BENGKULU

STORY ABOUT BENGKULU

The capital of Bengkulu Province is the coastal city formely known as Bencoden. It was the site of Sir Stamford Raffles first entry into Indonesia and there are still remains of British influence in the area. The primary crops of the area are pepper, coffee, nutmeg, and sugar cane. The most fascinating nature charms are the exofic Rafflesia arnoldi.

PLACES OF INTEREST

1) FORT MARLBOROUGH

Fort Marlborough. The British or ‘Raffles’ Fort, was built between 1714 and 1719 and was famous as the second-strongest fort built by British in Asia, Fort George in Madras, India being the first. It was restored and opened to the public.

2) TIKUS ISLAND

Tikus island is excellent for fishing, snorkeling and diving with easy access by speedboat from the old harbour in Bengkulu

3) ENGGANO ISLAND

Enggano Island is covered by dense rain forest filled with buffalo, pigs, and cattle. The people have lived in virtual isolation for centuries, their traditional culture still very much alive today. Native art forms include intriguing Enggano dances. The island can be reached by boat from either Baai Harbour or Bintuhan seaport.

4) BUKIT KABA VOLCANIC CRATER

Bukit Kaba Volcanic Crater is 104 km from Bengkulu and about 19km from Curup, lies 1,937 m above sea level. There are two immense sulfuric calderas with twelve active craters. Beautiful panoramic views and cool mountain air make this a pleasant stop for a couple of days. There are popular hot springs near Curup at Suban

5) SOEKARNO'S RESIDENCE

Soekarno’s Residence. The first President of Indonesia was exiled to Bengkulu by the Dutch in 1938. Today the house is museum, containing his books, clothes, photos and his bicycle. The house is open 8am to 2pm, Tuesday to Thursday, Friday 8am to 11am and Saturday 8am to 12pm.

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