Heart of Sundaland

Heritage & Harmony

Discover the soul of Bandung, where the legacy of 'Paris van Java' meets the gentle warmth of Sundanese culture and the rhythm of the bamboo.

keyboard_arrow_down

The Story of Bandung

From a quiet highland basin to a bustling colonial resort city known as 'Paris van Java', and now a creative hub deeply rooted in Sundanese traditions.

Early Parahyangan

Before 1810

Legend says the Priangan highlands were created when God was smiling. The region was a collection of small villages ruled by local regents, deeply connected to nature and the sacred Tangkuban Perahu mountain.

landscape

Old illustration of Tangkuban Perahu crater

Paris van Java

1920s - 1930s

Bandung flourished as a resort city for Dutch planters. Art Deco architecture blossomed, exemplified by the Villa Isola and the Savoy Homann Hotel, earning the city its glamorous nickname.

architecture

Bandung Lautan Api

March 1946

A pivotal moment in the struggle for independence. Residents deliberately burned down their own homes to prevent the Allied forces from using Bandung as a strategic military base, a heroic act of sacrifice.

local_fire_department

Cultural Jewels of Bandung

Immerse yourself in the living traditions of the Sundanese people, from enchanting wooden puppets to harmonious bamboo orchestras.

Explore More arrow_forward

Intangible Heritage

Saung Angklung Udjo

A world-renowned workshop preserving the art of Angklung, a UNESCO masterpiece of oral heritage.

location_on Padasuka, Bandung

Performing Arts

Wayang Golek

Traditional Sundanese wooden rod puppetry, telling epic stories of Ramayana and Mahabharata with a local twist.

theater_comedy Sundanese Art

Architecture

Gedung Sate

The iconic neoclassical building blending Dutch and native Indonesian elements, famous for its skewer-like pinnacle.

location_on Diponegoro St.

Nature & Legend

Kawah Putih

A stunning volcanic crater lake shrouded in mist and local folklore about ancestral spirits.

location_on Ciwidey

Local Wisdom

Sundanese Etiquette

The Sundanese people live by the philosophy of "Someah Hadi Ka Semah" (friendly and respectful to guests). When visiting a local 'Kampung' (village), these small gestures go a long way.

handshake

Sampurasun!

The traditional greeting. If someone says "Sampurasun", the proper warm reply is "Rampes". It signifies a request for permission and blessing.

arrow_downward

Punten (Excuse Me)

When passing in front of people, especially elders, slightly bow your body, extend your right hand downwards, and say "Punten".

restaurant

Dining Etiquette

It is common to eat with your right hand in Sundanese restaurants (Lesehan style). Wash your hands in the 'Kobokan' (bowl of water with lime) provided.

checkroom

Modesty in Kampung

When exploring traditional villages, dress modestly. Remove footwear before entering a Sundanese home unless told otherwise.

"Cikaracak ninggang batu laun-laun jadi legok."

— Sundanese Proverb (Water dripping on a stone will eventually make a hole; Perseverance leads to success)

Experience the Magic of Bandung

Sign up for our guide to hidden culinary gems, upcoming art festivals, and weekend getaway itineraries in Parahyangan.