Cipanas

If you live in Jakarta or come here often, you probably already heard about Cipanas. And most definitely heard about Puncak.

Puncak is around 1 and half hour away from Jakarta. But, can be much longer in the week-end. Especially Friday afternoon when the traffic is very dense. The altitude of Puncak Pass is around 1600 m. And because of the fresh temperature on the top, Puncak is one of the favorite destinations for Indonesian people.

Cipanas is just the next City after the Puncak Pass. The air temperature is still fresh and the place is a little less busy.



Getting There

If you don’t have your own transportation, you will have to use the public bus or rent a car from Jakarta. Minibus are also a good deal if you are traveling in group.

For public transport, you will have first to go to Rambutan Terminal (south of Jakarta). Probably better get there by Taxi. And after, ask around….But be careful, a lot of pickpocket there. This is definitely the cheapest way. But you will have to wait until the bus is full of passenger before boarding. It can takes hours…. So, good luck with that.

If you choose to rent a car, make sure you rent one with a driver. Unless you are familiar with driving in Indonesia. If it’s the first time you going there, just DON’T try it. Take my word for it. Drivers are cheap and safer (with good agency ONLY). Don’t mind asking him to drive slower if you don’t feel comfortable. And you won’t if it’s your first time. Price and quality depends a lot of the travel agency you are choosing. Many cheap are available in Jalan Jaksa (Backpackers Main street). I will try to get more addresses in the future.

Accommodation

This is the first reason why I bring you here, the Hotel Novus. I know, this is the only 4 stars hotel in Cipanas. They have plenty of nice rooms with all the standard facilities. But if you really want the best, you should try their Suite Rooms. Private Swimming Pool in your own terrace refill with warm water. Just perfect at this altitude. I remember staying in the pool during the night drinking beers or cocktails. It was a great experience. Of course, you will have to pay for it. More information’s on their site. And better price for online reservation.

You can also find a lot of others hotels, bungalows or villa for rent at a very correct price. There are plenty of them along the road. You just have to check by yourself with the people make sign on the side of the road. If you don’t find them, they will find you… Just be careful. This is not an official rent company, so do it ONLY if you travel by group and make sure that at least one person always stay in the Villa. I know people have been robbed. This is always unpleasant and it is not a lot you can do.

So far I didn’t find any serious agency care of this business. If you know one, please contact me chris.hanten@gmail.com.

Activities

Cipanas is best known for its’ hot springs, Cibodas has a botanical gardens and is the best base for hikes to waterfalls & tea plantations.

I’m sure there are plenty of wonderful thing to do around Cipanas, but the few times we come here was only for relaxing and enjoy the hotel facilities. Mostly the pool and the massage & Spa.

Food

The hotel restaurant has good international selection food.

One you go back to Jakarta, you can stop to Puncak and try their “jagung Bakar”. It’s Corn on the barbecue with Butter and Salt. It’s delicious. If you like spicy food, you will definitely try the Indonesian version of it. Jagung Bakar Pedas…..And good luck.