A Balinese architect carrying culture, ecology and local identity into the future.

As Indonesia marks its National Day, Sun Media’s 81 Success Stories of Indonesia highlights individuals whose work and experiences contribute to Indonesia’s story at home and abroad. The series brings together people from different fields whose work reflects aspects of Indonesia while reaching audiences beyond the country’s borders.

Popo Danes represents that idea through architecture. An award-winning Indonesian architect from Bali, Mr. Danes has spent more than three decades developing projects in Indonesia and overseas, with Natura Resort and Spa and Ubud Hanging Gardens receiving ASEAN Energy Awards. Throughout his career, his Balinese background has remained an important influence on how he approaches architecture, hospitality and the future of the island where he grew up.

“I’m an architect, I’m Balinese, and the industry in Bali is tourism,” he told Sun Media.

That connection between profession and place can be traced back to his childhood. Growing up around his father’s work and people involved in construction, Mr. Danes became familiar with the building industry from an early age. By the time he was eight, he had already decided that architecture was the career he wanted to pursue.

“I already decided to become an architect when I was eight years old,” he said. “Since then I only have Plan A. I never have Plan B.”

He began turning that ambition into practice while he was still studying. Working as a freelancer, he gradually built a team and took on projects, so that by the time he graduated in 1991, he already had employees and an active practice.

His early work soon opened opportunities beyond Bali. A study programme in the Netherlands in 1992 exposed him to another architectural environment, while an opportunity to design a restaurant for the InterContinental Hotel in Dubai followed in 1993, the same year he established his own architecture practice.

Working abroad gave Mr. Danes a broader perspective on tourism and architecture. That perspective developed further in 1994, when he designed the Bali Pavilion at ITB Berlin and encountered the tourism industry from an international standpoint. The experience prompted him to consider more closely how Bali’s cultural identity could shape the way its hospitality industry developed.

As his practice grew, that question became increasingly connected to another concern: the environment. Mr. Danes saw that Bali’s culture and tourism industry depend on the natural surroundings that support them, making environmental protection relevant not only to the island’s ecology but also to its future development.

His involvement with the Wisnu Foundation brought those concerns into a more practical context. The foundation focused on issues including waste, water and coastal areas, reinforcing his awareness of the environmental pressures facing Bali.

“It’s so easy for us to damage the environment,” Mr. Danes said.

That awareness has also influenced his architectural approach. He considers issues such as energy efficiency, material selection, recycling and reuse when developing projects.

His work in other countries has given him another way to apply those principles. In India and the Philippines, Mr. Danes explained that he adapts ideas developed through his experience in Bali to the culture and circumstances of each destination. At the same time, working with different communities has allowed him to learn from their own local traditions.

Those international experiences have also sharpened his view of Bali’s development. Mr. Danes supports investment and recognises the opportunities it creates, but he also has concerns about rapid development, infrastructure, land ownership and the effects of these changes on local communities.

For that reason, he sees architecture as extending beyond the buildings themselves. He encourages clients to support communities around their projects, while also sharing his experience with young architects and architecture students.

His work with the next generation reflects the same principle that has shaped his own career: engaging with the wider world does not require abandoning where you come from. Instead, he wants young Indonesians to build their skills and broaden their horizons while continuing to develop the identities that connect them to their communities.

“Where we still can be ourselves, it’s very important,” he said. “Because this one to me, it’s becoming our contribution to this world.”

That belief gives his message for Indonesia’s 81st National Day a broader meaning. For Mr. Danes, Indonesia’s cultural diversity is not simply something to preserve; it is something the next generation can continue developing and sharing as the country becomes more connected to the world.

“Be there to proudly bring your own colour to make the entire world more colourful,” he told Sun Media.

Written by: Ciara Leon

Handwoven installations bring Indonesian craftsmanship to an international audience through art, nature and sustainable design.

As Indonesia marks its National Day, Sun Media’s 81 Success Stories of Indonesia highlights individuals and organisations whose work contributes to Indonesia’s story at home and abroad. The series brings together stories from different fields, showing how Indonesian creativity, craftsmanship and ideas can reach audiences beyond the country’s borders.

