Attractions

Guide

Java - famous island in the Big sunda islands. It is located near Sumatra and attracts thousands of tourists every year. Rich culture, unique flora and fauna, specificity local color, authentic atmosphere - all this makes the island especially popular among visitors.

There are several interpretations of the name of the island. The first says that the word "java" is translated from the ancient Indonesian language as "dwelling". According to another version, the name of the island comes from the Sanskrit word for barley. Until now, researchers have not been able to determine the exact meaning of the name.

By its origin, Java refers to both continental and volcanic natural objects. The island's landscape is based on a long Mountain chain, stretching along the central part. Along the entire mountain range, there are more than 110 volcanoes of various sizes. At the same time, the highest point is the Semeru volcano, which is still active. In addition, there are many water areas on the island.

Archaeological excavations indicate that the first man set foot on the land of the island in the second century BC. In the third century AD, urban settlements were formed in Java and statehood appeared. One of the most prosperous states was called Mataram and existed for many years.

At the end of the 13th century, Java was under the dominion of Kublai Khan, who created a great empire on the island. It existed for more than 200 years, after which it fell apart. In the 17th century, the island was occupied by the Dutch, under whose influence many European colonies appeared in Java. However, after World War II, the island became part of independent state Indonesia.

How to get there

The fastest and convenient way to get to Java from Russia - flight by plane. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport International Airport daily receives several dozen flights from different parts of the world. From large Russian cities Aircraft of such air carriers as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways ply to Jakarta. At the same time, you will spend from 17 to 22 hours on the flight and make a transfer in Singapore, Dubai, Bangkok or Doha.

It is better to buy tickets in advance, as a trip to Java is in demand all year round. In order to find a cheaper option, regularly monitor airline offers and stay tuned for price changes.

If you are already in Indonesia, then you can try to get to Java by ferry. Pelni provides tourists with the opportunity to ride a ferry. However, keep in mind the fact that ferries do not differ in an increased level of comfort and the lack of empty seats is the main problem of this type of transport. A ticket for the ferry is bought either at the box office at the pier, or on a specialized website.

The railway is another way to get to Java. Railway communication connects the cities of Jakarta, Semarang, Surakarta, Bandung, Jogju. When purchasing a ticket, pay attention to the class of the carriage. All three of them. The first class involves traveling in a comfortable compartment and with air conditioning, the second class is a seat, and the third is a wooden bench.

Features of the hotel base

The choice of accommodation in Java is huge, ranging from guesthouses to five-star hotels. There are several options that suit different categories of tourists: apartments; hostels; bungalow; hotels.

Couples and large companies often choose to rent apartments or guesthouses. Such housing will be inexpensive, and its size will pleasantly surprise you. Guesthouses are usually located in the sleeping areas of the island. The price of the apartments includes a standard set of services: bedding, kitchen and bathroom supplies, parking space, free internet, a seating area in the garden. You can also rent cozy bungalows on the coast with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Accommodation in the hostel is aimed at students or single travelers. This type of housing in Java is considered very inexpensive and clean. Recently, hostels have been built in every area. The cost of the room depends on the location, conditions and occupancy.

As for hotels, you will have no problems finding them. Hotels are traditionally divided into different categories and differ in cost. The most expensive ones are in the central part of the island, and the cheapest ones are on the outskirts. For tourists, a special system of discounts has been developed that allows you to book rooms at an affordable price.

Attractions

A few kilometers from Surabaya is the rarest national park called Bromo-Tenger-Semeru. On an area of ​​more than 750 square meters there are forests, volcanoes, waterfalls, which have their own unique ecosystem. Visitors note the unusual landscape of the park, as most of it is covered with sand of volcanic origin. Thousands of years ago, tribes lived in the park, from which this natural object and got its name. The pearl of Bromo-Tenger-Semeru is five volcanoes. They are not far from each other, and their appearance is shrouded in legends. According to one of them, if you go up to the crater of the volcano, you can see the entrance to the afterlife there. Thanks to this legend, the popularity of the park is growing every day, as many tourists want to reach the top of the mystical volcanoes.

Must visit temple complex Borobudur is located 35 kilometers from Jakarta. Scientists have not yet agreed on the date and authors of this architectural artifact. For a long time, the shrine could not be found due to the fact that it was hidden in the dense thickets of the jungle. After the discovery of this amazing masterpiece, tourists rushed to it in order to get to know the traditional culture of the island. Presumably, the complex was erected in the 8th-9th centuries.

