Ulun Danu Beratan: Iconic Temple on Lake Beratan in The Bedugul Highlands

Overview

Set within the highlands of the mountainous Bedugul Regency in Bali, atop a plateau that sits on Lake Beratan, stands the majestic Ulun Danu Temple. In the mild, mountain weather, approximately 1,500 meters above sea level, the air is crisp and cool. The stunningly clear lake is calm and almost perfectly still, save for the soft breeze that occasionally sweeps across, creating tiny ripples upon its surface. A thin mist rises from the lake and hangs in the air, surrounding the temple, giving it a somewhat surreal appearance.

Pura Ulun Danu was built in adoration of the Goddess Danu. Danu, in the Balinese tongue, means lake, while the goddess Danu is queen of water, lakes and rivers. The temple complex consists of four sacred buildings. Linga Pura stands three levels high, and is a place of worship to the god Shiva. Pura Puncak Mangu stands 11 levels high, and was built in dedication to the god Vishnu. PuraTeratai Bang is the main temple, and Pura Dalem Purwa is built in worship to Sang Hyang Widhi. This last temple is also a site for those who pray for fertility, prosperity and well-being.

The style of the building follows the Trimurti belief; three holy colors to represent the three gods: Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu. The first color is red, to the lord Brahma, The Creator. Second, is black. The symbol of the lord Vishnu, the balance and preserver of the universe.Finally, white for the god Shiva, The Destroyer.

The area surrounding the temple is believed to have been a site of worship and center for religious rituals since the megalithic period. To the left of the temple lies a sarcophagus as well as a stone slate that are dated to around 500 BC. The existence of the temple itself is has been recorded as early as 1556. In 1633, it was rebuilt by the King of Mengwi, I Gusti Agung Putu,  with a mixture of Hindu and Buddhist architectural styles. Despite its age, the temple remains clean and in good condition, well kept by the local community. Ulun Danu Temple is one of the icons of the island of Bali, and is pictured on the 50,000 rupiah bill.

Lake Beratan is the second largest lake in Bali, and is the source of irrigation for rice fields and plantations across the entire Bedugul Village. The mountain on which it sits is often referred to as “the holy mountain” as the weather is cool and the soil rich and fertile. In early times, Lake Beratan was the largest lake in Bali, until a devastating earthquake occurred, dividing the lake into three sections: Beratan, Buyan and Tamblingan. The name Beratan comes from the word Brata, which means to conduct one’s self to fill the 9 primary needs in life. The word is used in the term “Tapa Brata,” which is to meditate and be united with nature.

Get There

Bedugul is located in the Tabananregency, about 50 kilometers north of Denpasar, capital city of Bali, or 70 kilometers from the tourist area of Kuta. Bedugul can be reached by private or rental car. The uphill journey travels across steep and winding roads, but the view is simply amazing.

Lake Beratan and Ulun Danu are located in the village of Candikuning, Tabanan Regency, Bali, not too far from the Eka Karya Botanical Gardens.

To Do

Enjoy the cool, mountain air and revel in the beauty of the natural surroundings; A calm, cool lake, surrounded by terraced rice fields, rolling hills and dense forests. Rent a boat or canoe to explore the area over water, or simply relax and enjoy the ride across the lake.

Pay a visit to Eka Karya Park, Bali’s only botanic garden, or stroll through theCandi Kuning Traditional Market. Bedugul is a region where fruit trees and vegetables of various varieties flourish. These are later sold in markets both in Bedugul and other areas around across the island. There are also small stalls where you can purchase beautiful and unique souvenirs, as a memory of your trip.

Though this area is a sacred place for Hindus, there is also a mosque in the region to symbolize the level of tolerance and harmony displayed by the local community.

To Stay

Strawberry  Hill Hotel – cozy, traditional cabins, just a walk away from Lake Beratan.

Address:  Jl. Raya Denpasar-Singaraja Km. 48,Bedugul 82191

Phone: +62 368 21265

Email: info@strawberryhillbali.com

Website:www.strawberryhillbali.com

Bali Handara Kosaido – located in the central highlands of Bali, and ranked among the top 50 golf courses in the world.

Address: Bedugul, Bali
Phone: +62 362 3422646
Email:reservation@balihandarakosaido.com
Website:www.balihandaracountryclub.com

Enjung Beji  Resort Hotel – beautiful cottages around the lake, north of the Ulun Danu Temple.

Address: Jl. Raya Bedugul, Candikuning, Tabanan, Bali
Phone: +62  361  8528521

Email: info@enjungbejiresort.com

Website:http://www.enjungbejiresort.com/

Tips

Rainfall can be sudden and frequent in this area, so an umbrella may come in handy. If you don’t have one, these can also be rented around the lake. Bring a jacket or sweater as the weather can get quite cold.