Make A Scene! Bali reflects that spirit through its work with traditional Balinese craftsmanship and contemporary design. Founded by British theatre designer Chloe Rose Quinn and Balinese master weaver Ida Bagus Gede Ari Artana, known as Gus Ari, the Bali-based studio creates large-scale installations from natural materials, bringing local craft into new artistic settings. Its work for Orchid Extravaganza: Rhythm of the Rainforest at Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay became a significant example of that approach reaching an international audience.

The story began when Ms. Quinn moved from the United Kingdom to Bali. Fascinated by the island’s craftsmanship, she became concerned about the use of polystyrene, paint and other synthetic materials in temporary wedding and event installations, including in Bali. This led her to explore whether temporary structures could instead be created from natural materials.

That search led her to Balinese master weaver Ida Bagus Gede Ari Artana, known as Gus Ari. Captivated by his woven coconut-leaf work, Ms. Quinn saw its potential as a medium for large-scale artistic expression. Together, they combined her theatre design background with Gus Ari’s weaving expertise and founded Make A Scene! Bali, exploring new forms and scales for a traditional craft.

The studio was later approached by Zig-Zag Indonesia to contribute to Indonesia’s presence at Orchid Extravaganza. Make A Scene! Bali was specifically invited to represent eight regions of the Indonesian archipelago through handwoven natural-material installations. The resulting works included a Peacock for Central Java, Ondel-Ondel for Jakarta, a Siger Tiger for Lampung, a Balinese Naga, a Rafflesia Bloom for Sumatra, a Komodo for East Nusa Tenggara, Hornbills for Kalimantan and the Lotus Spirit for Papua.

The project aimed to share Indonesia’s creative spirit with an international audience, strengthen cultural ties between Indonesia and Singapore, and promote sustainability through heritage and design. For Ms. Quinn, the installations were also a way to show that traditional craftsmanship could become contemporary art while retaining its cultural roots.

Delivering the exhibition overseas gave the studio confidence in its ability to take on international commissions. Producing, shipping and installing the works proved that their studio can deliver the same standard of craftsmanship outside the environment they know so well.

For the team, that was a significant moment, realising that the magic of Make A Scene! Bali is not confined to the region. Whilst the coconut leaf will always be intrinsically tied to Indonesia, their creativity, craftsmanship and approach can travel.

The response from international visitors reinforced that achievement. People from around the world photographed, shared and talked about the installations, while Indonesians expressed pride in seeing their craftsmanship, artistry and cultural heritage celebrated in Singapore. For Ms. Quinn, that response was one of the exhibition’s most meaningful outcomes.

The experience has encouraged Make A Scene! Bali to pursue more international commissions and collaborations, including work for festivals, public spaces and cultural stages. Ms. Quinn’s personal ambition is to exhibit at the Chelsea Flower Show in London, celebrating the creative relationship between the UK and Indonesia and bringing Balinese craftsmanship to another global platform in her home country.

How to work with Ms. Chloe Rose Quinn

Make A Scene! Bali creates sustainable, site-specific commissioned installations for weddings, private events, corporate spaces, hospitality projects, and public venues. Every artwork is designed around the story of its location, ensuring no two commissions are the same.

To enquire, email mail@masbali.com, visit , connect via , or message on Instagram with a few details about your event, preferred date, and creative vision. Ms. Quinn will follow up to discuss the concept, scope, and availability.

Written by: Ciara Leon

Vindy Lee reflects on Indonesia, cultural identity, food and the enduring value of respect.

As Indonesia marks its National Day, Sun Media’s 81 Success Stories of Indonesia celebrates people whose work, experiences and perspectives reflect the many ways Indonesia continues to make an impact at home and abroad. The series brings together stories of Indonesians and Indonesia-connected individuals across different fields, highlighting the people, values and achievements that contribute to the country’s story and strengthen its connections with the world.

Among them is Ms. Vindy Lee, an Indonesian chef, cookbook author and certified etiquette trainer whose career has taken her across Indonesia, Singapore and the United States. Her work spans food, television and etiquette, while her experiences across cultures have shaped how she sees Indonesian identity, hospitality and the importance of respect.

