Kebaya, Indonesia Cultural Heritage

Indonesia has a cultural heritage that is priceless. With ethnic diversity that exists and each has its own customs, making Indonesia a diverse work culture. One of them, such as kebaya.

Sanur Beach Bali

Sanur Beach is a place of wayfaring famous tourist island of Bali. This place is located just east of Denpasar, the capital of Bali. Sanur located in the Municipality of Denpasar.

Sasando Rote

Once upon a time, there was a boy named Sangguana who lived in Rote Island. One day, he tended to savannah. Felt tired and asleep, he slept under a palmyra tree. That’s when the dream came.

Arts Debus From Banten

Debus is a martial art from Banten. This art was created in the 16th century, in the reign of Sultan Maulana Hasanuddin (1532-1570). Debus, an art which demonstrates the remarkable human ability, immune to sharp weapons, fire resistant.

Hanging Stone and Origin of Parapat City

In one remote village on the outskirts of Lake Toba in North Sumatra, there lived a husband and wife with a beautiful daughter named Chrysanthemum.In addition to beautiful, Chrysanthemum is also very diligent in helping parents work in the fields.

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Tampilkan postingan dengan label Indonesian Tourist Sites. Tampilkan semua postingan

Selasa, 22 Maret 2011

Raja Ampat Archipelago


If Bali had kuta beach, North Sumatra had Lake Toba, NTB had Lombok Island, and Papua had Raja Ampat, which offers the charm of the beauty of nature with the marvels. Raja Ampat is famous for its underwater biota diverse with thousands of species of fish and beautiful coral reefs in the world.


Raja Ampat Islands is a series of four adjacent group of islands located in the western part of the Bird's Head of Papua Island. Administratively, it is under the cluster of Raja Ampat, West Papua Province. The islands are now a destination for divers who are interested in the beauty of the underwater scenery. The four islands that belong to the four named after it's largest island, which Waigeo Island, Misool Island, Salawati Island, and Batanta Island.

The origin of the name of Raja Ampat by local myth comes from a woman who found seven eggs. Four grains of which hatch into four princes who separated and each became king in Waigeo, Salawati, East Misool and West Misool. Meanwhile, three other eggs became a ghost, a woman, and a stone. In the course of history, the nobility inhabit Raja Ampat and implement a custom system Maluku. A king led each village. Since its establishment five Muslim sultanate in the Maluku, Raja Ampat becomes part of the Sultanate of Tidore. After Dutch defeat the Sultanate of Tidore, Raja Ampat Islands became part of the Dutch East Indies.


In addition to pamper divers, Raja Ampat is also a paradise for those who love photography. There are at least three locations frequented by tourists to get a view of the coral islands of Raja Ampat. The three sites are located Wayag in West Waigeo,  Kabui and Penemu Island. To get the scenery, travelers should at least be trekking to the top of the hill on the Penemu island approximately 1.5 hours.




Senin, 14 Maret 2011

Hanging Stone and Origin of Parapat City

In one remote village on the outskirts of Lake Toba in North Sumatra, there lived a husband and wife with a beautiful daughter named Chrysanthemum.In addition to beautiful, Chrysanthemum is also very diligent in helping parents work in the fields. Every day the small family working on their farm located on the shores of Lake Toba, and the results are used to meet daily needs.

One day, Chrysanthemum go to the fields alone, because there is a need both parents in a neighboring village. Chrysanthemum only accompanied by her beloved dog called the Toki. Arriving at the fields, she did not work, but he just sat thoughtfully looking at the natural beauty of Lake Toba. Looks like he is facing a difficult problem solved. While his dog, the Toki, come sit next to him staring at his face as if to know what's Chrysanthemum thinks her employer is. Once in a while the dog's barking to distract the boss, but her employer still preoccupied with her thoughts.


Indeed the last few days Chrysanthemum face always looked glum. He was very sad, because it will be married by her parents with a young man who was his cousin. Though he has established an affair with a young man his choice and has promised to build a happy home. He was very confused. On the one hand he does not want to disappoint his parents, and on the other hand if she could not have parted with youth idol of his heart. Therefore felt unable to bear the heavy burden, he was getting desperate.

"God! Servant was not able to live with this burden, "complained Chrysanthemum.

A few moments later, Chrysanthemum moved from his seat. With tears loose, he walked slowly toward the Lake Toba. Apparently she wanted to end his life by jumping into Lake Toba's rugged steep. While the Toki, followed his master from behind while barking.


