Riding WHOOSH: Indonesia’s High-Speed Connection Between Jakarta and Bandung

 Bandung - My journey on WHOOSH, Indonesia’s impressive high-speed train, turned out to be one of the smoothest and most enjoyable travel experiences I’ve had in the country. The name itself — Waktu Hemat, Operasi Optimal, Sistem Handal — reflects exactly what it offers: a fast, efficient, and reliable rail service connecting Jakarta and Bandung in under an hour.

Jakarta to Bandung (Padalarang station) – Economy Class Experience

I began my journey in economy class, and for the price of Rp250,000, it was truly excellent value. The boarding process was efficient, the station modern and spacious, and the ambience felt more like a regional airport than a train station. Once onboard, I was pleasantly surprised by how clean, bright, and comfortable the economy cabin was. The seats were arranged neatly, with enough legroom for a comfortable ride.

The moment the train started moving, I immediately felt the difference. WHOOSH glided along the tracks with such smoothness that I hardly felt any vibration. It was quiet, steady, and incredibly fast — reaching speeds of over 350 km/h. Watching the landscape change rapidly outside the window was surreal, as rice fields, towns, and hills zipped past in a blur.

Despite being economy, the experience didn’t feel basic at all. The ride was peaceful, stable, and spacious enough for a stress-free journey. Before I knew it, Bandung was already approaching. It was amazing how quick the trip felt, especially compared to traditional trains or driving through traffic.

Bandung (Padalarang station) to Jakarta – Business Class Comfort

For the return trip, I upgraded to business class, priced at Rp450,000 — still very reasonable for a premium experience. The difference was apparent the moment I stepped into the cabin. The seats were wider, more plush, and fully reclinable, offering far more comfort than economy. Each seat had generous space, and a design that felt more like a premium airline cabin.

What made it even better was the complimentary snack box and bottled water provided to passengers. It was a thoughtful touch that elevated the experience. The staff onboard were polite and attentive, adding to the pleasant journey.

Once again, the ride was incredibly smooth. WHOOSH seems to glide effortlessly, without the shakes and rattles usually associated with trains. The silence inside the cabin made the journey relaxing, and the extra comfort of business class seats made it easy to sit back, unwind, and enjoy the scenery.

A New Era of Travel in Indonesia

There is a free feeder train from Padalarang station to Bandung station - just show the ticket counter your HSR ticket and you can get onboard this smooth train ride about 20 mins to the city.

Feeder train of HSR

Traveling on WHOOSH between Jakarta and Bandung gave me a clear sense of how transformative high-speed rail can be. Both classes offered comfort and efficiency, but business class was definitely a luxurious upgrade worth considering.

What impressed me most was not just the speed, but the overall stability, cleanliness, comfort, and professionalism of the entire journey. Whether you're a tourist exploring Indonesia or a local traveling for business, WHOOSH is truly a game-changer.

A Short Walk to Braga Street and Lunch at Braga Permai

 Bandung - After finishing my visit at the Asian–African Conference Museum, I decided to take a leisurely stroll towards Braga Street, one of Bandung’s most charming and historic areas. The walk was short and pleasant, taking me past colonial-era buildings, old shop lots, and lively sidewalks that still carry the nostalgic heartbeat of old Bandung. It felt like stepping from one chapter of history into another — from political significance to cultural charm.

As I approached Braga Street, the scene transformed into a vibrant stretch filled with cafés, boutique shops, restaurants, and creative displays. Despite being a relatively small street, Braga is packed with character. On both sides, you’ll find a mix of old Dutch architecture and modern touches, giving it a unique blend of Bandung’s past and present. The street is also known for local murals, vintage stores, and quirky items, making it a favourite stop for both tourists and locals looking for something special.

I decided to have lunch at Braga Permai, a long-standing restaurant that has been serving customers since the colonial days. It’s one of those places where you immediately feel a sense of nostalgia — from the white-tiled terrace to the classic décor that has remained faithful to its early roots. The atmosphere was calm and inviting, perfect for a break after a morning of walking.

