Translating from Indonesian as “peak”, Puncak is a ridge-top settlement in West Java. It connects the cities of Bogor and Bandung near the 3,008-metre-high volcanic summit of Mount Gede. Puncak has long been a getaway destination for Jakarta’s city dwellers due to its cool climate.
Things to do in Puncak
If you’re feeling energetic, you can follow the hiking trail that leads to the twin volcanoes of Mount Gede and Mount Pangrango, which are connected by a 2,400-metre-high saddle known as Kandang Badak. The route takes in the blue-green lake of Telaga Biru while side trails lead to the picturesque Cibeureum Falls and the Suryakencana Meadow.
Surrounding the summits are the montane and alpine forests of Mount Gede Pangrango National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that provides habitat for silvery gibbons, Javan leopards and Indian muntjacs. More than 250 bird species have been recorded here, including endangered Javan hawk-eagles and scops owls. Subtropical species are showcased at the Cibodas Botanical Garden, which was established by a Dutch botanist in 1852.
For up-close animal encounters, head to Taman Safari Bogor, which is home to Bengal tigers, Malayan sun bears and Sumatran elephants. In addition to exploring the park on a safari tour, you can watch flight shows and admire the 45-metre-high Jaksa Waterfall. Learn about native medicinal plants on a guided hike, visit the Javan rusa breeding facility and be dazzled by the nightly fire shows.
Getting around Puncak
Puncak is around a one-hour drive from the Bogor railway station and 1.5 hours from Jakarta. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is just under two hours away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Puncak while renting a car or scooter gives you greater freedom to explore.