2009 Backpacking to Indonesia (16 days) 23 Jul to 07 Aug 2009

Bali, Lombok & Java, Indonesia
Mt.Rinjani (3726m/12224ft) and Mt.Bromo (2392m/7850ft) 

L-R: Bernard Lee, Choo Chiew Chin, Chan Meng Fye, Chew Leng Soon, Lim Kee Moon, Ching Neng Bin at Borobudur Temple, Yogyakarta

Day 01 (23.07.2009) Kuala Lumpur to Kuta, Bali
Day 02 (24.07.2009) Kuta > Denpasar > Uluwatu > Kuta
Day 03 (25.07.2009) Kuta > Ubud > Kintamani > Ubud
Day 04 (26.07.2009) Ubud > Monkey Forest >Sg Ayung
Day 05 (27.07.2009) Ubud > Padang Bai > Senggigi
Day 06 (28.07.2009) Trekking up Mt. Rinjani
Day 07 (29.07.2009) Descend Mt. Rinjani > Senggigi
Day 08 (30.07.2009) Senggigi > Kuta
Day 09 (31.07.2009) Kuta > Bedugul > Tanah Lot
Day 10 (01.08.2009) Kuta > Probolinggo, Java
Day 11 (02.08.2009) Gilimanuk > Probolinggo > Mt.Bromo
Day 12 (03.08.2009) Mt. Bromo > Surabaya
Day 13 (04.08.2009) Surabaya to Yogyakarta
Day 14 (05.08.2009) Yogyakarta > Borobudur > Surabaya
Day 15 (06.08.2009) Surabaya
Day 16 (07.08.2009) Surabaya > Kuala Lumpur

Day 01 (23.07.09) Kuala Lumpur to Kuta, Bali

It was a 3 hour flight from KL to Denpasar Airport arriving at 7pm. Six of us in a van to Kuta for Rp70k.
 
As July-August were "high season", all guesthouses were fully booked and we almost had to sleep on the beach. After 2hour of searching on the popular Jl.Poppies 1 & 2, we finally found 2 rooms at Nirvana Apartment beside Secret Garden Inn. And with 6 of us, it was 3 in-a-room (2 on the bed and one on the floor). Had expensive and good Balinese dinner at Marde Warong (restaurant).

Sleeping: Nirvana Apartment at Jl Poppies 1, Bali @ RM71 or Rp200k a a/c room (Tel:+62361762785).
 

Air Asia Flight AK364 (RM292 per person).


Sleeping: Nirvana Apartment at Jl Poppies 1, Bali @ RM71 or Rp200k a a/c room (Tel:+62361762785)

 
 
Day 2 (24.07.2009) Kuta > Denpasar > Uluwatu > Kuta

Morning was an exploratory walk along Kuta Beach to Legian Beach and back to the town centre along Jalan Pantai Kuta, Jalan Melasti and Jalan Legian. Afternoon was renting a van (Rp250k) for the day to Denpasar the capital and Uluwatu for the sunset and Kecak Dance.

Sleeping: Nirvana Apt. Jl Poppies 1 @ RM71 or Rp200k a a/c room (Tel:+62361762785)
Rental of van for a day @ Rp250k (includes driver & petrol)
Dinner at Basil Leaves Subway Food, Poppies 1 opposite our apartment
 
 

Bali Agung Bar & Restaurant along Jl.Poppies 1, Bali is the best place for Indonesian Breakfast.


We had heavy breakfast at Bali Agung Bar & Restaurant along Jl.Poppies 1, Bali at Rp17k per person.


Every aspect of Balinese life has to do with Hindu religion, but the most visible signs are the offering (sesajen) of flowers, glutinous rice and salt in little bamboo leaf trays, found in every Balinese house, restaurant and shops. They are set out and sprinkled with holy water no less then three times a day, before meal.


A small Sesajen offering is done daily by the Balinese to get protection from the divines.


A small Sesajen offering is done daily by the Balinese to get protection from the divines.


Balinese women - the beauty of Bali.


Walking and exploring Bali's most famous Kuta beach.


Walking and exploring Bali's most famous Kuta beach.


Reliable waves at Kuta beach keeps Bali a surfing destinations.


Reliable waves at Kuta beach keeps Bali a surfing destinations.


Legian Beach front (Rp20k for a deckchair).


Best place shopping for T-shirts and souvenirs at Merta Nadi, Jl. Melasti, Bali.


Best place shopping for T-shirts and souvenirs at Merta Nadi, Jl. Melasti, Bali.


A restaurant over a large fish aquarium along Jl. Pantai Kuta, Bali.


Walking along Jalan Legian, Kuta, Bali.


Bali Bomb Memorial, Jalan Legian, Kuta. This monument commemorates the 202 victims of the first Bali Bomb attack in October 2002, including 161 tourists from 21 countries. The site of the former Sari Club, obliterated in one of the blasts, lies adjacent to the monument.


Bali Bomb Memorial, Jalan Legian, Kuta. This monument commemorates the 202 victims of the first Bali Bomb attack in October 2002, including 161 tourists from 21 countries. The site of the former Sari Club, obliterated in one of the blasts, lies adjacent to the monument.


Entrance to Jl.Poppies 1 from Jalan Legian, Kuta, Bali.


Jl.Poppies 2, Kuta, Bali.


Ching Neng Bin walking on Jl.Poppies 2, Kuta, Bali.


Recommended Guesthouse @ IDR65k a room is Komala Indah 1, Poppies Lane 1, Kuta, Bali.


Recommended Guesthouse @ IDR65k a room is Komala Indah 1, Poppies Lane 1, Kuta, Bali.


The serene courtyard & garden of Komala Indah 1, Poppies Lane 1, Kuta, Bali.


We had best lunch at this Bamboo Corner Restaurant, Jln.Poppies 1, Kuta, Bali.


We had best lunch at this Bamboo Corner Restaurant, Jln.Poppies 1, Kuta, Bali.


Denpasar Central Market. Denpasar is the largest city and capital of the island of Bali.


My hometown SETIAWAN is here in Denpasar Central Market.


Denpasar Central Market. Denpasar is the largest city and capital of the island of Bali.


Denpasar Central Market in Bali.


Denpasar Central Market in Bali.


Uluwatu is at the southernmost tip of southern Bali. Entrance fee is Rp3,000. As usual, you need to be properly dressed to enter and sarongs and sashes is free at the entrance.


Uluwatu is a place on the south-western tip of the Bukit Peninsula of Bali, Indonesia. It is home to the Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple. The name Uluwatu comes from ulu, meaning ‘lands end’, and watu, meaning ‘rock’.


More remarkable of Uluwatu is its location, perched on a steep cliff 250ft above the roaring ocean waves.


Uluwatu is at the southernmost tip of southern Bali. Entrance fee is Rp3,000. As usual, you need to be properly dressed to enter and sarongs and sashes is free at the entrance.


More remarkable of Uluwatu is its location, perched on a steep cliff 250ft above the roaring ocean waves.


More remarkable of Uluwatu is its location, perched on a steep cliff 250ft above the roaring ocean waves.


Bali monkey thieves at Uluwatu. They have a bad reputation for harassing visitors includes stealing objects from them.


Bali monkey thieves at Uluwatu. They have a bad reputation for harassing visitors includes stealing objects from them.


More remarkable of Uluwatu is its location, perched on a steep cliff 250ft above the roaring ocean waves.


More remarkable of Uluwatu is its location, perched on a steep cliff 250ft above the roaring ocean waves.


Ching Neng Bin with the Kecak lady dancer at Uluwatu temple.


Lim Kee Moon with the Kecak lady dancer at Uluwatu temple.


Chan Meng Fye with the Kecak lady dancer at Uluwatu temple.