For my meal, I ordered a mixed satay platter of mutton and chicken. To my surprise, the mutton satay was exceptionally tender, even more so than the chicken. It was juicy, flavourful, and grilled beautifully, making each bite satisfying. The chicken satay was decent, but the mutton definitely stole the show. 

I also tried their Rendang Nasi Goreng. The rice itself was aromatic and delicious, infused with the signature spices of rendang, but the beef was slightly tough — a contrast to the tender mutton I had enjoyed earlier.

To refresh myself, I ordered a whole young coconut, chilled and naturally sweet. There’s something wonderful about drinking fresh coconut water on a warm Bandung afternoon — pure, simple, and incredibly thirst-quenching.

After lunch, I continued my walk along Braga Street, exploring its small alleys and shops. The street may be short, but it is packed with interesting finds: handmade crafts, vintage artwork, local snacks, antique-style décor, and unique souvenirs. Each corner had something that caught my eye. Some cafés displayed pastries in glass counters, while others showcased Bandung’s growing art scene with paintings and handmade accessories.

The atmosphere was relaxed and delightful, with people taking photos, sipping coffee, and browsing through the small boutiques. The blend of creativity, history, and charm made my time on Braga Street feel both refreshing and inspiring.

Overall, this little afternoon journey — from the Asian–African Conference Museum to Braga Street — was a perfect mix of learning, culture, good food, and leisurely exploration. For anyone visiting Bandung, a stroll down Braga followed by a meal at Braga Permai is an experience not to be missed.

A Walk Through History at the Asian–African Conference Museum

 Bandung - My visit to the Asian–African Conference Museum in Bandung was an eye-opening journey into a defining moment of world history. Located along the historic Jalan Asia Afrika, the museum stands as a powerful reminder of how newly independent nations once gathered to shape a more just and peaceful global order. Stepping inside felt like walking into the heartbeat of the 1955 Bandung Conference — a milestone that changed the direction of Asia and Africa forever.

The museum opened exactly at 10.30AM

Entrance fee: FREE

The first thing that struck me was the beautifully preserved interior of the iconic Gedung Merdeka, where the conference originally took place. Its Art Deco architecture, polished marble floors, and grand meeting hall still exude the elegance and seriousness of that era. It was easy to imagine leaders such as Sukarno, Jawaharlal Nehru, Zhou Enlai, Gamal Abdel Nasser, and many others sitting together, determined to build a cooperative future free from colonial rule.

The museum does a remarkable job of capturing the spirit of the conference — a gathering of 29 nations representing more than half the world’s population at that time. Panels, photographs, artefacts, and audio-visual recordings bring the event to life. I spent a good amount of time reading the displays about the Five Principles (Pancasila) of Peaceful Coexistence, which became the foundation of the conference’s goals. These principles emphasised mutual respect, non-aggression, and cooperation, forming the basis of what later evolved into the Non-Aligned Movement.

One of the most powerful sections of the museum features black-and-white photos of the leaders who attended the 1955 conference. Their expressions — resolute, hopeful, and visionary — reminded me that this was not just another diplomatic meeting. It was a collective stand against oppression and a call for unity among nations emerging from decades of colonialism. The Bandung Conference symbolised the rise of Asia and Africa on the world stage.

The stamps and weighing scale used during the conference

Another highlight was the room displaying vintage equipment such as old typewriters, microphones, and radio transmitters used by journalists covering the event. I appreciated how these small details painted a vivid picture of the atmosphere in 1955 — bustling reporters, translators working tirelessly, and delegates engaging in passionate debates.

The museum tour ended at the historic main hall, still arranged almost exactly as it was during the conference. I took a moment to sit quietly and imagine the energy in that room nearly 70 years ago. It gave me a deep sense of respect for the vision and courage of the leaders who gathered there.