Adventure , Bali , Traditional Villages

Eat, Pray, Love and Escape in Ubud

Overview

Follow in the footsteps of Elizabeth Gillbert and journey to Ubud where just like her you can experience this place of wonder and beauty. Elizabeth Gilbert’s best selling memoir Eat Pray Love tells the story of her experience over one year living in Italy, India and Indonesia – in search of an inner balance and spiritual fulfilment in life.

And where better to search for balance and spirituality than in Bali, an island of gods and goddesses? It drew Elizabeth Gilbert’s attention for its richness of nature, culture, cuisine. And of course, in Bali she finally found love.

It’s in Ubud, with the help of her local friends, Wayan, the traditional Balinese healer, and wise man Ketut Liyer, that Liz rediscovers her ability to love. Living in the beautifully lush surrounds, making friends with the local people Liz embraces Ubud and learns how to find balance in her quest for pleasure and meaning.

Join us for a journey of eat, pray, love and escape in Ubud, Bali.

Get Around

Your escape to Ubud will start right at the time you unpack your bag in a nice quiet hotel of your choice just as Liz did as she relaxed her body and mind surrounded by beautiful scenery. She knew she didn’t have to worry about being on her own  because she could always make friends with the charming locals. They are more than happy to explain what and where to go. Such is the friendliness of Ubud.

Get There

As you arrive in Ubud you’ll be welcomed with the smell of canang (a Balinese offering; combination of leaves, flowers and incense). You will see genuine smiles of the Balinese faces who greet you with respect.

If you don't have a map in hand or even a clue, you can always understand phrases like "Taxi, Sir?" or "Hotel, Ma'am?" Just tell them you're heading to Ubud and you'll be on your way.

To Do

One of the most popular attractions here is the sightseeing at Jalan Raya Ubud. The Ubud Palace is a nice stop.
Don’t miss gazing at the rice fields at Tegalalang. Smell the air and feel the breeze on your skin. Embrace the butterflies in your stomach.

Experience the local culture and go see a Kecak Dance performance. Or see some of the unique local artwork produced here at one the marvellous gallery’s like Blanco’s or at Biasa Gallery.
If you come at the right time, you may be lucky enough to see a festival or ceremony. Ask locals for information about this.
Soak up the relaxed pace of daily life here and see how locals live by embracing their spiritual side, just like Ketut Liyer (the healer who encouraged Liz to love again).

Meditation is good for your mind and soul. Try one of the many meditation and relaxation centres around Ubud and learn to slow down and live in the moment just like Liz did on her journey. 

To Stay

Staying a few days, weeks, or even more than what you originally planned, will always be a wonderful moment to treasure. Exclusive hotels are optional. Even Liz enjoyed the blunt look of tropical tree tops, swimming pools and a fresh tropical fruits at a reasonably priced hotel down at Monkey Forest Road. "It’s good to be back," she said once along the journey.

To Eat

Dash a lick of a strong spicy Balinese ‘Warung  Babi Guling Ibu Oka’ (Balinese suckling pig set menu) down at Jalan Sweta Ubud, across the Ubud Palace. It's a five-minute walk to the leftside of Pasar Ubud. But if you miss home and want to munch a wider choice of culinary options, cruise along Jalan Raya Ubud (Ubud main road). During the filming of Eat, Pray, Love, Julia Roberts was invited by the local ruler to dine in an enjoyable restaurant in Ubud. That'll be  be The Lotus in Jalan Raya Ubud.

Carry on, let's maybe sip down a few evening margarita at Nuri’s, plus a giant juicy ribs with sambal kecap (mixture of chili and soya sauce ), or a Japanese elegant at Ryoshi Ubud. You don't have to come at the same place twice since there are countless restaurants and delicacies to explore.

To Buy

Visit Pasar Ubud and rummage through the beautiful locally made souvenirs. It’s also a good place to hunt for some antiques. Spoil yourself with choices of antiques, decorations or traditional fabrics—all prices are negotiable so be prepared to bargain. 

Adventure , Bali

Ubud: A Place of Peace and Serenity

Overview

If you’re looking for peace and quiet, then Ubud is the place to be. Steeped in culture and enhanced by magnificent vistas, Ubud offers a respite from the humdrum of your busy life. In the past, Ubud was just a small village, but now it has grown into a thriving yet laid back cosmopolitan community. Ubud pampers visitors in body and soul. Fine dining restaurants and spas here will delight and relax the senses. A walk through the lush paddy fields, watching colourful processions of women gracefully balancing piles of fruit offerings on their way to the temple, are lasting impressions and simply breathtaking.

The best way to observe Bali’s traditions and culture is through mingling with the locals and watching their daily routine. In this town, you can visit the temples and villages that have remained relatively unchanged through the years.

Art galleries are also abundant. Masterful paintings and sculptures are waiting to be admired and appreciated, for who knows you may find the perfect painting or statue to grace your own living room?

This region is steeped in history and culture. Many remains from the old kingdoms of Bali can be found here, and unique arts and crafts are just waiting to be discovered. Known for its tranquillity, Ubud offers several natural retreats. The lush, green views and cool atmosphere makes morning and afternoon strolls most pleasant.