Ms. Lee is an Indonesian chef, cookbook author and certified etiquette trainer who has also built a television career around food. She has authored three cookbooks and hosted several Indonesian cooking programmes. Today, she focuses on etiquette training and shares short-form educational content on social media.

Ms. Lee spent her first seven years in Indonesia before moving to Singapore. She later moved to Los Angeles in 1999, attended Santa Monica College and graduated from the University of Southern California with a double degree in International Relations and East Asian Language & Culture. She subsequently returned to Indonesia, where she continued her culinary career before moving into etiquette training.

Speaking to IndoConnect for Indonesia’s National Day, Ms. Lee reflected on the experiences that continue to shape her connection with the country.

For Ms. Lee, Indonesian food is closely associated with childhood. She remembers the tastes, sounds and familiarity of Indonesia, along with her parents, herbs, spices and the food around her. She also recalls visiting kampungs and encountering food that was mostly naturally organic. Later, Indonesian coffee became another connection to the country as she saw it exported around the world.

Her understanding of etiquette developed alongside those early experiences. Growing up in a Chinese family, Ms. Lee was accustomed to many formalities, particularly from her father’s side. She recalled learning that personal presentation could demonstrate respect for others. As she grew older, she came to understand why those habits mattered. Even sitting straight, she explained, can show consideration for the people around you.

That principle of respect is also central to how Ms. Lee views dining across cultures. Indonesian and Western dining traditions have different customs and practices. In Indonesia, particularly among the Muslim population, eating with the right hand is common, while Western dining involves different utensils for different courses and foods. For Ms. Lee, however, the differences do not change the underlying principle of respecting others.

Ms. Lee now shares these ideas through social media, although she initially did not expect her content to gain significant attention because etiquette is a niche subject. The response eventually showed her that people were interested in learning about it. Some followers living in kampungs told her they might never experience fine dining but continued to follow her content.

Those responses made Ms. Lee think about access to information. She sees etiquette as extending beyond formal dining to everyday interactions, including how people speak to their parents, handle difficult situations and deal with bullying. She also believes the subject has become increasingly relevant as people have fewer opportunities to meet and practise social interaction.

Traditional Indonesian families, she noted, continue to teach etiquette in their own ways. At the same time, Ms. Lee believes modern families need this education more than before. With fewer opportunities for face-to-face interaction, she said people may have fewer chances to practise social skills and learn how to make a good impression.

Her experiences across cultures also inform how she sees Indonesia. Ms. Lee describes the country as rich in resources and its people as energetic, kind and courteous. She points to the willingness of even strangers to help, alongside Indonesia’s food, islands and colourful cities. Although she feels the country can sometimes be misunderstood, her view is that people should experience Indonesia for themselves.

That connection continues to keep Ms. Lee in Indonesia. Her family is there, while the country also offers a wide range of experiences, from the mountains around Bogor to the bustle of Jakarta and the resort atmosphere of Bali.

For Ms. Lee, Indonesia remains closely connected to its food, people and everyday kindness. Her experiences abroad have given her a broader perspective, but they have not diminished her connection with home. Her hope for greater connection across cultures is captured in the words with which she ended the conversation: “One life at a time together.”

Written by: Ciara Leon

Responsible travel combines conservation, culture and community engagement.

Labuan Bajo is promoting sustainable tourism by encouraging visitors to experience its natural and cultural attractions while supporting conservation and local communities. Located on the western tip of Flores Island in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara province, the coastal town is the gateway to Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

The destination’s sustainable tourism offering begins with its most iconic resident, the Komodo dragon. Guided treks on Komodo Island allow visitors to observe the endangered species, the world’s largest living lizard, in its natural habitat while learning about conservation efforts to protect the park’s exceptional biodiversity.

Beyond its terrestrial wildlife, the waters surrounding Labuan Bajo are home to a rich variety of marine life. At Manta Point, snorkellers and divers may encounter manta rays in the wild, with visitors encouraged to keep a respectful distance and avoid physical contact with the protected animals. Responsible wildlife interactions help support ongoing efforts to conserve the area’s marine ecosystem.