The Kecak dance performance at Uluwatu temple started with prayers to a fire.


Kecak Dance performances are held at the temple daily from 6 to 7pm. Tickets for tourists is Rp50,000


Taken from the Hindu epic Ramayana, the Kecak dance tells the story of Prince Rama and his rescue of Princess Sita, who has been kidnapped by the evil King of Lanka. Unlike other dances, there is no orchestra accompanying it. Instead, a troupe of over 100 bare-chested men serve as the chorus, making a synchronized sound "chak-achak-achak" clicking sounds while swaying their bodies and waving their hands.


Kecak Dance performances are held at the temple daily from 6 to 7pm. Tickets for tourists is Rp50,000


Kecak Dance performances are held at the temple daily from 6 to 7pm. Tickets for tourists is Rp50,000


Kecak Dance performances are held at the temple daily from 6 to 7pm. Tickets for tourists is Rp50,000


Kecak Dance performances are held at the temple daily from 6 to 7pm. Tickets for tourists is Rp50,000


The Kecak dance show ended with the Fire Dance.

Day 3 (25.07.2009) Kuta > Ubud > Kintamani > Ubud

7.30am breakfast at McDonald. Rented the same van from Mr.Wayan for the day at Rp400k. First stop was at Batu Bulan for the famous Barong Dance. Visited Mar's Gold & Silver Art shop, Stone Carving Centre and Rai Wood Carver, all at Batu Bulan. Arrived Ubud at 12.15pm, we checked-in at Warini Bungalows for Rp100k a room. Continued our journey to view Mt.Batur at Kintamani.

Sleeping: Warini Bungalows in Ubud (Tel:+62361972579) Rp100k a room + breakfast for 2
Rented the same van from Mr.Wayan for the day at Rp400k
 

First stop was at Batubulan village for the famous Barong Dance and stone carving. It is about 8 km from Denpasar.


Barong & Kris Dance — a ritual dance depicting the fight between good and evil, with performers wearing fearsome lion-like masks. Barong a mythological animal represents a good spirit and Rangda a monster represents an evil one. Entrance fee is Rp80k quite expensive.


Barong & Kris Dance — The story goes that Rangda, the mother of Erlangga, the King of Bali in the tenth century, was condemned by Erlangga’s father because she practiced black magic. After she became a widow, she summoned all the evil spirits in the jungle, the leaks and the demons, to come after Erlangga. A fight occurred, but she and her black magic troops were too strong that Erlangga had to ask for the help of Barong.


Barong came with Erlangga’s soldiers, and fight ensued. Rangda casted a spell that made Erlangga soldiers all wanted to kill themselves, pointing their poisoned keris into their own stomachs and chests. Barong casted a spell that turned their body resistant to the sharp keris. At the end, Barong won, and Rangda ran away.


Barong & Kris Dance — Barong represents good spirit and looks quite lion-like. He has a red head and his body is covered in white hair. His head is adorned with jewels and pieces or mirror providing sparkle. Despite his innate goodness the Barong mask can still look a bit frightening.


It is said that if Rangda’s spell is too strong, somebody can die or get seriously injured in a Barong dance. He may end up hurting himself with his own keris. The masks of Barong and Rangda are considered sacred items, and before they are brought out, a priest must come to offer blessings by sprinkling them with holy water taken from Mount Agung, and offerrings must be presented.


Barong & Kris Dance — Rangda represents the evil spirit, Barong’s appearance is nothing as scary as that of Rangda however She is portrayed as a witchcraft-practising widow. Her looks more black symbolising her evil nature, she has whopping great teeth and when she moves on stage she moves with a creepy gait.


The traditional Batubulan village musicians at Barong & Kris Dance performance.


Mars Bali Art at Celuk-Sukawati Gianyar Bali is a traditional Balinese village located in the entrance gate of Gianyar Regency and has changed into a tourist attraction with its trademark in the form of gold and silver.


Mars Bali Art at Celuk-Sukawati Gianyar Bali. The village located in Sukawati District, Gianyar Regency has the uniqueness and excellent in production of gold and silver handicrafts. Various type of jewelry, either as souvenirs or export commodities are produced in this village includes variation type of rings, necklaces, earrings, hairpins, brooch and others.


Mars Bali Art at Celuk-Sukawati Gianyar Bali. The Balinese are very clever in making stone carvings. It was influenced by the habits of those who use statues as religious and cultural rituals.


Ching Neng Bin trying his hands in making stone carvings at Mars Bali Art at Celuk-Sukawati Gianyar Bali.


Mars Bali Art at Celuk-Sukawati Gianyar Bali. The Balinese are very clever in making stone carvings. It was influenced by the habits of those who use statues as religious and cultural rituals.


Rai Wood Carver at Mas Bali.


Rai Wood Carver at Mas Bali. With the most skilled Craftsmen, using the best materials to make good quality. And from the good wood to make the masterpieces of every our collection items.


Rai Wood Carver at Mas Bali has exported the product to outher country in the world.


Rai Wood Carver at Mas Bali. You can see and feel the touch of Balinese artist and Balinese art in each details of the product. All the pieces produced are enterely done by hand and the materials choosen, are all different from each piece designed and produced is unique.


Rai Wood Carver at Mas Bali. You can see and feel the touch of Balinese artist and Balinese art in each details of the product. All the pieces produced are enterely done by hand and the materials choosen, are all different from each piece designed and produced is unique.


Ni Nyoman Narini Bungalows in Ubud is the cheapest guesthouse Tel:+62361972579 Rp100k a room + breakfast for 2.


Typical entrance gate in Ubud. Gates are considered to be sacred in Balinese culture. They act as portals that connect the physical world and the spiritual realm (gods and spirits); the living and the dead (ancestors).


A small Sesajen offering is done daily by the Balinese to get protection from the divines.


Sesajen offerings is a ritual from Hindu Bali to deities or ancestors of Javanese ancient believers, wicker tray contains of roses, fruits, snack and drink.


Chew Leng Soon at terraced rice field at Tegallalang on the way to Mt.Batur. Scenic, terraced hillside offering rice paddies amid lush greenery and jungle swings.


Lim Kee Moon at scenic terraced hillside rice field at Tegalalang on the way to Mount & Lake Batur.


Bernard Lee at scenic terraced hillside rice field at Tegalalang on the way to Mount & Lake Batur.


Ching Neng Bin at scenic terraced hillside rice field at Tegalalang on the way to Mount & Lake Batur.


We had buffet lunch at Batur Sari Restaurant not so good, but nice view of Mount & Lake Batur.


We had buffet lunch at Batur Sari Restaurant not so good, but nice view of Mount & Lake Batur. This restaurant sits on the rim of the huge Mount Batur caldera about 1,500m above sea level and provides dramatic views of Mount Batur volcano and Lake Batur. The entrance fee to mountain rim is Rp5k per person.


The main attraction for this Batur Sari Restaurant is the magnificent view of Mount & Lake Batur while having buffet lunch, the food tasted so so.


Mount Batur is an active volcano located at the center of two concentric calderas north west of Mount Agung on the island of Bali, Indonesia.


Lake Batur is a volcanic crater lake in Kintamani, located about 30km northeast of Ubud in Bali. The lake is inside of the caldera of an active volcano, Mount Batur, located along the Ring of Fire of volcanic activity.


Somewhere down the mountain, we visited a Luwak Civet Coffee Farm in Kintamani. This Civet cat is responsible for pooping out the world's most expensive coffee, called Kopi Luwak.


Civet cats are fed coffee cherries, and during digestion the animal's enzymes mix with the coffee beans producing a unique bitter taste.


Ching Neng Bin helped to roast some Kopi Luwak beans in Bali Island.