It’s no surprise that many people come to Ubud for a day or two and end up staing longer, drawn in by the culture and activities on offer. Ubud is where famed Elizabeth Gilbert found peace and her love as written in her best selling memoir “Eat, Pray, Love”, which is now made into a film featuring Julia Roberts. Indonesia’s ownn celebrity Christine Hakim plays Wayan, the local alternative healer

Get There

Various modes of transport are available from all over Bali. If you decide to visit Ubud directly from the airport, you can hire prepaid cabs but the fee may be quite hefty. You can also take regular taxis or rental cars. Public transportation such as buses can also take you to Ubud.

To Stay

From simple bed and breakfasts to beautifully laid out luxury hotels, all types of accommodation can be easily found here.  Modest accommodation or even homestays are available for those who would prefer to watch Balinese daily life up close. For hotels, check :find a hotel

Get Around

Since Ubud is relatively small, you can explore the town on foot or hire a bicycle or motorbike. Bear in mind that as this is hilly terrain, so do ask locals first which places are easier explored on foot, by bicycle, motorbike or by car.

To Do

Go back in time and see the heritage of Bali’s ancient kingdoms with a visit to the temple of Tirta Empul, only 15 km away. Here, in the temple complex, are the holy springs of Tirta Empul. Some 8 km from here lies Pejeng, where you can visit the museum and temples and the “Moon of Pejeng” the huge prehistoric kettledrum. While here why not complete your tour visiting the archaeological sites of Bedulu which is only 3 km away.

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) is also worth visiting. Located about 1 km from Teges, legend says that it was created from a giant’s fingernail. It was probably built in 11th century, during Majapahit occupation of Bali. Dutch archaeologist rediscovered Goa Gajah in the 1920s but the bathing area was not found until the 1950s. It’s interesting to note that the entrance of this cave is carved in the shape of a demon-like creature. The statue of Ganesha adorns the inside. Bathing pools with water spouts are found nearby, and it is believed that the water will make you look younger.

Ubud is the perfect place to enjoy cultural events and performances. The Kecak, Legong and Barong dances are performed weekly as are the classical Ramayana and Mahabharata dance-dramas, gamelan recitals (orchestra comprising traditional musical instruments) and the wayang kulit (traditional Indonesian leather puppets)  performances .

If you are too tense and caught up in the humdrum of daily life, indulge in the spas around Ubud that use exotic spices to tease your senses, and ensure complete relaxation.

Stroll through the cool and dense jungle of the sacred monkey forest where there are three ancient temples to explore. The Pura Dalem Agung (Temple of the Dead) is an like something out of an adventure movie. Look out for Rangda figures devouring children at the entrance to the inner temple.  

Adventurous folks may want to try white water rafting down the Ayung river. Other outdoor activities including golf are equally available, contact the local tour agencies. Why not pump up your adrenaline while your spouse relaxes in the spa!

If the artist in you just yearns to rise to the surface, then why not take an art class. Ever wondered how batik is made, or how rare masterpieces can be created? Or perhaps you would love to design and create your own silver jewellery. You can learn these here. For those who are more interested in culinary skills, cooking classes are also available.


FESTIVAL & EVENTS

Ubud is the home of the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (www.ubudwritersfestival.com) where book enthusiasts, writers and readers around the world gather annually and share their experiences and of course, stories. This festival is usually held in October every year.

To Eat

On the Monkey Forest Street and Jalan Hanoman you’ll find many choices of restaurants, from western cuisine to Balinese dishes. Sample authentic Balinese dishes made from fresh ingredients at the local warungs (street stalls). Or indulge in a gourmet meal at one of the classy cafes or restaurants. 

To Buy

For keepsakes, make sure to visit South of Ubud. You can find hundreds of craft shops offering art products and handmade souvenirs, especially made of stone or wood. If you are planning to stay for a while, ask the artists to custom make your order. If shopping is your middle name, then Pasar Seni (Art Market) at Jalan Raya Ubud, the Monkey Forest Street, Jalan Hanoman and Jalan Dewi Sita must be included in your itinerary.

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Adventure , Bali

Sumba: Powerful Surf, Living Megalithic Culture and Fine Ikat Cloths

Overview

Facing the wide Indian Ocean, the island of Sumba in the province of East Nusatenggara is a surfer’s paradise. The large rolling Sumba barrels usually appear between May through October when waves can be either very high and strong or very flat as breaks are directly exposed to wide open ocean swells. This kind of powerful surf, however, though very challenging, should only be ventured by professionals. However, throughout the year, swells rise from 3 to 6 feet.

Although as yet little known on the tourist map, surprisingly the island of Sumba has a number luxurious, well frequented resorts. The Nihiwatu Resort, for example, describes itself as “the ultimate in privacy, exclusivity, views and romance”, and has been awarded Indonesia’s 2nd best hotel by Tripadvisor. Additionally there is the Sumba Nautil Resort both in the south west of Sumba, another favourite with surfers.  