Exploring the region by sea offers another perspective on the destination. Traditional phinisi liveaboard cruises take travellers to islands including Padar, Rinca and Komodo, allowing more time to appreciate the area’s dramatic landscapes and diverse coastal environments while experiencing Indonesia’s centuries-old maritime heritage.

Sustainable tourism in Labuan Bajo also extends to its cultural heritage. Around 30 minutes from the town centre, Liang Ndara Tourism Village offers community-based experiences centred on the traditions of the Manggarai people. Visitors can watch the Caci whip dance, learn traditional weaving techniques, try the Rangkuk Alu bamboo game and discover local handicrafts. Tourism activities in the village contribute to preserving local traditions while supporting livelihoods within the community.

The journey is equally reflected in the region’s culinary traditions. Local specialities such as kompiang sesame bread, rebok rice-flour snacks, kolo bamboo-roasted rice and jagung bose, a traditional white corn porridge, showcase local ingredients and generations of culinary knowledge. Choosing locally prepared dishes also supports restaurants, food producers and small businesses across the destination.

Together, these experiences reflect Labuan Bajo’s emphasis on tourism that seeks to balance environmental conservation, cultural preservation and community development. As interest in responsible travel continues to grow, visitors can play a role in supporting efforts to protect the destination’s natural and cultural heritage for generations to come.

Source: Indonesian Ministry of Tourism

Explore the city’s rich heritage through iconic historical sites

Bandung is widely known for its cool climate, vibrant culinary scene, and Art Deco architecture, but the West Java capital is also home to some of Indonesia’s most significant historical landmarks. From colonial-era buildings to museums and monuments, these sites trace the city’s transformation from a colonial administrative centre into a key stage for Indonesia’s independence movement and international diplomacy.

Among its best-known landmarks is Gedung Sate, completed in 1924 as a Dutch East Indies government building. Today, it serves as the headquarters of the West Java provincial government and is remembered for the Battle of Gedung Sate on 3 December 1945, when members of the Public Works Youth Movement defended the building during the Indonesian National Revolution.

Just a short distance away, Gedung Merdeka reflects Bandung’s global significance. The building hosted the landmark 1955 Asian-African Conference, where representatives from 29 Asian and African countries gathered to promote peace, cooperation, and solidarity. Visitors can continue exploring this legacy at the adjoining Museum of the Asian-African Conference, which preserves photographs, documents, and artefacts from the historic meeting.

Bandung’s role in Indonesia’s struggle for independence is further commemorated at the Bandung Sea of Fire Monument, honouring the events of March 1946, when residents evacuated and burned parts of the city to prevent Allied forces and the Netherlands Indies Civil Administration (NICA) from using Bandung as a military base. The city’s historical narrative continues through other notable attractions, including the Indonesian Postal Museum, Mandala Wangsit Siliwangi Museum, Villa Isola, Gedung Indonesia Menggugat, where Soekarno delivered his landmark 1930 defence speech against Dutch colonial rule, the West Java People’s Struggle Monument, Sri Baduga Museum, and Bandung’s Zero Kilometre Marker, widely regarded as the point from which modern Bandung developed after the construction of the Great Post Road in the early nineteenth century.

Together, these historic landmarks showcase Bandung’s enduring role in Indonesia’s history. Preserving stories of governance, diplomacy, independence, and cultural heritage, they continue to offer visitors a deeper understanding of the people and events that helped shape the nation while reinforcing Bandung’s reputation as one of Indonesia’s leading heritage destinations.

For those planning to explore these sites, checking opening hours in advance is recommended, as several museums are closed on Mondays. Wearing comfortable footwear and following museum guidelines, including avoiding flash photography where prohibited, can also help ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Source: Indonesian Ministry of Tourism

Historic district blends heritage, culture and modern creativity.

Jakarta Old Town, locally known as Kota Tua Jakarta, remains one of the Indonesian capital’s best-known heritage destinations. Once the administrative centre of Batavia during the Dutch colonial period, the district has evolved into a cultural precinct where restored historic buildings, museums and public spaces preserve Jakarta’s rich past while supporting tourism and community activities today.