Pura Tirta Empul Temple at Tampaksiring. Entrance fee is Rp6k per person


Tirta Empul temple is a Hindu Balinese water temple located near the town of Tampaksiring, Bali, Indonesia. The temple compound consists of a petirtaan or bathing structure, famous for its holy spring water, where Balinese Hindus go to for ritual purification.


As soon as you enter the Pura Tirta Empul Temple at Tampaksiring, you will walk through the large stone Balinese gate (locally known as Candi Bentar) and arrive in the outer courtyard of the temple. 


Pura Tirta Empul Temple at Tampaksiring. This gate is guarded by smoothly carved huge statues of two Dwarapala or guardians given a brush of golden colors.


For more than a thousand years, Balinese worshipers have been drawn to Pura Tirta Empul, whose sacred spring is said to have been created by Indra and to have curative properties. The tradition continues almost unchanged at the temple today.


The Tirta Empul Temple includes the traditional Balinese split gate along with shrines to Shiva, Vishnu, Braham, Mt. Batur, and Indra.


There is also a large open pavilion in the main Pura Tirta Empul Temple courtyard, useful for relaxing in the shade.


There is also a large open pavilion in the main Pura Tirta Empul Temple courtyard, useful for relaxing in the shade.


Legend has it that the sacred spring was created by the god Indra at Pura Tirta Empul Temple. His forces had been poisoned by Mayadanawa, so he pierced the earth to create a fountain of immortality to revive them. An inscription dates the founding of a temple at the site to 926 AD. Ever since - for more than a thousand years - the Balinese have come to bathe in the sacred waters for healing and spiritual merit.


Natural spring water flowing out at Pura Tirta Empul Temple inner courtyard.


A long rectangular pool filled with koi at Pura Tirta Empul Temple inner courtyard.


A long rectangular pool filled with koi at Pura Tirta Empul Temple inner courtyard.


We had good dinner here at Warung Kacu, Jl. Raya Dewi Sita, Ubud.


We had good dinner here at Warung Kacu, Jl. Raya Dewi Sita, Ubud.


Free cultural show at the Ubud Community Hall.


Free cultural show at the Ubud Community Hall.


Free cultural show at the Ubud Community Hall.

Day 4 (26.07.2009) Ubud > Monkey Forest > Sg Ayung

Ubud is the center of art and dance in the foothills with interesting small Palace, Monkey forest and lots of arts and crafts shops. Very good breakfast provided by guesthouse. Morning was a walking tour to Monkey Forest, Ayung River & Ubud Palace. Afternoon was the 3hour walking tour through the rice-field. We then call the day by finishing the half bottle of whiskey at our bungalow.

Sleeping: Warini Bungalows in Ubud (Tel:+62361972579) Rp100k a room + breakfast for 2
 

Very good breakfast provided by Warini Bungalows in Ubud - pancake, fruits & tea.


Very good breakfast provided by Warini Bungalows in Ubud - pancake, fruits & tea.


Morning was a walking tour to Monkey Forest, Ayung River & Ubud Palace. Afternoon was the 3hour walking tour through the rice-field. We then call the day by finishing the half bottle of whiskey at our bungalow.


Ubud Monkey Forest, is the sanctuary and natural habitat of the Balinese long-tailed Monkey, scientific name Macaca fascicularis. It is located at Padangtegal Ubud, Bali. About 1k monkeys live in this sanctuary.


Balai Banjar Ubud Kelod is a dance hall for the local communities.


A Hindu temple on the road to Ayung River.


A Hindu temple on the road to Ayung River.


Walking down the steps to Ayung River.


Ayung River in Bali.


Walking down the steps to town. 


Typical Balinese serene entrance to houses in Bali. A house typically has a front open pavilion to welcome guests to the home. A Balinese home must also have a landscaped garden with tropical decorative plants that merge the home with nature.


Typical Balinese serene entrance to houses in Bali. A house typically has a front open pavilion to welcome guests to the home. A Balinese home must also have a landscaped garden with tropical decorative plants that merge the home with nature.


A Balinese home must also have a landscaped garden with tropical decorative plants that merge the home with nature. However, the grounds are never heavily altered, and designers always use the garden’s natural features to create their designs around them.


A Balinese home must also have a landscaped garden with tropical decorative plants that merge the home with nature. However, the grounds are never heavily altered, and designers always use the garden’s natural features to create their designs around them.


A guesthouse by the river in Ubud.


A guesthouse by the river in Ubud.


A small Sesajen offering is done daily by the Balinese to get protection from the divines.


Balinese Arts and Crafts in Ubud.


Balinese Arts and Crafts in Ubud.


Ubud artistic flower arrangement on water pots.


Ubud artistic flower arrangement on water pots.








The Ubud Palace, officially Puri Saren Agung, is a historical building complex situated in Ubud, Gianyar Regency of Bali, Indonesia. The palace was the official residence of the royal family of Ubud.


Taking a rest at the Ubud Palace ground.


At the Ubud Palace ground. Okay! Where to go next? Chew said "go for beer after visiting this palace".


The Ubud Palace, officially Puri Saren Agung, is a historical building complex situated in Ubud, Gianyar Regency of Bali, Indonesia. The palace was the official residence of the royal family of Ubud.


The Ubud Palace courtyard.


The Ubud Palace.


The Ubud Palace.


The Ubud Palace side-entrance to garden.


Here we are at Warung Kita by the rice-field, Jl.Hanoman. Mr Chew enjoying a cold Bintang Beer.


Here we are at Warung Kita by the rice-field, Jl.Hanoman enjoying a cold Bintang Beer.


Afternoon was the 3hour walking tour through the rice-field in Ubud.


Afternoon was the 3hour walking tour through the rice-field in Ubud.


Afternoon was the 3hour walking tour through the rice-field in Ubud.


Afternoon was the 3hour walking tour through the rice-field in Ubud.


Afternoon was the 3hour walking tour through the rice-field in Ubud.


We had our lunch at Warung Bodag Maliah, Subak Sok Wayah, Ubud.  The walk up here from Ubud takes about 30 min and is very beautiful.


We had our lunch at Warung Bodag Maliah, Subak Sok Wayah, Ubud. The walk up here from Ubud takes about 30 min and is very beautiful.


Ching Neng Bin, Chew Leng Soon and Chan Meng Fai had lunch at Warung Bodag Maliah, Subak Sok Wayah, Ubud.


Chew Leng Soon and Lim Kee Moon had lunch at Warung Bodag Maliah, Subak Sok Wayah, Ubud.


The rice-field view from Warung Bodag Maliah, Subak Sok Wayah, Ubud.


The rice-field view from Warung Bodag Maliah, Subak Sok Wayah, Ubud.


The rice-field view from Warung Bodag Maliah, Subak Sok Wayah, Ubud.


We had dinner at this Kita Cafe, Jl. Hanoman 43, Ubud.
 
Day 5 (27.07.2009) Ubud > Padang Bai > Senggigi

Getting there we took the 7am Perama bus (RP150k) from Ubud to Senggigi in Lombok Island. 
Started with a 1-hour bus journey to reach Padang Bai a coastal port on the east coast, then a 4-hour ferry to Lembar jetty in Lombok Island and another 1-hr bus ride to Sengigi town. 

Perama bus (RP150k) to Senggigi in Lombok Island
Sleeping at Bukit Senggigi Seaview Resort at Rp250k a room a/c 


Padang Bai located on a bay is the port for ferries between Bali and Lombok. It is a popular place to break a journey.


L-R: Lim Kee Moon, Chew Leng Soon, Chan Meng Fye, Choo Chiew Chin, Bernard Lee, Ching Neng Bin at Padang Bai ferry terminal in Bali.