Located between the islands of Komodo and Sumbawa, Sumba has two distinct climates. Its western part receives more rain, is more fertile and therefore has more inhabitants, whilst its eastern part is mountainous with grassy plateaus and valleys. Here is Sumba’s highest peak, the Wangga Meti rising 1,225 meters above sea level. . Capital of west Sumba is Waikabubak with its airport at Tambolaka, while the island’s largest town of Waingapu  in East Sumba.  In between are mostly villages where communities still adhere to the ancient belief of Marapu or ancestor worship of the megalithic era. Here you will find large, well carved megalithic tombs. Traditional clan houses are round with peaked thick thatched roofs resembling wide sunhats.   West Sumba plants rice, while East Sumba is famous for its water buffaloes and ikat weaving. Sumba raises Indonesia’s best horses.   

West Sumba 

The western part of Sumba has plenty to offer tourists who dare to venture into off-the-beaten- track destinations.  Here can be seen traditional villages, stone megalithic tombs even around West Sumba’s capital of Waikabubak, and watch rituals following the ancient belief of the islanders.The center of rituals Is the village of Tarung, a small remote hamlet west of Waikabubak, which the Sumbanese believe is their spiritual center.  It is the high priest of Tarung who officiates at the yearly Wula Padu ceremony honoring the deified ancestors at the start of the Marapu newyear at the arrival of the rainy season. The Festival is held around October or November. 

Once a year the exciting Pasola jousting festivals, the culmination of a series of fertility rituals are held on separate days at different locations on the island. Hundreds of warriors on horses charge into each other riding bareback, hurling spears. This festival, usually held between February and March, and is believed to bring fertility to the land.     

The world has come to know West Sumba closer since the opening of the Nihiwatu Resort in the southwest of the island, some 1.5 hours from Waikabubak. This resort is known for its exceptional surf and beautifully inspiring surroundings.  Surfing is best at the Kerewe, Marosi and Dasang beaches facing south where there are premier lefts and large double overhead surf.

East Sumba

Waingapu on the northern eastern coast of Sumba is the largest town and its seaport.

Around two kilometers from Waingapu is the traditional village of Prailiu, and some 10 km. away is the village of Kwangu, while 6 km from the city is the village of Labanapu, all three are famous for their exquisite ikat weaving. Women of Sumba produce some exemplary hand woven cloth with motifs of stylized horses, animals and people, in dark blue, red and black, white and yellow natural dyes.  Here visitors can watch the entire intricate and tedious process of ikat weaving. Look for the unique cloths with sewn in seashells.

Best surf in the east is on Manggudu island, which has both left and long right waves.

Get There

West Sumba airport is at Tambolaka, close to Waikabubak. Trans Nusa operates weekly flights to Sumba alternating between Tambolaka in the West amd Waingapu in the East, so make sure where you will land. The Nihiwatu Resort charters weekly flights to Tambolaka.

To Stay

There are several hotels and inns you can find throughout the island of Sumba, for information on hotels with website, you can refer to our find a hotel.

West Sumba:

1. Hotel Manandang      

Jl. Pemuda No.14 Waikabubak,

Phone: +62 387 22197     

2. Hotel Artha   

Jl. Veteran Waikabubak

Phone: +62 387 21112     

3. Hotel Pelita   

Jl. A. Yani No.2 Waikabubak

 Phone: +62 387 21104  

4. Hotel Aloha   

Jl. Sudirman No.26          

+62 387 21245     

East Sumba

1. Hotel Merlin

Jl. Panjaitan No.25 Waingapu     

Phone: +62 387 61300     

2. Hotel Sundlewood     

Jl.Panjaitan No.23 Waingapu      

Phone: +62 387 61887     

3. Hotel Elvin     

Jl. A. Yani No 73 Waingapu          

Phone: +62 387 62097     

4. Hotel Kaliuda                

Jl. Lalamentik No.3 Waingapu    

Phone: +62 387 61264     

5. Hotel Surabaya            

Jl. El Tari No.2 Waingapu              

+62 387 61125     

6. Hotel Lima Saudara    

Jl. Wanggameti No.2 Waingapu                

+62 387 61083

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Adventure , East Nusa Tenggara , Traditional Villages

Ruteng: Capital of Manggarai, hub to fascinating Flores Attractions

Overview

Ruteng, capital of the district of Manggarai, in the western part of the island of Flores, is a pleasant, busy town backed by a range of mountains. Located some 1,200 meters above sea level the air is cool. Surrounding the town are green rice fields that provide the staple for the population on this predominantly dry island. Coffee grown around here is also most invigorating.

Ruteng is some 4 hours drive from Labuan Bajo, the town where tourists take boats to visit the habitat of the famous Komodo Dragons on the islands of Komodo and Rinca or go diving in this National Park.  