With thoughts that continue raging, Chrysanthemum walked toward the cliffs of Lake Toba without watching the road in its path. Unexpectedly, he suddenly plunged into the hole large stone to go far into the bottom of the hole. The black rock that makes the atmosphere in the hole was getting dark. Beautiful girl was very frightened. At the bottom of a dark hole, he felt the walls of rock was moving closer would clamp.

"Help ... ...! Help ... ...! Help me, Toki!" Chrysanthemum voice asks for help to her beloved dog.

The Toki understand if the employer requires his help, but he can not do anything, except just barking at the mouth of the hole. Several times Chrysanthemum screaming for help, but the Toki is really not capable menolongnnya. Finally she was getting desperate.
"I'd rather be dead than suffer a long life," Chrysanthemum resigned.
The walls of rock that move increasingly closer.

"Parapat ...! Parapat the rock ...! Parapat, "cried Chrysanthemum stone told press her body. 

While the Toki who knows his master in danger kept barking at the mouth of the hole. Feel unable to help his employer, he soon ran back to the house to ask for help. 


Arriving at the house of his master, Toki's parents immediately went to the new Chrysanthemum who happened to come from neighboring villages to walk to her home. Toki barking while scratching the ground to notify the parents was that the Chrysanthemum in danger. 

"Toki ..., where Chrysanthemum? What happened to him? "Asked the father to the dog Chrysanthemum. Toki kept barking ran back and forth to take them to a place. 

"Sir, it looks like Chrysanthemum in danger," said the mother of Chrysanthemum. 

"Mom was right. The Toki invites us to follow him, "said the father Chrysanthemum. 

"But it was dark, sir. How do we get there? "Said the mother of Chrysanthemum. 

"My mother prepared a torch! I will seek help from neighbors, "cried the father. 

Soon, the whole neighborhood had gathered at the home page Chrysanthemum father carrying a torch. After that they followed the Toki to the scene. When I got them in the fields, the Toki directly toward the mouth of the hole. Then he barked as he held out his mouth stretched into a hole to notify the residents that the Chrysanthemum at the bottom of the hole. 

Both parents Chrysanthemum immediately approached the mouth of the hole. What a surprise when they saw a hole big enough rock on the edge of their fields. Inside the hole there was a faint voice of a woman: "Parapat ...! Parapat the rock! Parapat! " 

"Sir, listen to that voice! Itukan voices of our children! Chrysanthemum's mother cried in panic. 

"Right! That sounds Chrysanthemum! "Replied the father participated in panic. 

"But, why did he shouted: Parapat, Parapat the rock?" Asked the mother. 

"I do not know, bu! Looks like there's something wrong in there, "said the anxious father. 

Mr. Farmer was trying to light up the hole with a torch, but the bottom of the hole was so deep that can not be penetrated by torchlight. 

"Chrysanthemum ...! Chrysanthemum ...! "Shouted the father of Chrysanthemum. 

"Chrysanthemum ... my daughter! This mother and father came to help! "The mother come yelling. 

Several times they cried, but did not get a response from the Chrysanthemum. Only voice drifted Chrysanthemum who ordered the stone was docked for menghimpitnya. 

"Parapat ...! Parapat the rock! Parapat! " 

"Chrysanthemum ... my daughter!" Chrysanthemum mother screamed again, crying hysterically. 

Residents who were present at the site trying to help. One of the residents handed a rope to the bottom of the hole, but the slap was not touched at all. Chrysanthemum's father is increasingly concerned with their children. He also decided to follow her daughter's plunge into the rock hole. 

"Mom, hold this torch!" Ordered the father. 

"Daddy going?" Asked the mother. 

"I want to follow Chrysanthemum into the hole," she answered firmly. 

"No dad, very dangerous!" Prevent the mother. 

"Yes sir, the hole was very deep and dark," said one resident. 

Chrysanthemum's father finally the attack. A moment later, suddenly the sound of thunder. Earth rocked by fierce as if about to end. Rock hole suddenly close itself. The cliffs at the edge of Lake Toba was falling. Chrysanthemum's father and mother and all populations ran thither to save themselves. They left the mouth of the stone pit, so the Chrysanthemum The poor can not be saved from the crush of rock. 

Some time after the earthquake stopped, suddenly appeared a large rock that resembles the body of a girl and as if hanging on the wall of the cliff at the edge of Lake Toba. Local people believe that the stone was the incarnation of the oppressed Chrysanthemum rock in the hole. By their stone was later given the name "Hanging Rock". 