Padang Bai beach front beside the ferry terminal.


A 4-hour ferry ride from Padang Bai jetty to Lembar jetty in Lombok Island.


A 4-hour ferry ride from Padang Bai jetty to Lembar jetty in Lombok Island.


A 1-hr bus ride from Lembar jetty to Senggigi in Lombok Island.


Its time to chill out after a long journey to Senggigi in Lombok Island.


Its time to chill out after a long journey to Senggigi in Lombok Island.

Day 6 (28.07.2009) Trekking 9.2km up to Mt. Rinjani crater rim in 7hours

We took the trekking package from PT. Wannen Tours for Rp600k each for a 2day 1night - includes 1 guide, 3 porters and 5 meals.

The van picked us at the hotel at 5am for a 2hour journey to the base camp of Mt.Rinjani at Senaru. Had breakfast at the tour office and then proceed to the Rinjani Trekking Centre for registration. Osman the trekking organizer from PT. Wannen Tours arranged national park entry tickets and short briefing on the route details at Mount Rinjani National Park office. Here we met our guide Tari and the 3 porters.

Started with a one hour trek climb steeply through thick tropical forest to reach Pos 1, passing through villages and farm land cultivated with soybeans, coffee, tobacco, cinnamon and vanilla. Another one and a half hour trek to Pos 2, passing through forest vegetation. At Pos 2, the guide and porters cooked lunch for us, while we all laid by the grass to rest. After lunch we trek another one and a half hour to Pos 3. Took a short rest here and continued another one and a half hour back-breaking hike to reach the crater rim and the camp-site at Pelawangan (2,641m). All in all we walked for a total of about 7 hours up on the 9.2km trek.
 

Rinjani Trekking Centre for registration at Senaru base camp.


Rinjani Trekking Centre for registration at Senaru base camp.


L-R: Osman the trekking organizer from PT. Wannen Tours and Tari our Rinjani trekking guide at Senaru base camp. Osman arranged national park entry tickets and short briefing on the route details. Here we met our guide Tari and the 3 porters.


Rinjani Trek distance calculator at Senaru base camp.


Ching Neng Bin at Rinjani Trekking Centre for registration at Senaru base camp.


L-R: Lim Kee Moon, Ching Neng Bin, Chew Leng Soon, Bernard Lee, Chan Meng Fye, Choo Chiew Chin at Senaru base camp.


Our 3 porters unloading at Senaru base camp.


At pintu Senaru the gateway to trekking mount Rinjani. From here is 1km to Pos 1.


At the entrance of the Mount Rinjani National Park pintu Senaru the gateway to trekking mount Rinjani.


At Pos 1 which is 2.5km away from base camp. Started with a one hour trek climb steeply through thick tropical forest to reach Pos 1, passing through villages and farm land cultivated with soybeans, coffee, tobacco, cinnamon and vanilla.


At Pos Extra which is 3.8km away from base camp and 1.1km to Pos 2.


At Pos Extra which is 3.8km away from base camp and 1.1km to Pos 2.


Lichens that grow like leafless mini-shrubs on the trail to mount Rinjani are commonly called old man's beard, or beard lichen.


Lichens that grow like leafless mini-shrubs on the trail to mount Rinjani are commonly called old man's beard, or beard lichen.


At Pos 2 (Montong Satas) which is 4.9km away from base camp and 2.5km to Pos 3. Between Pos Extra and Pos 2 though, it started getting very steep.


At Pos 2 (Montong Satas), the guide and porters cooked lunch for us, while we all laid by the grass to rest. After lunch we trek another one and a half hour to Pos 3.


At Pos 2 (Montong Satas), Bernard Lee said "This is happiness in suffering".


At Pos 2 (Montong Satas), the guide and porters cooked lunch for us, while we all laid by the grass to rest.


At Pos 2 (Montong Satas), the guide and porters cooked lunch for us.


At Pos 2 (Montong Satas), the guide and porters cooked lunch for us.


At Pos 2 (Montong Satas), the grey monkeys begging for food to eat.


At Pos 2 (Montong Satas), the grey monkeys begging for food to eat.


After lunch we trek another one and a half hour to Pos 3 (Mondokan Malokak). At Pos 3 which is 7.4km away from base camp.


At Pos 3 (Mondokan Malokak), we took a short rest here and continued another one and a half hour back-breaking hike to reach the Mt. Rinjani crater rim and the camp-site at Pelawangan (2,641m). All in all we walked for a total of about 7 hours up on the 9.2km trek.


Beautiful valley below Mt. Rinjani crater rim.


Beautiful valley below Mt. Rinjani crater rim.


Beautiful clouded valley below Mt. Rinjani crater rim.


We continued our climb here which is a steep and intimidating path made of rocks as the “Rock Wall”.


Beautiful clouded valley below Mt. Rinjani crater rim.


Beautiful valley below Mt. Rinjani crater rim.


Lim Kee Moon showing the way to Mt. Rinjani crater rim.


The last part of the climb to the Mt. Rinjani crater rim is a bit strenuous taking you over sliding sands and steep jagged rocks. We were all quite exhausted here with some muscle cramp.


Beautiful clouded valley below Mt. Rinjani crater rim.


We are standing above the clouded valley below Mt. Rinjani crater rim.


Finally, after what seemed like a never ending rocks after rocks, we reached a flat area and the camp sites started peeking through the mountains. We’ve finally arrived at Rinjani Crater Rim!


Finally, after what seemed like a never ending rocks after rocks, we reached a flat area and the camp sites started peeking through the mountains. We’ve finally arrived at Rinjani Crater Rim!


We’ve finally arrived at Rinjani Crater Rim and setting up camps.


We’ve finally arrived at Rinjani Crater Rim and setting up camps.


Sitting at Rinjani Crater Rim, Mt.Rinjani is just behind Ching Neng Bin. Overlooking the crater, everybody said "Oh my god". It was such a fantastic view and feeling to be there. Mount Rinjani Crater rim altitude is 2639m (8,658 feet). The starting point at Senaru sits at around 650 meters, which means we have climbed nearly 2000 meters of elevation in one day.


Standing at Rinjani Crater Rim, Mt.Rinjani is just behind Ching Neng Bin.


Standing at Rinjani Crater Rim, Mt.Rinjani is just behind Bernard Lee.


L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Choo Chiew Chin, Chan Meng Fye, Chew Leng Soon, Lim Kee Moon, Bernard Lee at Rinjani Crater Rim.


Mt. Rinjani is an active volcano rises to 3,726m (12,225ft) making it the third highest volcano in Indonesia. The eruptions of 1994, 1995 and 1996 have formed a small cone, Gunung Baru in the center of the caldera and lava flows from these eruptions have entered the lake. This cone has since been renamed Mt. Baru Jari (or 'New Finger').

The most recent eruption was in April and May 2009, and was closed till end of June. It was reopened in July, but we were only allowed to trek up to the crater rim and not to the peak. For those trekking to the peak requires a 3day 2night package


Mount Rinjani Crater rim altitude is 2639m (8,658 feet). The starting point at Senaru sits at around 650 meters, which means we have climbed nearly 2000 meters of elevation in one day.


The 6km by 8.5km oval-shaped caldera is filled partially by a crater lake known as Segara Anak (Child of the Sea) and is about 2000m above sea level and estimated at being 200m deep. The caldera also contains hot springs.


Sunset from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Fantastic sunset view from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Fantastic sunset view from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Fantastic sunset view from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Fantastic sunset view from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Fantastic sunset view from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Fantastic sunset view from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Fantastic sunset view from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Fantastic sunset view from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Fantastic sunset view from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Dinner was inside the tent at 7pm and we all slept at 8pm. Very strong wind and the temperature is about 5C. Actually we all hardly had any good sleep because of the crispy cold and uneven ground.