It is from Ruteng that the Catholic mission spread to convert many of the islanders, building many missionary schools, so that Flores today is indeed predominantly Catholic.  

As capital city of Manggarai, Ruteng still maintains an equilibrium between the ancient and the modern. Most people visit Ruteng either at the start of their journey across Flores, or at the end.  Here most facilities are available, accommodation though modest are clean and good, and shops are well stocked. Internet also works here.

 Ruteng originated from a small village, and the story goes that it emerged from the heart of Compang Ruteng, or Ruteng Pu’u. This is a village that still exists until today and travelers go there to see the remaining original house of theManggaraian and a compang, a stone altar that is the center of the village. Acompang is a sacred place, where the ancestors are believed to live, while all the houses encircle it concentrically. Observe the locals who live as an agricultural community. Agricultural products found here are coffee, copra, candlenut, cloves, and cacao.

From Ruteng visit the mystifying spiderweb ricefields at Cancar, wander further to the Liang Bua cave, where archaeologists discovered skeletons of world’s singular hobbits. Watch the fantastic dance at Melo or Tado, or visit Wae Rebo, a hamlet in the hills of the district that still adheres to the megalithic culture.  

Similar to Bajawa and Moni, the weather in Ruteng is unexpectedly cooler than the rest of the island, making it a nice exotic town for morning or evening strolls.

To know more in depth about the culture and suorrundings of Ruteng, tour guides are the best asset to explain and allow you to experience some of Flores’ best. 

The puzzling Todo village is also worth an adventurous excursion, relating to the time when Minangkabau sailors from West Sumatra landed here hundreds of years ago far on the island of Flores. 

The ultimate activity to do on Flores is of course visit the living Komodo dragons, the Varanus komodoensis, in their habitat. Overall, the regency is a natural and cultural reserve that continues to illustriously enhance this rocky island.

As a hub of tourist attractions on Flores, Ruteng is easily accessible by land transportation. Manggarai was once a larger regency.

In 2003 and 2007, it was divided into three regencies; West Manggarai, Manggarai, and East Manggarai. Its strategic position and geographical situation at the slope of Mount Anak Ranaka, makes the town of Ruteng an energizing transit town and a fascinating destination at the same time.

To Do

‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’ applies to Ruteng. There are many resourceful persons who can tell you about extraordinary attractions. Consider paying a visit to these attractions:

As a start, the Catholic church right in the middle of the town is an interesting spot to discover the historical background of the town when Catholicism grew and came to be embraced by most of the population on the island. The building is a fantastic old structure yet invigorating as the energy from its spiritual ambiance permeates across the sizeable hall.

As background of Ruteng Mount Anak Ranaka , an active volcano is a safe home for endemic birds and insects. Go see the tour operator in town to see if they can provide a guide, or a professional botanist.

A few miles from the town, lies Liang Bua, another archeological site where hobbits are believed to have once roamed the land. Scientists call the newly found dwarf species the Homo floresiensis. The cave is very large and the local guide will surprise you as he takes you to a much larger hall inside the cave that connects modern age to the beginning of human civilization. In the mid 1950‘s the cave was used as a school and that alone is striking.

From Ruteng, Liang Bua is easily accessible by public transport, passing villages like Ru’ah Village where the community lives in a peaceful environment. The location of the cave is around 14 kilometers from Ruteng.

Architectural wonders are also part of the catalogue that Manggarai has to offer. In Wae Rebo, a village that hides from all the traffic and commercial activities around Ruteng, the community still lives and preserves the ancient way of living, staying in cone-shaped houses. It is said that in the 70s, living in a traditional house calledmbaru niang, disappeared. But, surprisingly, there is still this one village in the entire Manggarai district that still has a complete set of village structures, including traditional houses, a drum house as symbol of the tribe, and the compang, the stone altar where the souls of the ancients are believed to reside. (see pictures in “moments captured” on Flores)

Some 17 kilometers from Ruteng, and on the return journey from Labuan Bajo, a village named Cara in Cancar presents the most tremendous sight that will take your breath away. From a hilltop, green rice fields spread right before your eyes. Unusually, the pattern of the walkways resemble the form of a spider web that you will instantly ask ‘how does it work’ as the pattern shows so vividly.

It begins with a story on how the Wae Rebo community recount about their tradition and their house. There is a philosophical correlation between the spiderweb-like pattern and the form of the house, especially the drum house of Wae Rebo or at Ruteng Pu’u.

Leaving the heart of Ruteng and heading to Labuan Bajo, Melo Village is on the way. The village is worth a stopover since it has a unique way to predict next year’s successful harvest. The locals would dance the Caci, and if one of the players spills blood, the villagers can expect a successful harvest the following year. Villagers here call this tradtion and dance club the Compang To’e.

