Garut - Discovering Indonesia

Travelling to Garut

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Garut, a pretty good destination in Indonesia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Garut and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Garut, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Indonesia, here's everything to know about Garut for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Garut

Garut is a regency and town located in the West Java province of Indonesia. It is situated around 75 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Bandung. Garut has a population of around 2 million and it is known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, hot springs, and mountains. Agriculture and tourism are the main sources of income for the locals, with the production of rice, coffee, tea, and strawberries being the primary agricultural activities. Garut is also famous for its traditional weaving called "Tenun Garut" and handicrafts. The town is often regarded as a gateway to explore the southern part of West Java and it's very popular among nature lovers and adventure seekers.

What to visit in Garut

Here are some popular tourist attractions in Garut, Indonesia: 1. Mount Papandayan: This active volcano is a popular hiking destination with scenic trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The climb to the summit takes about 3-4 hours, and visitors can see hot springs, fumaroles, and a crater lake.
2. Cangkuang Temple: This ancient Hindu temple is located on a small island in Cangkuang Lake. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island and explore the temple, which dates back to the 8th century AD.
3. Darajat Pass: This mountain pass is famous for its hot springs and beautiful views. Visitors can soak in the natural hot pools, take a dip in the cool river, or enjoy a picnic in the surrounding forest.
4. Situ Bagendit: This lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and hiking. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views of the lake and surrounding hills.
5. Cipanas Garut: This hot spring resort is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can soak in the natural hot springs, get a massage, or try traditional Javanese healing treatments.
6. Garut Traditional Village: This village showcases the traditional way of life in Garut. Visitors can see historic homes, handicrafts, and cultural performances.
7. Cikuray Mountain: This mountain is a popular destination for adventurous hikers. Visitors can climb to the summit and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
8. Santolo Beach: This beautiful beach is popular for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Visitors can relax on the white sand beach or take a boat ride to explore the nearby islands.
Garut is a city with unique attractions that are worth visiting.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Indonesia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Garut.

When to go on holiday to Garut

The best time to visit Garut (Indonesia) is in the dry season, from April to October. The weather is usually sunny, with little chance of rain, making it a great time to explore the beaches, mountains, and forests of Garut. However, if you are interested in experiencing the local culture and festivals, you might want to visit during the wet season, from November to March, when there are many celebrations taking place. Just be prepared for some rain and humidity during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Garut

Garut is located in the province of West Java, Indonesia. Here are some ways to get to Garut: 1. By car: You can rent a car and drive to Garut from Jakarta or Bandung. The journey from Jakarta takes around 4-5 hours, and from Bandung it takes around 2-3 hours.
2. By bus: You can take a bus from Jakarta or Bandung to Garut. The journey from Jakarta takes around 5-6 hours, and from Bandung it takes around 2-3 hours.
3. By train: You can take a train from Jakarta or Bandung to Garut. However, there is no direct train to Garut. You need to take a train to Cikajang and from there, take a bus to Garut.
4. By air: The nearest airport to Garut is Husein Sastranegara International Airport in Bandung. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Garut. It is recommended to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance to avoid any inconvenience during your travel.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Garut, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Garut

Garut is a city located in West Java, Indonesia, famous for its agricultural products, especially vegetables, fruits, and dairy products. Here are some typical foods of Garut: 1. Dodol Garut - Dodol is a sweet sticky candy made from rice flour, coconut milk, and palm sugar. Dodol Garut is a special type of dodol made in Garut, which is more solid and has a higher content of palm sugar, giving it a rich and intense flavor.
2. Sate Maranggi - Sate Maranggi is a skewered grilled meat dish, made with beef marinated in a special spicy and tangy sauce made from a mixture of chili, garlic, tamarind, and other spices. It is often served with a side of cucumber, tomato, and red onion.
3. Nasi Liwet Garut - Nasi Liwet is a flavorful rice dish cooked in coconut milk, served with various side dishes such as fried chicken, vegetables, and chili sauce. In Garut, the dish is often made with a special type of rice called "kunyit" or turmeric rice.
4. Karedok - Karedok is a traditional Indonesian salad made with raw vegetables such as cucumber, bean sprouts, and cabbage, mixed with a spicy peanut sauce. In Garut, Karedok is often made with a special type of bean sprout called "tauge pete," which has a distinct flavor.
5. Gepuk - Gepuk is a beef dish, often served alongside Nasi Liwet. It is made by boiling beef in a special marinade of spices and herbs, then frying it until crispy. The result is a tender and flavorful dish that is often eaten with steamed rice.
6. Es Kacang Merah - Es Kacang Merah is a popular dessert in Garut made with shaved ice, red beans, coconut milk, and a sweet syrup made from palm sugar. It is a refreshing and sweet treat that is perfect for hot days.
You can find general info about typical foods in Indonesia here.