Connoisseurs of large-scale architectural projects will love the Taman Sari Water Palace, founded by one of the rulers of Java in the 18th century. The complex is formed by the premises of the palace, fountains, a lake, rest rooms and scenic spots for meditation. A large amount of money was allocated from the local budget for the palace, which made it possible to create a masterpiece incredible beauty and harmony.

If you want to get closer to the nature of Java, then visit the Bogor Botanical Garden. It is considered one of the largest in Indonesia and is known outside the country. The area of ​​the garden is 88 hectares, where more than 14,000 plants grow from different parts of the world. The garden has the largest collection of orchids. They are located in special greenhouses and delight visitors all year round.

beach holiday

The pride of the island of Java are its magnificent beaches, stretching for several kilometers. All beaches are united in tourist areas, which differ slightly from each other. The difference is only in the level of infrastructure and features of the surrounding landscape.

Couples with children tend to get to Carita Beach, where there are all conditions for a relaxing pastime, as well as diving or snorkeling. For children on the beach there is a separate area with buoys, lifeguards and playrooms. Besides, coastline The beach is covered with fine sand, and the entrance to the water is comfortable and gentle. Resting on Karita, you can enjoy the view of the majestic volcano Krakatoa.

Be sure to include a visit to Panahitan Island with its beautiful beaches in your excursion program. You can come to the island only with the permission of the local authorities, since its territory is considered closed to outsiders.

The western part of Java is famous for its resort Anyer. Here you will find an abundance of restaurants, beaches, hotels for every taste. Also on Anyer is an old lighthouse built by Dutch colonists. Hundreds of tourists come to see it every year.

Exotic lovers should go to Plengkung Beach, which is known for hosting surfing competitions on its territory. The waves here reach a height of 2-6 meters, which is ideal for professional surfers. Competitions have international status and participation in them is considered very prestigious.

If you want to surprise the kids, then head to Sukamade Beach. Here you will find a fascinating sight: hundreds of small turtles hatch from eggs and strive for the water surface. You can also swim on the beach and enjoy amazing sunset views. The only disadvantage of Sukamade is the lack of mobile communications and the Internet.

What to bring

The shops and markets of Java are full of original products, which tourists often buy for relatives and friends. A wide range is presented in the capital of the island, however, small resorts you can find something to bring with you. Of the most popular things that are brought from Java:

• wooden masks intended for holidays or ritual actions;
• goods made of genuine leather;
• caskets and jewelry covered with mother-of-pearl;
• products made of porcelain, tin, stone, silver;
• dolls made in national technique;
• umbrellas, rattan bags, paintings, panels;
• unusual pottery made of ceramics with a painting in traditional style;
• fabrics made using a special technique;
• figurines and figurines made of sandalwood.

In local markets, tourists often buy fragrant spices, sweets, jasmine petal tea, soy milk and other unusual products.

The most famous and one of the most expensive varieties of Kopi Luwak coffee is exported from Java. The features of its production are not created by man, but by nature itself: a small musang animal from the ivver family eats the fruits of coffee trees, and people only have to collect the grains that have passed through the musang digestive system.

general information

The island, with a length of just over 2,000 km, has received such a role due to its favorable location in the center of the archipelago, as well as favorable conditions for growing rice, which for South-East Asia signifies the victory of life over death. Almost the entire history of Indonesia is the history of the struggle for Java and its fertile lands, first between local kingdoms, then with European colonizers. You can read more about these twists and turns in the general historical section.

The ethnic composition of the island is quite homogeneous. Muslim Javanese, who consider themselves an intellectual elite, are evenly distributed throughout. The Madureans adhere to an even stricter Islam and are concentrated mainly in the northeast of the island. Only in the eastern part, on the uplands of Bromo-Semeru, did the Hindu enclave of the Tenggers, descendants of the Majapahit empire, remain. Arabs, Indians, and other trading people settled in port cities, but their influence is insignificant. Much more powerful is the small Chinese diaspora, whose representatives can be seen in the largest jewelry stores in the country.

“Java is overpopulated, Java is overindustrialized and overrun by tourists, there is nothing to do there,” one often hears from the lips of the “experienced”. Indeed, the population density here is one of the highest in the world, the industry is booming, and foreign guests are by no means a wonder. But those incredible natural landscapes, unique ancient temples and original culture that Java is so rich in make it perhaps the most fertile place for interesting trip in the country. Much more interesting than boring and touristy Bali. In favor of Java, the developed transport infrastructure, with which you can easily get into its most remote corners. As befits a capital, everything begins and ends in Jakarta.