In the south central of Manggarai, Todo Village is there to present to you the past of the royal clan of Manggaraians who claimed that their ancestors came from Minangkabau, West Sumatra. The name of the first person to establish the clan was Mashur. Mashur took a wife from every village he passed and claimed that his kinship was extensively spread in Manggarai.

The trip to Todo Village takes 2 hours. The distance is only 36 kilometers from Ruteng. The road is exceptionally winding and bumpy as it passes hills and mountainous areas. Head north to Golo Lusang, and after passing Golo Cala, turn right to Pongkor as you will pass Papang and Ulun-Gali Village. After crossing the Wae Mese river, you will pass Popo Village and finally Todo is right ahead. Minibuses from Ruteng to Todo are called oto kayu or bemo. Motorbike rental is also available in Ruteng.

Finally, like other travelers, you will want to hurry to Labuan Bajo to take a exhilarating start crossing the strait to Komodo and Rinca Island. Here the Komodo dragons will be a few meters away from you and there is nothing comparable to be among the living dragon in their own habitat. 

A short visit to Batu Cermin Cave is an enjoyable and playful walk with a little thrilling experience to be in the dark and see the fossils of sea creatures on the cave walls. Listen to the guide who will tell you about the strange monkeys living nearby area who can fish with their tails. See Labuan Bajo for further details.

Get There

Ruteng is right at the cross road between Labuan Bajo and Ende,  Bajawa, or Maumere. Many public transportation pass the town. Wherever one travels the vehicle must stop in Ruteng for a rest. Consider the assistance of tour operators with excellent local knowledge and good communication skill. For details, contacts and bookings see Find Travel Agents

To Stay

In Ruteng, a few comfortable hotels are :

1.      Hotel Sindha on Jalan Yos Sudarso No. 26 (Phone: +62 385 21197).

2.      Hotel Maryo’s on Jalan Poco Komba, Kampung Leda, Ruteng (Phone: +62 813 530 69572 with Felix as an Assistant Manager).    Email: f_de_rozari@hotmail.com.

3.      Hotel Bunga is a new hotel built in 2010. For budget travelers, the hotel is a comfortable place to stay with a starting rate from IDR 80,000 a night. It is located on Jalan Merak Nekang (Phone +62 812 3771 3074).

4.      Hotel Dahlia is a nice hotel with hot shower. Breakfast is included. It is located on Jalan Bhayangkara No. 18 (Phone +62 385 21377).

5.      Hotel Rima is the most prominent hotel in Ruteng. With a bamboo style cottage, the hotel’s rate starts from IDR 75,000 to IDR 225,999 a night. It is on Jalan Ahmad Yani (Phone: +62 385 22196).

6.      Susteran Maria Berduka Cita is a dormitory like accommodation at the Catholic convent, but guests are welcome to stay here. The hotel has a rule that limits any activities after 9 pm. It is exceptionally clean and friendly. Rates starts from IDR 140,000 and sits on Jalan Ahmad Yani (Phone:+62 385 22834)

To Eat

The traditional market is always an attraction, and traditional food must be part of the meeting place. But if you wish to eat in a more comfortable atmosphere, please refer to the followings:

-          Note that Rumah Makan is translated as Restaurant, and Jalan or Jl. is Street. Here the term ‘No’is a short for number.

1.      Rumah Makan Agape on Jl. Bhayangkari No. 8 (Phone: +62 385 22100).

2.      Rumah Makan Cha Cha on Jl. Diponegoro No. 12 (Phone: +62 385 21489 or +62 812 3949 3747).

3.      Rumah Makan Dua Tiga on Jalan Motang Rua No. 15

4.      Lestari on  Jalan Komodo No. 2 (Phone:  +62 385 211393 or +62 813 39187 000)

5.      Mas Nardi on Jalan Adi Sucipto No. 11

6.      Padedoang is a Padang restaurant on Jl. Adi Sucipto No. 3

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Adventure , East Nusa Tenggara , Traditional Villages

Maumere, City to embark on your Flores adventure

Overview

Capital of the district of Sikka on the eastern coast of Flores Island, Maumere is the perfect staging place to embark on an unforgettable adventure to unveil the beauty of Flores. The town itself is blessed with a beautiful landscape of hills and mountains complemented with clear green and blue ocean.

Maumere is the biggest city in Flores, larger than Labuan Bajo at the west end of the island. The town used to serve as an alternative for tourists to go to the Komodo National Park aside from Labuan Bajo. While, those wishing to attend Easter celebrations in Larantuka, also start off from Maumere, which is more easily connected by air to other parts of Indonesia.

Located at the narrowest part of the island, from Maumere due south to near the town Nita at Koting village,  one can see as  far as the Flores Sea to the north and the Savu Sea to the Indian Ocean to its southern horizon.

Today, Maumere is also the stepping off point to see the Three-Coloured Lakes on Mt. Kelimutu on the way to Ende. The village of Sikka, some 30 km from Maumere is the center of weaving in this area. Here visitors can watch, on request, the complete intricate process of ikat-weaving, including dying the threats with natural colors. Another village known for its weaving is Watublapi, which distinguishes itself through the use of symbolic motifs such as lizards, horses, birds and geometrical patterns.