A few days later, came the news about the events that befall her. Residents flocked to the scene to see the "Hanging Rock" is. Residents who witnessed the incident told other residents that before the hole was closed, audible voice: "... Parapat Parapat Parapat the rock ...!" 

Hence the word "Parapat" they say, and many are told, then the Week is located on the shores of Lake Toba was later given the name "Parapat". Parapat is now a small town one of the most attractive tourist destinations in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia.

*Parapat in Batak language means moor

Minggu, 13 Maret 2011

Kelimutu Mountains

Kelimutu is a volcano located on the island of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia. The location of this mountain village precisely in Pemo, District Flores, Ende. This mountain has three crater lakes on top. The lake is known as the Lake of Three Colors because it has three different colors, namely red, blue, and white. Even so, the colors are always changing over time.


Kelimutu is a combination word of "keli" meaning mountain and the word "mutu" which means to boil. According to local belief, the colors on the Kelimutu lake has the meaning of each and have a very powerful natural forces. 

Lake or Tiwu Kelimutu in the top three sections corresponding to the color, the color that is in the lake. Blue lake or "Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai" is a gathering place for the souls of young people who have died. Lake of the red or "Tiwu Ata Polo" is a gathering place for the souls of the dead and as long as he lived always commit a crime / magick. While the lake is white or "Tiwu Mbupu Ata" is a gathering place for the souls of parents who have died. 

The third area of the lake of about 1,051,000 square meters with a volume of 1292 million cubic meters of water. Boundary between the lake was a narrow stone walls prone to landslides. This wall is very steep with 70-degree angle. Lake wall height ranges from 50 to 150 meters. 


Earlier this area was originally discovered by Lio Van Such Telen, a citizen of the Netherlands Mr. Mama Lio, 1915. Its beauty is widely known after Y. Bouman describes in his writings in 1929. Since then the foreign tourists started to come enjoy the lake known as anchor for the local community. Those who came not only the lover of beauty, but also researchers who want to know the natural occurrence is very rare. Kelimutu Region has established a National Natural Conservation Area since February 26, 1992. 

Pantar Strait marine park

The beauty and uniqueness of the underwater world is amazing Pantar Strait. Even if compared with the Komodo Marine Park in East Nusa Tenggara, Berau in East Kalimantan, Bunaken in North Sulawesi and Raja Ampat in Papua, Pantar Strait still remains the best. Despite all this time for diving, Komodo marine park, Bunaken, Berau, and Raja Ampat more popular, but in the eyes of the world-class diver Pantar Strait marine park which is located in Alor, East Nusa Tenggara Province, is superior because of its beauty is stunning. 




It is said that after the park beautiful Caribbean sea. Many foreign tourists who never been to Alor in awe. Because, besides spoiled the beauty of marine parks, they also discovered the phenomenon of the marine park are rare and very interesting. So, it's normal marine tourism Alor with specific underwater panorama in the Strait of Pantar be excellent and the teaser for its world-class diver from the United States, Australia, Austria, Britain, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Canada, New Zealand, and some countries in Asia . Noted, there are 26 diving points charming tourists there. 




To-26 point diving it is, Half Moon Bay, Peter's Prize, Crocodile Rook, Cave Point, The Edge, Coral Clitts, Baeylon, The Arch, Fallt Line, The pacth, Nite Delht, Kal's Dream, The Ball, Trip Top, The Mlai Hall, No Man's Land, The Chatedral, School's Ut, and Shark Close. Diving this last point is very interesting because it is a collection of shark seabed is very friendly with the diver. 



The beauty of the underwater contained in Large Alor, Small Alor, Dulolong, Crocodile Island, Kepa Island, Ternate Island, Pantar Island and Temple Island, also invite click amazed the professional diver from Jakarta and Bali to come there. "The potential for marine tourism has been juggling the area directly adjacent to the state of Timor Leste became a center of marine tourism in Indonesia," said Karl Muller tourists from Australia who often conduct maritime research in the island of Alor. In fact, the acknowledged world-class diver, that Alor marine park is one of the best in the world.

