Day Trip to Curug Cipanas Nagrak Hot Springs
A Hidden Gem in Lembang, Bandung
Located on the outskirts of Lembang, Curug Cipanas Nagrak Hot Spring is a natural spring and waterfall that offers visitors a relaxing soak in warm, mineral-rich water. The pools are surrounded by natural rock formations and lush greenery, providing an ideal scenario for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy unwinding in the pools and appreciating the breathtaking natural scenery while having all the essential amenities that make it an experience that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Table of Contents
What to see in Curug Cipanas
1. Selamat Datang
Upon being left in an unassuming car park along the roadside, we make our way down a narrow path cutting through the forest. Wooden plaques marked the way, inscribed in Sudanese script without English translations, indicating that this destination was still primarily frequented by locals rather than international tourists. Upon reaching the end of this brief trail, visitors are greeted by a ticket office and a welcoming sign perched above the azure waters below.
2. The Hot Spring
The Curug Cipanas Hot Spring is renowned for its therapeutic effects attributed to its rich mineral composition, notably sulfur, calcium, and magnesium. Visitors can immerse themselves in several pools with temperatures varying from comfortably warm to invigoratingly hot.
These pools, heated geothermally, maintain a natural temperature range of 30 to 45 degrees Celsius (86 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit). Those closer to the waterfall offer the most warmth, while the larger pools further away provide a more mild temperature, ideal for a leisurely swim.
3. The amenities
Surrounding the pools are numerous elevated and covered bamboo cabins, providing an ideal setting to unwind with your family and recharge in between swims. These cabins offer protection from the light rain that is common in this mountainous region, enabling visitors to relish the beauty of the spot regardless of the weather conditions.
Nearby, there are charming outdoor cafes, serving delicious Javanese snacks and refreshing drinks. Furthermore, essential facilities such as shower cabins and toilets are conveniently available on-site, accessible for a small fee. The well-maintained amenities and ease of access at Curug Cipanas make it a perfect destination for families seeking a fun and tranquil day amidst nature.
Where to stay near Curug Cipanas
Curug Cipanas is located on the outskirts of Lembang. Lembang is a small scenic city, with many waterfalls, forest parks and the famous Lembang Floating Market, but since it is a small city there is not so much accommodation variety and is more difficult to find transportation.
Just a short 40-minute drive from Lembang lies the enchanting city of Bandung, the capital of West Java. Often referred to as the “Paris of Java,” Bandung is a lively metropolis with over 11 million inhabitants. It boasts excellent train connections, a thriving café culture, diverse dining options, and shopping spots to suit every budget. Encircled by stunning natural landscapes, Bandung also serves as a gateway to scenic wonders like Kawah Putih Crater Lake, Kawah Rengganis, and the serene Ciwidey tea plantations.
More importantly, Bandung offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.
Top Hotel Recommendation in Bandung
How to get to Curug Cipanas
The most convenient way to reach Curug Cipanas is from Bandung. While Bandung does not have an international airport, the city is well connected through the railway to all the major cities in Java. The train service from Jakarta to Bandung operates daily from Gambir train station.
The journey typically spans around 2 hours and 45 minutes with ticket prices ranging from 150,000 IDR for economy class to 510,000 IDR for luxury class. Passengers can enjoy modern and comfortable amenities on board, including delicious and reasonably priced Indonesian meals at the bar. The route offers picturesque views of the mountains and lush rice fields, adding to the allure of the journey. For seamless travel arrangements, consider booking your train tickets in advance through the Traveloka App.
Upon arriving in Bandung, utilizing the Grab taxi app presents a convenient and cost-effective option to reach the Curug Cipanas Hot Spring. The journey to Curug Cipanas from Bandung typically takes around 40 minutes. It’s advisable to plan your return journey ahead of time, as securing a Grab ride to Bandung late in the day can pose challenges due to limited availability.
While renting a scooter may seem like a viable alternative, we do not advise that option. The island of Java is famous for its chaotic traffic. The bustling roads are packed with motorcycles and the many rules (priorities, zebra crossings, etc) seem to simply be overseen by the locals which may prove daunting for unfamiliar riders. Opting for a local driver well-versed in navigating the traffic flow could offer a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Best time to visit Curug Cipanas
West Java has a tropical climate, which is characterized by high humidity and regularly high temperatures averaging 24ºC yearly. The region of Bandung, due to its mountainous characteristics, has usually milder temperatures, averaging 20ºC all year round. Here you will have only two seasons: the dry season, from May to September, and the wet season, from October to March.
Visiting Curug Cipanas during the dry season increases your chances of experiencing clear skies and sunny weather, allowing you to fully appreciate your day soaking in the thermal waters, amidst the lush greenery surrounding the waterfall and the calming sound of water cascading down the rocks. The waterfall can still be visited during the wet season. However, heavy rainfall during this period may result in higher water levels and stronger currents, which can impact accessibility and safety.
Hours, Fees and Tips
The hot spring is open daily from 7 am to 6 pm.
The entrance fee typically costs between 10,000 to 20,000 IDR.
The majority of Java's residents follow moderate Islamic practices, so wearing a bathing suit to pools is generally accepted and not seen as disrespectful. However, it's important to be mindful of local customs and avoid overly revealing attire, as many Indonesians prefer to swim fully clothed.
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