How to get there

By air

Five international airports connect Java with the outside world, but only one "Soekarno-Hatta International Airport" ("Sukarno - Atta") in Jakarta is designed to receive large airliners from other continents. It serves the vast majority of international flights, being used as a transit point for continuing travel around the country. Airports in Jogja, Bandung and Surakarta (Solo) are connected only with the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, by flights of the Air Asia airline. Surabaya is another major transport node, where flights from Malaysia and Thailand arrive.

Flights to other major Indonesian islands are usually operated by local airlines (more than a dozen) from Jakarta and Surabaya airports. Major national carriers Garuda Indonesia and Merpati price tickets at around $100 if bought a few days in advance. Other airlines ("Mandala Air", "Air Asia", "Lion Air", "Citylink", "Batavia", "Awair", "Sriwijaya" and others) they ask for 2 times cheaper, but when buying a few hours before departure, the price rises to the same $ 80-100. There are a lot of flights, and usually there are no problems with departure. Inside the island, flight schedules are also quite tight, competition is high, and prices are low. local terminal (Domestic Terminal) Jakarta Airport operates flights to Surabaya, Jogju, Surakarta and Semarang (Semarang).

From Russia to Java you can get regular flights Moscow - Jakarta of several airlines:

• Qatar Airways with a transfer in Doha and landing in Kuala Lumpur (2 flights per day);
• "Singapur Airlines" with a transfer in Singapore (2 flights per day);
• Emirates with transfer in Dubai (1 flight per day);
• Thai Airways with a transfer in Bangkok (1 flight per day).

In any case, the flight will take at least 18 - 20 hours and will cost from 30,000 rubles.

By sea. National shipping company "Pelni" (www.pelni.co.id) operates passenger ferry services of large capacity between Java and some large islands such as Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi and Bali. Ports are in Jakarta, Ciberone (Ciberon), Surabaya and Semarang. Travel like this is a pleasure. The ferries are extremely slow and crowded with people - usually those who are unable to pay for the airfare. On average, a trip to another island costs about $ 20, with increasing distance, the price increases proportionally.

By rail

This way of traveling around Java is very popular. The northern railway line connected Jakarta, Chiberon, Semarang and Surabaya. The southern one passes through Jakarta, Bandung, Jogju, Surakarta and ends in Surabaya. Line with local trains links Surabaya and towns East Java. From Jakarta, a separate short branch goes west to the coast.

Train cars are divided into 3 classes. The first one is exekutif (similar to our coupe, with air conditioning), the second - bisnis (seated, no air conditioning) and the third - ekonomi, the worst analogue of our electric trains. Time flies the fastest in the latter, in the fight against stuffiness, merchants and cockroaches. The cost, respectively, differs from the class of travel. Trains run only short distances to the suburbs. Driving from Surabaya to the towns of East Java and from Jakarta to west coast also carried out by the third class. It is convenient to find out about the schedule and fare on the website www.seat61.com.

On the ground

You will never forget a trip in an ordinary intercity bus and tell your grandchildren. Cigarette smoke hangs like a rocker, the distances between the seats are usually designed for dystrophics and slender Asians, every 10-15 minutes another musician and entire orchestras enter the salon, arranging an express concert. Thank them for the accompaniment should be 1,000 Rp. You can estimate the fare at the rate of 100 km - 25,000 Rp, but the situation with the cost of gasoline is changing rapidly. Sometimes a tourist who wants to travel from point A to point B is transferred along a chain from one bus to another, and the entire journey is paid for even at the first landing. You should not be afraid that subsequent conductors will make you pay a second time - there is a mystical otherworldly connection between them, and they are aware of the payment and destination of foreign guests.

It should be noted that the bus usually breaks down on the way, so you cannot match its schedule with the departure of the plane or the departure of the train, you must have at least a few hours of a temporary handicap.

Java is one of the Indonesian islands. In the north it is washed by the Java Sea, and Indian Ocean on South. The island stretches for 1000 kilometers in length. On the north side, the nearest island is Borneo, on the east, on the south, Christmas Island, and on the west, the nearest island is Sumatra. Most of the people in Indonesia live in Java. Here is the capital of this island nation – .

There are only two seasons on the island: in winter, from October to February, it rains, while the humidity sometimes reaches almost 100%, and the rest of the time, in summer, it is sunny and warm. The air temperature is almost the same, within 27-35 degrees. Thanks to this feature, thousands of tourists come here to relax and get to know the natural wonders and culture of Java.

