Have you ever dreamed of visiting a place that looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale? A place where the water is so white that it reflects the sky, the air is so misty that it creates a mystical atmosphere, and the surroundings are so green that they contrast with the lake? If you have, then you should definitely add Kawah Putih to your bucket list.
Kawah Putih is not only a natural wonder, but also a historical and cultural treasure. It was discovered by a German botanist named Franz Wilhelm Junghuhn in 1837, who was looking for a rare plant called Rafflesia. He was amazed by the beauty and uniqueness of the lake, and named it Zwavel Ontsluitingen, which means Sulfur Springs in Dutch. The lake was also used as a sulfur mine during the Dutch colonial era, and as a filming location for several movies and TV shows.
In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about Kawah Putih, such as what to see and do, how to get there, when to visit, and what to bring.
What to See and Do at Kawah Putih
The main attraction of Kawah Putih is, of course, the lake itself. You will be mesmerized by the beauty and uniqueness of the lake, which changes color depending on the weather and the sunlight.
Besides the lake, there are also other activities and attractions that you can enjoy at Kawah Putih, such as:
1. Hiking
If you are feeling adventurous, you can hike around the lake and explore the surrounding area. You will find various trails that lead to different viewpoints, where you can admire the lake from different perspectives. You will also encounter some wildlife, such as birds, monkeys, and deer, along the way. Just be careful not to stray too far from the main path, as the area is still active and can be dangerous.
2. Camping
If you want to spend more time at Kawah Putih, you can camp near the lake and experience the beauty and tranquility of the night. You will need to bring your own tent, sleeping bag, and other camping equipment, as there are no facilities or services available. You will also need to pay a small fee to the local authorities for camping permission. Camping at Kawah Putih is a great way to enjoy the starry sky, the cool breeze, and the soothing sound of the water.
Visiting nearby places of interest
1. Situ Patenggang Lake
This is another beautiful lake in Bandung, located about 7 km from Kawah Putih. It is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and picnicking. You can also visit the legendary island of Asmara, which is said to be the place where a couple of star-crossed lovers reunited after being separated by their families.
2. Rancabali Tea Plantation
This is a vast and scenic tea plantation, located about 10 km from Kawah Putih. It is a great place to enjoy the fresh air, the green landscape, and the aroma of tea. You can also learn about the tea production process, taste some of the local tea varieties, and buy some souvenirs.
3. Ciwidey Valley Hot Springs
This is a relaxing and rejuvenating hot spring resort, located about 15 km from Kawah Putih. It offers various facilities and services, such as pools, jacuzzis, saunas, massages, and restaurants. You can soak in the mineral-rich water, which is said to have healing and therapeutic benefits for your skin, muscles, and joints.
How to Get to Kawah Putih from Bandung
There are several ways to get to Kawah Putih from Bandung, depending on your budget, time, and preference. Here are some of the options:
Car: This is the most convenient and comfortable way to get to Kawah Putih, as you can drive at your own pace and stop whenever you want. You can either use your own car, rent a car, or hire a car with a driver. The drive from Bandung to Kawah Putih takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the traffic and the road conditions.
Bus: This is the cheapest and most eco-friendly way to get to Kawah Putih, as you can save money and reduce your carbon footprint. You can take a bus from Bandung to Ciwidey, which is the nearest town to Kawah Putih.
Tour package: This is the easiest and most hassle-free way to get to Kawah Putih, as you can enjoy the trip without worrying about the transportation, the tickets, or the itinerary. You can book a tour package from Bandung to Kawah Putih, which usually includes a car, a driver, a guide, an entrance fee, and a lunch.
When to Visit Kawah Putih
The best time to visit Kawah Putih is during the dry season, which lasts from May to September. During this season, the weather is sunny and clear, the temperature is mild and pleasant, and the lake is more visible and colorful.
The best time of day to visit Kawah Putih is in the morning, between 7 am and 10 am. During this time, the lake is less crowded, the air is cooler, and the sunlight is softer. You will also have more chances to see the mist and the fog that create a magical effect on the lake. You will also have more time to explore the lake and the surrounding area, as the lake is open from 7 am to 5 pm.
Kawah Putih is a magical and must-see destination in Bandung, Indonesia, that will enchant you with its milky white water, misty air, and green surroundings. It is a place where you can see and do many things, such as taking photos, hiking, camping, and visiting nearby places of interest. It is also a place where you can learn and appreciate the natural, historical, and cultural aspects of the region. Whether you are looking for a scenic, relaxing, or adventurous experience, Kawah Putih has something for everyone.