Mount Inerie in East Nusa Tenggara

Mountains are always charming. If you searched the beauty of the visit Mount Inerie. Bores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The mountain has a height of 2245 meters above sea level it has a heavily wooded section on the western slope of the mountain. While the forest on the slopes of the southern region is converted to plantations. Most of the forest is situated at an altitude of 1000-1500 meters from the sea surface 


Inerie Mountain

Inerie mountain had erupted in 1882 and 1970. The mountain was crowded visited by mountain climbers in the dry season between June to August. And on top of the mountain, the climbers can also see the views of the City Bajawa northwest that looks like an old city in Europe. While in the southern part there is the sea at the foot of Mount Inerie Savu. 


Routes to The Mountain Inerie

In the meantime. on the south side of the peak of Mount Inerie also contained a large stone which reputedly regarded as the embodiment of figure Jaramasi and horse riding.  According to the legend. Jaramasi is a knight guards Mount Inerie Jara means horse and Masi is the name of a man. So Jaramasi means a horse owned by Masi, Masi is a hero in the township of Mount Inerie katu. 


Bena Village

Mount Inerie located in Bajawa. Ngada district capital island of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. To reach Mount Inerie from Kupang to use the plane to Ende. Flores Island. Bajawa City journey continues as far as 61 kilometers. The journey continues with a rented car to the village of Bena. which is the last village before heading to the summit of Mount Inerie. Bena Village tourism is also a gateway towards the top of Mount Inene, and there are various places of accommodation such as hostels and food stalls.

Sanur Beach Bali

Sanur Beach is a place of wayfaring famous tourist island of Bali. This place is located just east of Denpasar, the capital of Bali. Sanur located in the Municipality of Denpasar. Sanur Beach in particular is the location for surfing (surfing). Especially the surf beach of Sanur is famous among foreign tourists. Not far off Sanur Beach there are also dive and snorkel sites. Because of his condition were friendly, the location of these submarines can be used by divers of all levels of expertise. 




Sanur Beach is also known as Sunrise beach (sunrise beach) as opposed to from Kuta Beach. Because of its location in the eastern island of Bali, the Bali beach is a ideal location to enjoy the sunrise or sunrise. It makes it more interesting sights, there is even a segment on Sanur beach is a beach called the Rising Sun at sunrise because the scenery is very beautiful when seen from there. 


Along the coast of Bali is a fitting place to see the sunrise. Especially now built a kind of resting place that contains the tiny cottages that could be a place to sit to wait for sunrise. In addition, the waves at this beach is relatively quiet so it is suitable for recreational beach scene kids and not dangerous. 




In addition, visitors can see the sun rise with a swim at the beach. Some areas of this beach has white sands of the exotic. Equipped with shade trees, visitors can sit while enjoying roasted corn or spring rolls that many vendors peddled. 
Along the beach resorts of Bali have now been equipped with tour support in the form of hotels, restaurants or small cafes and art shops. 




One of the oldest hotels in Bali are built on this beach. The hotel is named Ina Grand Bali Beach located right on the beach. Also, along the coastline were also constructed such a pedestrian area that is often used as a jogging path by tourists or local people. The line was stretched to the south past the coast Shindu, Coral beach until Semawang so that tourists can exercise while enjoying views of the beach in the morning.

Sabtu, 12 Maret 2011

Ubud Bali

Ubud is a remarkable town in the middle of the island of Bali. For more than a century, it has been the island's preeminent centre for fine arts, dance and music. While it once was a haven for scruffy backpackers, cosmic seekers, artists and bohemians, Ubud is now a hot spot for literati, glitterati, art collectors and connoisseurs. Famous names walk its busy sidewalks everyday. Elegant five star hotels and sprawling mansions now stand on its outskirts, overlooking the most prized views in Bali. 



Nonetheless, Ubud is still popular with backpackers, mystics and all the finest fringe elements of global society. Ubud is not "ruined". Its character is too strong to be destroyed. It still draws people who add something; people who are actively involved in art, nature, anthropology, music, dance, architecture, environmentalism, "alternative modalities," and more.


Ubud is arguably the best place to use as a base if you're visiting Bali; if you're looking for culture, comfort, nature and inspiration. Ubud is surrounded by most of the things that bring people to Bali -- scenic rice fields, small villages, art and craft communities, ancient temples, palaces, rivers, cheap accommodation and unique luxury hotels. And it's central location makes it easy to get from Ubud to the mountains, beaches, and major towns.



Why peruse these web pages? 
The real Ubud is under the surface. There are plenty of interesting things on the main streets, but most of the magic of Ubud is hidden away. In the backstreets, backwaters, courtyards and cafes. In people's hearts, minds, and dreams. This part of the Bali web site was built to show you how to go behind the facade and find the real Ubud, and the real Bali, without having to spend all your time searching for it.