The history of Indonesia is closely connected with the island: in the Middle Ages, it was in Java that the Majapahit empire flourished, the ancient states of Demak and Mataram were born here, and later Java became the center of the colonial East India Company. In addition, it was here that the struggle for freedom and independence unfolded in the middle of the last century.
Today Java is a major economic, cultural and political center of the state.

How to get to Java

The island has several airports, so you can get here from anywhere in the world. The ports also accept ships and ferries.
The most accessible and common form of transport is buses, which are ideal for both short trips around the city and longer trips around the island. If you wish, you can rent a car, especially since the quality of local roads is not inferior to European ones. There is also Railway, which is recognized as the best in Indonesia.

The nature of the island of Java

The island is famous for its unique nature: a chain of volcanoes stretched along its entire length, many of them are extinct, but about 30 are active, they are a unique sight. Magnificent landscapes give way to no less impressive beaches, and the jungle - gushing hot springs.
The third part of the island is covered impenetrable jungle. Interestingly, only in Java there are such animal species as the Javan leopard, Javanese pig, green peacock.

Attractions of Java

The island has preserved a huge number of historical relics from different eras. Due to the unique layering of religions, which can only be found here, many shrines, mosques and palaces are scattered throughout the territory.
The most developed and favored by tourists are Jakarta, Surabaya, Yogyakarta.

Jakarta has a unique look. Islamic, European, Hindu and Buddhist cultures intertwined here, which was reflected in the architectural and historical appearance of the city. Town Square Taman Fatahila is surrounded by ancient palaces: historical national museum, which contains exhibits related to the thousand-year history of the island, the Chikken Market Bridge drawbridge, the old city port of Sunda Kelapa. You should definitely visit Medan Merdek - the square on which there is a monument symbolizing the struggle for independence. Its top is covered with 35 kg of pure gold, and at the very top is built Observation deck, which offers a beautiful panorama of the city and impressive surroundings. The oldest temple in the city of Jine Yuan is located in the Chinese region. Another favorite place for tourists is the Mini-Indonesia Park.

In addition, these are endless beaches and the azure warm sea. Many hotels have been built on the coast and all conditions for an unforgettable vacation have been created.
Not far from Jakarta is the world's largest zoo Ragunan.
The place was chosen by both tourists and Javanese, who like to have picnics here.
Surobaya is one of the largest cities in Indonesia. In addition to numerous museums and temples, it is worth visiting the Meru Metiri and Baluran reserves.
Not far from the capital is Bogora - one of the most popular mountain resorts countries. The most interesting for acquaintance are the presidential residence of Sokarno, which has its own zoological museum, and the palace of the Dutch governor of the East Indies, and a botanical garden spread over 80 hectares. garden-park"Kebun Raya".
The island has another high-altitude resort of amazing beauty - Bandung. Particularly popular are Jalan Chiham Pelas and Dago, these streets are lined with shops and offices. Outside the city are the beaches of Karang Bolong and Anyer.
The city of Jogya, or Yogyakarta, is known for temples from different times and cultures. Huge Muslim architectural complex Sultan Kraton, Taman-Sari Castle, Sono Badoyo Historical Museum - these are the main attractions.

To the south of Jogya, 45 km away is the architectural complex of the Borobudur Stupa - the largest Buddhist building, which is a pyramid, circled in a spiral by a many-kilometer road, symbolizing the spiritual principle.
Between Yogyakarta and the town of Solo there is another ancient Hindu masterpiece that deserves attention -. The most popular temples are Chandi Sari, Chandi Sevu and Chandi Kalasan.

Landscapes and volcanoes

There are picturesque tea plantations in the vicinity, hot underground springs operate in Chiater and Maribaya. It is worth visiting Dago Falls, Tangkuban Perahu Volcano.
There are many natural parks and reserves on the island. Alas Purvo is endless mangrove forests, exotic animal world and beaches lined with palm trees.
An hour's drive from the city of Bogor there is another nature reserve- Gunung Halimun. It is famous for the fact that Javanese gibons are found only here.
Bromo Tengger Semeru is a kind of visiting card of Indonesia, thanks to its unique landscapes.

