Bantimurung Waterfall

A. Brief Information

Bantimurung waterfall (15 meters in height and 20 meters wide) is a very famous natural tourism destination in South Sulawesi. Pure water falls down from the crag every year. Beneath the waterfall, there is a bathing place made of limestone covered by mineral vein which is caused by the stream flow for hundred years.

Its depth is around 10 to 90 centimeters. In the left side, there is a 10 meters high concrete ladder leading to Mimpi cave and
Baru cave.

B. Distinctive Features

Besides having wonderful waterfall, it is also a habitat of many rare species of butterfly. The Dutch colonial government used to call it as “Kingdom of Butterfly.” Moreover, England naturalist named Alfred Passel Wallase, had ever stayed there for more than a year doing observation and research on the rare species of butterfly. Nowadays, visitors can still find and enjoy the beauty of colorful butterflies and flowers there.

C. Location

Bantimurung waterfall lies in Bantimurung sub-district, in the district of Maros, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia.

D. Access

It is 20 km away from Hasanuddin airport, 15 km away from Maros city, and 50 km from Makassar city. It can be reached by private car from Makassar for approximately an hour. On the other hand, it will be 30 minutes from Hasanuddin airport by land using Pete-pete (minibus) or tourism bus.

E. Ticket Price

The ticket price is Rp. 5.000,00 for adult people and Rp. 3.500,00 for children.

F. Accommodation and Other Facilities

There are bungalow and home stays for visitors who want more days enjoying its beautiful nature. Along the entrance way, you will find some peddlers selling souvenirs like padlock accessories and wall decoration in shape of butterfly. Those stuffs cost about Rp.5000,- to Rp. 25.000,-.

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Tembulun Rusa waterfall

A. Brief Information

Tembulun Rusa Waterfall is a water park in Riau Island that is frequently visited by tourists on Sunday or Holiday.

B. Distinctive Features

Tembulun Rusa Waterfall is 18 meters high which has panoramic views so you can swim in 1, 5 meters deep water while enjoying the thrill of being splashed by water falling down from above. A rock that is just like a ladder leading to the top of the waterfall, thus for
you having ultimate adrenalin, you may jump into the pond on the bottom of the waterfall. The fast current of Ngibul River flowing from the waterfall challenges you for rafting through the downstream to the estuary of Reteh River.

C. Location

Tembulun Rusa waterfall lies in Ampar village, Kemuning sub-district, Indragiri Hilir district, Riau province.

D. Access

Tembulun Rusa Waterfall lies north of Batu Ampar Village. To reach the destination, you have to pass by the Sumatrans Eastern way by car, then continue to the destination through the footpath and the hilly forest about 2 km away.

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Sedudo Waterfall

A. Brief Information
Situated at an altitude of 1.438 meters with 105 meters deep water, Sedudo Waterfall is a famous tourism destination in East Java Province, Indonesia. Moreover, its location in the slope of Mount Willis, an inactive mount at an altitude of 2.552 meters, south of Nganjuk City, has enhanced this waterfall become more enchanted.

B. Distinctive Features
Besides enjoying the water falling down from the crag of Mount Willis which offers you a magnificent view, in the location you will also experience a cultural tourism there. People living around the location believe that Sedudo Waterfall bears many efficacies. Many people assume that taking a bath under the splashing water of Sedudo Watefall will make people stay young.

On the first day in Javanese calendar, the ritual of
Parna Prahista is held annually by the local government of Nganjuk District. It is a ritual of purifying a statue using the water taken from Sedudo Waterfall. At the end of the ritual, the water, which is assumed for bringing safety and ageless, is splashed onto the attendants. Regarding the location in the slope of Mount Willis, you will see a panoramic view of surrounding area.

C. Location
Sedudo Waterfall can be found in Ngliman Village, Sawahan Sub-district, Nganjuk District, East Java Province, Indonesia.

D. Access
When you take a trip from Surabaya to the location in Nganjuk District, it is around 110 km away. It will be more or less 200 km away when you depart from Yogyakarta Province to the location. You can take any accessible public transportation to reach the location via both cities.

It is about 30 km southern direction to the capital of Nganjuk District passing by hilly-winding road. Considering such access, it is better for you to take private car rather than public transportations like bus.

E. Ticket Price
Entering Sedudo Waterfall, you need to pay IDR 2.500 of the entrance ticket

F. Accommodation and other Facilities
For you who want to spend more days in the location, there are some inns or hotels there. Moreover, you can also find many fruit sellers there.

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Grojogan Sewu Waterfall

A. Brief Information
Grojogan Sewu Waterfall is the model of worth visiting tourism destination in Central Java Province for its panoramic view of the nature. Situated on the area of 20 ha, Grojogan Sewu Waterfall is a combination of forest tourism and waterfall. The waterfall is under the management of Lembaga Konservasi SDA – KSDA (Natural Resources Conservation Institution) Bogor.

You will see the beauty of the waterfall which is 81 meters high. The water splashing down from the crag spreads out to every corner of the area. May be, that is
the beauty of Grojogan Sewu Waterfall.

B. Distinctive Features
May be, you will be shocked with the number of monkeys that are intentionally bred outside the cage. Almost all the monkeys hanging around the location are tame. Just keep your meals during the visit to the location. No matter how you bring some food as your stock during the visit, feeding the monkeys are allowed.

Hundreds of ladderstep leading to the waterfall must be accessed when you are going to reach the bottom of the waterfall. Along the ladder, you can find some gazebos as the right places for you getting tired. You must be careful as there are many big stones when you are about to get close to the bottom of the waterfall. Considering the fast stream of the waterfall, you must avoid taking a bath directly under the waterfall. It is too risk for you, especially for your health. It is just enough for you taking a bath around the bottom of the waterfall that is safer.

Some supporting facilities can also be found there such as two separated pools for adults and children. Around the location, you will see splendid view of hilly land of Tawangmangu Sub-district.

C. Location
Grojogan Sewu Waterfall is located on the slope of Mount Sewu, Tawangmangu Sub-district, Karanganyar District, Central Java Province, Indonesia.

D. Access
You can take either public or private transportation. The cost for taking public transportation is about IDR 7000 (per March 2008) passing by Solo-Tawangmangu route from Tirtonadi bus station in Solo City. It is around 1,5 hours for accessing the location from Solo City.

Having arrived at the location, you need to walk to the location about one km away. Moreover, you can also take public transportation, type L300, with IDR 1000 for its cost. There are two gateways to enter the location, through the first gateway, on the peak of the area, and on the slope of the area.

E. Ticket Price
The entrance ticket to the location is IDR 6000 (per March 2008).

F. Accommodation and other Facilities
Some supporting facilities such as pool, mini zoo, and playground for children are available there. You can also find some food tent, souvenir shop, mosque, toilet, and fruit stall. Around the gateway, you can find some peddlers offering edelweiss, strawberry, handicraft and horse rentals likewise.

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Tinoor Waterfall

A. Brief Information
Visiting Tomohon City, You will be amazed after knowing the enormous tourism potencies which are available there. One those great potencies is nature tourism which is Tinoor Waterfall. Nature tourism is a special offering for you visiting Tomohon considering its geographic landscape taking form in hilly areas, mountains, forests, rivers, and waterfalls. One of the worth visiting tourism destinations in Tomohon is Tinoor waterfall or usually called regesan.

The government of Tomohon City utilized this site not only for tourism destination, but also for academic purposes such as Boy Scouts` camp ground and research filed. Tomohon government continuously maintains this site by adding the number of supporting facilities such as food stalls, inns, cottages, and shelters. Likewise, Tomohon district government also manages this site as a worth visiting tourism destination in Tomohon City.

B. Distinctive Features
You will not only experience the sensation of being flashed by the water falling down from the crag, but also a green park for having momentous time with your family. Its surrounding area looks beautiful for the colourful and various flowers growing up there. This place is the right place for you seeking for tranquil holiday ever.

Nearby the waterfall, you may find many food stalls standing in a row offering the typical foods of Minahasa. Besides, you will also find a famous tea plantation area in Tomohon.

The geographic landscape around the waterfall gives you a magnificent view of surrounding nature. It is the best place for you who love painting or taking photographs.

C. Location
Tinoor Waterfall is situated on the slope of Mount Empung, in the north of Tomohon City. Administratively, it lies in Tinoor Village, North Tomohon Sub-district, Tomohon City, North Sulawesi Province.

D. Access
Now you can easily accessed Tinoor waterfall since the road leading to the location had been paved. You must take the route Manado-Tomohon to reach the location, about 1 km from Manado. However, when entering the waterfall location, you have to pass by a footpath leading to the waterfall by walking.