At the heart of Jakarta Old Town is Fatahillah Square, the district’s main gathering place and an ideal starting point for exploring the area. Surrounded by heritage buildings, the square is often animated by street performers, photographers and local communities, particularly on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere that complements its centuries-old surroundings.

Overlooking the square, the Jakarta History Museum occupies the former Batavia City Hall and offers an introduction to the city’s transformation from a colonial trading centre into Indonesia’s modern capital. Its exhibitions provide valuable historical context before visitors continue exploring the rest of Kota Tua Jakarta.

Just across the square, Café Batavia occupies one of the area’s oldest heritage buildings. Known for its colonial-era interiors and views of Fatahillah Square, it has become one of Jakarta Old Town’s most recognisable landmarks while demonstrating how historic buildings can continue serving contemporary purposes.

The district’s cultural appeal extends beyond its architecture. The Wayang Museum preserves Indonesia’s traditional puppet theatre, while the Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics showcases works spanning different artistic movements and historical periods. Together, these museums reflect the diversity of Indonesia’s cultural heritage within a compact, walkable neighbourhood.

Visitors interested in Indonesia’s economic development can continue to the Bank Mandiri Museum and the Bank Indonesia Museum, where carefully restored buildings house exhibitions tracing the country’s financial and monetary history. Nearby, Toko Merah, distinguished by its striking red façade, remains one of the most photographed colonial landmarks in Jakarta Old Town.

A short walk north leads to the Maritime Museum and Syahbandar Tower, which highlight Jakarta’s centuries-long relationship with maritime trade. Together, they illustrate how the city’s strategic coastal location helped establish it as one of Southeast Asia’s most important trading ports.

Beyond its museums and historic landmarks, Kota Tua Jakarta continues to thrive as a vibrant public space. Visitors can rent traditional onthel bicycles, join guided heritage walks, explore multiple museums, enjoy street photography or relax at cafés while experiencing the district’s unique atmosphere at a leisurely pace.

Jakarta Old Town is easily accessible via the KRL Commuter Line through Jakarta Kota Station as well as several TransJakarta routes. Morning and late afternoon generally offer the most comfortable conditions for exploring on foot, while weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends.

As conservation and revitalisation efforts continue across the district, Jakarta Old Town demonstrates how preserving historic landmarks can strengthen a city’s identity while creating new opportunities for cultural tourism, education and community engagement. Today, Kota Tua Jakarta stands not only as a reminder of Jakarta’s past, but also as an enduring symbol of how heritage can continue to inspire future generations.

Source: Indonesian Ministry of Tourism

Semarang’s iconic heritage attraction blending history, architecture, and culture.

Lawang Sewu is one of Indonesia’s best-known heritage landmarks, located in Semarang, Central Java. Originally built in the early 20th century as the headquarters of the Nederlandsch-Indische Spoorweg Maatschappij (NIS), the Dutch East Indies Railway Company, the Dutch colonial-era building now serves as a railway museum and heritage gallery. Combining history, architecture, and culture, Lawang Sewu remains one of Semarang’s must-visit attractions.

Although its name translates as “A Thousand Doors,” Lawang Sewu does not literally have a thousand doors. Instead, its numerous doors, tall windows, spacious corridors, and elegant New Indies architectural style create the illusion. Colourful stained-glass windows, a symmetrical layout, and well-preserved interiors make the landmark a favourite among architecture enthusiasts and photographers.

The museum houses historical photographs, railway maps, communication equipment, office furnishings, staff uniforms, and locomotive models that trace the development of Indonesia’s railway network. These collections offer visitors valuable insight into the country’s transportation heritage and the building’s important role in railway administration.

Lawang Sewu is also associated with local folklore and ghost stories that have circulated for decades. While these legends continue to intrigue visitors, careful restoration has transformed the site into a heritage museum focused on history, architecture, and education.

