7 Historical Fortress in Indonesia

There are many historic fortress in Indonesia that can be visited when you are traveling to Indonesia. who knows most of the existing fort  get in touch with your country and your history.

1.Fort Marlborough in Bengkulu

Fort Marlborough (Benteng Marlborough, also known as Malabero) is an English fort located in Bengkulu City, Sumatra, Indonesia. It was built between 1713-1719 by the East India Company under the leadership of Governor Joseph Collett as a defensive fort for theBritish Bencoolen. It was one of the strongest British fort in the eastern region, second only to Fort St. George in Madras, India.

2. Fort De Kock in West Sumatra

Fort de Kock is fort heritage Dutch are located in Bukittinggi , West Sumatra , Indonesia .

The fort was founded by Captain Bouer in 1825 at the time of Baron Hendrik Merkus de Kock as the commander of Der Troepen and Deputy Governor General of the Dutch East Indies, that's why this fortress known as the Fort de Kock. The fort is standing on the Mount Jirek and used by the Dutch Army as a stronghold of the onslaught of the Minangkabau people, especially since the outbreak of the Padri War in 1821-1837. 

Around the castle there are ancient cannons 19th century period subsequent years, Now, around this fort grow a city that is also named Fort de Kock, and this day known by Bukittinggi

3.Fort Somba Opu in South Sulawesi

Somba Opu is forts of Sultanate of Gowa built by King of Gowa-9, Daeng Matanre Karaeng Tumpa'risi 'Kallonna in the 16th century. The fort is located at Jalan Daeng Tata, Somba Opu, subdistrict Barombong , Gowa , South Sulawesi

4. Fort Inong Balee di Aceh.

The complex of Laksamana Malahayati’s grave is in Desa Lamreh, Kecamatan Mesjid Raya, Kabupaten Aceh Besar. As a symbol of respecting and the meaning of her war, its location is in hilltop and protected by wall. It’s winged and unwinged slab gravestone type with longfeet square. In her life, Laksamana Malahayati was known as a brave admiral when marched against Portuguese and Dutch in Malaka Straits. One of her great contribution was when she formed a single troop consists of some widows (known as Inong Balee and Benteng Inong Balee) fight against the imperialism.( Deni Sutrisna)

5. Fort Jagaraga di Bali.

The Fort Jagaraga is the fort of Balinese troops against the Dutch in the 19th century. In 1849 the peak of this fortress  occupation by the Dutch after a fierce battle between Bali fighters who tried to defend the Fort Jagaraga, with the spirit of Puputan War, until all the Bali's troops finally had fallen down. And the Dutch troops under the command of General Michaels took charge of  the Fort Jagaraga. Since 1849, kingdoms Bali became a part of the territory of the Dutch East Indies.

6. Benteng Duurstede di Saparua.

The fort is located in the town of Saparua, approximately 50 miles from Ambon. Dutch forts was built first in 1676 by Arnold de Vlaming van Oudshoor. The Fort Duurstede was used as the center of defense and government VOCs during occupied Saparua. The fort is also being a witness persistent struggle led by a Indonesian hero in 1817, he was Kapitan Pattimura.

The fort is quite unique, because the fort was built on the reef as high as 20 feet, it has 24 pieces of stairs to get into, and with the only  one entrance at the front. In front of the castle there is a well. The fort area is located at the edge of a white sandy beach with crystal clear water, beautiful scenery and vast Saparua sea can be enjoyed from this fort

7.  Fort Rotterdam, in Makassar

Fort Rotterdam is a fort built in Makassar on the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia. It was captured by the Dutch in 1667 and became a center of Dutch colonial power in Sulawesi. Following the Java War (1825–1830), Javanese prince, and now national hero, Diponegoro was imprisoned in the fort following his exile to Makassar in 1830 until his death in 1855. It was also used as a Japanese prisoner of war camp in World War II.

There are several modest museum exhibitions in various rooms in the Fort. Various local publications about South Sulawesi may also be purchased from a bookstore at the Fort.

Fatahillah Museum is a Historical Museum of Jakarta

Tour this time let's take a look a museums in Jakarta, Indonesia. Fatahillah Museum.

Fatahillah Museum  is the Jakarta Historical Museum, also known as  Batavia Museum, is located in the Old Town  of Jakarta, Indonesia. The building was built in 1710 as the Stadhuis (city hall) of Batavia. Jakarta History Museum, opened in 1974, displays objects from the prehistory period of the city region, the founding of Jayakarta in 1527, and through the Dutch colonization period from the 16th century until Indonesia’s Independence in 1945.