E. Ticket Price
In the process of data collecting

F. Accommodation and other Facilities
You may take a rest for a moment in surrounding cottages or food stalls offering typical foods of Minahasa such as yellow rice. Some other typical foods from Minahasa are peret (bat-meat cooking), turean (white tail rat), and renga (watered-snail).

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Telun Berasap Waterfall

A. Brief Information
Telun Berasap Waterfall is a nature tourism destination which is located in Kerinci District, Jambi Province. The water flows from Lake Gunung Tujuh, which is situated at an altitude of 50 meters. The surrounding people call the waterfall “Telun Berasap” (literally means water smoke) since the fast current of water falling down from the crag creating such “water smoke.”

There is a cave nearby the waterfall. However, the local inhabitants are not brave enough to enter the cave. The cave has numerous meandering alleys hence it is difficult to reach. Moreover, the fast current of the waterfall and its escarpment keep the cave isolated from tourists visiting Telun Berasap Waterfall.

B. Distinctive Features
Telun Berasap Waterfall offers you with the magnificent scenery of green nature and fresh air of surrounding areas. The water falling down from above sprays soft sprinkle water on the bottom of the waterfall. It is jut like a white smoke called “water smoke”. The water‘s grains spread beautiful colour when the sun shines brightly. The grains spout shinning light like a rainbow.

C. Location
Telun Berasap Waterfall can be found in Telun Berasap Village, Kayu Aro Sub-district, Kerinci District, Jambi Province, Indonesia.

D. Access
Telun Berasap Waterfall can be reached through three alternatives ways. First, from Jambi to the Punuh River (500 kilometers) and spends approximately 10 hours by taking public transportation or personal car.

Second, starting from Padang to Tapan, then continue to the Penuh River around 278 kilometers. The trip needs for about seven hours to reach the site by using public transportation, rent car, and personal car.

And the last, from Padang to Muaralabuh then continue to Kersik Tuo for about 211 kilometers. It can be reached for about five to six hours by public transportation.

E. Ticket Price
In the confirmation process

F. Accommodation and other Facilites
There are many hotels in the Penuh River – the capital of Kerinci District – with the prices range from IDR 15.000 to IDR 100.000,00 (per February 2008). Some comfortable hotels are available for you to stay longer in the location. Some food tents ready to offer you some traditional foods and drinks typically Jambi Province such as Beras Payo, Gulai Ikan Semah, Dendeng Beteko, Kacang Tojin, Lemang, Jeruk Polemek, Kopi Kerinci, and Teh Kayu Aro.

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Coban Rondo Waterfall

A. Brief Information
Your visit to Malang will be incomplete before dropping in the Jawa Timur Park or Batu agro tourism. Moreover, check your destination list now because in addition to those places, Coban Rondo is a descent place for you and your family‘s tourism destination.

Coban Rondo waterfall is located in an area of forest tourism under the management of state-run forestry company Perhutani Malang Ltd. The highest peak of Coban Rondo waterfall is at an altitude of 84 meters above the earth surface. Geographically, the waterfall is situated at an altitude of 1,135 meters above the sea level, with approximate temperature of 22°C. In the wet season, the average volume of water drop here is about 150 liters/second and 90 liters/second in the dry season (www.banyupancoro.wordpress.com).

The waterfall, which is located on the slope of mount Panderman, was first discovered in the 1990s. The word coban alone means waterfall, while rondo means a widow. Thus, Coban Rondo means the widow‘s waterfall. There is a story behind the name.

Once upon a time, there was a very beautiful woman namely Dewi Anjarwati. She married to Raden Baron Kusuma from mount Anjasmoro. After getting married, they lived in Dewi Anjarwati‘s home in mount Kawi. 36 days (selapan in the Javanese) after the marriage, Dewi Anjarwati asked her husband to visit her parents in law in mount Anjasmoro. Dewi‘s parents had forbidden but they insisted.

On the way to mount Anjasmoro, they met Joko Lelono. He was attracted to the beautiful Dewi Anjarwati and fell in love at the first sight. Though he knew that Dewi Anjarwati had already married, he insisted to take her away from Raden Baron Kusuma. Those two men were involved in a fight. Before fighting, Raden Baron Kusuma asked his punakawan (attendants) to hide Dewi Anjarwati to a place nearby a coban (waterfall). He promised to his wife that he would save her after defeating Joko Lelono. However, men proposes, God disposes. Both Raden Baron Kusuma and Joko Lelono got killed in the hard fight.

By the death of her husband, Dewi Anjarwati became a widow or “rondo”. Since the moment, people have been calling Anjarwati‘s hiding place “Coban Rondo.” They also believe that the big stone at the bottom of the waterfall was Anjarwati‘s seat while she was waiting for her husband.

B. Distinctive Features
Entering the Coban Rondo forest tourism, suites of pine and casuarina trees welcome you just like the royal guards welcoming the Majesty. Birds are twittering and butterflies flying all around cheer up, enhancing the magnificent scenery of the atmosphere. Your eyes will also be spoiled by the beauty of flowers blossom on the sides of the road. Along the road, you can peek to look at the valleys and the gorges below, which are very interesting. No wonder why many people enjoy the fresh air around, they do also enjoy having shaded beneath the leafy trees in this forest tourism.

Along the path to the waterfall, there is a nursery of the seeds of many plants in the forest, where you can also find hundreds varieties of herbs. Therefore, you can enlarge your knowledge about herbs and their functions.


The beautiful scenery you have enjoyed will be complete when you have reached the waterfall. Its fresh air and tranquil nature united in a rhythmic current of water and the bellows of zephyr are points that make Coban Rondo Waterfall a worth visiting destination. Feel the sensation of being splashed by the water falling from the crag on the waterfall‘s peak. If you love adventure, you can try to have an expedition tracing the caves – Saru and Tapan caves – on the right and left sides of the waterfall.

There is another waterfall called Coban Mantenan (1,300 meters above the sea level) in the upper stream of Coban Rondo. It is four km in distance from Coban Rondo Waterfall. You can reach this one soon as you have passed by a wide campsite.

The name “Coban Mantenan,” in the local language, means “married waterfall”. Indeed, it is because there are two contiguous waterfalls just like a couple of bride and groom sitting side by side. The waterfall is mostly visited only by the mountain climbers because of the difficult track, challenging bushes, and steeply sloping cracks.

Not far from the upper stream of Coban Mantenan, you will find a forest called Hutan Cemara Kendang on the 1,400 meters above the sea level. The indigenous people call the forest Hutan Lali Jiwo (literally means the forest of self-ignorance). Just like Coban Mantenan, most of the visitors of this place are only the mountain climbers challenged by sensation of its difficult track.

Another thing you should know about Coban Rondo is that the water flows continuously in the waterfall actually comes from a spring called Cemoro Dudo. People living around the waterfall take inti usage the water to support their living, with help fro the local government. Thus, Cemoro Dudo spring becomes very essential for the people around the waterfall, especially for those who live in Pujon Sub-district.

In addition to its function as a tourism object, the area of Coban Rondo forest tourism is also well known as a camping area. The area will be crowded during vacation and school orientation.

C. Location
Coban Rondo waterfall is located at Pandesari Village, Pujon Sub-district, the district of Malang, East Java, Indonesia.

D. Access
Coban Rondo waterfall is easily accessible. You can reach the location in approximately 30 minutes from the heart of Malang City.

If you use public transport from Surabaya, take the bus leading to Malang, or at Arjosari bus station. Then, take bemo (Indian taxi) that will bring you to Landungsari. From Landungsari, you can take bus leading to Kediri via Pujon Sub-district.

When you are entering Pujon, be sure that you descend at the entrance gate of Coban Rondo, where you will see a statue of cow there. If you don‘t want to reach the waterfall by foot, you can use the service of ojek (motorcycle used for public transport) which will get you right to the waterfall.



E. Ticket Price
You can get your ticket to Coban Rondo with IDR 6,000 per person. Moreover, if you bring motorcycle here, more additional charge of IDR 2,000 is a must (per February 2009).

F. Accommodation and other Facilities
As a well-known tourism destination, Coban Rondo has been equipped with many facilities such as food courts, wide parking area, toilet, mosque, and souvenir stalls. In addition to the facilities, there are also:

Campsite
For those who love to experience living in the wild, Coban Rondo‘s campsite is a perfect place to try. You can enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of nature under the shade of pine and eucalyptus trees. You can rent a tent for four people provided by the Coban Rondo‘s official just in case you forget to bring any tent.

