Mt. Tangkuban Perahu is an active volcano located north of Bandung (West Java) in the direction of Lembang. It is Bandung’s most famous tourist destination as it offers a variety of possibilities: from exploring the crater, hiking, to just enjoying the view. Seen from Bandung, the mountain resembles a boat turned upside down, which stimulated the legendary story of Sangkuriang.

What is most interesting about the volcano is that it is actually still very much active but people can very often walk all the way down into the craters. It last erupted (mildly) in 1969, during which it spewed ashes and rocks. Later in 1992 and 2005, due to high seismic activities, it was closed to the public for a few days. On the north part of the mountain, an area called Death Valley is located, where frequent accumulation of poisonous gases occurs.

If you’re keen on walking, then you can walk all the way up to the top. Otherwise, it is also possible to drive up until you reach the summit where car park is available. It is best to go to the top first because clouds would often roll in towards midday.

The volcano has three craters (kawah): Kawah Ratu, Kawah Domas and Kawah Upas. Kawah Ratu is the largest one, Kawah Upas is located next to it and is a shallow flatland crater surrounded by wild plants. You will not be allowed to go down these two craters as poisonous gas is often released. However, you can walk all the way down to Kawah Domas which has hot springs and where many people often soak their feet in. Here, tourists can also buy eggs which was cooked on its hot surface.

Facilities around the area includes car park and small stalls where you can buy souvenir or Indonesian snacks or street kitchen meals.

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