Visiting the Asian–African Conference Museum is not just a history lesson — it is a reminder of how unity, diplomacy, and shared ideals can shape the future.

Gedung Sate Museum - Bandung’s Most Iconic Landmark

 Bandung - My visit to Bandung was not complete without a trip to Gedung Sate.  This building carries a deep historical significance for West Java and Indonesia. I arrived early in the morning when the air was cool and the crowds light, giving me the perfect chance to truly appreciate this beloved landmark.

Standing proudly in the heart of Bandung, Gedung Sate is one of the most recognisable buildings in Indonesia. Its unique architectural design immediately captures attention: a harmonious blend of Dutch colonial style and traditional Indonesian elements. The building’s facade is grand yet graceful, with clean white walls, symmetrical windows, and touches of local artistry that soften its otherwise European exterior. The meticulously landscaped gardens surrounding it add to the charm, making the whole compound feel serene and stately.

Why is it called Gedung Sate?

The answer lies in its most distinctive feature — the central pinnacle on its roof. This structure resembles a “sate” (satay) skewer, complete with six rounded ornaments that look like stacked satay pieces. These six ornaments symbolise the six million guilders that were required to construct the building during the Dutch East Indies era. Over time, the nickname “Gedung Sate” became lovingly accepted by the locals and eventually became its official name.

Construction began in 1920 under the direction of Dutch architect J. Gerber, assisted by talented Indonesian artisans whose influence added the traditional flare that makes the building so unique. Gedung Sate originally served as the Department of Public Works for the Dutch East Indies government. Today, it remains an important centre of administration — it is the official seat of the Governor of West Java.

Walking around the building, I found myself admiring the balance between European architectural precision and Indonesian cultural identity. The wide staircases, ornate lamps, and detailed carvings show a level of craftsmanship that reflects both colonial-era engineering and local artistry. Even from the outside, Gedung Sate exudes a quiet grandeur that is both historical and modern.

The exhibits are beautifully curated, offering insights into Bandung’s development, the building’s construction history, and the cultural evolution of West Java. Interactive displays, historical photographs, and scale models helped bring the story of Gedung Sate to life. It’s impressive how the museum has blended technology with heritage, making it engaging even for younger visitors.

As I left Gedung Sate, I realised why it remains such an enduring symbol of Bandung. It is more than just a government building — it is a testament to the city’s historical journey, architectural beauty, and cultural identity. Visiting Gedung Sate gave me a deeper appreciation of Bandung’s past and its continuing legacy.

Entrance: Rp 5,000

The museum is well maintained but small, it took less than 30 mins to complete the viewing of exhibits.

A Morning at Jiwan Coffee – A Hidden Gem in Bandung

 Bandung - Tucked quietly in one of Bandung’s charming neighbourhoods, Jiwan Coffee is the kind of place you stumble upon once and end up remembering for a long time. I arrived for breakfast on a cool Bandung morning, drawn by the promise of good coffee and a calming space to start the day. What I found was far more delightful than expected — a true hidden gem where simplicity, flavour, and warmth come together beautifully.

The moment I stepped inside, the aroma of freshly brewed beans filled the air. Bandung has no shortage of coffee shops, but Jiwan Coffee has a special touch: it feels personal, crafted, and deeply connected to Indonesia’s rich coffee culture.

I ordered their brewed Americano, and the first sip was enough to convince me I had found something special. It was bold yet smooth, fragrant without being overpowering, and carried subtle earthy notes that reminded me why Indonesia is one of the world’s most treasured coffee regions. It was the kind of Americano you drink slowly, appreciating every flavour as it unfolds.

To go with my morning coffee, I ordered their Caesar salad — fresh lettuce, crisp croutons, a gentle drizzle of dressing, and just the right balance of savoury and creamy flavours. It was light, refreshing, and surprisingly satisfying as a breakfast option. Jiwan Coffee takes simple dishes and elevates them by focusing on quality ingredients and clean presentation.