Inn
Coban Rondo provides you an inn with 15 rooms facilitated with hot water, which you can rent with low price. The inn is also completed with a meeting room, with the capacity of 30 people in maximum. If you want to feel the different atmosphere, you can try to rent a room in one of the inns in the areas of Songgoriti and Kota Batu.


Playground
For visitors with children, a large, amusing playground is provided to entertain them. There is also a playground in the river near the waterfall.



Outbound Management Training
This program is a facility provided by PT PALAWI to facilitate the management-training program in the open air. The facilities include; plat form, high rope course, tracking line flying camp, and climbing wall.

Elephant Attraction
Since 1996, the official of Coban Rondo has been showing three well-trained Sumatran elephants to amuse the visitors with their fun and attractive attraction.

Off-road Cycling
For those who love adventure, Coban Rondo cycling track is a worth-trying challenge. Enjoy the sensation of riding bicycle crossing up and down tracks, going through the suites of pine and eucalyptus trees while enjoying the green scenery around. The fresh air and the green nature will calm you down after pumping up adrenaline through the challenging track.

Collection of Herbs
You can learn more about herbs in the herbs garden near to the playing ground. There are approximately 200 varieties of herbs here. This is best for you who want to deepen knowledge on herbs.

Nursery
In cooperation with PERHUTANI, the officials of Coban Rondo established a nursery wherein the seeds of plants in the forest are seeded. Here you can learn more about the varieties of plants in the forest.

Mini Zoo
You can also see many kinds of protected wild animals from some areas in Indonesia.

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Lake Tasikardi

A. Brief Information
The word “tasikardi” is derived from two Sundanese words; “tasik” (lake) and “kardi” (artificial). According to a historical record, Lake Tasikardi was made by Panembahan Maulana Yusuf, the second sultan of Banten Kingdom, during 1570 - 1580 A.D. Its bottom part, according to the record, was covered with bricks; thus was named tasikardi, referring to an artificial lake. This five-hectare-wide lake was made as a tribute to the ruling sultan of Banten Kingdom. In the past, the lake was the place for the sultan to spend his leisure time along with his family.

Situ Kardi, just another name for Lake Tasikardi, is the reservoir of the water flowing from the Cibanten River. The lake, in the past, functioned to supply the water for the royal family of Surosowan Palace and the surrounding farming lands as irrigation. The water from the lake was flowed to the palace through a 2 – 40-centimetres-diameter pipe that was made of clay. The water had to pass the filtering process before being used by the royal family of Surosowan Palace; Red, White, and Golden filtering processes.

Recently, Lake Tasikardi, along with the Great Mosque of Banten Province, Surosowon Palace, Kaibon Palace, Pasar Lama Serang, Speelwijk Fortress, and Avalokitesvara Buddhist Monastery, are under the management of the Banten Lama historical site. Those historical buildings are the witnesses to the glory of Banten Kingdom in the past. Likewise, it becomes one of the worth visiting historical destinations; a right place for you who are interested in the history.

B. Distinctive Features
Having a visit to Lake Tasikardi, you will experience two travelling sensations; historical tourism in the Banten Lama site and nature tourism on Lake Tasikardi. The lake’s existence is evidence to Banten Kingdom’s advanced civilization, especially in agricultural sector.

The leafy trees and the green scenery of the wide rice fields around the lake is another feature that may attract you to spend leisure time with the family during holidays and weekend. Here you can feel the fresh air and watch the turquoise lake water while sitting beneath the available shelters or leaning upon the leafy trees. For you who love fishing so much, Lake Tasikardi is the right place to meet that hobby. Also, Lake Tasikardi is the best camp ground in the province of Banten..

To improve your vacation more comfortable, you can take a visit to a 1936 square-metres island located 200 km away from the edge of Lake Tasikardi. You may take a rented boat to reach the island. You can find the remaining traces of Banten Kingdom such as a water reservoir, a pendopo (royal palace hall), and a royal bathing place for the sultan and his family. In addition, taking a sunset/sunrise view from this island will surely become an unforgettable moment, special for you.

C. Location
Lake Tasikardi is located at Margasana Village, Kramatwatu Sub-district, Serang District, Banten Province, Indonesia.

D. Access
Accessing the location from Serang City, the capital of Banten Province, you can take any public transport leading to Kramatwatu. Lake Tasikardi is located west of Serang City and south east of Surosowan Palace. The location is about six km away from Serang City and three km away from Surosowan Palace.

E. Ticket Price
To enter Lake Tasikardi, you only need to pay IDR Rp.2.500 per person (last updated in July 2007).

F. Accommodation and other Facilities
Some supporting facilities have been provided for your comfortable visit in the location. There are parking areas, camp grounds, souvenir shops, shelters and restaurants. For you who want to look around the beauty of surrounding area, you can rent motorized boats that are provided by the lake management. Likewise, for fishing lovers, there is a fishing equipment shop nearby Lake Tasikardi.

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Ranau Lake

A. Brief Information
Ranau Lake is the widest one in South Sumatra. It is around 8x16 km2 in width with the scene of Mount Semiung on its behind. It is also surrounded by hills and valleys. Moreover, its water is so clear.

The lake is a result of a natural process. It comes from an earthquake and volcanic explosion that created huge shale. A stream from the Mount Semiung later empties to this shale that turned it to a lake.

B. Distinctive Features
There is natural hot water at the feet of Mount Semiung, which comes from the bottom of the lake. A waterfall, the Subik, can also be seen around the lake.

C. Location
Lake Ranau locates on the border of the District of West Lampung, the Province of Lampung.

D. Access
The lake can be threaded with private car from Bandar Lampung through Kemuning and Liwa Hills. The road is already asphalted yet it curves all the way, at the border of the District of OKU precisely (on the southern part of South Sumatra Province and West Lampung District, Lampung Province). People can also reach the site with different routes. It is more or less 324 km from the city of Palembang, around 130 km from the city of Baturaja, and 50 km from Muara Dua.

E. Ticket Price
(under the process of confirmation)

F. Accommodation and other Facilities
There are hotels and motels for rent at the sides of the lake. People, who would like to taste the beauty of the lake, are welcomed to stay in one of those places.

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Lake Toba

A. Brief Information
Lake Toba is the most famous lake in Indonesia. It is 100 km long and 30 km wide thus many people agree that Lake Toba is the biggest lake in the world. An island in the middle of the lake is Samosir Island at an altitude of 1.000 meters.

According a group of researchers from Michigan Technological University, there was a huge explosion that is famous as Toba eruption/Toba event which occurred about 75.000 years ago. The total amount of material erupted from the explosion was about 2.000 cubic km. Toba ash layer resulted from the explosion covered the entire Sumatra Island and Indonesia for about two weeks. The explosion formed a caldera then was gradually filled with water. Samosir Island appeared after a long term of magma uplifting from the earth.

B. Distinctive Features
Lake Toba has a very enchanted scenery for being surrounded by green hills. It offers beautifully magnificent view, fresh air, and tranquillity. You may either swim on the lake or rent a boat to hang around the lake. When the sun is going to set, you will experience a tranquil atmosphere while enjoying the sunset.

Lake Toba has cosmologic and magical values since surrounding people believe the existence of Namborru – seven fairies regarded as the ancestors of Batak tribe. There is an annual event namely Pesta Rakyat Danau Toba to express admiration for the local inhabitants‘ ancestors.

In Samosir Island, there are two other lakes namely Lake Sidihoni and Lake Aek Natonang. Likewise, there are some other tourism destinations such as Raja Sidabutar‘s Graveyard and traditional houses of Batak Toba Samosir tribe.

C. Location
Lake Toba encompasses three districts, Simalungun, Parapat, and Ambarita districts. It lies in North Sumatra Indonesia.

D. Access
To reach Lake Toba, you may take public transport passing through Medan-Parapat or Medan-Berastagi routes. It spends approximately four hours or 176 km distance.

E. Ticket Price
In the process of data collecting

F. Accommodation and other Facilities
You can find easily some elegant hotels and other supporting facilities such as restaurants, cafés, and food stalls

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The Mahakam River

A. Brief Information
The Mahakam River is the biggest river in East Kalimantan Province. People, who live around the Mahakam River, earn their living by taking advantages from the existence of the river. This 920 km long and 149.277 km square river flows through West Kutai District, Kutai Kertanegara District and Samarinda City. Five tributaries – Belayan, Lawa, Kedung Kepala, Telen and Tenggarong Rivers - flow to the Mahakam River.

