Visit Indonesia (indonesia.travel) -- Destinations

Singkawang, City of a Thousand Chinese Temples

Located 145 km north of Pontianak , capital of West Kalimantan, Singkawang is the second largest city in the province, bordering the State of Sarawak, Malaysia. Unlike other towns in Indonesia, Singkawang has a distinct oriental atmosphere with hundreds of Chinese temples found around almost every corner of town. This is because over 70% of Singkawang’s population is of Chinese descent, predominantly of the Hakka tribe with some Teochew. Others are Malays, Dayaks and other Indonesian ethnic groups.

In the 18^th century, West Borneo lured many from mainland China to the gold mines at Monterado (today called the Bengkayang district). The Chinese came by the thousands, and on their way there they used to overnight in Singkawang. Most settled here and their descendents today form the majority population of Singkawang.

One of the oldest temples here is the Tri Dharma Bumi Raya temple , established in 1878 dedicated to the god of the forest, or Tua Peh Kong.

Normally a quiet city, Singkawang comes alive each Chinese New Year, reaching its climax at Cap Goh Meh, or the fifteenth day of Chinese New Year, closing the celebrations. For this event, Chinese from around the region, including those from Java and Sumatra but also from Singapore and Malaysia flock to Singkawang to celebrate the event with family and friends.

During these celebrations the Tatung or Chinese shamans will perform their supernatural prowess to the thousands gathered along the streets, while remaining totally unharmed. However, before performing their feats they first pray for blessing at the temple of Toa Peh Kong. (Tatungs are people endowed with supernatural powers performing during the Cap Go Meh Festival in Singkawang, ‘the city of a thousand shrines’, in West Kalimantan. Two of the tatungs are seen bending a sharp sword with their abdomen, remaining completely unharmed.)

Singkawang is also famous for its Chinese ceramics, still produced in the old style with “antique” designs. Center for ceramics is at Sa Kok, some 7 km. from Singkawang. Ceramics made in Singkawang is very popular on Java and can be bought in many parts of Jakarta and Surabaya.

The Island of Morotai: General Douglas MacArthurâ��s Air and Naval Base during World War II

Locals who still remember World War II would tell visitors that back in 1944-145 Morotai was a hive of military activities with tens of sorties roaring daily from aircrafts taking off and landing at airstrips along Daruba Bay,endless stamping of thousands of military boots marching across the island, and navy ships anchoring daily carrying supplies and reinforcement. For Morotai back then, was the strategic base of the Allied Forces from which they attacked posts in the Philippines and Borneo in their fight against Japanese forces during World War II.

On 15 September 1944, Allied Forces from the USA and Australia under leadership of Supreme Commander for the West Pacific, General Douglas MacArthur, landed on Morotai’s south west corner, where some time before, the Japanese had constructed an airstrip but abandoned it in favor of the island of Halmahera to its south. In Morotai the Japanese command left only some 500 soldiers to guard the island. With such overwhelming odds, the advancing Allied Forces were no match for the small number of Japanese troops. The Japanese Navy later tried to recapture the island but also to no avail.

When the Japanese abandoned Morotai, Gen. MacArthur saw this as the golden window of opportunity to take the island which he considered was at the most strategic location for a counter invasion to recapture the Philipppines from the Japanese. With over 50,000 troops the Allied Forces settled on Morotai. Losing no time, Mac Arthur immediately constructed a number of airstrips over the rough coral ground. At one point, Morotai was said to house no less than 60,000 soliders, and had a large hospital with 1,900 beds. There was also a busy naval base nearby.

Later, Australian Forces also sortied from Morotai to stage attacks on North Borneo. This hive of activities continued until the end of World War II at the surrender of the Japanese in 1945. Before leaving the island, Allied Forces are said to have burnt down all constructions on Morotai.

In 1974 a lone Japanese soldier called Taruo Nakamura emerged from the jungles of Morotai having hidden there for decades unaware that the War was long over.

Today, Morotai has become a vague memory in the annals of World War II military operations in the Pacific Theater, and its role in the fight for freedom of the Philippines almost forgotten.

The island itself with a total population of 53,000 people is now back to its routine as sleepy tropical paradise. Nevertheless, its decisive role in World War II is forever etched in history books.

Located north of the larger island of Halmahera in the province of North Maluku, the island of Morotai has a number of great beaches and interesting diving spots. The largest town here is Daruba in the south. To Morotai’s north are the Philippines, to its east the Pacific Ocean. Not much remains to be seen from those hectic World War II days, except for a number of interesting wrecks to be explored underwater.

