Best Places to Visit in Bengkulu | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Bengkulu Travel Guide
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Welcome to Bengkulu, Indonesia! Located on the southwestern coast of Sumatra, Bengkulu is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, this city offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for those seeking an authentic Indonesian adventure. From its pristine beaches and lush rainforests to its colonial-era architecture and traditional festivals, Bengkulu has something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking to immerse yourself in a new and exciting culture, Bengkulu is the perfect destination for your next getaway.
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Best Places To Visit in Bengkulu
1. Bali, Indonesia : Bali is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture. The island is home to numerous Hindu temples, including the famous Tanah Lot temple, and offers a variety of activities such as surfing, snorkeling, and hiking. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Balinese cuisine and shopping for local handicrafts.
2. Yogyakarta, Indonesia : Yogyakarta is a city on the island of Java known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is home to numerous ancient temples, including the famous Borobudur and Prambanan temples, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visitors can also explore the city's museums, art galleries, and traditional markets, and enjoy traditional Javanese cuisine.
3. Bandung, Indonesia : Bandung is a city in West Java known for its cool climate, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage. The city is home to numerous art galleries, museums, and cultural centers, and offers a variety of activities such as hiking, cycling, and shopping for local handicrafts. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Sundanese cuisine and explore the city's colonial architecture.
4. Jakarta, Indonesia : Jakarta is the capital city of Indonesia and a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and cultural attractions. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural centers, and offers a variety of activities such as shopping for local handicrafts, exploring the city's colonial architecture, and enjoying traditional Indonesian cuisine.
5. Surabaya, Indonesia : Surabaya is a city in East Java known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural centers, and offers a variety of activities such as exploring the city's colonial architecture, shopping for local handicrafts, and enjoying traditional Javanese cuisine.
6. Medan, Indonesia : Medan is a city in North Sumatra known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful scenery. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural centers, and offers a variety of activities such as exploring the city's colonial architecture, shopping for local handicrafts, and enjoying traditional Sumatran cuisine.
7. Makassar, Indonesia : Makassar is a city in South Sulawesi known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural centers, and offers a variety of activities such as exploring the city's colonial architecture, shopping for local handicrafts, and enjoying traditional Sulawesi cuisine.
8. Bengkulu, Indonesia : Bengkulu is a city on the island of Sumatra known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and historical landmarks. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural centers, and offers a variety of activities such as exploring the city's colonial architecture, shopping for local handicrafts, and enjoying traditional Sumatran cuisine.
9. Semarang, Indonesia : Semarang is a city in Central Java known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural centers, and offers a variety of activities such as exploring the city's colonial architecture, shopping for local handicrafts, and enjoying traditional Javanese cuisine.
10. Manado, Indonesia : Manado is a city in North Sulawesi known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural centers, and offers a variety of activities such as exploring the city's colonial architecture, shopping for local handicrafts, and enjoying traditional Sulawesi cuisine.
Hotels Map Of Bengkulu
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Tours And Activities In Bengkulu
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Food & Drinks To Try In Bengkulu
1. Rujak Bengkulu: This is a popular traditional fruit salad in Bengkulu. It is made with a combination of tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, and papaya, mixed with a spicy and tangy sauce made from palm sugar, tamarind, and chili. The unique blend of flavors makes it a must-try dish in Bengkulu.
2. Pempek: Pempek is a type of fishcake made from ground fish mixed with tapioca flour and spices. It is then boiled or fried and served with a sweet and sour sauce called "cuko". Pempek is a beloved street food in Bengkulu and is often enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
3. Ketan Serundeng: Ketan Serundeng is a traditional Indonesian dessert made from sticky rice (ketan) cooked with coconut milk and served with a generous topping of serundeng, which is a mixture of grated coconut, spices, and peanuts. The combination of the creamy rice and the crunchy, flavorful serundeng creates a delightful dessert experience.
4. Kerupuk Belinjo: Kerupuk Belinjo is a popular snack in Bengkulu made from the seeds of the belinjo tree. The seeds are thinly sliced, deep-fried, and seasoned with various spices. The result is a crispy and savory snack that is perfect for munching on.
5. Kopi Bengkulu: Bengkulu is known for its delicious coffee, and trying a cup of Kopi Bengkulu is a must for coffee lovers. The coffee beans are locally sourced and roasted to perfection, resulting in a rich and aromatic cup of coffee. Whether you prefer it black or with condensed milk, Kopi Bengkulu is a delightful beverage to savor.
6. Es Krim Bengkulu: Bengkulu is also famous for its homemade ice cream. The ice cream is made from fresh local ingredients such as coconut, durian, and jackfruit, resulting in unique and flavorful ice cream flavors. Whether you opt for a classic flavor or try something more adventurous, such as durian ice cream, the homemade ice cream in Bengkulu is a treat for your taste buds.
7. Gulai Ikan: Gulai Ikan is a traditional fish curry dish that is popular in Bengkulu. It is made with a variety of local fish, cooked in a rich and aromatic curry sauce made from spices such as turmeric, ginger, and lemongrass. The dish is typically served with steamed rice and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
8. Sate Padang: While Sate Padang is originally from Padang, it is also widely available in Bengkulu. This dish consists of skewered and grilled meat, usually beef or chicken, served with a flavorful peanut sauce. The meat is marinated in a mixture of spices before being grilled, resulting in tender and flavorful skewers that are perfect for a satisfying meal.
9. Kerak Telor: Kerak Telor is a traditional Indonesian snack that is popular in Bengkulu. It is made from a mixture of sticky rice, duck eggs, and various spices, which are cooked on a hot griddle until crispy. The dish is then topped with fried shallots and served with a side of spicy sambal sauce. Kerak Telor is a delicious and filling snack that is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.
10. Bengkulu-style Seafood: Being a coastal city, Bengkulu is known for its fresh and delicious seafood. From grilled fish to prawns, crabs, and squid, there are plenty of seafood dishes to try in Bengkulu. The seafood is often cooked with local spices and served with steamed rice or as part of a seafood platter. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in the flavors of the sea while in Bengkulu.
Best Time To Visit Bengkulu
The best time to visit Bengkulu, Indonesia is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. The wet season, which occurs from November to March, brings heavy rainfall and can make it difficult to fully enjoy outdoor activities. However, if you don't mind the rain, visiting during the wet season can offer a unique experience as the landscape becomes lush and green. It's important to note that Bengkulu is located on the western coast of Sumatra and is prone to haze from forest fires, particularly during the dry season. Therefore, it's advisable to check the air quality before planning your trip.
Flight Calendar For Bengkulu
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Transportation To Bengkulu
There are several transportation options to Bengkulu, Indonesia.
1. By Air: The fastest way to reach Bengkulu is by flying to Fatmawati Soekarno Airport (BKS). There are regular domestic flights from major cities in Indonesia, such as Jakarta, Surabaya, and Medan.
2. By Train: Bengkulu is also accessible by train. You can take a train from Palembang, the capital city of South Sumatra, to Manna Station in Bengkulu. From Manna Station, you can continue your journey to Bengkulu city by taking a taxi or public transportation.
3. By Bus: There are long-distance buses that connect Bengkulu with other cities in Sumatra, such as Padang, Palembang, and Lampung. The journey by bus may take longer compared to other modes of transportation.
4. By Ferry: If you are coming from other islands in Indonesia, you can take a ferry to Bengkulu. There are regular ferry services from Bakauheni Port in Lampung to Manna Port in Bengkulu.
Once you arrive in Bengkulu, you can use local transportation options such as taxis, ojek (motorcycle taxis), or angkot (public minivans) to get around the city.