Fatahillah Museum occupies two long buildings in the old city area. This museum was formerly the town hall (stadhuis) builded in Batavia in 1707 by Governor-General Joan van Hoon. This building was completed in 1712. The architecture of the building like of the 17th century, the classical Baroque. This Museum has 3 floors with the main roof has a direction of the wind

The building contains 37 ornate rooms. There are also some cells located beneath the front portico which were used as dungeons. A Javanese freedom fighter Prince Diponegoro, who was treacherously arrested, was imprisoned here in 1830 before being banished to Manado, North Sulawesi.

This museum has an area of ​​more than 1,300 square meters. The front yard of Museum you can see few  of old trees. You can also see European style antique furniture from the 17th century. There are also collections of ceramics, pottery, and stone inscriptions. There are also various collections of Betawi culture, numismatic, and Becak.

The Jakarta Historical Museum has a collection of around 23,500 objects, some of them inherited from de Oude Bataviasche Museum (now the Wayang Museum). The collection includes objects from theDutch East Indies Company, historic maps, paintings, ceramics, furnitures, and archeological objects from the prehistoric era such as ancient inscriptions and sword. museum. Jakarta History Museum also contains the richest collection of Betawi style furnitures from the 17th to the 19th century. The collections are divided into several rooms such as Prehistoric Jakarta room, Tarumanegara Room, Jayakarta Room, FatahillahRoom, Sultan Agung Room, and MH Thamrin Room.

To improve the performance and appearance, the Jakarta History Museum since 1999 determined to make this museum is not just a place to care for, or exhibit collections from the Batavia, but also must be a better place for all people of Indonesia and foreign, children, people even for adults with disabilities to increase their knowledge and experience and can be enjoyed as a place of recreation. The Jakarta History Museum seeks to provide information about the history of the city from the begining, since prehistoric times to the present.

Address of Fatahillah Museum :
Jl. Taman Fatahillah No. 1 West Jakarta, Indonesia
Phon (62-21) 6929101, 6901483
Fax. (62-21) 6902387
email: musejak@indosat.net.id

Teluk Cenderawasih National Park

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Teluk Cenderawasih National Park is the largest marine national park of Indonesia, located in Cenderawasih Bay, south-east of Bird's Head Peninsula. It includes the islands of Mioswaar, Nusrowi, Roon, Rumberpon and Yoop. The park protects a rich marine ecosystem, with over 150 recorded coral species, for which it is considered a potential World Heritage Site

This is the playground of one of the world’s largest animals: the spotted whaleshark or rhincodon typus. If elsewhere in the world divers consider themselves lucky to meet one or a couple, here they come in pods and divers can swim along with them quite unharmed except to beware not to be hit by one of their powerful fins.

Scientist Dr. Gerald Allen calls the Cendrawasih Bay: “The Galapagos of Indonesia’s Reefs”.

Whalesharks are migratory animals, and are known to grow to 18 meters in length or more. Biologists tell us that they are an acient species originating some 60 million years ago, and are usually found in the open sea. They have a lifespan of 70 years. A 7 meter whaleshark can weigh up to 22 tonnes. Unbelievably these huge animals are docile since they live only on plankton, clouds of egg roe and small fish, which in Indonesia are called “ikan teri”.

In the village of Kwatisore near the town of Nabire, these giant fish usually gather by the floating platforms, called bagan, where fishermen haul in their catch of small fry.

Kwatisore can be reached from Nabire in around three hours by boat with two 40pk outboard motors.The only accommodation available in this village are simple rooms at the SD Imanuel Primary School in Kwatinsore.  

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Here the local government trains 20 students to become dive guides and to develop facilities in Kwatisore to serve more tourists.

The Cendrawasih Bay Park combines coral reef ecosystems with mangrove, islands and terrestrial tropical forest ecosystems. Here are colonies of black coral, blue coral and soft coral. The Park is famous for the 209 fish species that make this Park their habitat, among which are the butterfly fish, the damselfish and parrotfish, and, of course the whaleshark, while mollusks found here include the trumpet triton, the great clam and the cone shell.

Comprising land and coastal areas, islands, coral reefs and pristine seas, the Cendrawasih Park covers a total area of 1,453,500 hectares. In 1990, the area was designated as Teluk Cendrawasih Marine Nature Reserve. The National Park was designated in 1993 and declared in 2002. The park is managed by Balai Taman Nasional .

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How to get there?

From Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar, Makassar or Jayapura take a flight to Biak and on to Manogwari or Nabire. From Nabire take a longboat to the Park at Rumberpon Island, which takes some 5.5 hours. Or, to visit the whalesharks, take a boat to Kwatisore village from Nabire. The journey takes about 3 hours.