B. Distinctive Features
While enjoying the beauty and magnificent scenery of the Mahakam River, you can also take visit to several tourism destinations nearby the river. The main tourism object located nearby the river is Pesut Mahakam where you can watch rare species of dolphin such as Irrawaddy Dolphin that appears only at 6 – 8 a.m. and 4 – 6 p.m. Likewise, you will see numerous birds and mammals such as Enggang, Bangau Tong-tong, Raja Udang, Bekantan, Lutung, Berang-berang etc.

An island namely Kumala Island - approximately 75 hectares in width - is situated in the center of the Mahakam River. To reach the island, you can take cable car or ketinting (motorized boat) that can be found in Kota Tenggarong Harbour. The island offers you many interesting features such as sky tower, cable car, mini train, and lamin (traditional house of Dayak tribe).

C. Location
The Mahakam River administratively lies in three districts, West Kutai District, Kutai Kertanegara District, and Samarinda City, in East Kalimantan Province, Indonesia.

D. Access
The Mahakam River can be reached by land, air and water transportation. People settling East Kalimantan Province, especially those who live in West Kutai District and Kutai Kertanegara District, usually take jukung – traditional boat typically East Kalimantan Province. For you, who love extreme sports; you can take 4WD car rental service that can be found in Samarinda City. Besides, you can also take taxi or public transportation. Locally small airports such as DAS (Dirgantara Air Service) and Kal Star are available for you, who want to take air transportation.

E. Ticket Price
In the confirmation process.

F. Accommodation and Other Facilities
In the confirmation process.

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The Musi River

A. Brief Information
The Musi River is the longest river in Sumatra Island. This 750-km long river is famous as an important international harbour at the era of Sriwijaya Kingdom. Tourism destinations that can be found nearby the river are Sultan Mahmud Baddarudin II Museum and Boom Baru Harbour. The river flowing from Kepahiang District, Bengkulu Province separates two cities, Seberang Ilir (north) and Seberang Ulu (south), in Palembang City. Nine tributaries - Komering, Rawas, Batanghari, Leko, Lakitan, Kelingi, Lematang, Semangus, and Ogan rivers flow to the river. Crossing the river using traditional boats can be alternative for those settling in Palembang City. Taxis (motorized boat) are easy to find along the river.

Watching the beautiful scenery of sunset at evening is great experience. Likewise, you can enjoy romantic night enlightened colourful lamps around the river. Many visitors come to
the river on weekend and holiday.

B. Distinctive Features
The Musi River is a well-known tourism destination in Palembang City, South Sumatra Province. You can find a traditional house typically South Sumatra Province namely Rumah Rakit that is built upon the river. Some special festivals like Festival Air is usually celebrated around the river. Many attractive competitions such as bidar (boat tournament), boat-decorating contest, and swimming tournament are held during the festival.

C. Location
The Musi River is located in the heart of Palembang City, South Sumatra Province, Indonesia.

D. Access
To reach the destination, you can take public transportation from Sako Kenten bus station to Ampera or Pasar llir 16. You only need to pay about IDR 1.500 to IDR 5.000. And you can take pedicab typically Palembang with IDR 5.000 – IDR 10.000 for its cost as well.

E. Ticket Price
Free

F. Accommodation and Other Facilities
There are many hotels around the Musi River with various costs ranging from IDR 250.000 to IDR 5.000.000. For you who want to taste Pindang Ikan Patin, special food typically Palembang, you can find many restaurants along the riverbank and some of them, likewise, are built upon the river. Food stalls selling various souvenirs typically made in Palembang like Songket, Kain Jumputan, and handicrafts are easy to find there. Moreover, you can also find Kerupuk Palembang sellers there. For you looking around the beauty of the Musi River, you can rent their speedboats with IDR 50.000 to IDR 100.000 as its costs.

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Sundak Beach

A. Brief Information
Once upon a time, there was a fierce combat between a dog and a porcupine in a place that is now known as Sundak Beach. The dog preyed on the porcupine because of heavy starvation. When the dog`s owner watched the combat, then he named the place Sundak Beach. The word “sundak” is derived from two Javanese words; “asu,” that means dog, and “landak,” for porcupine.

Ever since, the location began to be known by the broader public. Now, Sundak Beach is a worth visiting tourism destination either for foreign or domestic tourists. The location is now under the management of the Sidoarjo people in the district of Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta Province.

B. Distinctive Features
The beautifully magnificent scenery of Sundak Beach is not a debatable anymore. All people who have ever visited the beach argue that the beach`s white sand scattering over the seaside is one of the distinctive features. Furthermore, its turquoise water is awesome. Having some activities above the white sand and shallow water around the coast will be an unforgettable moment for everyone visiting Sundak Beach.

Looking from afar, a cluster of coral reefs and lime stones is 12 meters north of the coast. That is the best panoramic background for those who want to take photographs. A cave spouting pure water is found on a hill; thus many people go to the cave for some waters.

As well as Sanur Beach on Bali Island that is famous as the best place for enjoying both sunset and sunrise, Sundak Beach is the right place to watch the beautiful sunset and sunrise from Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia. Feel the winding breeze of leafy coconut trees growing around the beach, thus you can get fresh spirit and motivation to start your activities in the following days after vacation in Yogyakarta.

Sundak Beach lies nearby several beaches that can be found in Gunungkidul District, Yogyakarta Province. Just in case you get bored here, you can take a visit to other nearest beaches such as Baron, Krakal, Kukup, Drini, and Sepanjang beaches.

C. Location
Sundak Beach is administratively located at Sidoharjo Village, Tepus Sub-district, in the district of Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta Province.

D. Access
The journey to Sundak Beach, from Yogyakarta, is usually about an hour. You can take bus from Yogyakarta`s Giwangan bus station for a small bus station in Wonosari Sub-district, Gunungkidul District. It costs IDR 4000 (May 2008).

Soon after arriving in Wonosari Sub-district, you may continue the trip to the location by taking minibus spending about an hour with IDR 2500 for its cost (May 2008).

E. Ticket Price
The entrance ticket to the location is IDR 1500. For you driving personal cars as well as motorcycles, you will get charged IDR 1000 for parking service.

F. Accommodation and other Facilities
Seldom do we find inn or hotel around the location, but you can find them around Kukup, Krakal, and Baron beaches. The costs range from IDR 20000 to IDR 50000 (May 2008).

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Mentawai Island: the Ultimate Diversity of the Hidden Paradise

Located in the middle of Indian Ocean, 150 km and takes 9 hours trip from Padang, West Sumatra-Mentawai glowing with all the nature spirits and make it an extraordinary escaping spot from a hectic life. Mentawai is the natural habitat for 16 endemic species, and some of them categorized as endangered species e.g. Simakobu monkey (simias concolor-eat leaf as primary food).

The present life of Mentawai people categorized as the legacy from Neolithic era and they have a strong believe in nature spirit, for their life strongly affected by nature. They believe that nature is the
center of life. All the genuine attributes make Mentawai a perfect place to gain cultural experiences, here you will notice a very fascinating and indigenous culture, like traditional cloths, art, music and the way of life. The entire culture attributes strongly reflects their respect to nature.
Tattoo is one of the most important symbol for Mentawai people, its reflect maturity, manhood and status. The art of this body painting inherit from their ancestor. The tattoos ink naturally made from leaf.

Among the surfers, Mentawai is the best place to fill their demand for challenges and natures beauty. The beaches offer one of the highest wave in the world, 3 to 4 meters, totally challenge your gut. Once you grounded your self in this hidden Paradise Island, next you will paddle out to the worlds best surf. Dont call your self Surfer if you havent ride Mentawais waves said most of the surfer to expressed their surfing experiences in Mentawai

There are four ultimate diving spot here in Mentawai ,Siberut, Sipora, Pagai Utara (north Pagai) and Pagai Selatan (south Pagai). You can find great waves here year round, but the best waves are during dry season, March to October. Make sure you have the gut to explore all the glassy waves, because the best way to entitled your surfing experiences remarkable is through finding your own.
Getting There

* Take flight from Sukarno Hatta air port, Jakarta to Tabing air port, Padang-west Sumatra (flight served every day)
* Trip from Teluk Bayur port, Padang to Mentawai island by Ferry

Where to Stay

Lot of visitors said, that the best housing to stay is the local people house. Offer you a distinctive way of living in a unique architecture and experience interacting with local people. Other wise you could stay in a budget hotel in Siberu


Moving Around

To access all the beauties offered, you can use boat owned by local people. You can find the boat a long the beach and the rate depend on your bargaining power

Boost your taste with exotic and fresh sea foods that you can found in the local restaurants run by local people. If you are lucky enough, you can pick and cook your own sea food, but make sure you know the secret recipe/spices from Mentawais people. For those who are not sea food lover, you can find regular meals for your dining.

