Bandung, a city located on a highland, is blessed because it is surrounded by many wonderful places. If you go north, you will find Lembang and its idyllic charm. If you go south, you will enter a bizarre yet beautiful world of Ciwidey. The town Ciwidey is less than an hour drive from Bandung, and this town is the gateway to many unforgettable spots.
In this mountainous area, you can find a strange misty white crater, a scenic lake, peaceful tea plantation, camping ground, hot springs, and many more. With cool climate and refreshing mountain air, visiting Ciwidey is one of the best options if you want to explore Great Bandung area.
Kawah Putih, an unearthly misty crater of Mount Patuha
Geographically, Kawah Putih (White Crater) is one of the two crates of Mount Patuha. This crater was created during an eruption sometimes in the 12th century. This crater had been found since the early 19th century but remains a hidden gem until just recently.
The road development enabling access to this place easier. There is an extraterrestrial feeling when you see this misty lake, like as if it keeps many mysteries.
A legend of love in Situ Patenggang
Situ Patenggang is located 1600 meters above sea level, this lake is surrounded by scenic tea plantations and green hills with lush rainforest. According to Sudanese folk story, Lake Patenggang was created by Ki Santang for his lover, Dewi Rengganis.
That’s why there are Batu Cinta (Love Boulder) and Pulau Asmara (Amor Island) in this site. Legends aside, this lake is seriously beautiful. You can have a nice picnic in its shore or rent a boat and venture to the middle of the lake.
Situ Patenggang has been developed really well in the last few years and now have a very nice restaurant and glamping resort. You can enjoy a meal with a nice view of the lake if you don’t want to stay overnight. Renting a tent is a good option if you want to spend your starry night on the shore of the love lake.
Camping at Kampung Cai Ranca Upas
Formerly a swamp, Kampung Cai Ranca Upas is mainly a camping ground. However, it’s not simply a camping ground in a traditional sense, it also provides many modern amenities like adventure packages, swimming pool with hot water, ATV rental, outbound site, and deer breeding area.
With so many option, you don’t need to worry about getting bored while camping here. What you ever need, they probably can provide it here.
Get your strawberry directly from the plant
Located on a slope of an ancient volcano, the land on Mount Patuha is very fertile piece of land. Locals use this blessing in a good use at some strawberry farms. These farms, some of them are organic, invite tourists to come and pick strawberry directly from the plant. Tourists will pay based on the wight of their ‘harvest’. The price of the strawberry is a little bit more expensive than if you buy it in a market, but you pay for the picking experience here.
Bandung is a popular destination in western part of Java, especially for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Jakarta and the surrounding cities. Ciwidey offers an authentic experience for those who are looking for serenity to refresh their mind.