 

There's no point in repeating what's in the guidebooks, so we've tried not to. If you're interested in Ubud, there are at least a dozen guidebooks on Bali available and they all provide information on Ubud. Use this web site before you go to guidebooks, to find out what makes Ubud so special. Then use it after the guidebooks for up-to-date information, news and features about our extra ordinary town.

(Source : http://www.indo.com)

Jayawijaya Mountains

Jayawijaya Mountains is the name for the mountain range that extends lengthwise in the center of the province of West Papua (Indonesia) to East Papua (Papua New Guinea) in Papua Island. Rows of Mountains which have some of the highest peak in Indonesia was formed by the removal of the sea floor thousands of years ago. Even at the height of 4800 masl, fossilized sea shells, for example, can be found in limestone and clastic rocks that are in the Jayawijaya Mountains. Therefore, besides being a heaven for hikers, mountain paradise Jayawijaya also a world geological researchers. Jayawijaya Mountains are also the only mountain in Indonesia, which has a peak covered with eternal snow.




The history of the formation of Jayawijaya Mountains
According to geological theory, originally the world only have a continent named Pangea at 250 million years ago. Continent Pangaea split into two to form the continents Laurasia and the Eurasian continent. Eurasian continent burst back into Gonwana continent that later would become the mainland of South America, Africa, India, and Australia. 


Precipitation is very intensive in the continent of Australia, plus the occurrence of plate collision between the Indo-Pacific plate with the Indo-Australian on the seabed. Plate collision resulted in the island arc, which also became the forerunner of the islands and mountains in Papua.




As a result of the appointment process is ongoing, sedimentation and tectonic events along under the sea, within a period of millions of years to produce high mountains as you can see today. Evidence that the high mountains of Papua Island and its never been part of the deep seafloor can be seen from the fossil remains in rocks Jayawijaya.


Jayawijaya peaks
Jaya peak 5030 masl
Yamin peak 4535 masl
Idenberg peak 4673 masl
Mandala peak 4650 masl
Trikora peak 4730 masl

Selasa, 08 Maret 2011

The Maimun Palace in Medan

Some say, hasn't been to Medan if not, enjoy the charm of the Maimun Palace . Icons of Medan which implies the rest of the Malay Sultanate of Deli splendor was fascinated with the various types of architecture but still thick Malay nuanced. Brig is located at Jalan Katamso, Maimun Palace can be reached just 30 minutes from the Polonia Airport and an hour from the Port of Belawan, Medan, North Sumatra. 

The Maimun Palace

From a distance, we will feel the strong appeal of the buildings on the land area of 2700 square meters was established since 1888. Yellow color were scattered in 100 years the palace was once the administrative center of the Deli Sultanate. Understandably, the yellow color is typical Malay. 

Maimun Palace Building was unique with a blend of Moghul architecture, the Middle East, Spain, India, Netherlands, and Malay. Dutch influence appears in the form of doors and windows are wide and high. Islamic influence seen on the roof of the arch we often see on buildings in the Middle East, India and Turkey. In a way, this blend of East and West without losing Malay traits that appear on the palace walls made of wood. 

The Maimun Palace

Maimun palace consists of three main spaces. Namely, the main building, right wing and left wing. The main building area of 412 square meters it is often called the hall. That's where the royal throne is located. The throne is still used in certain occasions, especially during the coronation of the king or the royal family worship in the days of Islam. What is unique here is the traditional meeting room. The room that we still use today for a meeting with the Sultan of Deli. Malay people call it Lift Worship to the Sultan. 

Furniture palace radiates European influence. It looks at the chandeliers were imported from France as well as chairs, tables, and cabinets imported from Holland. In addition to furniture, some building materials were imported from Europe. For example, marble tiles. Many say, European style is closely related to the palace architect, Captain TH Van ERP, the Dutch nationality. Inside the palace, there are 25 rooms with unique interior design that shows a mix of art from various countries. Marble used in court is different in each room. 

European style that contrasts with the typical style buildings Karo outdoors. According Moharshyah, it relates to the origin of the Sultan of Deli I who married the daughter of the Kingdom Sunggal. Sultan considered Kalimbubu. Each activity must involve the community Karo sultanate. 