Indonesia has long been famous for its coffee, and a visit to a café like Jiwan is a reminder of this heritage. Among the many varieties cultivated across the archipelago, perhaps the most intriguing is Kopi Luwak, often called civet-cat coffee. This unique coffee is made from beans eaten and passed out by the Asian palm civet. The enzymes in the civet’s digestive system ferment the beans, producing a distinctive flavour that many describe as exceptionally smooth and less acidic. While controversial and often misunderstood, authentic, ethically sourced Kopi Luwak remains one of the rarest coffees in the world.

The global connection between Indonesia and coffee doesn’t end there. The word “Java”, which today is synonymous with “coffee” in many English-speaking countries, actually comes from the Indonesian island of Java, one of the earliest and most productive coffee-growing regions during the Dutch colonial era. For decades, coffee shipped from Java was considered among the best in the world, and over time, “a cup of java” simply became another way of saying “a cup of coffee.”

Sitting at Jiwan Coffee, sipping a beautifully brewed Americano, I couldn’t help but reflect on how Indonesia’s coffee culture is woven into its history, its land, and its people. Jiwan feels like a quiet tribute to this heritage — modern yet rooted, simple yet meaningful.

Durians and Dinner

 Bandung - Today’s little food adventure began at an unexpected place—a supermarket. I had wandered in looking for something simple to snack on, only to spot a pile of neatly pile opf durians sitting in a corner of the fresh produce section. The price caught my eye immediately: Rp8,500 per 100g.  I paid S$9.30 for one whole durian.   

The supermarket helper cracked the durian open for me, the first impression was a pale white flesh, not the golden hue of the premium varieties like Musang King. The aroma was mild, almost shy. Each piece of flesh looked generous at first glance, but once I tasted it, I realised the seeds were quite large, taking up more space than expected. The texture was decent but not as creamy or buttery as high-grade durians, but still smooth enough to enjoy. The sweetness was mild, lacking the rich depth and bold bitterness that Musang King lovers would crave.

Dinner: A Feast of Ribs and Crispy Pork

The evening ended on a much more indulgent note—a short walk to a BBQ ribs restaurant for dinner. The moment I walked in, the aroma of smoked meat immediately set the mood. The meal started with the highlight: a 300-gram serving of BBQ ribs. They were beautifully done—tender, juicy, and seasoned with the perfect balance of smokiness and sweetness. Each bite came off the bone effortlessly, the kind of ribs that make you pause for a moment just to appreciate how well they’re cooked.

Next came the three-layer pork, a dish the meat was a bit tough. The crispy crackling was the star—thin, crunchy, and packed with flavour. Beneath it, the alternating layers of fat and meat were savoury but tough. With each bite having a satisfying crunch.

It was a simple dinner, but deeply satisfying. The warm atmosphere, the smoky scents from the grill, and the comfort of hearty meat dishes made it the perfect way to end the day.

Situ (Lake) Patengang

 Bandung - After a morning filled with adventure from steaming volcanic landscapes to swaying suspension bridges—the final stop of my Ciwidey tour brought a welcome change of pace: the serene and picturesque Lake Patenggang. Nestled high in the cool highlands of Bandung, this lake is often described as one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the area, and as soon as we arrived, I understood why.

The moment I stepped out of the car, I was greeted by a sweeping view of the lake’s calm, glassy waters stretching elegantly across the landscape. Surrounded by rolling tea plantations and misty mountains, Lake Patenggang looked almost like a painting with layers of green, soft clouds drifting above, and gentle ripples moving across the water. The air was cool and refreshing, the kind that makes you naturally take a deeper breath and slow down for a moment of quiet appreciation.

Visitors were scattered around the lakeside, taking photos, walking leisurely, or simply enjoying the unobstructed view. The tranquillity of the place felt like an invitation to pause and appreciate the simplicity of nature: water, hills, and sky blending harmoniously.