Dinner was inside the tent at 7pm and we all slept at 8pm. Very strong wind and the temperature is about 5C. Actually we all hardly had any good sleep because of the crispy cold and uneven ground.

Day 7 (29.07.2009) Descend Mt. Rinjani > Senggigi

After breakfast at 7.30am, we took nearly 7 hours to descend down the long trail to Senaru village (601m). Lunch was at Pos 1 extra. When we reached Rinjani Trek Center in Senaru, our van was there to take us back to our hotel in Senggigi.

Dinner at Sunshine Restaurant owned by Chinese
Sleeping at Bukit Senggigi Seaview Resort at Rp250k a room a/c
 

Fantastic sunrise view from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Fantastic sunrise view from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Lim Kee Moon waiting for sunrise at Rinjani Crater Rim.


Heavy smoke in the morning due to water condensation at night into the Mt. Baru Jari (or 'New Finger') volcano.


The black current in the photo is the molten lava from Mt. Baru Jari (or 'New Finger') volcano.


Lim Kee Moon standing at Rinjani Crater Rim, Mt.Rinjani.


Very cold in the morning, cannot sleep at night. Ching Neng Bin standing at Rinjani Crater Rim, Mt.Rinjani.


Beautiful view of Mt. Rinjani and Mt. Baru Jari (or 'New Finger') volcano from Rinjani Crater Rim, Mt.Rinjani.


We were served breakfast with hot tea and quickly packed up to begin our descent from Rinjani Crater Rim, Mt.Rinjani.


We were served breakfast with hot tea and quickly packed up to begin our descent from Rinjani Crater Rim, Mt.Rinjani.


The descent from Rinjani Crater Rim was basically just follow the exact same route back.


The descent from Rinjani Crater Rim was basically just follow the exact same route back.


The descent from Rinjani Crater Rim was basically just follow the exact same route back.


The descent from Rinjani Crater Rim was basically just follow the exact same route back.


The descent from Rinjani Crater Rim was basically just follow the exact same route back.


The descent from Rinjani Crater Rim was basically just follow the exact same route back.


The descent for us was actually a lot harder than climbing up. We basically just followed the exact same route back.


The amazing Rinjani Porters descending from Rinjani Crater Rim.


The descent for us was actually a lot harder than climbing up. We basically just followed the exact same route back.


The descent for us was actually a lot harder than climbing up. We basically just followed the exact same route back.


Ching Neng Bin descending from Rinjani Crater Rim.


Somewhere down there is Senaru village.


The open sea at the background and somewhere down there is Senaru village.


Waiting for lunch near Pos 1.


After lunch we continued the trek down to Senaru base camp.


Farewell to our fantastic guide and porters at Senaru base camp.


Farewell to our fantastic guide and porters at Senaru base camp. Our van was there to take us back to our hotel in Senggigi.

Day 8 (30.07.2009) Senggigi to Kuta

9am Perama bus (Rp150k) to Kuta. One hour bus to Lembar Jetty, 4 hours ferry crossing to Padang Bai and another hour bus journey to Kuta, we finally arrived at 7.30pm.

Sleeping at Agung Putra Inn, Kuta @ Rp425 a room a/c
Perama bus from Senggigi, Lombok to Kuta, Bali is Rp150k
 

Ching Neng Bin at Bukit Senggigi Seaview Resort in Lombok Island getting ready to move on.


Batu Bolong Steak House in Lombok Island.


Lombok Island sea view.


Lombok Island sea view.


Lombok Island Chinese cemetery at Mataram.


A horse cart at Mataram.


Taking the ferry at Lembar Jetty.


Bernard Lee slept on-board the ferry to Padang Bai.


The 4 hours ferry crossing from Lembar Jetty to Padang Bai.


The 4 hours ferry crossing from Lembar Jetty to Padang Bai.


The 4 hours ferry crossing from Lembar Jetty to Padang Bai.


The 4 hours ferry crossing from Lembar Jetty to Padang Bai.


Waiting at Perama bus office at Padang Bai.


Choo gave a dinner treat to celebrate our Mt.Rinjani success at Basil Leaves Thai and Vietnamese Restaurant in Kuta.


Choo gave a dinner treat to celebrate our Mt.Rinjani success at Basil Leaves Thai and Vietnamese Restaurant in Kuta.

Day 9 (31.07.2009) Kuta > Bedugul > Tanah Lot

Again booked Sayan's van for Rp300 to take us to Bedugul and Tanah Lot. It was a half hour drive to Ubong town to get our bus ticket (Rp145k) for Probolingo in Java. From Ubong another one and half hour drive to Bedugul passing through Candi Kuning famous for its fruit, flowers, spice & vegetable market. Had buffer lunch at Mentari Restaurant in Bedugul. Visited the Beratan lake and the Ulun Danu temple by the lake. Afternoon was traveling to Tanah Lot temple which was built on the top of rock in the ocean.

Sleeping: Nirvana Apt. Jalan Poppies 1. @ RM71 or Rp200k a room a/c
 

Garuda is a mythical bird-like creature that appears in both Hindu and Buddhist mythology.


Beratan Lake is located next to Mount Bratan and Mount Catur. It is the second largest lake in Bali.


Beratan Lake is a shallow lake with the high caldera about 1,231m above sea level and it is located at Bedugul.


Taking our lunch at Mentari Restaurant, Bedugul.


Taking our lunch at Mentari Restaurant, Bedugul.


Entrance fee is Rp10k pp visiting Pura Penataran Agung Ulun Danu Beratan Temple at Lake Bratan. The temple complex was first built in the 17th century to honour Dewi Danu, the goddess of the lake. Consisting of five temples and a Buddhist Stupa, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is in the village of Candikuning in Tabanan, right in the heart of Bali, Indonesia.


Pura Penataran Agung Ulun Danu Beratan Temple at Lake Bratan: Bali’s most serene space.


Pura Penataran Agung Ulun Danu Beratan Temple at Lake Bratan: Bali’s most serene space.


Ulun Danu Temple is a Balinese Hindu temple located at Candi Kuning countryside. It is about 50km north of Denpasar set at lakeside of Beratan with beautiful lake view and hills surround it. It is situated in the plateau area with cool atmosphere and hills as a backdrop. The north side of this temple is Pucak Sangkur mount, in the east is Beratan Mount which also referred as Pucak Mangu, in the south is Terate Bang Mount and in the West is Tapak Mount and Watukaru Mount.


Pura Penataran Agung Ulun Danu Beratan Temple at Lake Bratan: Bali’s most serene space.


Pura Penataran Agung Ulun Danu Beratan Temple at Lake Bratan: Bali’s most serene space.


Pura Penataran Agung Ulun Danu Beratan Temple at Lake Bratan: Bali’s most serene space.


L-R: Lim Kee Moon, Bernard Lee, Chew Leng Soon, Chan Meng Fye, Choo Chiew Chin, Ching Neng Bin at Pura Penataran Agung Ulun Danu Beratan Temple at Lake Bratan.


Lingga Petak temple. With 3 roofs and the sacred well that contains holy water “Tirta” of Ulun Danu.


The gigantic frog at Lingga Petak temple.


Penataran Agung temple. Penataran Agung Temple is dedicated to Tri Purusha Shiva (Shiva, Sadha Shiva, and Parama Shiva) and faces south. This temple is often visited by those seeking help with fertility, prosperity, well-being, and sustainability of the universe.


Penataran Agung temple. Penataran Agung Temple is dedicated to Tri Purusha Shiva (Shiva, Sadha Shiva, and Parama Shiva) and faces south. This temple is often visited by those seeking help with fertility, prosperity, well-being, and sustainability of the universe.