Of course, volcanoes are of great interest to vacationers. The most famous and picturesque are Bromo, Semeru, Merapi. In the center of the island, Bleduk Kuvu, a volcano spewing mud and steam, attracts tourists.
In all the picturesque corners of the island, both group and individual excursions. Moreover, very often local residents are happy, for a small fee, to acquaint tourists with the sights.
And, of course, it is worth buying souvenirs: masks, carved dishes, paintings. Very popular pearls self made Plus, they're relatively inexpensive.

Cuisine in Java

The cuisine is famous for a large amount of rice and legumes, a variety of vegetables and exotic fruits. In small cafes with low prices, you can enjoy local dishes, ginger tea and tuak beer. Although, there are also quite unusual dishes, for example, pies from silted earth, which are considered very useful here. As in all of Southeast Asia, here you can taste a lot of rice dishes.

Holidays in Java are especially popular in winter, this is a great way to escape from the cold, combining holidays by the sea with excursions to the exotic corners of the island.

central stupa

Prambanan

18 km east of Yogyakarta is another unique temple complex - Prambanan. It is assumed that this Buddhist shrine was built in the X century. In the first half of the last century, restoration was carried out by the efforts of Dutch scientists. Particularly popular with tourists is the Prambanan Temple - a 47-meter-high building, consisting of four tiers, made in the form of concentric square platforms.

There are smaller temples around. The walls of the temples are decorated with bas-reliefs based on scenes from the Ramayana. A visit to the Prambanan complex for foreigners is paid - $ 15. A beautiful green alley. Although the main stage of restoration is over, but there are piles of stones everywhere. Excavations and restoration are ongoing.

Surabaya

Surabaya is located in the east of Java - one of the main ports of Indonesia, the second largest city.

For most tourists, it is a "transit point" on the way to Sulawesi and the island of Bali. However, Sarabai has its own merits. Here you can feel a charming mixture of old and modern. Noteworthy is Masjid al Akbar Surabaya - a majestic mosque in the Arab quarter, the height of which is 65 m. Having taken the elevator to its upper part, you can admire Surabaya from a bird's eye view.

You should definitely see the Suramadu Suspension Bridge, which connects about. Java from about. Madura. Its length is 5.5 km, width - 32 m, height - 35 m.

Volcanoes

Human nature is such that danger frightens and fascinates at the same time. Volcanoes in Indonesia attract a huge number of tourists who want to see natural beauty and power active volcanoes. On about. Java has more than 35 active volcanoes, and the island itself is also of volcanic origin. Each of them is famous for something: Merapi - activity, Semeru - height, Krakatau - destruction, Kawa Ijen - sulfur lake, Tangkuban - accessibility.

In the east, about Java is home to the beautiful Bromo Volcano, one of the most active in the world and the most visited in Indonesia. A formidable volcano, whose height is 2329 m, among the surreal alien landscape from time to time releases clouds of smoke. Tourists come here to meet the dawn in order to look at the miracle of nature in the early morning.

Bromo volcano

The next in the popularity rating is the Kawah Ijen volcano, 2400 m high. It became famous for its unique emerald lake located inside the crater - the largest acidic lake in the world, containing sulfuric acid instead of water. In the daytime, a white haze swirls over it, and at night, tongues of blue flame appear.

Sulfur collectors work in the crater of the volcano, extracting lumps of sulfur on the shores of the lake in very harmful and dangerous conditions. The temperature on the surface of the lake is about 60 °C, and at its bottom - 200 °C. Despite the unusual and frightening beauty, the crater of the Kawa Ijen volcano and the lake are used not so much to attract tourists, but to extract sulfur. In this case, manual inhumanly hard labor is used.

The active volcano Tangkuban is a popular tourist attraction. Perhaps its popularity was facilitated by its easy accessibility - you can get to the top of Tangkuban by car along a specially built convenient road. The height of the volcano is 2000 m, its basin looks like an inverted boat, which is what the name says - Tangkuban-Prau.

The main crater is a constant reminder of activity, ejecting volcanic gases. The relatively small lower crater is filled with hot springs and steam. Tourists can walk around the main crater of the Tangkuban volcano, see it from all sides. The ubiquitous merchants sell souvenirs, lumps of sulfur from stalls here.

Ujung Kulon National Park

Ujung-Kulon is located in the southwest of about. Java. It includes the Ujung-Kulon peninsula, as well as a group of islands of volcanic origin Krakatoa. The third part of the park is occupied by the sea. The places here are very picturesque, especially on the part of the land where unique low-mountain tropical forests grow.