To visit the Park, contact the Office at:
Jalan Trikora Wosi Rendani, PO Box 220
Manokwari 98312, West Papua
Tel.: 62-986-212212
Fax:  62-986-212437
Email: manokwari.wasantara.net.id

Source: http://www.indonesia.travel, http://en.wikipedia.org

RAJA AMPAT NATIONAL PARK PAPUA- Your Personal Disneyland of Diving Sites

Raja Ampat casts a spell on all who visit – scientists, photographers, novice divers and crusty sea-salts alike. This group of majestic islands, located in the northwestern tip of Indonesia’s Papuan “Bird’s Head Seascape,” lies in the heart of the coral triangle, the most bio-diverse marine region on earth.

As stunningly beautiful above water as it is below, Raja Ampat (which literally translates as “The Four Kings”) has a startling diversity of habitats to explore. Each of these – from the stark wave-pounded slopes that drop away beneath the karst cliffs of Wayag and Uranie to the deep, nutrient-rich bays of Mayalibit, Kabui and Aljui to the “blue water mangrove” channels of Kofiau and Gam to the plankton-rich upwelling areas of Misool and the Dampier Strait – are home to unique assemblages of species that, when taken together, add to produce the most impressive species lists ever compiled for a coral reef system of this size.
 

Marine tourism, as a sustainable alternative to overfishing, mining, and logging, has the potential to play a key role in the conservation of Raja Ampat’s spectacular underwater realm, while also creating real benefits for the local communities. This website was designed as part of a larger effort to support the growth of sustainable marine tourism in Raja Ampat and the conservation of these magical islands.

Please explore this site to find information on breathtaking diving opportunities, travel logistics, Raja Ampat’s new tourism entrance fee (which directly supports conservation and community development), and the tremendous conservation effort taking place in Raja Ampat. 

The roaring engines fixed to a large wooden boat are finally quiet. Nothing can be heard but the rifting little waves, lapping against the vibrant paint on the sides of the vessel that gracefully slows down. Native birds hop on the tip of a small tree in one of the deserted islands in the distance.

Raja Ampat or ‘Four Kings’, is the name given to these islands and comes from a local myth. The four major islands found here are Waigeo, Misool (which is home to ancient rock paintings), Salawati, and Batanta.
 

Underwater enthusiasts flock to this region because it offers the world’s best marine sights. Two days earlier, some of these travelers had been at a deafening corner of a tourist trap in Bali. Once they took their flight to the bird head of the island of Papua everything changed as they embarked on a diving tour of a lifetime. In the Raja Ampat islands, divers can explore vertical underwater walls. The thrill of drift diving is another great challenge. These are the awesome experiences you will find in Raja Ampat.

Meanwhile, on this tour several divers were well equipped and looked advanced. The territory within the islands of the Four Kings is enormous, covering 9.8 million acres of land and sea, home to 540 types of corals, more than 1,000 types of coral fish and 700 types of mollusks. This makes it the most diverse living library for world’s coral reef and underwater biota. According to a report developed by The Nature Conservancy and Conservation International, around 75% of the world’s species live here. When divers first arrive here their excitement is palpable. It’s common to hear people praise God as they take in the remarkable scenery. Others prefer to remain in silence taking in the overwhelming sight of so many islands with crystal clear water that softly brushes over the white sandy beaches.

“Disini bagus!”, says the friendly local guide who had been appointed by the tour operator who runs an eco-lodge in Raja Ampat, indicating that they have arrived at one of the most fantastic diving sites. On other days, this guide is just a simple fisherman. The local fishermen here are accustomed to foreigners and are friendly, especially when offered pinang (betel nuts) or some sweet candies. These are very popular and offering these sweets is considered polite and a good way to win an instant smile. The fishermen usually eat this snack during Para-para Pinang, or social chatting and exchanging funny stories while chewing Pinang. In many respects, like nature, culture, and history, these fishermen are closer to the Moluccas.
 

"No doubt about it, Raja Ampat is definitely the richest place for fish that I have ever been." -Dr G.R. Allen

"I was like a five-year-old, seeing a reef for the very first time. I was awestruck, held by the incredible power of this richest reef. We must, with all available resources, preserve the beauty of Raja Ampat. This may be the last frontier." --Michael Aw

"I love the people, I love the diving, it's super! I've never been for a second time to the same dive destination but now I'm thinking about going back for the third time! Should I say more?" --Peter van Dalen
 

 While the landscape may look like a dream, this is not an illusion. As you embark on your dive, the phrase ‘Attention to detail’ takes on new meaning as pigmy seahorses swim around your fingers. Manta Rays and wobbegongs will glide right by you. Tuna fish, giant trevallies, snappers, and even barracudas are there to complete your underwater ‘meeting list’. Not to mention the friendly assistant of the dugong, and a busy colleague, the turtle. Natural and untouched beauty is the main attraction here. With no unnecessary adages, the sky, the lush islands, the sea, and everything above and under it is genuinely saying ‘Welcome to Raja Ampat Islands; your personal Disneyland of diving sites’.

http://www.rajaampatsailing.com

Lake Sentani Festival

Papua or island known as Earth of bird paradise does have beautiful marine tourism no less other than areas in Indonesia. One of the most beautiful places in Papua is the Lake Sentani. Lake Sentani is 70-90 meters above sea level. Located also in the Cyclops Mountains and is a volcanic lake.

