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Bangka Belitung Islands

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Bangka Belitung Islands

Situated off Sumatra's southeastern coast, the Bangka Belitung Islands comprise the main landmasses of Bangka and Belitung, along with 470 scattered islands, fifty of which are inhabited. Bangka Island has a capital city called Pangkal Pinang, and Belitung has Tanjung Pandan as its capital city. Both cities are less than an hour away by plane from Jakarta, making it a quick getaway.

The islands gained international attention as the backdrop for the film "Laskar Pelangi," showcasing the region's natural allure and the inspiring story of local children. The terrain encompasses plateaus, valleys, mountains, hills, and numerous tiny islands with granite formations, ideal for island hopping tours. Recognized as a UNESCO Geopark for its distinct landscapes, visitors must explore Tanjung Tinggi, Tanjung Kelayang, and Lengkuas Island beaches. Other highlights are Kaolin Lake on Bangka Island and Museum Kata Andrea Hirata (Andrea Hirata's Museum of Words), the latter being an ode to perhaps the province's most famous novelist.

Seafood, notably lempah kuning (yellow-colored fish-based gangan soup), dominates the cuisine due to the surrounding ocean. The signature sambal rusip, made from fresh anchovies, is a must-try. Meanwhile, bakmi Bangka (a local variant of Chinese-style noodles), martabak Bangka (a local sweet stuffed pancake), and squid crackers are must-try delicacies.

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Getting Around Bangka Belitung Islands

A guide to Bangka Belitung Islands's local transportation

Taxi
Angkot
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City and Inter-City Bus
Boat

When you arrive at the airport, don't worry about how to get around – plenty of taxis are waiting for you outside. They're super easy to spot, and you can hop in one for just 75,000 IDR. The driver will charge you based on how far you need to go, but it's still a really convenient way to get around. Plus, if you want to check out some incredible sights that can't reach by public transportation, a taxi is the way to go.

Practical Tips for Bangka Belitung Islands

Things to prepare and best way to visit

How do I get to the Bangka Belitung Islands?

Accessing the Bangka Belitung Islands is possible by air travel or ferry services. The recommended method is flying into Tanjung Pandan (TJQ), the main city on Belitung Island, via H.A.S. Hanandjoeddin International Airport (TJQ) on Bangka Island or Depati Amir Airport (PGK) on Belitung Island. Direct flights from Jakarta (CGK) and Kuala Lumpur (KUL) take about an hour or two, respectively. You can also reach Bangka Belitung from Surabaya and Batam. Ferries are suitable for nearby travel, departing from Tanjung Kalian Port on Bangka Island and Tanjung Pandan Port on Belitung Island, connecting both islands and the Sumatra mainland. Alternatively, you can embark on the sea route using PELNI passenger ships departing from the Tanjung Priok harbor in Jakarta. It is important to note that these ships only operate trips to Belitung once every two weeks, making the journey approximately 24 hours.

Is there nightlife in Bangka Belitung?

Bangka Belitung, often called Babel by locals, is cherished for its serene natural beauty and relaxed ambiance. While less renowned for nightlife than Jakarta or Bali, the region accommodates the demands of tourists, including international visitors, with beachside bars and eateries. The nightlife is generally tranquil yet fulfilling, offering live music, cultural displays, and beach bonfires. Local cafes, small bars, and eateries provide insights into local life, fostering interaction with residents. Additional nighttime activities include going to karaoke and eating at night markets.

What are some recommended water activities in Bangka Belitung?

With beautiful beaches and clear waters, Bangka Belitung is a water enthusiast's paradise. Snorkeling and diving from Pemancingan Beach to Lengkuas Island reveal vivid coral reefs and diverse marine life. Kayaking and canoeing offer a tranquil way to explore the islands. Kayaking and canoeing offer tranquil island exploration. The region's steady winds make windsurfing and kiteboarding more exciting, with Tanjung Kelayang Beach being a favorite. Engage in traditional fishing via guided tours to understand local marine life and potentially catch snappers and groupers. Amid picturesque beach settings, relish picnics with local delights. Sunset cruises and sea walking cater to varying preferences, ensuring underwater beauty appreciation.

Where is the best area to stay in Bangka Belitung?

Accommodation options in Bangka Belitung vary based on your tour plans. Pangkal Pinang, the capital, provides choices from budget guesthouses to upscale hotels, serving as a convenient base for island exploration. Tanjung Kelayang in Belitung is favored for stunning beaches and unique rock formations, boasting numerous coastal resorts and hotels. Tanjung Tinggi is renowned for its granite boulders and white sandy shores, offering various beachfront lodgings. For a taste of local culture and untouched beaches, Manggar's coastal town provides a laid-back atmosphere, granting insight into the local way of life while enjoying pristine beaches. Simpang Rimba in Bangka is suitable for a secluded and tranquil experience that offers a glimpse of rural life. Meanwhile, Belitung`s Lengkuas Island, known for its iconic lighthouse and beautiful surroundings, offers a rustic getaway.

What is mining tourism in Bangka Belitung all about?

Bangka Belitung, renowned for its abundant mineral resources, especially tin, boasts a history of significant tin mining that has impacted its economy and culture. The Tin Museum in Pangkal Pinang, occupying the former residence of the Bangka Tin Mining's administrative head during the Dutch colonial period, stands as Indonesia's sole Tin Museum. The museum showcases an array of artifacts, including Dutch-era tin bar casts, vintage images, and geological specimens like quartz crystals. The museum also features a locomotive emblematic of the tin mining industry, offering insights into the historical and technical aspects of tin mining. Mining tourism encompasses visits to operational or disused mines, exploration of mining-centric museums, and guided tours that unravel the tin mining process and its historical importance.

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