West Java is a vast, historic province known for its fascinating ruins, exceptional culture and varied terrain. The province is among the most populous regions in the world. Get a thorough insight into Indonesia with a trip through the busy cities and suburbs of this fascinating region.

Bandung is a metropolis full of cultural attractions. Visit the Geology Museum to see bones and fossils from dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals. Bring your kids to learn about the region’s natural history. Other top attractions include the Grand Mosque and Braga Street, where you will find many historic and iconic buildings.

Walk through the city centers and learn about the local Sunda people, who have their own dialect a little different from Indonesian or Malay. For a sense of local food, try the Sundanese nasi timbel dish that consists of rice wrapped in a banana leaf. Coconut milk is popular here too.

Look for endangered species as you trek through the lush mountain jungles of Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park and Mount Halimun Salak National Park. The Bodor Botanical Gardens offer easier access for a glimpse of tropical vegetation. Visit the southern beaches of Pangandaran and Cimaja for white sands, blue skies and clear waters.

North of the province is Indonesia’s capital city of Jakarta. Wander through the streets of the capital for its main highlights, such as the National Museum of Indonesia, the Jakarta Cathedral and the Istiqlal Mosque. West of the city is the Banten Province, which contains beaches, the one-horned Java rhino and fascinating ruins of sultans’ palaces.

The province lies in the western part of the island of Java, in western Indonesia. Fly to Bandara Husein Sastranegara International Airport in Bandung or Jakarta International Airport and get around the region by bus, train and other public transportation networks. Rent a bicycle to travel through the outlying towns.

West Java is a historical and topographical treasure in western Indonesia.