Prior to few years, the place is only known as a stone mining area. Due to the archeological finding of the historical values of the stones in this area, the government prohibits stone mining in this area. Those who were previously worked as a stone (rock) miners gathered together to find alternative jobs or business for the continuity of their family income. Bandung city has been known as the Paris Van Java city, which is one of favorite tourist destinations in Indonesia. Many travelers come to visit this city to enjoy its fresh air, tasty local cuisines, and to hunt for branded fashion goods at an affordable price. Yet, not many travelers have known about a place called Stone Garden, which is located in Masigit village, about 30-45 minutes drive from the Bandung city. It can be understood since this place is only started to be open to visitors.
Given the fact of the stones historical value and the beautiful surroundings of the area, these former stone miners formed a local community organization to manage this area to become the new tourist destination in West Java. They also came up with the idea to name this destination as the Stone Garden Geo-Park. As per its name, the park is a relic of Earth history that aged around 27 years old. It is about 700 meters above the sea level.
Stone Garden, which is about 5 kilometers from the Padallarang exit toll, presents the artistic karst stones in various types which are surrounded by the wonderful mountain scenery. Archeologists, who found the fossils of ancient animals and humans in this area, stated that this area was an ancient ocean which evolved to become the rock mountain. Moreover, a lot of the stones are in a kind of hollow rocks just like a sponge with large cavities which strengthens the argument.
Coming to Stone Garden will make you feel as if you were in ancient time, the Stone Era. Some travelers even defined this exotic place like Christmas Island in Australia. Due to the marvelous scenery of this place, many travelers visit this place for their pre-wedding photo sessions. Some others will choose to do one-night camping in this area to enjoy thousands of stars in the sky during the night with limited lights. Moreover, some companies have come to use this place as the setting for their commercial advertisings.
International travelers may choose to book a flight to Bandung or Jakarta. Either from Bandung or Jakarta, travelers will go to Stone Garden toward Padalarang exit toll. From this exit toll, they will need to continue driving to reach Cipatat and Gunung Masigit village. It is not yet advisable to take a public bus (transportation). The best alternative is to rent a car with a driver. Due to the road infrastructure from the main road to this area, travelers may consider bringing kind of semi off-road car. In addition, bringing a bottle of water, hat, sunscreen, snacks are also advisable for this trip.
Moreover, travelers may also need to bring wet tissue and dry tissue for their business at the toilet as no tissue facilities provided. It is also advisable for them to wear sneaker for the trip convenience unless you want to do a pre-wedding photo session, which is worth to explore, in this area.
Traveling to Indonesia is definitely a trip you will never forget. Bali is a wonderful area with an array of fun filled activities to choose from. It is the main tourist area of Indonesia.
The people of Bali are very friendly, and enjoy having visitors come to their area. Many speak English to interact with tourists. They have chosen to preserve their culture for all to see rather than change it to become like other countries. The beaches are a main attraction with surfing being one of the most popular activities. Others enjoy renting a boat for the day to relax on the open waters.
Lodging in Bali ranges from small bungalows to huge fancy hotels, all with basic accommodations to meet the needs of tourists. The view from your hotel will be wonderful because of the rich beauty of the area regardless of where you choose to stay.
Temples are a main attraction in Bali. They are called Pura. The temples provide an opportunity to explore religion and art of the culture. The people of Bali are still very religious, and it is very important that those visiting the Temples show respect for their religious beliefs. Art galleries exhibit creative and attractive art work to view. Wildlife and nature reserves are popular in Bali. Many people go to get a glimpse of the very dangerous Komodo Dragon, a large lizard that is found only in the area and is extinct. The rare Java tiger is also displayed.
The people of Bali are very artistic. They enjoy painting, weaving, carving, basket making, and other arts. Children are taught art from a very early age. They often display their makings to sell to the tourists. There are more than 400 volcanoes in Indonesia, 128 are still active. They offer a historical view of this natural creation to observe. Botanic Gardens are also a very popular attraction. Displaying flora and fauna as well as promoting conservation, people are drawn to the beauty of such attractions.
How could anyone not want to see Indonesia? It is home to the world’s largest flower, the world’s the largest butterfly, birds that defy imagination, and another massive flower that is carnivorous and is capable of digesting a baby monkey. Multiply the above by a thousand and you may get an idea of the natural tapestry of Indonesia. The bed upon which this quilt of life rests is parallel in majesty to the life it supports. Gorgeous mountains and volcanoes, sheer breathtaking cliffs and peculiar islands, turquoise seas and hidden lagoons, Indonesia has a monopoly on natural beauty that you will not find anywhere else. (Published on March 31,2020)
Read more: 14 Best Things To Do In Indonesia