The flora and fauna of Ujung Kulon is well preserved due to the fact that the surviving inhabitants left the area after the eruption of Krakatau in 1883. Since then, the volcano has become much lower. A few years ago, a young volcano became active 6 km from this place, smoke is smoking above it from time to time. Ujung Kulon Park is home to the rarest species of animals, in particular the Javan rhinoceros.

Entrance tickets to Ujung Kulon are sold at the office, which is located near the village of Taman Jaya. Here you can rent a boat, hire a guide. You can sunbathe on luxurious beaches or exercise hiking to the jungle to see the rich natural world Ujung-Kulon. The best option is a three-day trek through the park to explore the area. Organized more individual tours- rest with fishing, snorkeling and spearfishing in the coastal waters of Ujung-Kulon. Tourists have at their disposal a boat with a crew and Russian guides.

Karimunjawa archipelago

In the northern direction from the central part of Java in the Java Sea is the Karimunjawa archipelago, which is a marine national park in Indonesia. Its main attraction is pristine nature with coral reefs and desert white sandy beaches. The unique archipelago includes 27 islands, of which only 5 are inhabited. The islands of the Karimunjawa archipelago like to visit with a purpose resort holiday wealthy people in Indonesia.

The archipelago is popular among surfers and divers. Coral reefs are right off the coast inhabited islands, so novice drivers do not need to rent a boat. A mask and a snorkel are enough for them to study the coastal bottom directly from the beach. More experienced scuba divers go to the uninhabited islands of the Karimunjawa archipelago as part of excursions, or by agreeing with fishermen to rent a boat. The underwater world in the Java Sea is very diverse. There are 250 species of fish, about 90 varieties of corals.

Most big Island has the same name as the archipelago - Karimunjava, but the abbreviated name Karimun is more often used. It has the main city of Karimun, which is the capital of the entire Karimunjawa archipelago. From this port city in a northerly direction there is a road ending with a bridge. long bridge connects main island with the neighboring one, which is called Kemujan. On these two islands there are campsites, hotels, dive centers, restaurants, boat rentals. By renting a boat for $ 40, you can go around several deserted neighboring islands in one day.

Landscape about. Karimun is represented by green hills covered with tropical forests. There are more than 30 species of mangrove trees here alone. The islanders especially revere a rare breed - devadaru. They believe that an amulet made from this tree prolongs life, protects the house, and cures snake bites. Amulets and other Devadaru items are the most popular souvenirs that tourists bring back from Karimunjawa.

The beaches of Karimun are quiet and secluded. The free Nirvana Beach is located near the city of Karimun. It looks very beautiful - palm trees near the coast, snow-white sand, turquoise water, but swimming here is problematic. The coast is very shallow and there are corals in the water. At Tanjung Gelam Beach, located a 30-minute bike ride from the main city of the Karimunjawa archipelago, swimming is much more comfortable, and nature is no less delightful. Entrance fee - 1 thousand rupees, there are warungs with Indonesian food. by the most beautiful beach the island is considered to be Pantai Anora.

The Karimunjawa archipelago has its own airport on about. Karimun, where several times a week small planes fly from Semarang, a port city ( north coast O. Java). From here you can take a speedboat to the islands of Karimuna and Kemujan. It is better to come to the islands of the archipelago during the dry season, which here lasts from late April to October. public transport no, so it's better to rent a scooter.

The island of Java is part of the Greater Sunda Islands, from which the Malay Archipelago is formed. On the map, it can be found in the northeastern part of the Indian Ocean.

Where the island of Java got its name from is not exactly known. According to one of the existing versions, it came from the proto-Austronesian word for "house". According to another, the consonant name of the island is found in the manuscripts of an early Indian epic. There is also the opinion of some experts, according to which "Java" is a derivative of the word "Jau". From the Sanskrit language, it can be translated as "barley" or "lying in the distance."

Geography

Java Island (see photo below) was formed, according to scientists, about six to seven million years ago. In the same period, the entire Malay Archipelago appeared.

Java is considered the extremity of a mountain range that protrudes above the water, which stretches from Burma to the Sumatra islands, passing through the Nicobar and Andaman Islands. Many years ago, seismic and volcanic processes provoked the subsidence and uplift of the continent that previously existed in this place. As a result of all this, the island of Java appeared. The landscape of its central part is decorated with a mountain range stretching from west to east. In this part of the territory, the island of Java has volcanoes. In total there are more than one hundred and twenty of them, among which there are thirty active ones. Semeru is recognized as the highest volcano. Its height is 3676 m. highest point islands. Other most significant:

Bromo - 2329 m;
- Merapi - 2914 m.