A lone statue of General Douglas MacArthur on the island of SumSum near Daruba serves to remind following generations that this famous general, best known for his words “I will return”, once made Morotai his military base.

Nearby at Kao Bay in Halmahera a half submerged Japanese wreck named the Tosimaru can still be seen from shore.

A shack filled with memorabilia of World War II collected by a private citizen and known as the Morotai Museum can be visited to remind visitors of those terrible war days, which will hopefully never occur again on this planet.

Besides serving as US and Australian military base in WW II, the island of Morotai later also served as base for Indonesian forces in the liberation of West New Guinea from Dutch colonization.

Today the government plans to make Morotai into an economic hub and gateway into Indonesia from the Pacific Ocean. Morotai will be developed as a fishery, tourist, trade and services center.

For this reason Sail Morotai 2012 will be staged here with pinnacle ceremony on 14 September 2012 to be attended by President Bambang Soesilo Yudhoyono.

For more information on best dive locations around Morotai , check diving-indonesia.net, click: http://diving-indonesia.net/main/island.php?island=72&lang=id

Pawon Temple: The Temple of the Flaming Thunderbolt

As part of the sacred ritual ceremony of Vesak, Buddhist pilgrims making a journey on foot from Mendut Temple to the colossal Borobudur Temple will pass a small yet gallant temple: the Temple of Pawon.

While in Javanese Pawon translates as “kitchen”, it is also believed that the name is derived from the word “Per-Awu-an” or a place that contains dust. Dutch archaeologist JG de Casparis claims that the temple is a shrine to keep the ashes of King Indra (782 - 812 AD), father of King Samarrattungga of the Buddhist Syailendra Dynasty. The temple is also known as Bajranalan, taken from the Sanskrit word Vajra meaning Thunderbolt (also a Buddhist ceremonial tool) and Anala meaning fire or flame. Thus, Vajranala or the Flaming Thunderbolt is believed to have been a weapon of King Indra and that the temple was, therefore, the shrine to house it.

Located on a straight line between Borobudur Temple (1.75 km or 1.09 miles to its northeast) and Mendut Temple (1.15 km or 0.71 miles to its southwest), Pawon Temple forms an inseparable part of these two temples, all of which were built during the Syailendra Dynasty (in the 8th–9th centuries AD.). Professor Purbatjaraka, an expert Indonesian anthropologist even argued that the Pawon Temple was an upa angga (or an integral part of) Borobudur Temple.

While small in size, the Pawon temple still has a lot to offer for anyone interested in architecture and history. Pawon Temple sits on a rectangular platform that rises 1.5 meters from the ground. The edge of the base surface, however, is curved, which makes the surface a 20-cornered platform. The platform’s sides are decorated with sculptures depicting flowers and clinging vines. Unlike other Buddhist temples, the body of Pawon Temple is relatively slim, similar to that of Hindu temples.

The top of the entrance gate is adorned with a carved Kala Makara arch (giant makara) without its lower jaw, a figure commonly found in classic Javanese temples. It is suggested that the missing lower jaw symbolizes the destructive aspect of the Kala Makara as the Cosmic Mother, her wide-open mouth uninterruptedly pulling in the universe. All around the outer walls, visitors are presented with carvings of men and women which symbolizing “Boddhisattvas” and “Taras” – Buddhist names for those who have attained enlightenment.

One of the outer walls of the temple depicts a relief of a “Kalpataru”, the Tree of Life that holds divine powers to fulfil wishes. Despite its age, the details on the relief are remarkable. The left side at the top of the tree depicts an Apsara – a female cloud spirit, while the opposite side depicts a Devata – a Hindu guardian spirit. On both sides of the base of the tree stand Kinnari and Kinnara, mythical creatures, half woman half bird, renowned for dance, song and poetry. She is also a traditional symbol of beauty, grace and accomplishment. By looking carefully at the relief, one can even see the small wings of the Kinnari.

On the front outer wall of the temple, on each side of the entrance, there are niches with carved images of the God Kubera in standing position. Kubera (recognized as Vaisravana in Buddhism) is known as the Lord of wealth and the god-king of the semi-divine Yakshas in Hindu mythology. The existence of the Kubera carvings also suggests that the shrine was , in fact, dedicated to Kubera.