Souvenir Tips

Local hand made souvenirs like traditional hats, traditional bag and accessories will be genuine souvenirs for your relatives and friends. You can buy it in a souvenirs shop or buy it from local people directly.
www.freelinesurf.com.au



Other Things to See or Do

Beach Activities

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sight seeing
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Diving
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Snorkeling

Cultural Activities

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Learn how to perform the Traditional dances (war dance and gratitude to nature)
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Traditional ceremonies
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Mentawai is one of the best place to conduct an Ethnographic study since its one of the oldest tribe in Indonesia

Ecotourism Activities
As the habitat for rare primate, the natural rain forest of Mentawai will be the perfect place for research or other educational purpose. Here, you can conduct research about

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Snub-nosed monkey/Simakobu (Simias concolor) monkey family eat leaf as primary food
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Joja or Lutung Mentawai (Presbytis potenziani) easily identified for the long tail, white face and black hair head
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Bokkoi atau Beruk Mentawai (Macaca pagensis)
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Kloss Gibbon/Bilou or Siamang Kerdil (Hylobates klossii) famous for the beautiful voice, different compared to general monkey



Travel Tips

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Nature and culture come to be understood and respected
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Bring your own surf board with you, because its may hard to find surf board shop in Mentawai
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You may arrange your travel using the local travel agent in Indonesia
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Great wave can be find year round, but best wave is during dry season March to October
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Bring your personal medicine
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You may arrange your visit by contact the travel agent and airline services in Indonesia

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Unique Waves Lakey Beach

STRONG waves and high, that is sought by a surfer. By the wave, the perpetrators of water sports is full of challenges, a desire to place, from the originally very far though.

So going to the beach Lakey, the Dompu Regency, which is located on the island of Sumbawa. Although remote, this place is able to attract foreign tourists, who want to test its ability, in the challenging waves.

Dompu district is one of the three districts on the island of Sumbawa, one of the main island, in the province of Nusa Tenggara Barat. Dompu city, main city of the same name with kabupatennya, in the 17th century, the sultanate is the center, associated with the Kingdom of Gowa Makassar.

The majority of District residents live Dompu hang on agriculture. This area has enough fertile land for agriculture. Some of the other, as a select herd of cattle. There are also more like the fishermen, who rely on the sea as a source of life.

Dompu district also has the potential of tourism. In addition Satonda Island and Mount Tambora which was simply known, there are also some sites that relied, as in Hu''u Village, located about 40 kilometers from the city Dompu. This historical form of the tomb and sit carved stone tomb, and the trail foot larger than the size of normal human feet of time now.

Not far from the location of the site, the Village has a rich natural Hu''u very captivating, the Lakey Beach overlooking the Indian Ocean. On holidays, the beach is a place of recreation Dompu. Once a year, this event was made beach volleyball tourney.

Nevertheless, do not just sell Lakey beach charm. More than that, have a marine waves, which digandrungi the surfer, from all over the world.

Lakey Beach with it's waves, found by an Australian citizen, in the early 1980s. Since that, the previous village is very quiet and away from the crowd, turned into Heaven, for surfer from overseas. Great location, not hinder them to come.
At least surfer close of the countries neighboring Australia and New Zealand and Japan, a guest subscription. While most tourists come from Europe English and French. Even some who came from Brazil, a country in Latin America, which is geographically very far from Indonesia.

For Alexandra Kagaya, time to fly for 30 hours, the ditempuhnya from Sao Paulo in Brazil, to Bima in Sumbawa Island, not to mention the two half-hour land journey to reach the beach Lakey, is not a big issue.

For the layman, waves in the sea water is just a collection of the roll, and broken by the beach, due to the wind stimulus. But not so for surfer. They can distinguish the good waves and challenging. Lakey along the beach, there are many waves that are named in accordance with the character of each. There is a periscope height can reach six meters, have Nengas the arusnya quickly, there are Noman, because the level of complexity, no one dares to try it.

From the various waves, the tune is the most Lakey Peak. The waves the ability to broken to the left and right. Surfer so two people can play to these two directions. Perhaps, the wave length of not more than 50 meters, only one in the world.

So sometimes, the fight must surper to be able to play in the waves this. In addition to variations, Lakey stable in waves, so that it can be used year-round playground for surfing. This is different from the waves in other places, that is only good at certain seasons.

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Volcano Climbing

The Pacific Ring of Fire is an area of frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions encircling the basin of the Pacific Ocean. In a 40,000 km horseshoe shape, it is associated with a nearly continuous series of oceanic trenches, volcanic arcs, and volcanic belts and/or plate movements. The Ring of Fire has 452 volcanoes and is home to over 75% of the world's active and dormant volcanoes. It is sometimes called the Circum-Pacific belt or the Circum-Pacific seismic belt.

Lesser Sunda Islands is part of Pacific Ring of Fire. There are 22 volcanoes of them. The rows of small islands in Lesser Sunda are the home of various ethnic groups. Each has their own cultural pattern, which suits with their volcanic surroundings. The following program is composed in such a way that the participants will explore not only the volcanoes but to also meet the people around them.

Volcanoes of Flores and adjacent islands:

FLORES

1. Riang Kotang (200 m) is fumarole field, located near the eastern tip of Flores island, Indoeesia. Two fumarole areas are found along the saddle foot of the volcano. Hot springs appear along the southwest side of the Oka Bay and Hadang Bay on the west coast.
2. Lewotobi (1.703 m) Lewotobi is a twin stratovolcano, composed of the Lewotobi Laki- laki and Lewotobi Perempuan located in the southeastern part of the island of Flores. These volcanoes have at least 19 historic eruptions between 1675 and 1991. Most eruptions are from the Lewotobi Laki-laki vent. Only two eruptions have been from the Lewotobi Perempuan vent. Most eruptions are explosive and moderate to moderate large in size.
3. Ilimuda (1.100 m) is a stratovolcano located in the eastern part of the island of Flores. It lies north of Lewotobi volcano and west of the Konga Bay.
4. Lereboleng (1.117 m) is a complex volcano located in the eastern part of the island of Flores, erupted from the Burak vent in 1873, 1876, and 1881.
5. Batu Tara (748 m) stratavolcano is a small isolated island in the Flores Sea. Vegetations covers the flanks of Batu Tara. The only historical eruption was occurred in 1852 with explosions and lava flows.
6. Egon (1.703 m) located in the southeastern part of the island of Flores, is a stratovolcano with a single confirmed eruption in 1907. An eruption from 1888-1889 is reported but not confirmed.
7. Rokatenda (875 m) is a stratovolcano mountain located in Palue Island, north of Flores Island. It is the highest region in the island with a height of 875 metres. The biggest eruption occurred on 4 August – 25 September 1928 which was due to the tsunami and earthquake. The population of Palu'e island was 266 people at that period. The last eruption occurred on 23 March 1985 whereby the ashes spread 2 km away although no casualty was recorded. On 16 January 2005, there was sign of eruption, causing the mountain to be placed under alert status.
8. Kelimutu (1.639 m) is a volcano in central Flores Island containing three summit crater lakes of varying colors. The western lake, Tiwu Ata Mbupu (Lake of Old People) is commonly blue. Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai (Lake of Young Men and Maidens) and Tiwu Ata Polo (Bewitched, or Enchanted Lake), which share a common crater wall, are commonly green- and red-colored, respectively, although lake colors vary periodically. Active upwelling probably fed by subaqueous fumaroles, occurs at the two eastern lakes. The scenic lakes are a popular tourist destination and have been the source of minor phreatic eruptions in historical time. The summit of the compound 1639-m-high Kelimutu volcano is elongated two km in a WNW-ESE direction; the older cones of Kelido and Kelibara are located respectively three km to the north and two km to the south.
9. Ndete Napu (750 m) is a fumarole field in the center of Flores island, Indonesia. It is located along the Lowomelo river valley and contains mudpots and high-pressure water fountains. The field is listed as an active volcano based on its thermal activity.
10. Mount Sokoria (1.500 m) is a 8 km wide caldera to the northeast of Mount Iya in Flores, Indonesia. The southern caldera wall is irregular and a small fumarolic area is found in the western flanks which contains several vents and eject geyser-like water column. No historical records of its activity are available from this volcanic caldera.
11. Mount Ia (637 m) is a stratovolcano located in the south-central part of the island of Flores, south of the city of Ende. The last erruption was in 1969.
12. Ebulobo (2.124 m) is a stratovolcano located in the south-central part of the island of Flores. It is one of the eversmoking volcanoe in Flores which dominates the landscape of central Flores.
13. Inierie (2.245 m) is a stratovolcano located in the south-central part of the island of Flores, overlooking the Savu Sea. It is the highest volcano on the island.
14. Inielika (1.559 m) is a volcano located in the central part of the island of Flores, north of the city of Bajawa.
15. Ranaka (2.100 m), Poco Ranaka is a volcano located in the south-central part of the island of Flores, Indonesia. A new lava dome, named Anak Ranakah (the child of Ranakah) was formed there in 1987.
16. Poco Leok (1.675 m) is a volcano in the western side of Flores island. The volcano was considered to be an irregular shaped of caldera, but evidence about caldera is problematical. However, Pocok Leok is listed in the active volcano list of Indonesia because of four fumarole activities in the area.
17. Wae Sano (903 m) is a volcanic caldera located in the western part of the island of Flores.