Source water comes from 14 large and small rivers with a single river mouths, the lake’s depth is very steep. Lake Sentani offers incredible Scenery. If you visit the Lake Sentani, you will find some of Crane and the Eagles are going to grab a fish in Lake Sentani.

Sentani city located in Jayapura has lots of natural beauty. In order for indigenous values and culture, the art of the tribes around Lake Sentani region doesn’t come to fade, then the Sentani Cultural festival held deemed necessary. Lake Sentani Cultural Festival held each year in the kalkote Region Tourism-lake Sentani, Jayapura regency, Papua. This event is a cultural festival from several villages around Lake Sentani and several districts in Papua as an effort to support government programs to increase tourist visits Indonesia.

The Lake Sentani Festival is one of three major festivals in Papua, besides the Baliem Valley Festival held in August and the Asmat Festival in October, that together offer the best and most comprehensive presentations of the island, according to information on the official Indonesian tourism website www.Indonesia.travel.

This year is the seventh year of the implementation of the Lake Sentani Festival, and this year, Lake Sentani Festival was held on June 19th -23th, 2014 near Sentani Airport and the capital of the province of Papua, Jayapura. The increasing of tourists to Papua occur  from year to year.

At this festival will be displayed a unique cultural heritage, such as War Dance on the boat and other traditional dances from various exists tribe in Jayapura. At this festival also celebrated by Papua’s other cultures and other areas in Indonesia which have similar characteristics with Lake SentaniWelcome to Sentani lake festival in June every year.

One of my favourite dance is Isosolo Dance. Isosolo dance is a traditional war dance performed in the traditional boat. Hundreds of dancers wearing the traditional costume with bows and arrows danced and sang along the Sentani Lake to Khalkote Beach in the fifteen decorative traditional boats. The dancing has turned a magnet for the visitors during the ceremony. It was unique dance. The dance was very attractive, energetic, and powerful, further it performed in the traditional boat on the Lake Sentani.

Come and Join in the The Lake Sentani Festival, feel the great emotion.

Ancient Animals is still Living In Indonesia

Indonesia, actually is quite amazing because in this country  still found a variety of unique ancient animals. Their population is few and the sustainability must be protected. Here are ancient animals that still exist in Indonesia. You can tour and explore Indonesia to find them.

1 Komodo

Komodo also know as the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis),  or the Komodo monitor, is a large species of lizard found in the Indonesia islands, named of komodo Island. Komodo growing to a maximum length of 3 metres (10 ft) in rare cases and weighing up to approximately 70 kilograms (150 lb).

As a result of their size, these lizards dominate the ecosystems in which they live. Komodo dragons hunt and ambush prey including invertebrates, birds, and mammals. It has been claimed that they have a venomous bite; there are two glands in the lower jaw which secrete several toxic proteins. The biological significance of these proteins is disputed, but the glands have been shown to secrete an anticoagulant. Komodo dragon group behaviour in hunting is exceptional in the reptile world. The diet of big Komodo dragons mainly consists of deer, though they also eat considerable amounts of carrion. Komodo dragons also occasionally attack humans in the area of West Manggarai Regency where they live in Indonesia.

Komodo dragons were first recorded by Western scientists in 1910. Their large size and fearsome reputation make them popular zoo exhibits. In the wild, their range has contracted due to human activities, and they are listed as vulnerable by the IUCN. They are protected under Indonesian law, and a national park, Komodo National Park, was founded to aid protection efforts.

2  Leatherback sea turtle

The leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), sometimes called the lute turtle, is the largest of all living turtles and is the fourth heaviest modern reptile behind three crocodilians. It is the only living species in the genus Dermochelys. It can easily be differentiated from other modern sea turtles by its lack of a bony shell. Instead, its carapace is covered by skin and oily flesh. Dermochelys coriacea is the only extant member of the family Dermochelyidae.

Leatherback turtles can be found primarily in the open ocean. Scientists tracked a leatherback turtle that swam from Indonesia to the U.S. in an epic 20,000 km (12,000 mi) foraging journey over a period of 647 days. Leatherbacks follow their jellyfish prey throughout the day, resulting in turtles "preferring" deeper water in the daytime, and shallower water at night (when the jellyfish rise up the water column). This hunting strategy often places turtles in very frigid waters. One individual was found actively hunting in waters that had a surface temperature of 0.4 °C (32.7 °F).

