfare and cultural system.

By Lake Tamblingan near lake Buyan along the south-north highway that links  the cities of  Depasar with Singaraja, live a host of monkeys. These multiply so fast, that they are often called the teeming  monkeys of the jungle. 

If you want to see monkeys playing on the road, take the second route. Here you will also find roadside cafes. Rest here and enjoy an invigorating hot cup of coffee in the cool mountain air.

As in other parts of  Bali, the village of  Munduk offers the Balinese lawar, chicken and ares vegetables made of soft chopped  banana stem, which are usually on the daily menu of local restaurants.  Karangsari Restaurant is one of the more recommended.

It is on purpose that Lake Tamblingan has not been developed for tourism activities in order  to conserve  its serenity and sustainabily. Its local government bans all machime-driven transport on its waters. For this reason you will only find traditional rowing boats here which are  tied to the shore. These are used to go fishing. When you visit the lake,  donot forget to bring your camera to shoot this wonderful panorama. Alternately you can go trekking through tropical rainforests around this lake. 

Students often come and camp around Lake Tamblingan to get real close to nature .

Lake  Tamblingan is located near. Lake Bedugul that can be reached pass  three-pronged cross road that lead to the villages of  Munduk and  Gobleg. Two routes are recommended. The first passes Lake Bedugul, then continues straight on until you will see on the  left side  of the road  an entry gate that leads to Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan. Drive through this gate and you will arrive directly at  both the lakes' water edge. 

The second route goes above the first.  To get on this road,  drive from Lake Bedugul straight up until you meet a three way crossing. Here turn left. From this vantage point  you will be able to look down on the beautiful panorama  of both lakes from above.

If you wish to stay longer at Tamblingan you can stay at a number of homestays or guesthouses. Among which are: the Karangsari Guesthouse (+62 821-44844-844) ; Puri Lumbung Cottage (+62 362-7012887); Puri Sunny Hotel ( +62 817-345-869); Manah Liang Bungalow (+ 62 362-7005211); Taman Ayu Homestay ( +62 899-0155-357).

Indonesia Travel

Rumah Gadang

Tower House or Houses Godang is the name for the traditional Minangkabau house which is the traditional home and many have encountered in the province of West Sumatra, Indonesia. This house is also known by other names by local people with the name Home Bagonjong or there is also a mention of the name of Baanjuang House.

The house with this model were also encountered in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. However, not all regions of the Minangkabau (darek) may be established custom home, only in areas that already have the status of a village's House Tower should be established. Likewise, in the area called the shoreline, this custom home was once nothing is established by the nomads Minangkabau.

House Tower as a place to live together, have separate provisions. Number of rooms depends on the number of women who live in it. Every woman in the house who had married obtain a room. While older women and children gain a place in the room near the kitchen. Teenage girls room stays together at the other end.

All parts in the Tower House is a freelance room except the bedroom. The inside is divided into tapering and space marked by poles. The pole berbanjar from front to back and from left to right. Pole berbanjar from front to back marked tapering, while the mast from left to right marks the space. Large number of tapering depends on the house, could be two, three and four. Space is composed of an odd number between three and eleven.

Tower House is usually built on a plot of land owned by the parent family in the tribe / clan is hereditary and is owned and inherited only from and to the women in the house. Front yard House Tower usually always there are two buildings Rangkiang, used to store grain. House Tower on the right wing and the left side of the building there is a space anjung (Minang Language: anjuang) as a bride biting or the coronation of the head of customs, because it houses the Tower is also called as home Baanjuang. Anjung on kelarasan Bodi-Chaniago not wear crutches underneath, while the Koto-Piliang kelarasan use crutches. This is consistent philosophy espoused these two different groups, one group adheres to the principle of government hierarchy using crutches wearing upper rooms, on the other group anjuang as if floating in the air. Not far from the Tower House complex is usually also built a mosque house that serves as a place of worship, a place of education, and also became the residence of the adult males who are not married.

This custom home has a unique form of architecture with gabled roof peak shape that resembles a buffalo horn and formerly made from fibers that can hold up to tens of years] but later the roof of the house is a lot of change with a tin roof.

Tower House is made rectangular and divided into two parts front and rear. From the front part of the Tower House is usually filled with carved ornaments and generally patterned roots, flowers, leaves and a square and a parallelogram field. While the outside of the back covered with bamboo parts. This traditional house built from long poles, building large houses made up, but it is not easy to fall by the shock, and every element of the Tower House has a special meaning that is backed by a legend in custom and culture of the local community.

In general, the Tower House has a ladder that is located on the front. While the kitchen is built separately on the back of the house which didempet on the wall.

On the walls of the Tower House made of board materials, while the rear of the bamboo material. Wallboard installed vertically, while all boards into the wall and into a carved frame, so that the entire wall into a full engraving. Placement motif depends on the composition and location of the board on the wall of the Tower House.

Basically carving at the Tower House is a decorative filler field in the form of a circle or square. Motive generally vines, roots, leafy, flowering and fruiting. Patterns generally rounded roots, root berjajaran, coincide, intertwine and also continued to connect. Branches or twigs roots have curves outward, inward, upward and downward.

Besides the root motive, another motive is encountered triangular geometric motifs, four and a parallelogram. Motif leaves, flowers or fruit can also carved its own or in a row.         

Badik Tumbuk Lado

Tumbuk Lado a traditional dagger weapon derived from the Riau Islands. Dagger itself is a term for a traditional weapon known in the community Bugis and some areas in Sumatra. Meanwhile, TumbukLada or Tumbuk Lado (Riau) is a traditional weapon Malay and Malay Peninsula communities. No wonder if Badik Tumbuk Lado has similarities with weapons from other regions of the Malay peninsula even with neighboring Malaysia. Riau Islands inhabited by various races and ethnicities. However, the majority of the nation's indigenous population is Malay. Therefore, the culture of the Riau area, many have in common with the original population of the territory of other wither.

Tumbuk Lado dagger stabbing weapon is a type of size 27 to 29cm and a width of about 3.5 to 4cm. This weapon is not only used by the people of Jambi, and also has similarities with the dagger Bugis differ only in form and motifs badiknya gloves only. Not only in the country, Malaysia also has the same tardisional weapons, both in name and form. It is not separated from the background scattered Malay community in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam and along the Malay peninsula. Similarly, dagger, dagger also one that characterizes the identity of the Malays.

It is not known when exactly the beginning Badik TumbukLado used as a weapon by the Malays. However, since the first of the Malays especially the Malay archipelago Badik TumbukLado Riau use to hunt and defend themselves from enemy attack. Additionally, Badik TumbukLado also has an aesthetic function that is usually used as a complementary dagger traditional dresses Malay men especially when the wedding. Not only serves as a complement to traditional clothing alone, the dagger tumbuklado also symbolizes courage and valor of a man. Actually, philosophy Badik TumbukLado not much different if kris kris is often mentioned as a unifying symbol of the Malays. Dagger was so, because in essence made weapons as a tool that allows humans as well as a symbol of courage rather than as a symbol of hostility.

Until now Badik TumbukLado still used by the people of Riau archipelago to perform production work such as farming or hunting. Some local customs are also still retain the dagger as a complement to traditional men's clothing. Only, this time the dagger is no longer functioning as a sharp weapon in the fight. Now, the Malay community has been functioning Badik for other functions. In addition because it's much more modern weapons, Badik TumbukLado also considered impractical longer the luggage.