The last of these two volcanoes is one of the ten most active on our planet. In 1006, its catastrophic eruption wiped out life on the island for three centuries. Fertile soils have turned into a desert. Java Island - "Valley of Death". So, no doubt it was possible to call it in those days.

Unfortunately, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions still often occur in these places. The consequences of such seismic activity are very sad. They lead to numerous destructions and casualties.

Unlike the central part of the island, seaside areas are swampy lowlands. Here is located a large number of lakes and many rivers.

Java Island has a rather winding coastline. In its bends there are a large number of convenient bays and bays that allow ships with different landings to moor.

The coast of the island, almost along its entire length, has numerous narrow sandy beaches with small dunes that end in tropical jungle.

Climate

Java Island is located near the earth's equator. Such geographical position significant impact on the climate of the area. It is equatorial, comparatively hot and humid. The weather on the island is characterized by the absence of seasonal temperature differences. All year round it's warm here. The air warms up in the range from twenty-three to twenty-six degrees. Precipitation on the island is usually short-term tropical downpours. Their number during the year can exceed 1000-1100 mm. In the northwestern and northern parts islands, this figure is somewhat higher. Sometimes it reaches 3000 mm.

Population

Today, over one hundred and forty million people live in Java. This makes it the most densely populated island in the world.

The majority of Javans are Indonesians. In addition to them, representatives of a number of ethnic groups live on the island, the list of which includes:

Madurians;
- Sundanese;
- Minangkabau.

Alien peoples from India, China and Indochina also live here. All of them speak Malay, which is recognized as the state language on the island. Often in everyday life you can hear Javanese words. There are also Chinese dialects in the conversation of local residents.

What are the main directions of the national economy, which the island of Java is proud of? The population of rural areas and small towns is busy growing barley, rice, coffee, including such a famous variety as Kopi Luwak. Developed on the island and industry. Its industries such as electronics, processing, mining and textiles employ the population major cities.

Administrative unit

In Java, the largest city in terms of population, importance and size is the city of Jakarta. On the map, it can be found in the northwestern part of the island, on the coast itself. This is the largest settlement of the Malay Archipelago, which is also the capital of Indonesia. Jakarta has a population of 9.6 million. The list of major cities located in Java includes:

Semarang.
- Yogyakarta.
- Bandung.
- Serang.
- Kudus.
- Gaff.
- Surabaya.
- Malang and others.
According to its administrative structure, the island is divided into three provinces. These are West, East and Central Java.

Pearl of the Malay Archipelago

Indonesia includes about seventeen thousand islands. However, Java, without any doubt, is among them the real queen. Despite the fact that this is the most densely populated island of our planet, there are a lot of places untouched by man. A trip to Java will appeal to the most adventurous tourists who want to recharge their batteries and get a real drive. The island offers its guests ancient monuments and huge National parks, volcanoes and rice plantations adjacent to dense forests, shroud patches and large cities.

Jakarta

Many tourists who want to get acquainted with Indonesia, first of all fly to the island of Java. The capital of the country - Jakarta, which is a colossal metropolis, serves for many as the starting point from which the path to more interesting and calm routes begins.

This city is very complex and ambiguous. But it is from him, as a rule, that tourists begin to explore the island of Java. Only in Jakarta, after seeing the sights and areas, you can feel the rich history of the country, its diverse culture and unusual architecture.

Listed interesting places Indonesia's capital is home to numerous exhibition centers and parks. But among them there are those that deserve special attention of tourists. This is, for example, the Taman-Mini park. There are 27 pavilions on its territory, each of which demonstrates traditional buildings, interesting decorations and other exhibits presented by various provinces. Here you can admire the miniature, which in all details represents Indonesia.

Attracts tourists and dream park, located in the Anchola area. On its territory you can buy bone jewelry, batik and other creations of local craftsmen.
Interesting for guests of Jakarta and the center "Tamaya Ismail Narzuki". There are many venues on its territory, where five theaters and numerous exhibitions are located. The complex includes a dance hall and a planetarium.

The main attraction of the capital, which the island of Java is rightfully proud of (see photo below), is the National Monument. It is a tower rising more than 130 m above the ground. The material for its manufacture was Italian marble. From above, the National Monument is decorated with an imitation of a flame made of gilding. For Indonesia, this tower is a symbol of the capital.

What else can the island of Java please its guests with? Tourist reviews recommend including the Istiklal Mosque in the list of must-see places. It is the largest Muslim sanctuary located in Southeast Asia.