The inner chamber of Pawon Temple is hollow and is completely empty. However, experts believe that a statue of Bodhisattva once resided inside the temple chamber. The statue was believed to be a token to honor King Indra who was said to have reached the level of Bodhisattva. The inscription on the Karang tengah tablet states that the Bodhisattva statue radiated Vajra or rays, hence the speculation that the Bodhisattva statue was made of bronze.

Confirming its close connection to the Borobudur temple, the roof section of Pawon is covered with five small stupas (or also called Dagoba), with slightly different shape to those found in Borobudur.

Even though it is significantly smaller than its neighboring two temples, Pawon Temple holds its own charm in its architectural beauty and mysterious origins. Historians have even dubbed it as "the jewel of Javanese temple architecture" due to its simplicity, symmetry and harmony.

Mendut Temple : Spiritual Portal to the imposing Borobudur temple

The small Buddhist Mendut Temple in Central Java forms an inseparable part of a pilgrim’s progress to the mighty Borobudur temple. Serving as an introductory portal before ascending the Borobudur temple, Mendut has an array of narrative reliefs and most important Buddha statues that spiritually prepare pious pilgrims and the general visitors for their journey to the top of Buddhism’s cosmic mountain at Borobudur. The temple itself is located in the village of Mendut in the Magelang Regency in Central Java.

Situated 3 Km east from Borobudur Temple, the temple is on a north to south straight line with the Borobudur and Pawon Temples. Local legend relates that long ago a brick-paved road led from Mendut to Borobudur, closed in by walls with niches built into them. According to Dutch archaeologist JG de Casparis, the temple forms part of a once huge temple complex together with the Pawon and Borobudur temples and, chronologically speaking, is the oldest among the three.

According to a Karangtengah inscription, the temple was built and completed during the reign of King Indra of Sailendra dynasty. The inscription dated 824 AD mentions that King Indra of Sailendra built a sacred monument named Venuvana which means "bamboo forest". Casparis connected the temple mentioned in the Karangtengah inscription with the Mendut temple and Bhiku Sri Pannyavaro Mahethera, in the documentary movie entitled “The forgotten gems, Buddhists Temples in Java” mentioned that the original name of the Temple was Venuvana Mandira meaning “The Palace in the Bamboo Forest”.

The 26.4 meters tall temple faces northwest. The stairs projecting from its northwest’ side square elevated base is adorned with a Makara statue on either side. The side of the stair wall is carved with bas-relief of the Jataka fable narrating the animal story of Buddhist teaching. While the square terrace surrounding the body of the temple is meant for pradakshina or the ritual of circumambulation, walking clockwise around the temple. The outer walls are adorned with bas-reliefs of Bodhisatvas (Buddhist divinities), such as Avalokitesvara, Maitreya, Cunda, Ksitigarbha, Samantabhadra, Mahakarunika Avalokitesvara, Vajrapani, Manjusri, Akasagarbha, and Boddhisattvadevi Prajnaparamita among other Buddhist figures. Originally the temple had two chambers, a small chamber in the front, and the large main chamber in the center. The roof and some parts of the front chamber walls are now missing. The inner wall of the front chamber is adorned with bas-relief of Hariti surrounds by children, Atavaka on the other side, Kalpataru, also groups of devatas divinities flying in heaven.

The main chamber houses three beautifully carved large stone statues. The three statues are the Buddhist main divinities revered at Mendut which can explain the spiritual purpose of the establishment of this temple. At the center of the chamber is a grand 3 meter tall stone statue of Dhyani Buddha Cakyamuni or Dhyani Buddha Vairocana facing west, sitting in the dharma Cakra Mudra hand position (turning the wheel of Dharma). This central statue is believed to symbolize the turning of the wheels of all life on earth.

On the right of the central statue is the Boddhisatva Avalokitesvara in a seated position with the left leg crossed, while the right leg touches the ground. The hand position is varamudra which illustrates the Buddha delivering his teachings. The statue portrays Buddha in his grand costume complete with the jewelries and wearing a crown.

The third statue is the Bodhisatva Vajrapani which sits on the left side of the Budha Cakyamuni. Just as the Bodhisatva Avalokitesvara, this statue also portrays the Buddha in his grand costume with reverse crossed legs to those of the Bodhisatva Avalokitesvara. Also called the Bodhisatva Maitreya, the hand position is simhakarnamudra which is similar to varamudra but with closed fingers, and represents the Buddha as the salvation of mankind.