ADONARA ISLAND

Ile Boleng (1.659 m) is stratovolcano is located at the southeast end of Adonara Island. The top of the volcano was created by several summit craters. The first eruption was recorded in 1885. The activity is classified as moderate.

LEMBATA ISLAND

1. Ile labalekan (1.018 m) is a stratovolcano located in the south-central part of the island of Lembata.
2. Ile Werung (1.018 m) is a complexvolcano located in the south-central part of the island of Lembata.
3. Lewotolo or Ile Ape (1.423 m) is a stratovolcano located in the north-central part of the island of Lembata.

PANTAR ISLAND

Mount Sirung (862 m) is an active complex volcano located on Pantar Island. The crater rim can be reached by an easy hike from the village of Kakamauta. Inside the crater is a large sulphurous crater lake and several active steam vents. The volcano last erupted in 1970, and regular gas and clastic eruptions have occurred since 2004.

Volcano climbing program sample

DRAGON AND VOLCANOES
Duration: 10 Days
Grade: Adventure

Day 01 DENPASAR/BALI - MAUMERE/FLORES
Meeting service and then drive to Watublapi, a hamlet about 18 km south east of Maumere locally known for it’s fertile land and rich in exotic tropical plants and fruits. You will be entertained with dances and folksongs accompanied with local dishes and drinks. There is chance for you to comprehend more about Ikat Weaving - the well-known tie-dyeing weaving technique. The Ikat are both as cultural and economical products since the women in the village earn their living selling the Ikat.

Day 02 MAUMERE – Climb Mount Egon - MONI
Egon (1.703 m) located in the southeastern part of the island of Flores, is a stratovolcano with a single confirmed eruption in 1907. An eruption from 1888-1889 is reported but not confirmed.
Early in the morning drive to the slope of Mt. Egon – the latest erupted volcano in Flores. The last eruption was on February 2004 when thousands of people flee their village but no casualties. Drive till the road end and then walk to the place wherever it possible to get closer to the crater. The climb takes about 4 - 5 hours. Then return to Maumere for lunch. Afternoon free (relaxing on the beach)

Day 03 MAUMERE – MONI
Visit Market of Maumere, Fisherman village, Museum and traditional Lio villages with traditional houses. Lunch en route

Day 04 MONI – KELIMUTU Crater Lakes – ENDE
Kelimutu (1.639 m) is a volcano in central Flores Island containing three summit crater lakes of varying colors. The western lake, Tiwu Ata Mbupu (Lake of Old People) is commonly blue. Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai (Lake of Young Men and Maidens) and Tiwu Ata Polo (Bewitched, or Enchanted Lake), which share a common crater wall, are commonly green- and red-colored, respectively, although lake colors vary periodically. Active upwelling probably fed by subaqueous fumaroles, occurs at the two eastern lakes. The scenic lakes are a popular tourist destination and have been the source of minor phreatic eruptions in historical time. The summit of the compound 1639-m-high Kelimutu volcano is elongated two km in a WNW-ESE direction; the older cones of Kelido and Kelibara are located respectively three km to the north and two km to the south.

It is worth to experience the sunrise at Kelimutu - the three colored crater lakes. You will begin your day early in the morning (start at abt 4.00 o’clock). Once you arrive in Kelimutu you will find yourself something like nowhere, incomparable with known told stories - photos or even moving pictures you have seen before. After admiring the nature wonder drive to ENDE you will pass ravines and villages. Ende is a beautiful town surrounded by volcanoes. There are chances photo stops en route, such as at Nduaria Fruit Market. Lunch in ENDE.

Day 05 ENDE – Mount la - BOAWAE
Mount Ia (637 m) is a stratovolcano located in the south-central part of the island of Flores, south of the city of Ende. The last erruption was in 1969.
Early in the morning transfer to Rate village at the slope of Mount la, which was erupted in 1969, and it is one of the ever-smoking volcanoes on the island. The climb is commenced from the west side of the volcano, it is a bit slippery as to the loose sands scattering along the path. Return then to Ende for lunch. Afternoon drive to Boawae. En route stop at Penggajawa – the blue gravel beach.

Day 06 BOAWAE – Climb Mount Ebulobo - BAJAWA
Ebulobo (2.124 m) is a stratovolcano located in the south-central part of the island of Flores. It is one of the eversmoking volcanoe in Flores which dominates the landscape of central Flores.
It is one of the most scenic parts of the island. Two cone shaped volcanoes dominated the landscape. Very early in the morning drive to the slope of Mt. Ebulobo until get to the latest village to start trek to the summit of the smoking volcano of Ebulobo. It takes about 4 hrs to reach the peak. Afternoon drive to Bajawa thru Soa area where you will get chance to refresh yourself on the hot water spring.

Day 07 BAJAWA – Visit Crater of Mount Wawo Muda - RUTENG
In the morning drive to the slope of Wawomuda – a volcano erupted in 2002, which surprised the coffee plantation farmers as the eruption happened right on the coffee plantation. None realized that the dead crater – turned to coffee plantation – is still active.
Take a short trek (easy) for about 2 hour. On return to Bajawa visit to get in touch with the locals. Bajawa is located in the heart of Ngadha ethnic civilization, which is known for the megalithic cultures. There are traditional villages furnished with stone monuments, ancestor worship shrines and Adat Houses. The Hamlets are beautifully settled in the volcanic mountainous area. The most beautiful ones are Wogo and Bena. Afternoon drive to Ruteng. It is another beautiful driving day; you will pass the villages and rain forest. To stretch your legs stop at Crater Lake of Ranamese and follow the trail in the cloud forest.

Day 08 RUTENG – LABUAN BAJO - RINCA
Ranaka (2.100 m), Poco Ranaka is a volcano located in the south-central part of the island of Flores, Indonesia. A new lava dome, named Anak Ranakah (the child of Ranakah) was formed there in 1987.
Ruteng is a small town in the backbone of Flores and neighbor to the Ruteng Nature Conservation Park – the home of Ngkiong – the endemic of singing birds. It is worth to visit park early in the morning to attend the nature’s concert of singing birds (if no rain and strong wind). There is also a newly popped up volcano in the park, erupted in 1987. Take your chance to have a closer look into it. En route to Labuan Bajo stop at Cara village in Cancar area to see the unexposed world wonder – The Lingko – the spider web shaped rice fields. It is probably the only such a rice fields. It is probably the only such a rice field ever exists on earth. Lunch in Labuan Bajo. Afternoon sail to Rinca. Upon arrival start trekking to trace the dragons. On return to harbor sail to Komodo island by night to anchor the boat in Kalong island - the island is home of fruit eating bats. Overnight on board.

Day 09 KOMODO – LABUAN BAJO
It is good to wake up early in the morning to realize that you are just in the middle of nowhere. Calm water of the bay and just enjoy the sound of nature. The fruit eating bats return early in the morning. After sun rise sail to Komodo village. It is the village of the native of Komodo island who believed Komodo is the descendant of their disabled ancestor. Take your chance to visit the village. Proceed then to Loh Liang - the main harbor of Komodo island. Upon arrival take a trek along the trail in the low land forest of Komodo island to trace the Komodo Dragons in it's natural habitat. The trek takes about 2 hours. Then sail to Pantai Merah or Pink Beach to enjoy the crystal clear water of Komodo and it's beautiful underwater life. Late afternoon sail back to Labuanbajo and overnight

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Amatoa of Kajang

Despite the repeated strong outsider influence, the Kajang People of Konjo ethnic still keep their pre – Moslem civilization. It resists its three big Moslem Kingdom neighbor domination. They are Luwu and Bone in the north and Gowa in the northwest. To trace the influence back in history of the region, it must have been starting from the 10 century AD.