Visitors can join guided tours, admire the building’s architectural details, photograph its grand halls and stained-glass windows, or explore the historic basement corridors and underground drainage system, which later became associated with the building’s wartime history. The landscaped gardens provide a relaxing setting before continuing to nearby attractions, including Tugu Muda, Mandala Bhakti Museum, Sam Poo Kong Temple, Kota Lama (Semarang Old Town), and Blenduk Church. No visit to Semarang is complete without sampling the city’s famous lumpia.

Today, Lawang Sewu stands as a symbol of Indonesia’s commitment to preserving its architectural and cultural heritage, inspiring visitors from around the world to discover the stories that have shaped the nation’s past.

Source: Indonesian Ministry of Tourism

Discover ketupat’s history, symbolism, and regional traditions across Indonesia.

Every Eid al-Fitr celebration in Indonesia is marked by family reunions, festive meals, and cherished traditions. While each region serves its own specialties, one dish appears on tables across the archipelago: ketupat. Made from rice cooked inside woven young coconut leaves (janur), this iconic rice cake has become a symbol of Eid in Indonesia, representing gratitude, forgiveness, and togetherness.

Here are five fascinating facts about ketupat, one of Indonesia’s most recognisable festive foods.

1. It Became a Symbol of Eid
   Although ketupat existed long before the arrival of Islam in the Indonesian archipelago, it became closely associated with Eid al-Fitr in Java during the 15th and 16th centuries. According to Javanese tradition, Sunan Kalijaga, one of the revered Wali Songo, popularised ketupat as part of Eid celebrations by incorporating familiar local customs into Islamic teachings. The tradition has endured for centuries and remains an integral part of Eid celebrations across Indonesia today.
2. It Symbolises Forgiveness and Renewal
   Beyond being a festive dish, ketupat carries deep philosophical meaning in Javanese culture. It is associated with the phrase ngaku lepat, meaning “admitting one’s mistakes,” reflecting the spirit of seeking forgiveness during Eid. Its four-sided form is also linked to the concept of Laku Papat, comprising Lebaran, Luberan, Leburan, and Laburan. Together, these concepts symbolise generosity, forgiveness, purification, and spiritual renewal.
3. It Complements Indonesia’s Favourite Eid Dishes
   Ketupat’s mild flavour and soft texture make it the perfect accompaniment to many traditional Indonesian dishes. It is commonly served with opor ayam, rendang, gulai, semur, curry, and soto, making it an essential part of festive Eid feasts.
4. Its Woven Design Reflects Unity
   The intricate casing, woven from young coconut leaves, requires patience and craftsmanship. Beyond its practical purpose, the interwoven pattern is widely interpreted as symbolising unity, reflecting the importance of maintaining harmony within families and communities.
5. It Has Many Regional Variations
   Indonesia’s rich culinary heritage has inspired numerous regional variations of ketupat. From Ketupat Glabed in Tegal and Katupek Kapau in West Sumatra to Solo’s Ketupat Cabuk Rambak and Betawi’s Ketupat Bebanci, each reflects the distinctive flavours and traditions of its local community.

More than just a festive food, ketupat remains a powerful symbol of Indonesia’s Eid celebrations. As families continue to prepare and share it across generations, this humble rice cake preserves centuries of cultural heritage while celebrating the enduring values of forgiveness, generosity, unity, and togetherness that define Eid al-Fitr in Indonesia.

Source: Indonesian Ministry of Tourism

Discover Yogyakarta’s culture, heritage, and warm hospitality near Malioboro.

Located just steps from Malioboro and Yogyakarta Tugu Station in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Kampung Wisata Sosromenduran is a cultural tourism village that reflects the city’s welcoming spirit and diverse heritage. It offers visitors a chance to experience local life beyond Yogyakarta’s best-known landmarks.

One of the village’s most memorable stories can be found in Kampung Pajeksan, where Mr. Slamet Hadiprayitno, affectionately known as Pak Pong, has spent decades crafting Barongsai, the traditional Chinese lion dance performed in Indonesia. Today, his grandson Mazda continues the family tradition by making large Barongsai costumes with handcrafted rattan frames. What began as a family craft has grown into a small business, with the Singa Mataram group now receiving custom orders from customers in Java and other parts of Indonesia. Although the family has no Chinese ancestry, their work reflects the cultural harmony that gives Sosromenduran its character.

