The city of Bandung in Indonesia’s West Java province boasts skyscrapers and high-rise buildings surrounded by tea farms, scenic volcanic mountains, and green rolling hills. Bandung has grown from a humble tea and coffee agricultural hub on the upper Citarum River basin into one of the country’s largest metropolitan areas, packed with shopping centers, theatres, amusement parks, museums, and art galleries.

While the city itself is highly modern, the outskirts of Bandung offer a landscape of mountainous volcanoes covered in lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and rushing rivers. A network of hiking trails allows you to experience these natural settings and the diverse wildlife in the area. The sound of running water, trees rustling in the breeze, and the chatter of monkeys swinging from the treetops are a welcome reprieve from the bustling city at the bottom of the mountains.

Bandung’s warm temperatures and frequent rainfall are typical of its tropical rainforest climate. Due to the city’s higher elevation, temperatures remain cooler than many of the surrounding cities. August and September generally have the least number of rainy days, but regardless of when you decide to stay in a villa in Bandung, make sure you pack waterproof clothing. January and February tend to be the wettest months, so bear that in mind if you intend to spend your time hiking.

The consistent year-round weather makes Bandung a popular place for events and festivals. Cap Go Meh marks the end of Lunar New Year celebrations with lion dances and lanterns. The tail end of the year brings the Jakarta Independent Film Festival, which gathers international filmmakers from the local area and all over the world.

Tangkuban Perahu

Located around 50 minutes north of Bandung, Tangkuban Perahu is an active volcano that’s a popular hiking destination — although you can also drive to the top of it. Check out the dusty craters, steamy hot springs, and boiling mud from the scenic overlook. It’s a good idea to make the trip in the morning to avoid the fog that rolls in later in the day.

Bandung Geological Museum

The largest museum in the city showcases an extensive display of fossils, gems, and minerals, including fragments of meteorite, a 200,000-year-old elephant skeleton, and dinosaur fossils. Interactive displays for all ages allow you to experience a volcano erupting or watch how earthquakes and tsunamis form. Check out the 3D photography setup, where you can snap a picture of yourself transported back to the Jurassic period.

Cikahuripan Canyon

Located 40 minutes north of Bandung, Cikahuripan Canyon is commonly referred to as the Green Canyon due to its deeply colored water. The shallow water in the canyon allows for swimming or floating on one of the rafts that can be rented nearby. You’ll want to snap a photo while exploring this natural wonder, as the turquoise water offers a stark contrast to the steep rocky canyon cliffs that surround it.