A Ship on the Hill

After soaking in the lakeside scenery, my driver offered to take me to the other side of Lake Patenggang, where yet another unique sight awaited—a restaurant built in the shape of a giant wooden ship, perched on a hill overlooking the lake.  I crossed a short suspension bridge to reach the restaurant.

Stepping onto the deck of the restaurant felt almost surreal. From the top, I could see the entire expanse of Lake Patenggang stretching below me.  The shimmering water, the surrounding greenery, and the rolling plantations layered in the distance. The vantage point made the scenery even more stunning, like a panoramic postcard come alive.

Many visitors were seated along the edges of the deck, sipping drinks or enjoying a warm meal while taking in the breathtaking view. The cool mountain breeze, combined with the rustic wooden ambiance of the ship, created a peaceful atmosphere that made me want to linger a little longer. It was the perfect place for pictures, reflection, and simply enjoying the moment.

Returning to the Hotel

After spending some time admiring the view from the ship and walking around the upper deck, it was time to head back. The drive from Lake Patenggang to the hotel felt quieter, perhaps because the scenery had already left such an imprint of calm and beauty. As we wound through the hills and tea plantations once more, I found myself replaying the day’s highlights from the white crater, the hot springs, the plantation views, and now the serene lake crowned with a ship in the sky.

Kawah Rengganis - lunch - Ciwidey Tea Plantation

 Bandung - After an exhilarating morning exploring Kawah Putih and crossing the suspension bridge, my next stop was Kawah Rengganis, a natural hot spring area known for its soothing geothermal pools and rustic, untouched charm. 

Unlike many commercialised hot springs, Kawah Rengganis retains a more natural, kampung-like atmosphere—steaming vents rise from the ground, sulfuric pools bubble gently, and stone pathways lead visitors through the lush greenery.

What makes Kawah Rengganis particularly special is how the place brings people together. When I arrived, I saw groups of young and old Indonesians gathered around the shallow hot pools, soaking their feet while chatting and laughing. 

Some were sitting on rocks, letting the warm water soothe their muscles, while others stood at the edge, dipping their feet carefully to test the temperature before settling in. The steam rising from the water created a soft haze, giving the entire scene a calming, almost serene feel.

My ticket included entrance to this hot spring area, so I took my time walking around the pools and soaking in the atmosphere. The water, warmed by geothermal activity beneath the earth, was comfortably hot (only wash my hands), and the sulfur is said to have natural healing benefits. Whether or not that’s true, the relaxation alone made it worth the visit.

A Hearty Sundanese Lunch

After spending some time enjoying Kawah Rengganis, my driver whisked me off for lunch at a nearby Sundanese eatery. The setting was simple but welcoming, surrounded by bamboo structures and traditional décor. I ordered nasi liwet with BBQ chicken, a comforting dish of fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with smoky, tender grilled chicken. To wash it down, I treated myself to a fresh coconut drink, its natural sweetness and icy chill providing perfect relief from the heat of the hot spring.

The meal ended on a lovely note with a serving of tea from the plantation, which was earthy, smooth, and aromatic. Knowing the tea came directly from the fields I was about to visit made it even more special.

Exploring the Ciwidey Tea Plantations

Our final stop for the day was the vast Ciwidey tea plantation, an iconic landscape of rolling green hills blanketed with neatly trimmed tea shrubs. As the car drove deeper into the plantation, the scenery opened up into endless rows of vibrant green—an ocean of tea leaves that swayed gently with the mountain breeze.

The driver explained that the plantation was originally established by the Dutch during colonial times. Today, it is owned and managed by the Indonesian government, continuing its long tradition of producing high-quality tea. I learned that it was now tea plucking season, and some of the shrubs had been completely stripped of their tender young leaves. But the cycle is quick and within just three months, the bushes will regenerate fully, ready to be harvested again.

Walking through the plantation gave me a renewed appreciation for the entire tea-making process: the labour, the careful tending, and the centuries of tradition behind each cup. It was the perfect calm ending to a day filled with adventure, natural beauty, and cultural discovery.