For Buddhists in Indonesia and abroad, the Mendut temple holds special significance. The existence of the three gigantic Buddha statues holds its own fascinating beauty both as sacred monuments and as works of art. The three statues sitting in the temple are still considered to radiate an aura of blessedness. Today, the temple is visited by many visitors and Buddhists pilgrims from around the world before proceeding to Borobudur. Mendut Temple also becomes the staging point for the annual ritual ceremony of Vesak, where the holly waters from the pristine springs of Jumprit and the torch with the natural eternal flames at Mrapen are kept, before the monks and congregations conduct their ritual procession from Mendut to Borobudur.

Carita Beach: for great Family Holidays

A vast stretch of white sandy beach decorated with rows of sheltering trees and the magnificent view of the Krakatau volcano on the horizon, that is what awaits at Carita Beach. Situated pleasantly on the shoreline facing the Sunda Straits at the western end of Java Island, in the Pandeglang regency, in the province of Banten, this indulging beach is only a three hours’ drive away from the bustling capital city of Jakarta.

Here nature graciously offers some of her best features, from the majestic sunrise beyond the hills of Mount Aseupan Pandeglang all the way to the romantic sunset on the horizon over the sea. The various planktons on the surface of the sea would glitter under the brightest moonlight radiating a beautiful scenery. When the young Anak Krakatau is active, its spewing burning lava offers a fascinating scene unlikely to be easily found elsewhere.

With relatively calm waves, anyone can enjoy swimming safely and conveniently along the beach. For a different sensation mixing swimming and surfing, visitors can try the swim boards rented at many spots along the beach at a very affordable price. The beach is also a perfect place for various funs and exciting water rides such as the Jetski and Banana Boats.

As a tourist destination, Carita Beach has complete supporting facilities that range from an extensive parking lot, restrooms, tourist information center, children playgrounds, shelters, swimming pools, sunbathing area, excellent communication and internet networks, and professional lifeguards to ensure safety and convenience. There are also renting facilities for diving and fishing equipment. For accommodation options, there is a wide range of hotels and inns available nearby.

While the beach offers enough reasons to visit, Carita boasts another attraction which lies in the forest area. Established as a protected forest in 1975, the 95 hectares forest area is a sanctuary to various flora and fauna. Among some of the animal dwellere here are the long-tailed monkeys (Macaca fascicularis), the lutung ape (Tachypitechus auratus), giant lizards (Varanus salvator), Python snakes (Phyton sp), wild boars (Susvitatus), bats, eagles (Falco moluccensis), hawks (Spilornis cheela), and various other bird species. The vegetation found here include teak (Tectona grandis), Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), African Mahogany (Swietenia khaya antoteca), and Bungur (Lagerstromia speciosa).

Located not too far from the capital city of Jakarta, offering magnificent sceneries and a wide range of activities fit for every age, and supported with all the necessary facilities, Carita Beach is a perfect vacation spot for the entire family.

Amazing Golf in the heart of Jakarta

As capital city of Indonesia, Jakarta boasts some amazing golf courses. Easy access in and around the city with high speed toll roads can definitely take passionate golfers into some of the most fascinating golf courses the city can offer.

Not surprisingly, a number of golf courses were designed by top notch golfers, such as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Greg Norman, Graham Marsh, Thomson, Wolveridge and others. The courses represent some of the most beautiful, challenging and exciting layouts of any course to be found in Asia, and to top that, superb hospitality, services and facilities will make your round of golf highly enjoyable and all at a reasonable price.

Here are some of the Golf Courses, one can enjoy in and around Jakarta:

1. Jakarta Golf Club, East Jakarta

The course demands thoughtful, accurate and patient approaches to shot making. Located in Rawamangun, East Jakarta, just thirty-minute drive from downtown Jakarta, the course was first established in 1872 and called Batavia Golf Club before its name was changed to Jakarta Golf Club.

Official Website: www.jakartagolfclub.org

2. Padang Golf Halim I & II, East Jakarta

Padang Golf Halim or Halim Golf Course started as the Air Force's first golf course. It is now most popular for its challenging course and low fees. Lakes used as part of the irrigation system, large, mature trees, bunkers and tricky greens are all part of the enjoyment.

Official Website: www.golfhalim.tripod.com

3. Riverside Golf Club, Cibubur, East Jakarta

Ninety hectares of stunning countryside was specifically selected to fuse the pleasure of golfing with the enjoyment of nature's beauty. Designed by Greg Norman, one of the best professional golfers in the world, the 18 Hole Championship course integrates seamlessly with the dramatic topography and ambiance of the natural setting.