Only 200 meters from the Palace Maimun, we will find the Masjid Raya Al Mahsum, no less majestic in Jalan SM Raja Medan. The masjid on the land area of five hectares of the Sultanate of Deli started to be built on the leadership of Sultan Mamun Al Rashid Perkasa Alam IX on August 21, 1906. 

The Grand Masjid Al - Mahsum

The mosque which construction spend 500 thousand guilders was opened to the public starting September 10, 1909. Now, in the age of more than a century, the building was still seem exotic. Grandeur of the masjid is part and parcel of the history of the greatness of the Deli Sultanate. 

The distance is only 200 meters from the Palace Maimun indicate that. To get closer to local people, the Sultanate of Deli Socializing with each Ramadhan Iftar event at Masjid Raya Al Mahsum by presenting the typical spicy Malay porridge. Apparently, there is increasing demand from time to time. Sultanate of Deli cooks up spicy difficult to meet the needs of traps to break the fast together. 

Finally, after maintaining pulp spicy dish up to 50 years, the Sultanate of Deli leave it to cook to the Nazarite masjid. The problem, is not easy to cook porridge hot. In addition to requiring a variety of spices, cooking quite a long process. The approval of the Deli Sultanate, the board decided to replace the masjid with a spicy porridge porridge soup which is also typical Melayu Deli. The reason is not as complicated as making hot porridge. Also, although more simple marinade ingredients, it's no less delicious. "Serving soup porridge was still continues today. 

Unfortunately, that magnificent building started to seem less maintenance. Some appear broken glass. Some parts of the roof is leaking when the rain is torrential. An increasingly large number of pilgrims is also not balanced with ablution water points is greater.

Rabu, 02 Maret 2011

Bunaken Island

Bunaken is an area of 8.08 km² island in the Bay of Manado, located in the northern island of Sulawesi, Indonesia. This island is part of the city of Manado, the provincial capital of North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Bunaken Island can be achieved by speed boat (speed boat) or a rented boat with about 30 minutes journey from the port city of Manado. Around the island there Bunaken Bunaken marine park which is part of the Bunaken National Park. This marine park has a marine biodiversity one of the highest in the world. Scuba diving attracts many visitors to the island. Overall Bunaken marine park covers an area of 75,265 hectares with five islands within it, namely the island of Manado Tua, Bunaken Island, Island Siladen, Mantehage Island follows several children his island, and island Naen. Although covering an area of 75,265 hectares, the location of the dive (diving) is limited in each of the five beaches that surround the island. 




Bunaken marine park has a 20 point dive (dive spot) with varying depth of up to 1344 meters. Of the 20 diving points, 12 points among them diving around Bunaken Island. Twelve point dive is the most frequently visited by divers and lovers of the beauty of underwater scenery. 


Most of the 12 point dive in Bunaken Island lined up from the southeast to the northwest of the island. In this region there are underwater great walls, which is also called the hanging walls, or a giant rock walls that stand vertically and curved upward. These rock walls are also a source of food for fish in the waters around Bunaken Island.

Selasa, 01 Maret 2011

Nias Island

Nias (Nias language Tano Niha) is an island located in the west of the island of Sumatra, Indonesia. The island is inhabited by a majority tribe Nias (Ono Niha), which still has a megalithic culture. This area is important attractions such as surfing (surfing), traditional house, dive, jump rock. The island with an area of 5625 sq km has a population of 700,000. This region is the major religion of Protestant Christians. Nias is now divided into four districts and 1 city, namely Kabupaten Nias, South Nias regency, Nias West, North Nias District, and City Gunung Sitoli. 

Hombo Stone in Bawomataluo


Tsunami & earthquake 2004 and 2005 
On December 26, 2004, 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake occurred on the west coast of this island that led to the tsunami as high as 10 meters in area and Mandrehe Sirombu. The death toll from this incident amounted to 122 people and hundreds of families homeless. On March 28, 2005, the island was again rocked by earthquakes, was believed to be an aftershock following the incident in December 2004, but now the incident was the second strongest earthquake in the world since 1965. At least 638 people were reportedly killed, and hundreds of buildings were destroyed. Almost no public housing buildings throughout the island of Nias which suffered no damage from the quake. 


According to the Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Agency (RRA) Nias Representative, the disaster has caused 13,000 houses destroyed, 24,000 houses were severely damaged, and about 34,000 houses were slightly damaged. A total of 12 ports and docks were destroyed, 403 damaged bridges and 800 km district roads and 266 km provincial roads were destroyed. A total of 723 schools and 1938 places of worship destroyed.