Amazingly Kajang is not a Kingdom but just a community ruled by strict animistic believe system led by a man called Ama Toa. Ama Toa is not inherited but chosen by elders both man and woman through complicate rituals. Anyone who attends the Ama Toa choosing ritual has the rights to be chosen as Ama Toa.

To have a person chosen as Ama Toa the congregation of elders attending the ritual will listen to the supernatural signs. It might be in a form of a buffalo suddenly come to someone house’s and stays there without precedents or a rooster fly in and stops at someone’s shoulder.

Ama Toa is a person who masters Pasang ri Kajang – an oral teaching of Kajang people, which inherited from one generation to the other. The life of Kajang centered to Pasang which is not only rules the
relation among man, man to the Creator but it covers the relation of man with the nature.

There are four substances have to be exists in the life of Kajang’s in the world. Wood or forest, essential as it needed in daily life, used as firewood and the material for house construction. Rattan - used in house construction and other purposes. Shrimp, to be used in any rituals and bee. Honey comes from bee and the life story in the people of Kajang tells that Kajang uses bee as nature’s soldier to drive their enemies away.
As the application of the value of Pasang, there is sacred forest where the Kajang communities’ rituals take place. The forest is well protected and none is allowed to harvest things without the elders notice.

Pasang makes people of Kajang to live a simple life, not to seek materialistic purposes. To wear black only color is a real application of live a simple life. Black is the first color humans experience in the womb and black is the only color people see when they die.

It is also the reason why up to now the Kajangs do not use electricity and no motor vehicle is allowed to enter the village. However, the threat is eminent. Education, centuries influence of Middle East origin religions and the latest one – modern lifestyle are big temptation to the younger ones. Will Kajang community keep their centuries old civilization forever?

Recommended itinerary

Kajang – Makassar Tour
Tour Code: ITT 606
Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nites
Grade: Soft
What to wear: all black costume during the visit to Kajang to respect the Kajang people

Day 01 Makassar – Malino
Upon arrival in Makassar meeting service, transfer to restaurant for lunch and then drive to Malino – the highland resort. En route stop in Sungguminasa to visit BALLA LOMPOA – the last palace of Gowa Kingdom – now turn to Museum and cultural heritage of the province.

Day 02 Malino – Kajang – Bira Beach
Early departure to visit Takapala waterfall (about 100 m in height), tea and vegetable plantation. Proceed then to Sinjai through the one of the most scenic drive on the island. There are terraced rice fields, valleys and ravines. Exotic tropical plants such as clove and coffee are common sight along the way. Lunch at the local restaurant in Sinjai. Afternoon drive to Kajang – to get in touch with the people of Tana Toa who are trying to keep the pre Moslem civilization amid the strong Moslem and modern influences. Approaching Kajang there is rubber plantation – the only on the island. The possibility to meet AMATOA – leader of Kajang community - is provided, by walking into the village. Late afternoon proceed to Bira and overnight.

Day 03 Bira Beach – Tana Beru – Makassar
Take your time in the morning to enjoy the pure white sand beach with crystal clear water of Bira. Stay till lunchtime. Afternoon drive to Tana Beru – the village well known for its people who for generations build Phinisi – the Bugis schooner. There are no written designs but traditional method only. Nowadays more and more people got sketches from foreigners to built modified Phinisi for tourism purposes (live aboard). Late Afternoon proceed to Makassar and overnight.

Day 04 Makassar - Airport
After breakfast at hotel. A short city tour visit Fort Rotterdam and Paotere Sailing Boat harbor and then proceed to Airport to take flight for your next destination

Note: The above mentioned program only apply during dry season (April to October) as there might be land slides on the mountain section of the routeof Malino and Kajang.

The program during rainy season (November to March) will be revised as follow: Day 01 Makassar - Tana Beru - Bira. Day 02 Bira - Kajang - Bira. D

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Ikat Weaving Tour

Lesser Sunda tislands which included the islands of Flores, Sumba, Timor, Lembata and Alor are the richest places to find various Ikat Weaving. It is the only place in Indonesia which locals still practice Ikat Weaving in its original cultural settings.

Throughout Flores, warp threads are dyed with indigo, red, and a distinctive yellow made from cudrania wood. All natural dyes are used and the threads are hand-woven. Each ikat piece is a labor of love from the women to their families. Motifs and patterns are handed down through the generations within their family, creating a timeless link between ancestors and those living now. Distinctive motifs found in Flores include lizards, serpents and intricate floral patterns.

Whilst in Sumba traditionally ikat was only used for special ceremonies and only by members of the highest clans and their personal attendants. During important funerals the corpse was dressed in the finest textiles to make a good appearance in the afterlife, and piles of extra textiles wasoften sent with the dead as well. Later the Dutch started to export ikat to Europe and Java, where it quickly became very popular.
Ikat, or Ikkat, is a style of weaving that uses a resist dyeing process similar to tie-dye on either the warp or weft before the threads are woven to create a pattern or design.

Ikat means "to tie" or "to bind" in the Indonesian Language and has the same root as the words dekat ("close"), lekat ("to stick"), pikat ("to catch") etc. Through common usage, the word has come to describe both the process and the cloth itself

Dyes are traditionally hand made from local plants and minerals, and these give ikat its characteristic earthy brown, red, yellow and orange tones, as well as the blue of indigo. It can take months, even years, to complete the dyeing process using some natural substances.

Ikat weaving throughout Indonesia has social, economic, ceremonial and traditional significance. Although they are similar in form from one region to another, ikats vary tremendously in decorative technique, design format and motif. Designs represent animals, birds, and floral, geometric or ancestral figure motifs. Through this painstaking process, sophisticated textile art is produced with both drama and subtlety.

Places known for typical Ikat & Supplementary Weaving in Lesser Sunda islands:

Flores Island

* Lewokluo: probably the only place where seashell still in use to enrich the design of Ikat. The fabric is basically in brownish color with white motives and the threads are in handspun cotton.
* Kawaliwu: it has two typical Ikats in brownish and blue black color. The fabric is handspun cotton colored with natural dyes.
* Tana Ai: the design is typical but seems to extinct due to the change of lifestyle.
* Watublapi: known for the hand woven ikat made of handspun cotton with typical lizard design.
* Sikka: ancient horse design on hand woven ikat fabric is common here.
* Nggela: it belongs to Lio ethnic once known for Mure Ikat, which the fabric is decorated with beads. Nowadays the village produces typical Lio Ikat design.
* Jopu: just next to Nggela and produces similar Ikat design
* Ende: ikats are produced with tinny white rather abstract design
* Raja / Nagekeo: once known for Hoba Nage a brownish red man clothe in blanket shape. The color derived from natural dyes from root and bark of the trees. Nowadays the original Hoba Nage seems extinct and replaced by hand woven Hoba colored with chemical dyes.
* Langa and Bena / Ngadha: used to produce Lawo Butu – a tubular women sarong in ikat design decorated with beads. Lawo Butu seems extinct too. The recent Ikats are produced in imitation to design of Lawo Butu without beads and colors are made from chemical dyes.
* Riung: the area known for producing supplementary weaving technic. Adding colored threads while weaving produces the designs.

Solor: the island has its typical Ikat Design
Lembata: the island offers a rich collection of Ikats on its original material and process. Threads are handspun and colors produced from plants. The area worth visit on the island is Ile Ape, Lamagute and Jontona.

Sumba

* Prailiu: the closet village to the town of Waingapu in Eastern Sumba. The village is producing typical market driven Ikat production. One may find almost any Ikat design on the island in Prailiu.
* Kawangu: Sumba Ikat also found here in the village with traditional Sumba houses and carved stone tombs.
* Prainatang: the area has its own typical Ikat Weaving. Normally it combines Ikat and Supplementary technic on the same product.
* Pau: Well known for the Lau Pahikung (the textile design comes from the woven of the threads with different colors).
* Rende: the village has its own typical Ikat design. It is one of the best Sumba Ikat.
* Kaliuda: It is the only place in Sumba where Ikat designs are very much different with others. Horse and birds figures are common.
* Kodi: The only place in western Sumba where Ikat Weaving is produced

Timor

* Baun: typical Amarasi Ikat design
* Niki Niki: The central Timor Ikat design mostly in geometric pattern.
* Oelolok: The place known for the Buna, Sotis and Lotis hand-woven textile fabric in geometric pattern. The combination of Ikat and Supplementary weaving technique is common.
* Kamanasa: South of Central Timor where Ikat Weaving is a common product.