Official Website: riverside-golf.com

4. Royale Jakarta Golf Club, Halim, East Jakarta

Introduced as one of five great new golf courses in Asia, the Royale Jakarta Golf Club is designed by Bob Moore Jr. & JMP Group. With its green paradise concept of expansive meadows decorated with Sea isle Supreme Paspalum in every area of its 27 holes, combined with beautiful purple carpets of exotic plants and the calming beauty of the lake waters that will fulfill both the challenging golf and visual serenity, all result in a new and exclusive golfing experience.

Official Website: www.royalejakarta.com

5. Pantai Indah Kapuk Course, Damai Indah Golf, North Jakarta

As one of the world -class golf course of Damai Indah Golf, Pantai Indah Kapuk Course is designed by one of the best golf course designer, Robet Trent Jones Jr. The 72-par, 6,048-meter golf course is designed by skillfully integrating the natural beauty of the coastal wetlands to create playable golf rich with strategic variety.

Official Website: www.damaiindahgolf.com

6. Senayan Golf Klub, South Jakarta

Senayan Golf Club (Klub Golf Senayan), formerly known as Kebayoran Golf Course, is situated on the edge of Jakarta's business district and over a period of thirty five years has been established as not only a part of Indonesia's golfing tradition, but also a significant part of Jakarta's sport and business culture. The course layout is challenging and renowned for its "tight", tree lined fairways. It's a true test for golfers of all levels.

More Information at our destination: Senayan Golf Club

7. Pondok Indah Golf & Country Club, South Jakarta

Pondok Indah Golf Course offers golfers a location where the architect has seemingly done little to disturb the natural harmony - where the golf course blends into its environment as though it had always been there. Such a paradise is rare. It is even rarer to find one located conveniently in the heart of a major city.

Official Website: www.golfpondokindah.com

8. Matoa Nasional Golf, South Jakarta

Located in the quiet and secluded area of Ciganjur, South Jakarta will give you the fresh natural air, without the long drive. The course also equipped with other features such as driving range, luxurious restaurant, conference room, swimming pool, and locker room with sauna.

More Information at our destination: Matoa national Golf

Official Website: www.matoanasional.net

9. Padang Golf Kemayoran, Central Jakarta

The great thing about Padang Golf Kemayoran is that it only takes five minutes to reach from Ancol Kemayoran toll road by car. The clubhouse provides golf carts, club rental, pro shop, driving range, putting and chipping green, restaurant and VIP rooms. The 18-hole course has a par 72 ranking for a total playing distance of 6,494 meters.

More Information at: http://www.golfnesia.com/golf-kemayoran

10. Padang Golf Pangkalan Jati, South Jakarta

Carrying the motto “Challenges among natural atmosphere” Padang Golf Pangkalan Jati or Pangkalan Jati Golf Course is pleasantly situated between Depok and Jakarta. Encompassing a total area of 40 hectares with an actual natural river running through, the course is designed by Indonesia’s own designer in 1976 and started operations in 1979.

Official Website: http://www.golfpangkalanjati.com/

Ruteng: Capital of Manggarai, hub to fascinating Flores attractions

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 the Manggaraian and a compang, a stone altar that is the center of the village. A compang 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.

Mataram, the Soul of Lombok

Situated on the western side of Lombok Island, the city of Mataram is the capital and largest city in the West Nusa Tenggara Province. In addition to serving as the provincial capital, Mataram is the center of the provincial government, education, commerce, industry and services. Public buildings, banks, post office, general hospitals, shopping malls, and hotels are found here, making it a perfect staging point before travelers explore the undiscovered splendors of Lombok Island and neighboring Sumbawa Island.

The city is in fact an amalgamation of four towns: Ampenan, Mataram, Cakranegara and Bertais, that were once individual kingdoms and townships. Nowadays, these have become the city’s sub-districts with their own distinct features. Broadly, Ampenan is an aging port city, Mataram is the governmental and office center for the province, Cakranegara is the major commercial center on the island, and Bertais is the overland center for public transportation. The four sub-districts are connected through a main road that stretches from Ampenan Street in Ampenan to the Selaparang Street at Bertais.