3.  Arowana

Arowanas are freshwater bony fish of the family Osteoglossidae, also known as bonytongues. In this family of fish, the head is bony and the elongated body is covered by large, heavy scales, with a mosaic pattern of canals. The dorsal and anal fins have soft rays and are long based, while the pectoral and ventral fins are small. The name "bonytongues" is derived from a toothed bone on the floor of the mouth, the "tongue", equipped with teeth that bite against teeth on the roof of the mouth. The arowana is a facultative air breather and can obtain oxygen from air by sucking it into its swim bladder, which is lined with capillaries like lung tissue.

Arowana fish is one of the ancient fish that has not extinct yet. Studies of genetic and fossil findings show, these fish have been living on the earth at least since 220 ​​million years ago. Arowana is the carnivorous fish inhabiting the river and lake habitats. These fish can be found in the Amazon, and in parts of Africa, Asia and Australia. Arowana Fish (Scleropagus sp.) Can be found in freshwater Indonesia. One kind of Arowana is a super red and can be found in Kapuas River and Sentarum Lake in West Kalimantan . These waters are areas of peat forest creates a primitive environment for these ancient fish.

4. Saltwater crocodile

The saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), also known as saltie, estuarine or Indo-Pacific crocodile, is the largest of all living reptiles, as well as the largest terrestrial and riparian predator in the world. The males of this species can reach sizes of up to 6.7 m (22 ft) and weigh as much as 2,000 kg (4,400 lb)

saltwater crocodile  can be found ranging from the Bay of Bengal (India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh) to the Fiji Islands. Indonesia became a favorite habitat for saltwater crocodile  beside Australia.

5. Pangolin

A pangolin  (also referred to as a scaly anteater or trenggiling) is a mammal of the order Pholidota. The one extant family, Manidae, has one genus, Manis, which comprises eight species. A number of extinct species are also known. A pangolin has large keratin scales covering its skin, and is the only known mammal with this adaptation. It is found naturally in tropical regions throughout Africa and Asia. The name pangolin comes from the Malay word pengguling, meaning "something that rolls up".

Pangolins are nocturnal animals who use their well-developed sense of smell to find insects. The long-tailed pangolin also is active by day. Other species of pangolins spend most of the daytime sleeping, curled up into a ball.

Arboreal pangolins live in hollow trees, whereas the ground dwelling species dig tunnels underground, to a depth of 3.5 metres (11 ft). Pangolins are also good swimmers. 

Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is active volcano and most famous as a tourist attraction in East Java, Indonesia. That is why Mount Bromo become popular and attractive because of its status as the active volcano, with a height of 2392 meters above the surface, covering regions, namely Probolinggo, Pasuruan, Lumajang and Malang.

Mount Bromo has a crater with a diameter of ± 800 meters. You have to walk quite a distance to achieve the crater, Walk from the parking area to the Bromo crater must be reached along the 2 km and have to climb 250 stairs.

Sometimes Mount Bromo spit  up gas named fumaroles. The gas fumes smelled like sulfur with gust as high as 60 to 80 feet above the top of the mountain. This type of gas containing water vapor. Inhalation of this gas in large quantities can be bad for health.

Temperatures range between 3 ° -20 ° Celsius on Mount Bromo, but it can be a few degrees below zero during the dry season. If you are not stand with the cold air, you'd better bring a jacket, gloves, and hats or other head coverings. After sunrise the weather is becoming quite hot here.

Tengger people live in the area of Mount Bromo, they believe that Mount Bromo is a place where a prince sacrificed life for his family. People here do "Yadnya Kasada" or "Kasodo" festival once a year with the dedication of vegetables, chicken, and the money thrown into the volcano crater to sacrifice to the gods. If you want to see the festival, just come to Kasada festival in September-November each year.

From the peak of Bromo crater you will see the phenomenon active volcanic mountain. Visitors also can see a very wide stretch of sand, and become more amazing at daylight.

From the top of Mountain, you can watch a beautiful sunrise.  The scenery is amazing and you can not get it anywhere else.

List of Hotels in Bromo

Here's a list of hotels available in Bromo tourism area that you can stay

- Cafe Lava Hotel, Its location close to the entrance of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS).

- Cemara Indah Hotel and Bromo Permai Hotel, These hotel have direct view to the Mount Bromo and the bathrooms are equipped with hot water.

Other hotels like the Bromo Permai 1 Hotel, Lava View Lodge Hotel is the most classy hotel in the area, Yoschi's Hotel with a distinctive feel of Bali, Sion View Bromo Hotel,  Nadia Sukapura Bromo Hotel, Java Banana Bromo Hotel, and Primadona Sukapura Hotel, all of them can be your place to stay

Mount Bromo is located in the area of ​​Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. These institutions are managing and responsible for the region of Mount Bromo. If you come to visited Mount Bromo, do not forget to contact them.