Alor

* Alor Kecil: West of town of Kalabahi where Alor Ikat is produced.
* Uma Pura: tiny island next to Alor Kecil. The main activity of women here produces hand-woven Ikat. Elephant design is common.
* Pulau Buaya: the women on the island produce similar Ikat Weaving of Uma Pura. Dyed threads are on display almost everywhere, especially during dry season.

Please contact us for the detailed program and prices

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The Launch of Visit Lombok-Sumbawa 2012

Ever since the first launch of Visit Indonesian Year program in 1992 (VIY 1992), The Indonesian Culture and Tourism Department continuously sustain similar program every year to attract foreign tourists and encourage to come to many different beautiful regions of Indonesia. Many tourist destinations conduct series of events to expose their tourist attractions every year with improving preparations from time to time.

The Launch of Visit Lombok – Sumbawa 2012

West Nusa Tenggara Province as one of Indonesian provinces that has various tourist potentials and indigenous natural resources is prepared and focused as the core program in 2012. Officially the plan of this program is launched on Saturday, 5 July 2009 in a ceremonial event held at Senggigi, Lombok. This event is attended by the President of Republic of Indonesia, His Honorable, Dr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

The launch of Visit Lombok-Sumbawa Year 2012 program has also become an event for West Nusa Tenggara province to initiate and perform their preparation in welcoming the special year that is especially programmed for them.

The Minister of Indonesian Culture and Tourism Department, His Excellency Ir. Jero Wacik, SE said, “The branding of Indonesian Tourism is: Kenali Negerimu, Cintai Negerimu (Know Your Country, Love Your Country). It means and also describes the Indonesian natural richness in the frame of tourism industry that covers natural tourism, heritage tourism, cultural tourism, shopping tourism, culinary tourism, and marine tourism. Lombok and Sumbawa island have some potentials i.e. natural tourism resources, pearl breed, and traditional woven. These made very much worthwhile for Lombok and Sumbawa island to be promoted.

In this event, some promotional activities were also launched such as Website and VT. Apart from that, a special session to show the pearl and traditional woven were also displayed as two primary commodities of West Nusa Tenggara Province.

The first lady, Mrs. Ani Yudhoyono also breed the pearl in this event. Miss Pearl as Pearl Ambassador 2009 will also be selected. The candidates are 10 representatives of 10 provinces who were the finalists of Miss Tourism 2008 competition.

They are:

Miss Sumatera : Duma Sitorus
Miss Sulawesi : Marlin Mogigir
Miss Kalimantan : Giana Pratidina
Miss Maluku : AstrelliaJeanner Selanno
Miss Bali : Putu Ayu Gustina
Miss Papua : Marcella Rumfabe
Miss DKI Jakarta : Agnes Theresia Immanuel
Miss Yogyakarta : Ingrid Clarissa Wisnu
Miss East Nusa Tenggara : Rini Arba
Miss West Nusa Tenggara : Nur Fajrina

Mr. Sapta Nirwandar, the General Director of Marketing of Culture and Tourism Department said that Visit Lombok – Sumbawa 2012 would create a positive synergy and cooperation that support the tourism industry, companies, local government and central government. “As such, Lombok and Sumbawa will become a safe and well qualified tourist destination. This progress will boost the economic growth and also give benefits to many people as it will open job opportunities to improve their welfare.”

5th International Ecotourism Business Forum

Although Visit Indonesia Year program was already started in 1992, however, tourism industry was started to be professionally packaged and bundled as tourism marketing program in integration with MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Convention, Exhibition) industry in 2005.
The Culture and Tourism Department innovatively organize International Ecotourism Business Forum and facilitate the meeting between buyers from foreign countries and Indonesian travel business players as sellers.
Consecutively, this forum was held in Bogor (2005), Yogyakarta (2006), Bondowoso (2007), and Palembang (2008). This program has been positively well known by all members and brings tourism industry improvement particularly in ecotourism.

This year, the International Ecotourism Business Forum will be held in Lombok on 5-6 July 2009. During those two days, the participants are 25 travel business players from Indonesia and 20 buyers from 11 different countries such as UK, Germany, UEA, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, India, Hongkong, France, Japan.
As a province that has various natural and coastal tourism resources Lombok offers marine products including pearl breeding, marine tourism and definitely the arts and cultures product such as woven and handicrafts.
The Indonesian Culture and Tourism Department is very much optimistic to be able to promote and support West Nusa Tenggara Province in marketing its tourism as it previously has been with other provinces that organize the International Ecotourism Business Forum.

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Tugu Lombok: intimacy, good humor, romance and a sense of history

Hotel Tugu Lombok

We stayed at Tugu Lombok for 5 nights in early June. This place breaks the mold: it is neither sleek nor classical. The resort has an artful quirkiness that sets it apart from any luxury hotel I have stayed in previously. Set in green rural isolation, you can see the Oberoi around the curve of the bay and hear Islamic prayers pre-dawn and at dusk. Service is consistently lovely, although English communication can be a challenge. The facilities are impressive for an 18 room hotel. The Tugu is a crossover of Lombok tradition, cheerful hospitality, a playful individuality and modern luxury. I will return.
Room
We stayed in a Bhagavat Gita Oceanfront suite. From the huge bedroom, French doors open to a small terrace and private pool set in a lawn leading directly to the beach. Privacy is protected by strategically-placed foliage. A small bale-day bed is adjacent to the pool - lime green mattress and a palm frond roof – Robinson Crusoe meets playhouse. Inside, the ceilings of the room are maybe 12 metres high, connecting to a dressing area, then an attached bathroom, which feels like a cubby house, with cute latched windows (looking onto your private front garden) that leads to an roofed, outdoor shower room and finally a large stone bath. Mini-bar does not include alcohol, although good cocktails are easily obtained. A big-screen TV is mounted on a wall and hidden behind an ‘antique’ painting, with a decent selection of TV channels and lots of 2008 DVDs available by phone. Lighting is low key - make-up compulsives will need to bring their own mirror (nb the vibe of this place means it’s unnecessary – you start to love your natural looks). There are no in-room tea/coffee making or ironing facilities (see previous note). Wifi is available in-room, but connectivity wavers, so stock up your itunes prior. Housekeeping is tactful, prompt and thorough.

Activities
Took the gorgeous Tugu boat out for a snorkeling trip to the nearby islands. You pay for the distance, not the time so the cost for half a day (plenty for us) is the same as for a full day (about $AUD 175 incl). We swam with sea turtles and many tropical fish, thanks to the hotel guide. For our second trip the hotel arranged a local boat, and this time, unguided, we spotted sea turtles and a fast moving shark in aquarium-like waters.

The hotel beach is not powdery, but a beautiful long golden arc – great for an early morning run, hurdling the anchor ropes of local fishing boats. For many hours of the day the sea is only hip-high for 400m, at which point snorkelling starts (although we never made it that far). Reception offers shoes to protect your feet from the coral flotsam, if you don’t bring your own. We saw no beach equipment (no kayaks, sail boards etc).

A gorgeous golf course is next to the hotel, which I used as an early morning jogging track, so tranquil and large that we got lost! Occasionally ran round placid cows and families of goats and chickens (I think I ate one later that night).

The hotel also has a small exercise room with decent equipment, including a treadmill – you may need to start up the A/C. The delightful spa is not five star, but offers excellent massages as well as other treatments ($AUD115 tax incl. for 60 minute couples massage).

Dining
The consistent, good quality food is important in this isolated location. Breakfast bought to our garden, eaten in dappled sunlight, served on the beach or in the beautiful restaurant. Service: friendly and can-do – freshly squeezed tomato and watermelon juices, banana pancakes, French toast, good scrambled eggs and tropical fruit, Balinese coffee not bad. We ate dinner at the stunning main restaurant often, one night we dined at the top of a temple and another on the beach. The food is flavoursome and varied: we tried delicious fish baked in a banana leaf with coconut milk and spices, grilled fresh prawns and Lombok baked baby chicken coated in a spicy marinade. A Shaw & Smith Chardonnay cost $AUD110 incl. For lunch we ate prawn and sweetcorn fritters, good cheeseburgers and a decent nicoise salad with quail eggs ($AUD10 incl. each). More-ish Caprioskas, lime daquiris and house cocktails ($AUD14 incl) in a bar that feels like a 1930s Shanghai Marlene Dietrich movie set. I am not an afternoon tea person, but here we would sit by the pool on ground level couches and be served a choice of exotic teas and daily Indonesian treats, which intrigued us with their diverse textures and flavours (proudly complimentary).

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