L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Lim Kee Moon, Bernard Lee, Chew Leng Soon, Choo Chiew Chin, Chan Meng Fye at Tanah Lot temple.


Tanah Lot is a rock formation off the Indonesian island of Bali. It is home to the ancient Hindu pilgrimage temple Pura Tanah Lot, a popular tourist and cultural icon for photography.


Only at low tide we are able to walk to this ancient Hindu pilgrimage temple Pura Tanah Lot.


Tanah Lot is a rock formation off the Indonesian island of Bali. It is home to the ancient Hindu pilgrimage temple Pura Tanah Lot, a popular tourist and cultural icon for photography.


Only at low tide we are able to walk to this ancient Hindu pilgrimage temple Pura Tanah Lot.


Talking to the temple priest at Pura Tanah Lot.


Another great view of Pura Tanah Lot.


Another great view of Pura Tanah Lot.


Another great view of Pura Tanah Lot.


The Tanah Lot temple is located on a large rock off the coast.


The Tanah Lot temple is located on a large rock off the coast.


The Tanah Lot temple is located on a large rock off the coast.


The Tanah Lot temple is located on a large rock off the coast.

Day 10 (01.08.2009) Kuta > Probolinggo, Java

The day was very relax as the bus travel to Probolinggo was at 5.30pm. Morning was lazying on Kuta Beach. Afternoon was the good body and foot massage (Rp45k an hour). It was a 3 hour bus journey to Gilimanuk, the westernmost tip of Bali for the 40 minutes ferry crossing to Banyuwangi in Java.

Wisata Komodo Bus fare from Ubong to Probolinggo is Rp145k
Sleeping on bus, ferry and finally five-foot-way in Probolinggo (FOC).
 

Morning was lazying on Kuta Beach. Afternoon was the good body and foot massage (Rp45k an hour).


Can you see the plane touching down from Kuta Beach.


Morning was lazying on Kuta Beach. Afternoon was the good body and foot massage (Rp45k an hour).


A child flying kite at Kuta Beach. 


Tourists going for surfing on Kuta Beach.


Vendors at Kuta Beach.


Tourists sunbathing on Kuta Beach.


Tourists sunbathing on Kuta Beach.


Tourists lazying around on Kuta Beach.


The famous Jl. Popies 1 in Kuta, Bali.


Horse carts for rent in Kuta, Bali.


The famous Jl. Popies 1 in Kuta, Bali.


9pm ferry crossing the Bali Strait between Gilimanuk on Bali Island to Banyuwangi in Java.


Java Bali Ferry - Crossing the Bali Strait between Gilimanuk on Bali Island to Banyuwangi in Java. It was a 40 minutes ferry crossing to Banyuwangi in Java.

Day 11 (2.8.2009) Gilimanuk > Probolinggo > Mt. Bromo

We arrived at Probolinggo at 2.30am and waited till 6am before we could get the van (Rp25k) to Mt.Bromo. The journey up the mountain was one and a half hour. The van mean for 12 passengers but we had about 20 people in it. After breakfast at the hotel, we all went to sleep for a couple of hours. It took about one hour to trek down the crater into the sea of sand and walked all the way to Mt.Bromo. Walked up the 500 steps to reach the top of the volcano. Evening was trekking through the villages by the mountain side and valley. Very cold at night about 10C.

Sleeping at Cemara Indah at Rp100k economy room.


We arrived at Probolinggo at 2.30am and waited till 6am before we could get the van (Rp25k) to Mt.Bromo. Took some time sleeping at shop-front while waiting for van.


Chew said he counted at least 20 people in the van up to Mt.Bromo.


The journey up the mountain was one and a half hour. The van mean for 12 passengers but we had about 20 people in it.


The journey up the mountain was one and a half hour. The van mean for 12 passengers but we had about 20 people in it.


We arrived at Hotel Cemara Indah, Probolinggo, Jawa Timur. After breakfast at the hotel, we all went to sleep for a couple of hours.


We stayed at Hotel Cemara Indah, Probolinggo, Jawa Timur. Set on the edge of Bromo Semeru Tengger National Park, this hotel is 2 km from Seruni Point and 3 km from Pura Luhur Poten Gunung Bromo, a Hindu temple. 


We stayed at Hotel Cemara Indah on the edge of Bromo Semeru Tengger National Park.


The morning mist filled up the whole crater at Mt Bromo.


The morning mist filled up the whole crater at Mt Bromo.


Lim Kee Moon and Ching Neng Bin at Mt Bromo crater. Smoking Mt. Bromo (2,392m) and Mt.Batok (2,440m) behind us.


Bernard Lee, Ching Neng Bin and Chew Leng Soon at Mt Bromo crater.


The entire top of Mt Bromo has been blown off and the crater inside constantly oozing white sulfurous smoke. The morning mist filled up the whole crater at Mt Bromo.


The entire top of Mt Bromo has been blown off and the crater inside constantly oozing white sulfurous smoke. The morning mist filled up the whole crater at Mt Bromo.


The entire top of Mt Bromo has been blown off and the crater inside constantly oozing white sulfurous smoke.


The morning mist filled up the whole crater at Mt Bromo.


The morning mist filled up the whole crater at Mt Bromo.


The mist disappeared as soon as the sun gets hotter exposing the sandy crater floor of Mount Bromo.


Without the mist, Mount Bromo crater floor is a sea of sand.


Trekking down the 800ft crater beside the hotel to Mt.Bromo.


It took about one hour to trek down the crater into the sea of sand and walked all the way to Mt.Bromo.


The inside of the caldera, aptly dubbed the Sea of Sand is coated with fine volcanic sand and the overall effect is unseeingly unearthly, especially when compared to the lush green valleys all around the caldera.


The inside of the caldera, aptly dubbed the Sea of Sand is coated with fine volcanic sand and the overall effect is unseeingly unearthly, especially when compared to the lush green valleys all around the caldera.


Mt.Batok (2440m) is of brown volcanic cone inside of the caldera, aptly dubbed the Sea of Sand.


Mt.Batok (2440m) is of brown volcanic cone inside of the caldera, aptly dubbed the Sea of Sand.


Mt.Batok (2440m) is of brown volcanic cone inside of the caldera, aptly dubbed the Sea of Sand.


Mt.Batok (2440m) is of brown volcanic cone. In recent times, the mountain has witnessed some growth of vegetation that gives it a breathtaking hues of meadow green and yellow. Its slopes are very unique if you inspect closely - alternating ravines and crevices patched by dark and light green, and muddy brown features.


Pura Luhur Poten Gunung Bromo a Hindu temple inside the caldera at the foot of Mt. Batok (2440m).


Pura Luhur Poten Gunung Bromo a Hindu temple inside the caldera at the foot of Mt. Batok (2440m).


Pura Luhur Poten Gunung Bromo a Hindu temple inside the caldera at the foot of Mt. Batok (2440m).


The view of the trek up to Mt Bromo inside the caldera at the foot of Mt. Batok (2440m).


The view of the trek up to Mt Bromo inside the caldera at the foot of Mt. Batok (2440m).


Looking down at Pura Luhur Poten Gunung Bromo, a Hindu temple inside the caldera at the foot of Mt. Batok (2440m).


Children taking a horse ride up to Mt Bromo.


Looking down at Pura Luhur Poten Gunung Bromo, a Hindu temple inside the caldera at the foot of Mt. Batok (2440m).


Looking down at Pura Luhur Poten Gunung Bromo, a Hindu temple inside the caldera at the foot of Mt. Batok (2440m).


Walked up the 500 steps to reach the top of the Mt Bromo volcano.


Walked up the 500 steps to reach the top of the Mt Bromo volcano.