Address Bromo Tengger National Park at: Jl. Raden Intan number 6, Post Office Box 54, Malang Phone. (0341) 491828; Fax. (0341) 490885 and Jalan Panda number 8, Malang phone. (0341) 551 040 East Java. Indonesia.

http://wisata-bromo.com/

http://www.dephut.go.id/

http://www.indonesia.travel/

http://id.wikipedia.org/

Lawang Sewu In Semarang

Lawang Sewu become one place or the building that most talked about in Semarang, Indonesia. Not because of the unique name, but also sometimes associate with the mystical.

Whatever it is, Lawang Sewu is a historic building, It has been become operational offices of government agencies, and now become one of the favorite tourist destinations in Semarang, Indonesia.

Lawang Sewu is a building in Semarang, Central Java, Indonesia, which was the office of the Nederlands-Indische Spoorweg Maatschappijatau NIS. Built in 1904 and completed in 1907. Located at the roundabout Tugu Muda, formerly called Wilhelminaplein.

Lawang Sewu was designed by C. Citroen, from the firm of J.F. Klinkhamer and B.J. Quendag. Construction began in 1904 with A building, which was completed in 1907. The rest of the complex was finished in 1919. It was initially used by the Nederlandsch Indische Spoorweg Maatschappij, the national railway of the Dutch East Indies.

The name Lawang Sewu is from Javanese; it means "Thousand Doors". The name comes from its design, with numerous doors and arcs. The building has about 600 large windows.

Lawang Sewu is loaded with historical events leading up to independence of Indonesia from Dutch colonial. When that happens the great battle in Semarang five days (October 14 to October 19 1945). This building was a silent witness to a great battle between the Young Generation Train (AMKA) against Kempeitai and Kidobutai, troops of the Japanese invaders.

After the independence of the Republic of Indonesia, Lawang Sewu building used as an office Djawatan Repoeblik Indonesian Railways (DKARI) or now known as PT. Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI).  Furthermore, once used by the military as the office of Infrastructure Agency Regional Military Command (military command IV / Diponegoro).

Lawang Sewu is said to be haunted, with many tourists visiting to see the ghosts. Among the ghosts reported to inhabit the establishment are a Dutchwoman who committed suicide inside and "headless ghouls”.

Danau Sentarum National Park- Representative of Wetland Ecosystems

Danau Sentarum National Park is a national park protecting one of the world's most biodiverse lake systems,  located in the heart of Borneo Island, Kapuas Hulu Regency, West Kalimantan Province, Indonesia. The Danau Sentarum National Park is representative of wetland ecosystems lakes, freshwater swamp forest and tropical rain forest in Borneo. Approximately half of the park consists of lakes, while the other half consists of freshwater swamp forest.

The Danau Sentarum National Park (DSNP) ,is located in a remote area of the upper Kapuas River called "Kapuas hulu" in West Kalimantan province, of Indonesia Borneo, and situated close to the Malaysian border of Malaysian Sarawak, and is approximately 700 km. inland from the West Kalimantan provincial capital, Pontianak. The Danau Sentarum National Park is an area of connected big lakes and seasonally flooded by the tropical rains, as the water streams down from the cloud Rain Forest hills of the surrounding area.

The Danau Sentarum National Park is approximately 30-35 m. above sea level, while the surrounding hills are situated as high as 750 meter above sea level. Daytime temperatures are consistently between the 26-30 degrees Celsius, The driest months are usually July, August, and September. The area was established in 1985 as the Danau Sentarum Wildlife Reserve. While the borders are unclear, the main part of the park is around 1250 square km

Several Longhouses are found in the area of Danau Sentarum National Park, The Iban longhouse of Sungal Sedik is located about 6 km. from the district center of Lanjak. The longhouse was a 14-household community containing about 100 residents. The Sedik River territory is a hunted area for the members of the at least five other longhouse Dayak communities of Lanjak. 

West Kalimantan 's Danau Sentarum National Park wildlife has 120 species of fish, Among them are the Asian bony tongue, toman, betutu, jelawat, belida, ketutung, and the beautiful clown loach. Other animals like proboscis monkey, orangutan, estuarine crocodile, siamese crocodile, clouded leopard, great argus pheasant, false gavial, and wooly-necked stork also inhabit this national park.

Some locations / attractions to be visited:

Lanjak hills, Nanga Kenelang hill and Tekenang hill. A panoramic view of the lake, boating and wildlife observation and study of birds equipped laboratory facilities.