Beach Lagundri Sorake

Nias Island

Same as other areas in Indonesia, Nias island also has a tour for tourists visiting the area in the country and abroad. Since the tsunami and earthquake in 2004 and 2005, the island of Nias tried to get up to develop the tourism potential that there are back on the island of Nias. among others, nias island tourism potential that could attract tourists. There Gomo places of historic heritage items (megaliths), the Gulf coast in the presence of The Heritage (Howu-Howu Cafe), Beach Lagundri Sorake, Hombo Stone in Bawomataluo, Batu islands, the island of Telo and other mainstay attractions.

Senin, 28 Februari 2011

Tana Toraja (South Sulawesi)

Tana Toraja is one of the Indonesian tourist attraction, inhabited by a tribe who inhabit the mountains of Toraja and maintaining a distinctive lifestyle and still show the original Austronesian lifestyle and culture are similar to Nias. This area is one tourist attraction in South Sulawesi.

Pallawa
Tongkonan Pallawa is one tongkonan or traditional house that very interesting and were among the bamboo trees on the hilltop. Tongkonan is decorated with a number of buffalo horn that is attached at the front of traditional house. Located about 12 km to the north of Rantepao.


Londa
Londa is the steep rocks on the side of a typical tomb Tana Toraja. One was located on high ground from the hill with a cave in which the corpse crates are set according to the family line, the other one left open hillside views overlooking the green expanse. Located about 5 km to the south of Rantepao.

Ke'te Kesu
The object of this charming village of Tongkonan, rice barns and buildings in the surrounding megaliths. About 100 yards behind this village there is a cliff with the grave cemetery site dependent and tau-tau in a given building stone fence. Tau-tau shows the daily appearance of the owner. This village is also known as carving skills possessed by its inhabitants as well as a great place to shop for souvenirs. Located about 4 km from southeast Rantepao.


Stone Tumonga
In this area you can find about 56 stone menhirs in a loop with 4 trees in the middle. Most stone menhir has a height of about 2-3 meters. From here you can see the beauty of Rantepao and surrounding valleys. Located in the area Sesean with altitude 1300 meters above sea level.


Lemo
This place is often referred to as the home of the spirits. At the funeral Lemo yanng we can see the corpses stored in the open air, amid the steep rocks. This cemetery is the combination of death, art and ritual. At certain times clothing from the bodies will be replaced with a ceremony Ma 'Nene.


Samosir Island and Lake Toba

From Medan to Lake Toba access can be done through Tebing Tinggi continue to Siantar and crossing in Parapat (Ajibata).  While other alternative is through the path ;Brastagi, Kabanjahe, Tongging, Sidikalang, then through the Tele, Pangururan crossing to Samosir Island. Its natural beauty is the main attraction of Lake Toba. As far as the eye could see the calm expanse of water surrounded by mountains andhills, sometimes punctuated by clouds and fog that hung, giving a sense of coolnessand peace of mind.


Lake Toba, 
on the way to Harianboho and Tele, after Pangururan.

Entering the island of Samosir, cultural nuances of the thick ready to welcome our arrival, with cultural heritage and dynamic variety.


Batak Toba house on Samosir Island

Complementing its potential as an RTD (Regional Tourist Destination), dozens oflodgings are ready to accommodate tourists, both in the area Parapat and SamosirIsland.As a destination photography, this area meets the requirements to record the beauty of nature, human activities and cultural heritage of the nation hundreds of years old. With all that the Lake Toba and Samosir Island, not surprisingly, when its position in the Tourism Map of Indonesia, is in great position 5 along with the island of Bali,Mount Bromo, Tana Toraja and the island of Lombok.



Wooden dolls to show Sigale-Gale, 
near the tomb of King Sidabutar - Tomok

Hopefully in the coming years the Government more look alive again to fix theinfra-structure in the Area Toba Samosir, so that its appeal was not hurt by the difficultroads and bridges impassable.

Leuser Mountain National Park

Leuser Mountain National Park is a representative type of coastal forest ecosystems, and lowland tropical rain forests to mountains. 

Orang Utan

Almost the entire area is covered by dipterocarp forest thick with several rivers and waterfalls. There are rare plants and typical of a giant umbrella leaf (Johannesteijsmannia altifrons), Raflesia flower (Rafflesia atjehensis and R. micropylora) and Rhizanthes zippelnii which is the largest flower with a diameter of 1.5 meters. In addition, there is a unique plant or plant strangler fig. 