Looking down at Pura Luhur Poten Gunung, a Hindu temple from the top of Mount Bromo.


Mount Bromo, is an active volcano and part of the Tengger massif, in East Java, Indonesia. At 2,329 meters it is not the highest peak of the massif, but is the best known.


Mount Bromo, is an active volcano and part of the Tengger massif, in East Java, Indonesia. At 2,329 meters it is not the highest peak of the massif, but is the best known.


Have you ever thought of standing between Heaven and Hell? Mount Bromo gives you this impression.


Have you ever thought of standing between Heaven and Hell? Mount Bromo gives you this impression.


It is constantly oozing out white sulfurous smoke from inside Mt Bromo volcano.


It is constantly oozing out white sulfurous smoke from inside Mt Bromo volcano.


It is constantly oozing out white sulfurous smoke from inside Mt Bromo volcano.


Evening was trekking through the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley.


Evening was trekking through the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley.


Evening was trekking through the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley.


Evening was trekking through the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley.


Evening was trekking through the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley.


Evening was trekking through the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley.


The amazing evening landscape view of the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley. Very cold at night about 10C.


The amazing evening landscape view of the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley. Very cold at night about 10C.


The amazing evening landscape view of the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley. Very cold at night about 10C.


The amazing evening landscape view of the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley. Very cold at night about 10C.


The amazing evening landscape view of the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley. Very cold at night about 10C.


Dinner at Hotel Cemara Indah.

Day 12 (03.08.2009) Mt. Bromo > Surabaya

After breakfast, by van (Rp25k) to Probolinggo bus station. 
Another bus (Rp13k) to Surabaya.
Sleeping at Hotel Dharmawati beside the bus station (Rp140k) a room.


The amazing early morning landscape view of the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley.


The amazing early morning landscape view of the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley.


The amazing early morning landscape view of the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley.


The amazing morning landscape view of the Bromo mountain edge side villages and valley.


The amazing morning landscape view of Bromo mountain edge side villages and crater of Mt Bromo.


The amazing morning landscape view of Bromo mountain edge side and crater of Mt Bromo.


The amazing morning landscape view of Bromo mountain edge side and crater of Mt Bromo.


The amazing morning village view at Bromo mountain edge side.


Saying goodbye to Mt.Bromo and getting ready to go down to Probolingo.






On the road driving through the villages down to Probolingo.


On the road driving through the villages down to Probolingo.


On the road driving through the villages down to Probolingo.


On the road driving through the villages down to Probolingo.


On the road driving through the villages down to Probolingo.


On the road driving through the villages down to Probolingo.


Bakso for dinner beside our Hotel Dharmawati in Surabaya. Sleeping at Hotel Dharmawati beside bus station (Rp140k) a room.

Day 13 (04.08.2009) Surabaya to Yogyakarta

8am bus (Rp62k) 324.6km from Surabaya and arriving Yogyakarta at 3.30pm. 
Check in at Prayogo Baru Hotel (Rp200k) a room in Yogyakarta. 
We did a walking tour around the city of Yogyakarta. 
Had the best nasi Padang at Duta Minang Restaurant.
 

Soto daging for breakfast at the bus station beside our Hotel Dharmawati in Surabaya.
 

8am bus (Rp62k) 324.6km from Surabaya and arriving Yogyakarta at 3.30pm after 7.5 hours.


Yogyakarta known for its traditional arts and cultural heritage.


March 1st General Offensive Monument (Monumen Serangan Umum 1 Maret) Yogyakarta


Yogyakarta known for its traditional arts and cultural heritage.


We had the best Nasi Padang in Yogyakarta.


We had the best Nasi Padang in Yogyakarta.


We had the best Nasi Padang in Yogyakarta.

Day 14 (5.8.2009) Yogyakarta > Borobudur Temple > Surabaya

Walked to Southern Ring Road bus stopped to take a public bus (Rp10k) to visit Borobudur. It was a one and half hour journey to the temple. Entrance fee is US12 for foreigner. After the temple tour we had a audio video presentation in a hall. We took the same public bus back (Rp10k) to Yogyakarta. After dinner, we collected our backpack from the hotel and took taxi to the bus station for the over night bus to Surabaya is Rp62k.

Sleeping: over-night bus to Surabaya is Rp62k.


Walked to Southern Ring Road bus-stop to take a public bus (Rp10k) to visit Borobudur Temple. It was a one and half hour journey to the temple.


A short stop at this bus station on the way to the temple.


Borobudur is a 9th-century Buddhist temple in Magelang Regency, not far from the town of Muntilan, in Central Java, Indonesia. It is the world's largest Buddhist temple. The temple consists of nine stacked platforms, six square and three circular, topped by a central dome.


Borobudur an ancient Buddhist temple complex, was forgotten and abandoned for centuries, although no one knows why. In fact it was forgotten for so long that it was hidden beneath volcanic ash and overgrown jungle for hundreds of years.


Borobudur the ancient complex comprises six square platforms topped by three circular platforms decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.


This 9th-century Buddhist Borobudur complex is actually a giant allegory for enlightenment. It was constructed under the rule of the Sailendra Dynasty, eventually being abandoned in the 14th century as the region slowly started to convert to Islam.


The Borobudur temple was neglected and eventually buried under jungle and volcanic ash. In the 19th century, when the British ruled the region, it was rediscovered. In 1814, with 200 men, Lieutenant Governor-General Thomas Stamford Raffles cut down the surrounding trees to reveal the temple complex.


Borobudur is believed to have been constructed some time during the 8th century. It is a Buddhist temple, but without an altar or sanctuary. Instead, it boasts six square platforms on which sit 3 circular platforms, and decorated with galleries that form a ring around the structure. There are 504 statues of the Buddha. There is also a main dome that is surrounded by 72 Buddha statues.


Borobudur is constructed as a ten-terraces building. The height before being renovated was 42 meters and 34.5 meters after the renovation because the lowest level was used as supporting base. The first six terraces are in square form, two upper terraces are in circular form, and on top of them is the terrace where Buddha statue is located facing westward. Each terrace symbolizes the stage of human life. In line with the teaching of Buddha Mahayana, anyone who intends to reach the level of Buddha's must go through each of those life stages.


Borobudur is beset by volcanos, which is why it was covered in ash and debris for many centuries. In 1973, UNESCO came up with a restoration plan for the legendary mountain. It took 7 years to restore (1975-1982).


The Borobudur Temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. The walls and balustrades are decorated with fine low reliefs, covering a total surface area of 2,520 m2.


Borobudur was built by King Samaratungga, one of the kings of Old Mataram Kingdom. Based on Kayumwungan inscription, it was a place for praying that was completed to be built on 26 May 824, almost one hundred years from the time the construction begun. The name Borobudur, means a mountain of terraces (budhara).


L-R: Bernard Lee, Choo Chiew Chin, Chan Meng Fye, Chew Leng Soon, Lim Kee Moon, Ching Neng Bin at Borobudur Temple, Yogyakarta.


Visiting the temple, you’ll see that the journey begins at the base of the temple and follows a path through the three levels of Buddhist cosmology, namely Kamadhatu (the world of desire), Rupadhatu (the world of forms), and Arupadhatu (the world of formlessness).


Stairs of Borobudur through arches of Kala.


The Borobudur Temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.


The Borobudur Temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.


The Borobudur Temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.


The Borobudur Temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.


The Borobudur Temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.


The Buddhist pilgrim starts at the bottom and moves up when they have deciphered each relief. Each relief explains a teaching of the Buddha, and when you figure it out, you move on to the next. They progressively get harder, and by the time you finish the last one, you are on the top and — in theory — enlightened.