How to get  there :

To reach the location: Pontianak-Sintang-Semitau using a four-wheeled vehicle about 11 hours or Sintang-Semitau longboat (Bandong) taken about seven hours. Semitau to the location using the motor boat to Lanjak. Pontianak-Putussibau with aircraft about two hours and Putussibau to Nanga Suhaid with longboat about seven hours.

Easy way  touring this Indonesian secret place, you are be abe dealing with De'Gigant Tours™. They are the Trade Mark of the company named PT. Gigantara® as an under Indonesian Law Based Tourism Company, owned by  Lucas Zwaal and Drs. HS. Fathan who have more then 20 years experience in Hotel and Tourism Industry, specially at the Indonesian part of Borneo.

Office Address:
De'Gigant Tours™ ( PT.Gigantara® )
Jl. Martadinata Raudah 1 no 21
Samarinda, East Kalimantan, Indonesia
Phone +62 541 7091536
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info@borneotourgigant.com


Background and Permits
Official Tourism Permit number : 556.7/1443/UPT/IX/2008
Company Permit number : 503/2668/729.G/BPPTSP-C/IX/2011
Company Tax number : 02.828.505.4.722.000
Company Employee Registration Number : 043602011

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Mount Rinjani

Mount Rinjani is 3,726 m, the second highest volcano in Indonesia, second only to Mount Kerinci on Sumatra, and it dominates the landscape of the relatively small island of Lombok.

Within its huge 50 km² caldera sits the crater lake Segara Anak (Child of the Sea). Eruptions within the caldera have formed a new small cone called appropriately enough, Gunung Baru (New Mountain). Segara Anak has a natural hot spring.

The mountain and its satellites form the Mount Rinjani National Park  - officially 41,000 hectares within the park boundaries and a further 66,000 hectares of protected forest outside.

Gunun Rinjani National Park lies within the major transition zone(Wallaceae) where the flora and fauna of South East Asia makes a dramatic transition into that which is typical of Australasia. The Park has a rich variety of plants and animals, although they can be hard to spot due to the terrain and rainforest cover.

Sometimes seen early in the mornings is the rare black Ebony leaf monkey, known locally as Lutung.

TheLong tailed grey macaque or Kera is common in Lombok and older males are seen on the crater rim. Rusa deer are forest dwellers and are occasionally seen along the Rinjani trek trail. The smaller Barking deer or Kijang has an alarm call with a distinct dog-like bark. Look for the disturbed ground where the Wild pig or Babi hutan has been foraging. Also found in the forest is the Leopard cat or Bodok alas, Palm civet or Ujat and Porcupine or Landak.

A variety of colourful birds live in the forests of the Park. Perhaps the best-known icon of the Park is the Sulphur Crested Cockatoo that is not found any further west of Lombok. Many of the forest-dwelling animals, insects, birds, civets and monkeys owe their survival to the wild fig tree or Beringin as a provider of food and shelter. The pine-like Casuarina species, Cemara, are a feature of the grassy higher slopes. Orchids or Anggrek are also a feature of the grassland areas, as is Edelweiss or Bunga Abadi growing above the tree line; it is a beautiful icon of the Park and one of our best-known sub-alpine plants.

Rinjani  Trek Centre: The Centre is located at the trailhead above Senaru traditional village and Rinjani Information Centre located at Sembalun Lawang village. They offer information and displays for visitors on the trek, the National Park, Sasak culture and a range of activities available in Senaru.

In 2008, the Indonesian government proposed to UNESCO that Mount Rinjani be one of the world's official geoparks. If this was approved by UNESCO, Mount Rinjani would become the first such geological park in Indonesia.

This mount is a very active volcano. The oldest recorded historical eruption was in 1847. Previous to that this was a very remote region indeed, hence the lack of records.

There was a spate of activity from 1994 to 1995 which resulted in the further growth of the crater cone Gunung Baru, since renamed Gunung Barujari (Finger Mountain).

On 27 April 2009 Gunung Barujari became active again with that activity continuing through to May 2009. The summit ascent routes were closed at that time as the eruptions intensified with plumes of smoke and ash as high as 8,000 m. A Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI):2 rating was issued for the activity between May and December 2009. The ascent routes re-opened on September 14th 2009 but hiking routes down into the crater lake were still deemed unsafe and remained closed.

The lower and mid levels of the mountain are quite heavily forested. Above the tree line though the slopes are barren and rugged scree slopes and volcanic rock. The views of the crater lake are quite breath-taking from the caldera rim, as is the sunrise. From the absolute peak you can see Bali to the west and Sumbawa to the east.

The lower and middle elevation slopes are densely forested with typical tropical species, including species which occupy the Wallacea transitional region between the SE Asian and Australasian flora. Fig trees are especially apparent in the lower forests, as are the giant Syzigium Jambu, with the gnarled and epiphyte-hung Engelhardia Bak Bakan becoming prominent in the higher elevations. Casuarina woodland (cemara) takes over higher up and eventually these give way to an alpine flora above the treeline.