Rare and endangered species contained in the national parks, among others, introspective/ orangutan (Pongo abelii), gibbon (Hylobates syndactylus syndactylus), Sumatran elephant (Elephas maximus sumatranus), Sumatran rhino (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis sumatrensis), Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae), forest goat (Capricornis sumatraensis), hornbills (Buceros bicornis), sambar deer (Cervus unicolor), and jungle cat (Prionailurus bengalensis sumatrana). 

Gunung Leuser National Park is one defined by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve. Based on the cooperation between Indonesia and Malaysia, also designated as a "Sister Park" with Taman Negara National Park in Malaysia. 

Leuser Mountain National Park

Some locations / attractions to be visited: 

Gurah. View and enjoy the natural scenery, canyons, hot springs, lakes, waterfalls, observation of wild animals and plants such as flowers Raflesia, orangutans, birds, snakes and butterflies. 
Bohorok. Place the rehabilitation of orangutans and natural attractions form a panorama of the river, camping grounds and bird watching. 
Kluet. Boating on rivers and lakes, trekking tours in the coastal forest and caves. This area is the habitat of Sumatran tigers. 
Sekundur. Camping, cave tours and wildlife observation. 
Ketambe and Suak Carambola. Research primates and other wildlife researcher who comes home and library. 
Gunung Leuser (3404 m asl) and Mt. Pecan (3314 m asl). Climbing and mountain climbing. 
River rafting in Alas. Activity rafting from Gurah-Muara Situlen-wave for three days. 

Cultural attractions outside the Park is Lake Toba Festival in June on Lake Toba and Malay Culture Festival in July in Medan. 

The best visiting season: June to October each year. 

How to reach the location: Medan-Kutacane is ± 240 km or 8 hours by car, Kutacane-Gurah/Ketambe is ± 35 km or 30 minutes by car, Medan-Bohorok/Bukit Lawang is ± 60 km or 1 hour by car, Medan- Sei Betung / Sekundur is ± 150 km or 2 hours by car, Medan-Tapaktuan is ± 260 km or 10 hours by car.

Leuser Mountain National Park

Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park is located in the center of the Indonesian archipelago, between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores. Established in 1980, initially the main purpose of the Park was to conserve the unique Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) and its habitat. However, over the years, the goals for the Park have expanded to protecting its entire biodiversity, both terrestrial and marine. In 1986, the Park was declared a World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, both indications of the Park's biological importance.

Komodo Island

Komodo National Park includes three major islands: Komodo, Rinca and Padar, as well as numerous smaller islands creating a total surface area (marine and land) of 1817km (proposed extensions would bring the total surface area up to 2,321km2). As well as being home to the Komodo dragon, the Park provides refuge for many other  notable terrestrial species such as the orange-footed scrub fowl, an endemic rat, and the Timor deer. Moreover, the Park includes one of the richest marine environments including coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, seamounts, and semi-enclosed bays. These habitats harbor more than 1,000 species of fish, some 260 species of reef-building coral, and 70 species of sponges. Dugong, sharks, manta rays, at least 14 species of whales, dolphins, and sea turtles also make Komodo National Park their home.

Komodo national park beach

Threats to terrestrial biodiversity include the increasing pressure on forest cover and water resources as the local human population has increased 800% over the past 60 years. In addition, the Timor deer population, the preferred prey source for the endangered Komodo dragon, is still being poached. Destructive fishing practices such as dynamite-, cyanide, and compressor fishing severely threaten the Park's marine resources by destroying both the habitat (coral reefs) and the resource itself (fish and invertebrate stocks). The present situation in the Park is characterized by reduced but continuing destructive fishing practices primarily by immigrant fishers, and high pressure on demersal stocks like lobsters, shellfish, groupers and napoleon wrasse. Pollution inputs, ranging from raw sewage to chemicals, are increasing and may pose a major threat in the future.

Komodo

Today, the Komodo National Park and Putri Naga Komodo, PT are working together to protect the Park's vast resources. Our goals are to protect the Park's biodiversity (both marine and terrestrial) and the breeding stocks of commercial fishes for replenishment of surrounding fishing grounds. The main challenge is to reduce both threats to the resources and conflicts between incompatible activities. Both parties have a long term commitment to protecting the marine biodiversity of Komodo National Park.