The Sasak people are the indigenous people of Lombok and form the majority of Mataram's residents. Mataram is also home to Balinese, Chinese, Chinese-peranakan (people of mixed Indonesian and Chinese descent) and a small number of Arab Indonesians, mainly of Yemeni descent who settled in the early port city of Ampenan. Although urban dwellers, the Sasak of Mataram still identify themselves strongly with their origins and the indigenous Sasak culture. The diversity of ethnic groups living in Mataram is a result of the city’s long history since the time of the ancient Laeq and Suwung Kingdom who once ruled part of the island, the arrival of the Javanese Majapahit Kingdom, traders from mainland Asia and the Middle East, the subsequent invasion of the Balinese Karangasem Kingdom, all the way to the Dutch and Japanese occupations in more modern times.

The legacy of the Balinese Karangasem rule over the Island can be found at the Pura Meru Temple at Cakranegara. Built in 1720 by AA Ngurah Gede Karang Asem, the temple is the largest and one of the oldest Hindu temples on the Island. The temple consists of three main buildings, with the center having an 11 tiered roof and a 9 tiered roof on the side building. As in all Hindu temples, the Pura Meru Temple is dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

Across the Pura Meru Temple lies the Mayura Garden that was also built by AA Ngurah Gede Karang Asem in 1744. The garden is highlighted with an enchanting moat surrounding the magnificent palace island in the center. The garden was initially called ‘Klepug’ which was taken from the echoing sounds of ‘klepug-klepug’ coming from the spring in the pond. After its renovation in 1886, the garden was called Mayura, from the Sanskrit language meaning Peacock. It is said that, around the pond there used to be many peacocks thathunt and kill the snakes in the area. The influence of both Hindu and Islam are depicted in its buildings and statues.

The complete history of Mataram, Lombok and the West Nusa Tenggara Province can be discovered through the many valuable collections within the West Nusa Tenggara Museum. Among some of the exceptional collections are the golden handled Keris (dagger), 1.239 ancient scriptures written on palm leaves, hundred years’ old hand written holy writings, currencies from the time of the ancient kingdoms, and some of the traditional Sasak handicrafts.

Other places of interest in the city are the tomb of Loang Baloq, the tomb of General Van Ham, the Rungkang Handicrafts Center, and the gold and pearl center in Sekarbela and Kamasan.

For health care services, Risa Sentra Media Hospital is located at Jalan Pejanggik No. 115, Cakranegara, Mataram, phone: +62 370 62556.

Maumere, City to embark on your Flores adventure

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.

The Bung Karno Sports Complex: Jakartaâ��s Sports, Conventions and Entertainment Center

Jakarta, capital city of Indonesia, is also the sports capital of the nation. Located ight in the heart of the metropolis by the grand Sudirman avenue is the Senayan Sports Complex , recently renamed the Bung Karno Sports Complex, or the Gelanggang Olah Raga Bung Karno in Bahasa Indonesia.

This a comprehensive complex for international competitions from football, badminton, swimming and tennis to golf. Here is also the Jakarta International Convention Center complete with adjacent supporting hotels and Indonesia’s National Television station, TVRI.

Built for the 1962 Asian Games by Indonesia’s first president , Sukarno, the complex is both a historical memento, and a national pride. Not only is this sports complex an arena for athletes, it has also become a renowned venue for entertainment, exhibitions and conventions. High profile exhibitions and some of the legendary musical performances have taken place in this complex as it provides massive capacity and all facilities needed to stage such events, moreover, it is very centrally located and easily accessible for the public.

The first President of Indonesia, Soekarno, initiated its development by laying the cornerstone of the sports complex on February 8, 1960. The project was supported by the government of the former Soviet Union with a soft loan of US$ 12.5 million. Its construction took two years, and it was officially opened t on August 24, 1962.

The 689.38-acre sports complex was stunning. The first building to finish was the swimming complex that accommodates 8,000 spectators. Since its first operation in 1962, this building was renovated in 1988. Following the completion of the swimming complex, the tennis courts with seat capacity for 5,200 people were completed in December 1961.

The Training Football Field or locally named the Madya Football Stadium was completed at the same time as the tennis complex. Each sport venue in this large complex was completed on time, and these were: the Sports Palace or nationally known as Istana Olah Raga or Istora that was first used as an indoor multi-purpose sports venue to stage the International Badminton Tournament. Indonesia was then champion in the Thomas Cup. Next was the basket ball venue and also the Main Stadium, the main soccer arena complete with track-and-field facilities, a true sport’s palace known as Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno, one of the largest soccer stadiums in the world at the time.