The Borobudur Temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.


The Borobudur Temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.


The Borobudur Temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.


A narrow corridor with reliefs on the wall of Borobudur Temple.


Ching Neng Bin at the narrow corridor with reliefs on the wall of Borobudur Temple.


A narrow corridor with reliefs on the wall of Borobudur Temple.


The reliefs on the wall of Borobudur Temple.


The reliefs on the wall of Borobudur Temple.


Relief panel of a ship at Borobudur.


The reliefs on the wall of Borobudur Temple.


The Borobudur Temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.


The Borobudur Temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.


Ching Neng Bin at the Borobudur Temple.


Lim Kee Moon at the Borobudur Temple.


Bernard Lee at the Borobudur Temple.


Ching Neng Bin at the Borobudur Temple.


The stupas of Borobudur upper terraces.


The stupas of Borobudur upper terraces.


The stupas of Borobudur upper terraces.


Bernard Lee and Ching Neng Bin with the Buddha image of Borobudur upper terraces.


Borobudur stupas overlooking the plane.


Exposed Buddha image within the stupas of Borobudur upper terraces. The central dome is surrounded by 72 Buddha statues, each seated inside a perforated stupa.

Day 15 (06.08.2009) Surabaya

Arrived Surabaya bus station at 5am. 
We took a local bus to the city and checked in at Sparkling Backpacker Hotel (Rp80k) in Surabaya. 
Again we slept for another 2 hours in the hotel before we explore the city. 
We had very good local dish for dinner at Warung Bu Kris with all the special Penyet. 
 

Arrived Surabaya bus station at 5am. We took a local bus to the city and checked in at Sparkling Backpacker Hotel (Rp80k) in Surabaya.


We had very good local dish for dinner at Warung Bu Kris with all the special Ayam Penyet.


We had very good local dish for dinner at Warung Bu Kris with all the special Ayam Penyet.


We had very good local dish for dinner at Warung Bu Kris with all the special Ayam Penyet.


We had very good local dish for dinner at Warung Bu Kris with all the special Ayam Penyet.


We had very good local dish for dinner at Warung Bu Kris with all the special Ayam Penyet.


The staff of Warung Bukris Restaurant in Surabaya.

Day 16 (07.08.2009) Surabaya > Kuala Lumpur

After breakfast at hotel, the proprietor Mr.Allan Wisata drove us to the airport at 10am to catch the 12.25pm flight to KL.
 

Mr Allan Wisata (centre) of Sparkling Backpacker Hotel in Surabaya.

Total expenses for the 16 day adventure inclusive of air tickets was about RM1,700-00 per person.
 
///

18 comments:

  1. Ching,
    You and gang have been having a very good life after retirement. Keep it up. Like I always preach, you do not need to have a lot of money to have a good life but you must know HOW to have a good life. Certainly you know how to have a good life!

    Capt Wong

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hi Ching,

    The pictures are magnificent. Congratulations to a successful backpacking holiday. The cost is reasonable if not considered cheap. A retired man like me can join in if invited. Well organized.

    Regards,
    Cheah

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hi! Ching

    Wow! it was such a great trip for your guys. Pls let me know if you are planning for the same trip in next 2-3 years ok. Sounds very interesting, we were at Bali in April 09 with my family for 7 days. Didn't get to see much but more of within the city centre and all tourist spot.

    I don't mind going there again but this time round without my kids. I am planning to go back to Malaysia every 3 years and hope to make a short trip to the neighboring country as well.

    Keep me posted so that I don't miss all my OBA's . At least I can see Portoon (Chew ) and Chan Meng Fye still alive ha ha ha ha ...........................

    Regards
    Suney Win

    ReplyDelete
  4. Ching,

    I have been to Bali, Yogja, Surabaya and Solo. But your photos make the places so lively.
    Thanks for posting and keep traveling.

    John
    NY

    ReplyDelete
  5. Hi Ching & Bernard ...

    what a nice time you have in Bali & Lombok, thanks for those photos and the information in the blog, thanks for sharing, have been to both places on business trips, but we saw different perspective, make me wanna go & explore what you have been enjoying.
    thanks

    ReplyDelete
  6. Hi Ching, fantastic photos and feedback on your tour. Really helpful for us to plan future trips…

    Cheers
    Ang Leong

    ReplyDelete
  7. How are you, Mr Ching. Thank you for your sharing. I sure you had a great memories in your travels. I like travel too, at the same time i like to take photograph too.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Richard Teoh17 September, 2009

    hi, thanks a lot....really envy you ! wish i cud be around too. if things work out,i will be hitting the road for a 3 months back packing to china next year.

    Looking forwards to it !
    Do keep in touch.

    Regards.
    Richard.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Phillip Tinkler17 September, 2009

    What a fantastic trip and as always your pics tell the story. Wish we could have joined you all. can't get over how the area has still retained character all these years. We were last there in about 1979 and it still looks great.

    Cheers
    Phill

    ReplyDelete
  10. Hi Ching,

    Wow, great pics story. Seems you had a great comprehensive tour of Bali. Where is your next? Can I join you guys?

    Michael Ng

    ReplyDelete
  11. Hello Ching,

    What an excellent description of your trip to Indonesia. After reading and seeing your wonderful pictures, I feel as if I know the place already. Thanks.

    Rgds,
    Kevin Tan

    ReplyDelete
  12. Francis Chiong23 September, 2009

    Very impressive and wow, where on earth do you get all the strength from for a 16 days trekking, from one volcano to another volcano and still left some energy to walk and climb around Borobudur!
    Francis

    ReplyDelete
  13. hello... hapi blogging... have a nice day! just visiting here....

    ReplyDelete
  14. James Leong08 October, 2009

    Hi! Ching Neng Bin,
    Thanks for the back-packing to Indonesia article which came to my email via Ong Keng Ming in Australia, who is my Classmate back in the fifties. Likewise, Chan Meng Fye is also one of my Archer in Selangor during the eighties/nineties.

    I remember you but that was long long ago in the seventies. I then work in D&C Bank and was close to Ng Ah Seng; Johnson Pang; Joyce Richie and sometime spoke to Molly Tong and Tay Ah Lek who was in Public Finance.with Wong Sek Wah.
    I am retired now and my morning walk pal is Tan Kee Seng who was also with Public Finance before he moved to Mui Bank and thereafter Hong Long Bank.

    Good to keep in touch after our horrible working days. Wong Sek Wah has two crafts shops in Sungei Wang,but his health is not that good, as he has Heart problem.
    Do keep in touch on our Bonus days ahead.
    Regards,
    James Leong.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Hi Ching,
    You have been truly remarkable in journalism all your traveling extravaganza. I envisage to join u in your next trip to Tibet. If I could remember that u are planning to travel by the 1st world renowned train from Shanghai to Tibet. Please keep informed so that I can start to save up and arrange my time schedule. Thank you very much.
    Yours sincerely,
    Jackson
    012-518 2082

    ReplyDelete
  16. Anonymous29 June, 2012

    Hello there, You've done a great job. I'll certainly digg it and personally recommend to my friends. I am sure they'll be benefited from this website.
    Also visit my website :: my article network review

    ReplyDelete
  17. Anonymous02 July, 2012

    I do not even know how I ended up here, but I thought this post was good. I don't know who you are but definitely you are going to be a famous blogger if you aren't already ;) Cheers!

    ReplyDelete
  18. Mr. Ching
    I thoroughly enjoy your photo story. Admire your attention to details of the sites visited and other details despite doing it on a very tight budget. I finally visited Borubudor early this and alone as all my previous plans to get a 'group'failed. Thanks for the description of the Borubudor site.
    Cheah LC

    ReplyDelete