Maumere used to be a favorite snorkeling and diving area, made famous by the Sao Wisata Resort built by Flores’ own hero, Frans Seda. Unfortunately, the 1992 tsunami davastated parts of the sea and the city.  Before that, Maumere was considered by many as the true illustration of “Flores” or Flower of the East Nusatenggara Archipelago. After nearly two decades, the town is now reviving, back to its former beauty with the newly renovated Frans Seda Airport (formerly called Wai Oti Airport).

 Before the Dutch colonial merchants arrived, Maumere was known as Sikka Alok or Sikka Kesik. Here, traders from China, Bugis, and Makassar often came to trade with the locals. These traders often stayed for days near the seaport called Waidoko. With the arrival of the Dutch, they eventually built government offices in Sikka and gave new names to the area such as Maunori, Mautenda, Mauwaru, Maurole, Mauponggo, and obviously Maumere in Sikka.

Since the majority of its people are Catholic, the town’s existence cannot be separated from the church of Larantuka. Catholicism was first introduced in 1566 by two missionaries from Dominica named P.Joao Bautista da Fortalezza and Simao da Madre de Deos. They initially started their mission in Paga, a small town about 45Km west of Maumere and were sent by P.Antonio Cruzz from the town of Larantuka. Every year congregations from Maumere head to Larantuka to join in the Semana Santa Easter Holy Week Ritual.

To Do

Situated in the east-end of Flores, Maumere is obviously the perfect staging place before you embark on your journey to Larantuka,Lake Kelimutu, Lembata,Ende, Labuan Bajo, and Komodo National Park.

While you are in town, you might want to explore the beautiful landscape of Maumere around Waiara Beach and the Kambing Island and Pangabatang Island.Waiterang Beach is definitely a must if you are in Maumere. Located only 31 Km from the heart of the town, the beach is renowned among divers, and also has the certified PADI diving course.

Koka Beach, 45Km west of Maumere has the legendary white sand which is as soft as powder. Not too far from the beach, you can find the traditional village of Mau Lo’o with all its unique traditional houses.

Donot forget to visit the uniqe Bikon Blewut Museum located in the campus of Sekolah Tinggi Filsafat Katholik Ledalero, a Catholic priest seminary, some 6 km. south of Maumere. Here you can find a large assortment of Flores history in artefacts collected by the priests.  Here are rare ikat cloths, stone age tools, musical iinstruments, ceramics from China, traditional weapons, and fossil bones from the Mastodon, an extinct huge elephant like a mammoth which inhabited from between 400,000 – 10,000 BC.

The Museum opens Mondays to Saturdays in the mornings from 07.00 to 13.00 hrs. 

Get There

Flights to Maumere are available from Bali and Kupang. Transnusa Airlines serves flights between Bali and Maumere three times a week with seating capacity of 82.  Batavia Air serves connecting flights from Surabaya-Bali-Kupang-Maumere four days a week on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.  Other Airlines that also serve flights to Maumere are Merpati Nusantara and Garuda Indonesia.

To Stay

The town has several cozy inns and hotels. Some of these are located in some of the best spots such as the coastline of Maumere. Here are some of the hotels you can try:

1.            Sylvia Hotel in Jalan Gajah Mada

2.            Permah Sari Hotel in Jl. Sudirman No.1 Maumere

3.            Adi Darma Hotel in Jl. R.E. Martadhinata, Kalabahi

To Eat

With its wide open seas, Maumere is obviously the Sea Food Paradise where an abundance of fish and other sea dwellers are available fresh every day. For a special treat, try the kasuami, the typical coastal dish of Eastern Indonesia popular in Ambon and Maluku Islands. Here, you can also find this dish in several restaurants. 

Adventure , East Nusa Tenggara

Batu Cermin Cave

Overview

Batu Cermin, or Mirror Rock, is actually a tunnel or cave in a dark stone hills of Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai, Flores, East Nusa Tenggara.  Sunshine comes in through a hole in the tunnel and then bounces on the stone walls that again reflect small lights to other areas inside the cave like a mirror. That’s why this site is called mirror rock. 
  
The cave is located east of Labuan Bajo harbor some four kilometers from the town’s center.  The cave has forests surrounding it where you can find long-tailed monkeys and wild boar.  Travel agencies sell tour packages to Batu Cermin as part of a city tour program from Labuan Bajo.

To Do

Nearly all interesting sites in Labuan Bajo are located on islands facing this harbor.  Most are unoccupied and you can go there for sunbathing, diving or snorkeling.  Bidadari Island has a beautiful beach for sunbathing.  Its seas are good for snorkeling and diving.  Kanawa and Kukusan Kecil Islands are also good for snorkeling and diving.  In addition, Serayu island has white sand and beautiful corals.