As part of the venue, the official Indonesian Television Broadcasting Station (TVRI) was also completed on August 24, 1962. It was the first government television station and its construction in this sports complex marked the readiness of the government to broadcast the 4^th Asian Games 1962 across the nation.

Construction did not stop at the grand event of the 1962 Asian Games. Buildings and facilities continued to grow to make the complex the sports capital of the nation. Gymnasium, fencing hall, and multi-purpose buildings were developed immediately. The grandness of the project attracted many to watch its process. As each facility was made ready for public use, thousands came to make the day their personal history.

During the New Order regime under President Soeharto, Indonesia’s second president, the name Bung Karno Sports Complex was changed to the Senayan Sports Complex, or Gelanggang Olah Raga Senayan with all the venues carrying the name ‘Senayan’. The long-ruling regime gave significant impact to the memory of the nation, since the sports complex is until today more familiarly known as Senayan, although the present government has reversed the name Senayan back to the Bung KarnoSports Complex.

Bungn Karno Sports Complex is particularly huge in many aspects. Nonetheless, under the management of Yayasan Gelanggang Olah Raga Senayan (YGOS), the area shrunk to only 49% of its original size. The 51% of the area was utilized for government and commercial purposes. New buildings that house the offices of the Ministry for Forestry, Ministry for Education, the House of Representatives, and many other government-related buildings have grown here as part of the complex. The Hilton Hotel , which changed name to the Sultan Hotel, the Mulia Hotel, Atlet Century Park Hotel, the Plaza Senayan, and the Ratu Plaza malls are just some of the commercial buildings that are part of what was known as the Senayan Sports Complex.

Many national athletes competed here in hundreds of tournaments and competitions. Some succeeded to national level, and others soared to become international champions. The Asian Games, the South East Asian Games (SEA Games), and the National Sports Tournament and Competition (PON) were staged in this historic complex.

Boxing is another glorious sport and entertainment often held here. Some Sports legends who fought in this complex were: Mohammad Ali, Saoul Mamby, Thomas Americo, Ju Do Chun, Wayne Mulholland, Cesar Polanco, Dong Chun Lee, Khaosai Galaxy, Samuth Sitnaruepol, Nico Thomas, Elyas Pical, and Chris John.

Meanwhile, the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup among International Badminton Tournaments started to bring the name of Bung Karno Sport Complex to global attention. The first Thomas Cup and Uber Cup were held here in 1967 and six others in the following years. Many great Badminton players have etched their glorious reputation to the Bung Karno Sport Complex, among whom Indonesia’s own badminton legend, Rudy Hartono.

Aside from the many historical sporting events, the main stadium also holds great significance of Indonesia’s showbiz history as in 1975 it became the venue for the 2 days Deep Purple- a Rock Supergroup from England at the time- a concert which was attended by no less than 150,000 spectators. The concert is still dubbed as the biggest in Indonesia up to this date. Later, in 1988, it was Mick Jagger, lead singer of the legendary band The Rolling Stones who successfully entertained a 70,000 hysterical crowd in the main stadium. After years of absence, the main stadium again became the venue of great musical performances such as the Big Wave Festival featuring: Bad Religion, Yellowcard, and Panic!at the Disco, and Linkin Park world tour concert in 2011.

Other most prominent shows and celebrities who have appeared at Istora Bung Karno or Istora Senayan are: the Jakarta International Java Soulnation Festival, the JakJazz Festival, Incubus, Maroon 5, N.E.R.D., Ne-Yo, Deftones, Bring Me the Horizon, and Bruno Mars.

Today the complex has grown into a renowned venue for international Conventions and Exhibitions. High profile exhibitions, events, shows and conferences have taken place in the Jakarta International Convention Center as it provides a grand auditorium, flexible format halls and easy access to stage such prestigious and popular events.

To get there, take a taxi from the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. It takes around an hour’s drive from the airport, or 30 minutes from the Gambir Train Station at Monas, by the National Monument complex. Some of Jakarta’s deluxe hotels are in the vicinity (see Find Hotel)

Kantor Pusat Pengelolaan Komplek Gelora Bung Karno

(Bung Karno Sport Center Head Office)

- Address: Jalan Pintu Satu Senayan, Jakarta 10270

- Telephone: +62 21 5734070

- Facsimile: +62 21 5701862

Website: http://www.gelorabungkarno.co.id/