LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL ITINERARY INFORMATION
Itinerary: The Java Jaunt
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THREE WEEKS TO THREE MONTH
Positively churning with life, Java has the lion’s share of Indonesia’s population, and a wealth of culture and landscapes to match. This 800km route takes in the highlights, beginning in the teeming capital Jakarta and ending in the awe-inspiring peaks of Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park.
Start your journey in Jakarta and wrap your senses around the dizzying smells, sounds, sights and people of Indonesia’s teeming capital. Linger long enough to binge on Bintang beer and shopping, then head to Bogor to lose yourself in the sublime Kebun Raya Botanic Gardens.
From Bogor set a course east through Java’s centre, traversing the tea plantations, waterfalls and dramatic scenery of the Puncak Pass area . Visit Gede Pangrango National Park and take a day to reach the summit of Gunung Gede for jaw-dropping views. Continue your journey for a stint in the urban jungle of Bandung. Satiate yearnings for the modern world in this city’s hotels and restaurants, then make a quick exit from the chaos.
It’s time to hit the coast, ditch the boots for a while and camp out in some well-earned calm – and that’s where Pangandaran, Java’s premier beach resort, comes in. The national park, wide shorelines and a coastal party buzz dominate the visual and social landscapes here, and the accommodation is kind to all budgets.
After you’ve worshipped the sun for a week or so, pack the bags and head to Yogyakarta, Java’s cultural capital. Dabble in batik, amble through the kraton (walled city palace) and part with your rupiah at the vibrant markets. A day trip to majestic Borobudur is a must. From Yogyakarta make your way to the laid-back city of Solo, via the enigmatic temples of Prambanan. Finish your Java expedition with a visit to the awesome Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, spending your last night on the lip of Tengger crater.
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