Get Around

You can take a rented car or travel by car from the Labuan Bajo airport to any place on the Flores mainland.  The rate depends on your negotiation but currently it is about Rp500,000 per day.  Hotels can help you find a rented car.
For your mobility within the city, bemo’s (traditional public transportation) and motor taxis are available, but they only operate until 9.0 pm..  If you want to visit the nearby islands, such as to Komodo or Rinca, rented motorboats and speed boats are available at the port.

Get There

Every day, there are two to three flights from Bali to Labuan Bajo by Transnusa, IAT (Indonesia Air Transport), and Merpati.  In addition, there is a twice a week flight from Kupang. Inter-island motorboats from Sape in West Nusa Tenggara are also available everyday (when the weather permits), and the Pelni ship from Bali and Lombok makes a stop over here every two weeks.

To Stay

Labuan Bajo has many hotels for backpackers.  It also has expensive and luxurious hotels.  At present, the Hotel Bintang Flores, (0385-42000/ www.bintangflores.com) located by Pede beach, is the best and most luxurious hotel in Labuan Bajo. This four-star hotel has a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, dive shop, and Internet facility.  Its rate is in US dollars.

To Eat

Hotels usually have their own restaurants.  Restoran Gardena (at Hotel Gardena), for instance, is a favorite restaurant.  Here, you can find various types of European and Indonesian foods.  It is famous for its sweet & sour fish (Kerapu or tuna fish) and the amazing scenery during sunsets. Other restaurants among others are the Paradise Bar and Pub (near Golo Hilltop), Arto Moro, and Matahari (Paradise and Matahari have beautiful views during sunsets).

To Buy

You can buy souvenirs from kiosks and shops in Labuan Bajo, particularly on Yos Sudarso Street.  There, you can find local ikat and songket woven fabrics, and wooden komodo statues. Hawkers will also sell you imperfect cultured pearl necklaces, which make beautiful souvenirs and gifts.

Tips

Make sure that you bring along anti-mosquito lotions and anti-malaria medicines, since Labuan Bajo is a malaria endemic area. Bring along also sunblock lotions, a hat, and sunglasses, as it can be very hot here during the dry season. You can buy these at the supermarket in town or from your hotel shop. 

Adventure , East Nusa Tenggara

Liang Bua

Overview

Liang Bua is a cave in a limestone hill in Manggarai District, Flores. The local community is familiar with this cave because of its huge size (50 meters long, 40 meters wide, and 25 meters tall). Due to its size, it was once used as a religious worship place and school.

Liang Bua is famous the world over following the finding of an ancient skull. The skull was that of a short human called Homo floresiensis, found at a depth of 6 meters.  Its brain measured only 380 cc (compared to a minimum 1200 cc for a normal modern human brain). Archaeologists are of the opinion that this skull originated from an era back in time some 18,000 years ago.

In addition, in a depth of 10.7 meters, ancient animal bones were also found including those of stegodon (an ancient elephant), komodo, turtles, and lizards.

Get Around

Liang Bua and its surrounding areas are only accessible by foot.

To Do

Despite its famous archaeological findings, no replica or information about these findings is located in Liang Bua.  Visitors can only see the massive cave with stalagmite stones, imaginating that ancient elephants, komodo and short humans (Homo floresiensis) once lived here thousands of years ago. Near Liang Bua, there are other caves such as Gua Galang (with bathing stones) and Gua Tanah.  You can walk to these caves.

Get There

Liang Bua is located 14 kilometers from Ruteng, the capital city of Manggarai district. Bemo (rural public transportation) and trucks carrying passengers from Ruteng usually pass this site but their schedule is tentative.  The best way to visit this cave is by taking a rented car or a motor taxi.  To reach Ruteng, you can take land transportation from Labuan Bajo, Ende or Maumere.  Everyday there is a flight from Kupang to Maumere and Ende. There is also a daily flight from Denpasar to Labuan Bajo, and a twice a week flight from Kupang to Ruteng.

To Stay

No hotel is available in Liang Bua.  The nearest hotel or motel is in Ruteng pending availability.  Rima Hotel, Losmen Agung, Hotel Sindha and Hotel Dahlia are good choices to stay in Ruteng.

To Eat

No restaurant or food stalls are available here.  The nearest restaurant is in Ruteng.  Restoran Merlin, at Bhayangkara Street (0385-22475), serves various types of Chinese and Indonesian foods.  In addition, Agape Cafe, which is also located at Bhayangkara Street, is a new cafe serving espresso, beer, and Western, Chinese and Indonesian foods.

To Buy

No souvenir or handicraft shops are available near Liang Bua.

Tips

Please bring along your own food and drinks.  Be careful when taking a private car or a motor taxi because the road to Liang Bua from Ruteng is very narrow and only accommodates one car in width.  Its driving conditions are also dangerous due to many turns and hills.

Adventure , East Nusa Tenggara