Is Garut an expensive destination for tourists?

Garut (Indonesia) is not generally considered an expensive travel destination. The cost of traveling to Garut depends on several factors such as your choice of accommodation, dining, mode of transportation, and activities. Accommodation in Garut can range from budget-friendly guesthouses to more luxurious resorts. Dining options are also varied with local street food being the most affordable option to high-end restaurants catering to more upscale tastes. When it comes to transportation, public transport in Garut is cheap and easily accessible but if you prefer more comfortable and convenient travel, you may need to hire a private car or taxi which may be more expensive. Overall, Garut offers affordable travel options, and with careful planning, it can be a budget-friendly destination.

Where to find accomodation in Garut

Garut is a city located in the West Java province of Indonesia. Some of the best areas to find accommodation when visiting Garut include: 1. Central Garut: This is the heart of the city and is located close to many of the popular attractions such as the Cipanas Hot Springs and Situ Bagendit Lake. There are plenty of hotels and guesthouses to choose from in this area.
2. Cipanas: This area is known for its natural hot springs and is a popular destination for travelers seeking relaxation. There are several hotels and resorts in Cipanas that offer access to the hot springs.
3. Kampung Sampireun: This is a traditional Indonesian village located on the outskirts of Garut. There are several resorts in this area that offer traditional Javanese-style accommodation.
4. Kamojang: This area is known for its geothermal activity and is home to the Kamojang crater. There are several hotels and resorts in Kamojang that offer stunning views of the crater.
Overall, there are plenty of accommodation options available in Garut to suit all budgets and preferences.
You can check hotel prices at Garut here:
Booking.com

Is Garut a safe destination for tourists?

Garut is generally a safe place for tourists, but like any other destination in the world, visitors should always exercise caution and take necessary safety precautions. It is always a good idea to take care of your personal belongings, avoid traveling alone at night, and stay aware of your surroundings. That being said, Garut is known for its friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere, so most tourists have a great experience in this beautiful city.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Indonesia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Garut.

What type of travelers will enjoy Garut the most?

Garut, Indonesia is a wonderful destination that offers something for everyone. It is a great place for couples, young people, and families alike.
Couples will enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the area, from the beautiful natural scenery to the charming local markets, cafes, and restaurants. There are also several hot springs and waterfalls that provide perfect spots for a relaxing getaway.
Young people looking for fun will enjoy the adventurous activities in and around Garut, such as hiking, camping, and water sports. Garut also has a vibrant nightlife scene that features live music and local entertainment.
Families will appreciate the variety of activities that Garut has to offer, from visiting the nearby volcanoes and national parks to exploring the local markets and museums. There are also family-friendly hotels with amenities such as swimming pools and bicycle rentals.
Overall, Garut is a great destination for all types of travelers. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure that will appeal to a wide variety of travelers.

How to get around Garut

In Garut, there are various transportation options available to move around. The most common modes of transportation are public buses, minibusses, motorcycle taxis (locally called "ojek"), and rented cars. Additionally, bicycle rentals and horse-drawn carts ("andong") are also available for rent in some areas of the city. Taxis are less common in Garut, but ride-hailing services like Gojek and Grab are widely available and can be convenient for getting around. It is ultimately up to the traveler's personal preference and budget to choose the best mode of transportation for their trip.

What to see around Garut

Here are some nice places that you can visit on a day trip from Garut: 1. Mount Papandayan - It's a scenic volcanic mountain that's great for hiking and trekking.
2. Cangkuang Temple - It's a beautiful Hindu temple located on an island in a lake.
3. Darajat Pass Hot Spring - Enjoy a relaxing dip in natural hot spring waters amid beautiful landscapes.
4. Santolo Beach - It's a perfect place for beach lovers, offering picturesque views of the sea, sand, and sun.
5. Situ Cangkuang - A lake located in Leles with a picturesque view of Mount Guntur. You can also visit the historical Cangkuang Temple there.
6. Kampung Sampireum - A traditional Sundanese village with natural spring water. You can also try traditional culinary and various activities such as fishing, rafting, and tubing.
7. Cipanas Garut - Known as a horticultural area and national flower garden. You can enjoy the beauty of various types of flowers and take a hot bath in a natural sulfur spring there.
I hope that helps!
For every travel information about Indonesia you can click here.

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