Borobudur

Numerous tourists tend to visit the temples of the island of Java. Getting acquainted with Indonesia, it is impossible not to visit Borobudur. It is the third largest Buddhist-Hindu temple in the world. In size, Borobudur is second only to the Cambodian Angkor, as well as the Burmese Shwedagon.

The Indonesian temple is a step pyramid, the height of which is 34 m. It rises on an artificially created hill, embodying sacred mountain Meru (according to ancient Indian legends, it is she who is the center of the whole world). According to the teachings, any visitor to Borobudur or a pilgrim begins his ascent "from earth to heaven." Moreover, the road leading to the temple is a spiral. Passing along it, visitors examine the eight terraces of Borobudur and get acquainted with the history of the emergence of Buddhism, carved on one and a half thousand reliefs and stone sculptures.

The architecture of the temple itself indicates the influence of Persian, Greek, Indian and Babylonian architects. This is a majestic building, from the upper levels of which an exciting and grandiose view opens. There is also a sculpture of Buddha. There is a legend that the one who could reach his little finger will certainly be lucky.

Java Island (Indonesia) is rightfully proud of this real wonder of the world. After all, the temple of Borobudur, which was built 1200 years ago, is a beautiful, grandiose and picturesque building. It survived the eruption of the nearby volcano Merapi, the change on the island not only of the political course, but also of religion. It retained its beautiful appearance even after the invasions of treasure hunters.

Prambanan

What else attracts tourists to the island of Java? The sights located on its territory contain another masterpiece on their list, which is one rank lower than Borobudur. This is the Prambanan temple complex. Unlike Borobudur, it is located on a plain, which the locals call the "Valley of the Kings". This area is literally littered with the ruins of ancient structures.

The Prambanan complex itself is a collection of three temples, each of which is dedicated to one of the gods - Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva. The walls of these amazingly beautiful buildings are decorated with bas-reliefs, the plots of which are taken from scenes from the ancient Indian epic called the Ramayana.

The end of the construction of Prambanan is considered to be 856. This temple commemorates the victory of the Hindu king Pikatan over the Buddhist king belonging to the Shailendra dynasty.

Kraton

What other temples does the island of Java offer its guests to explore? Attractions that the Javanese are proud of include the Kraton palace complex in their list. Locals consider it the "navel" of the world. The palace was not only the seat of the sultanate for the island. The Javanese believed that the center of the universe was located here.

In Kraton are located:

Chambers of the Sultan himself and members of his family;
- throne room;
- pavilions for various performances;
- mosque;
- chambers for contemplation.

In the 19th century The interior decoration of the palace complex was changed. He was given European features. There were cast-iron columns and Italian marble, furniture and chandeliers in the Rococo style. All these interior details are in strong contrast to the Javanese basis of the Kraton.

Bogor

Not far from the bustling capital of Jakarta is a quiet town. Just an hour from the metropolis by train, and you are in Bogor, famous throughout the island for its huge botanical garden. Here you can see the largest flower on our planet - "titanic amorphophaldus".

The locals call Bogor “the city of rain”. Indeed, every afternoon it is bound to rain here. That is why it is better to walk in the botanical garden early in the morning. Visitors will see amazing trees that look like flared trousers. There is a Mexican garden, an orchid garden and much more. In the royal park, which is located next door, deer roam.

Gunung Halimun

It is one of the most national parks in Java. It differs from all the others in that the road to it is relatively simple. It is enough to drive from Bogor just an hour and a half.

Gunung Halimun Park is worth a visit for those tourists who are lovers of fauna and flora. Here you can see a large number of plants, more than a dozen species of birds, as well as mammals (including the endangered West Javanese gibbons).

Malang

This city was founded by the Dutch in the 18th century. The tourists who have chosen it get acquainted with eastern part islands of Java. Malang attracts guests with its surroundings, where coffee plantations are comfortably spread. Numerous Hindu temples are also located here, built on the slopes of Mount Penanggungan, which the locals consider sacred. Not far from Malang are the most famous beaches among tourists, the most popular of which is Balekambang. From the city you can quickly reach volcanoes such as Seperu, Bromo and Ijen. Public transport runs to them from Malang.

Taman Sari

There are also special attractions in Java. One of them is Taman Sari. This is a water castle built specifically for the Sultan in 1758. Taman Sari is a whole park of palace complexes with canals and pools. In the castle are laid underground tunnels and special secret rooms are provided.