Lombok is East of the Wallace Line and some bird species with Australasian affinities are therefore apparent. These include honeyeaters, cockatoos and green hanging parrots, in addition to species whose heartland is to the West including tits, weavers and tailor-birds. Bird life can be difficult to observe here due to the density of the forest, though if you have patience and are practised at mimicry many species can be tempted out from cover - if you have the time to spare and the forebearance of your trekking partners.

The familiar long-tailed grey macaque (the Bali temple monkey) is common right up to the crater rim. Of much more interest is the rare ebony leaf monkey which inhabits these forests and whose soft hooting contact call often provides a soothing backdrop to the birdsong. Rusa deer and muntjacs are more often heard than seen.

Rinjani is best climbed during the April-November dry season. The trekking trails are generally closed during the rainy season. In recent years the early months of the 'dry season' have become more prone to rain and you should be prepared to encounter heavy rain and low visibility with slippery tracks underfoot at any time, particularly in the afternoon.

It gets very cold on the mountain above 2,000 m and nears freezing at the summit. Warm clothing is an absolute must.

Most visitors arrive via the village of Senaru  (600 m), on the northern side of the mountain and thus closer to the main resort areas of the west coast including Sengingi . The other possible entry point is Sembalun Lawang (1,150 m), on the eastern side, which is closer to the summit.

Both villages are accessed from the main north coast road.

http://wikitravel.org/

http://www.rinjaninationalpark.com/

Exotic Beaches In Lombok-NTT

If you wish to visit the exotic beaches and virgin, just come to Lombok,   East Nusa Tenggara- Indonesia. Here are some beaches that successfully gathered.

1 . Kuta Beach

As Kuta beach in Bali , Kuta beach in Lombok is also frequently visited by tourists both local and foreign . At certain times, the waves high enough and suitable used for surfing . If we go far enough to the east, a small mangrove forests have been waiting there . Boating around the small forest is very pleasant and good choice. This beautiful beach with beautiful views is located in the Kuta village, Pujut subdistrict, about 27 km to the south of the Praya city. The seawater inhabited by various species of fish and coral reefs that you can enjoy with swimming, snorkeling or diving . Sunbathe is a nice activity, it will make your skin brown. Not only five-star hotel here, but to the lower classes is available here, there is also some restaurants , cafes , surf guide and tourism security posts .

2. Seger Beach (The Legend of Princess Nyale Beach)

When going through the shoreline, Seger beach located very close to Kuta. However, when passing through the main road, it will becomes little bit longer to achieve the beach. Seger Beach is also known as a Princess Nyale beach, where every year around the month of February was held nyale scent rituals (bau nyale). The local citizen searching and catching sea worms that tastes very delicious. Many small hills on the Seger beach, that you can climb and enjoy the beautiful scenery around.

3. Tanjung Aan Beach (The Charm Beach)

The location is not far from the beach of Kuta beach. It is only 3 km towards the east. The atmosphere is certainly beautiful and natural, so that visitors can spend time at the beach for swimming, fishing, and sunbathing. This beach has relatively quiet wave characteristics. In the east side, the long beaches with sand-sized grains of yellow pepper, as it is often called sand pepper. While the west side, separated by a small cape, there is a beach longer than the other side with a grain size of very fine sand like white flour.

4. Gerupuk Beach

It is called Gerupuk beach because it is located in village Gerupuk, just 9 km from Kuta to the east. The locals are fishermen, seaweed cultivation, and fish farmers, sometimes They will rent their boat when visitors want to. Gerupuk beach is very famous surfing spot even the best, because the waves are always great throughout the season. This area is equipped with accommodation facilities, bungalows, restaurants, cafes and security posts.

5. Mawun Beach

The beach is like a bow-shaped bay with a deep arch. The hills that flank the beach changes its color when the seasons changes. In the rainy season, the green vegetation is dominated, but while in the dry season the hills will look a brownish color. This beach has a fine sand like flour, especially in the middle.

For everybody who has adventurous soul, a hill which is quite high and steep climb has been waiting for. At the top of the hill, enchanting views  is available to enjoy. Becouse the Mawun beach is flanked by cliffs, the wave is very quiet and almost no waves so it is very comfortable to swim and enjoy the freshness of the sea water.

6. Selong  Belanak Beach

This beach is place of fishermen home, they have many colorful boats are moored. The beach is located in village Selong Belanak, West Praya districts only 34 Km from the city of Praya. The uniqueness of this beach is white sand that shiny when exposed to the heat of the sun. If visitors want to bake sea fish, just wait untill the fishermen back from sea, especially in the morning, they will back with many kind of fish. You can enjoy your fish and make unforgetable vacation.