Visitors can continue exploring the area by becak, or cycle rickshaw, through the lively streets of Sosrowijayan. Along the way, local drivers often share stories and recommendations, making the journey part of the experience. From there, it is easy to reach Slasar Malioboro, a pedestrian-friendly corridor linking Yogyakarta Tugu Station with Malioboro, where visitors can relax, sample local street food, and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.

No visit to Yogyakarta is complete without trying Kopi Joss, one of the city’s best-known coffee specialties. Prepared by adding hot charcoal to freshly brewed coffee, it is often enjoyed with traditional snacks at nearby angkringan stalls.

As private vehicles are restricted in parts of the Malioboro area during certain hours, visitors are encouraged to continue on foot or by becak. From cultural craftsmanship to local cuisine, Kampung Wisata Sosromenduran offers an enriching introduction to Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

Source: Indonesian Ministry of Tourism

Explore East Java’s iconic volcanoes, scenic landscapes, and cultural traditions.

Towering volcanic peaks, sweeping sand plains, and spectacular sunrise views have made Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park one of Indonesia’s most iconic natural attractions. Located in East Java, the national park is home to the active Mount Bromo, Mount Semeru, Java’s highest peak at 3,676 metres, as well as vast volcanic plains, alpine lakes, rolling grasslands, and sacred cultural sites.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day adventure, Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park offers unforgettable experiences for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Explore Mount Bromo by 4WD Jeep

One of the best ways to discover Mount Bromo is on a 4WD jeep tour. Local operators take visitors across rugged volcanic terrain to popular attractions, including Love Hill, Widodaren, Bromo Crater, Whispering Sands, and the Savanna. Private jeep tours generally start from around Rp750,000, although prices vary depending on the route, season, and group size.

Walk Across the Famous Whispering Sands

After exploring the viewpoints, head to Whispering Sands (Pasir Berbisik), a vast expanse of black volcanic sand surrounding Mount Bromo. On clear mornings, clouds may drift across the caldera, creating one of the park’s most photogenic landscapes and a favourite setting for photography.

Watch the Sunrise Over Mount Bromo

No visit to Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is complete without witnessing its famous sunrise. Popular viewpoints such as Penanjakan, Love Hill, and Mentigen Hill offer panoramic views of Mount Bromo, Mount Batok, and Mount Semeru rising above a sea of clouds. Arriving before dawn gives you the best chance to enjoy this spectacular sight.

Camp at the Scenic Ranu Kumbolo

If you have extra time, continue your adventure to Ranu Kumbolo, a picturesque alpine lake along the Mount Semeru hiking trail. Surrounded by rolling hills, it is a favourite overnight stop for trekkers and offers a peaceful mountain setting with spectacular sunrise views.

Discover Pura Luhur Poten

Beyond its dramatic landscapes, Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is also rich in cultural heritage. Pura Luhur Poten, located in the Sea of Sand, is an important Hindu temple for the Tenggerese community and offers visitors a glimpse into traditions that have been preserved for generations.

Witness the Yadnya Kasada Festival

If your visit coincides with the annual Yadnya Kasada Festival, you can experience one of Indonesia’s most distinctive cultural celebrations. During this centuries-old ceremony, the Tenggerese community presents agricultural produce and, in some cases, livestock into Mount Bromo’s crater as an expression of gratitude and devotion.

Tips for Visiting Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

Before travelling, purchase entry tickets through , check the latest weather forecast and volcanic activity, and consider joining a reputable local tour if it is your first visit. Travellers planning to hike Mount Semeru should also follow the latest park regulations and entry requirements. Temperatures before sunrise can fall to around 5°C, so be sure to pack warm clothing, sturdy footwear, a face mask, and eye protection against volcanic dust.

From witnessing one of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular sunrises to exploring volcanic landscapes and experiencing centuries-old traditions, Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park showcases the very best of East Java. Every visit offers an opportunity to connect with Indonesia’s remarkable natural beauty and living cultural heritage, leaving travellers with unforgettable memories and an even greater appreciation for one of the country’s most extraordinary national parks.

Source: Indonesian Ministry of Tourism