TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Papua has a seductive charm, like a little piece of paradise on earth. Raja Ampat is one of its natural splendors. However, there are many other corners of paradise waiting to be explored in Indonesia's easternmost province. Read on to discover 10 hidden travel destinations in Papua.
1. Tanjung Ria Beach
Located in the northern part of Jayapura town, Tanjung Ria Beach is better known as Base-G Beach (7th Home Port). It was the gathering point for General McArthur's Allied forces before launching an attack on Japanese troops in the Philippines. Visitors can enjoy the golden sand and blue sea water. Rental cabins are available for around Rp 200,000 to Rp 300,000.
2. Paniai Lake
Located in a mountainous and hilly area of Paniai Regency, Paniai Lake covers an area of 14,500 hectares and is located at an altitude of 7,500 meters above sea level. It is a popular tourist destination and the largest producer of freshwater fish in the province. Fishing is permitted in the lake.
3. Lorentz National Park
Lorentz National Park is the largest national park in Southeast Asia, covering 10 districts in Papua. It covers 2.5 million hectares and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The park is home to unique flora and fauna, including the long-tailed Cendrawasih or bird of paradise, snow quail and tree kangaroo Dingiso. It is one of only three tropical regions in the world to have glaciers.
4. Wasur National Park
Located In Merauke Regency, about 20 minutes from the city center, Wasur National Park is home to Papuan wildlife, the cassowary. The park is designated a wetland of international importance and is a refuge for migratory birds from Australia and New Zealand. October is the best time to observe migratory birds in the region.
5. Cendrawasih Bay National Park
Cendrawasih Bay National Park is the largest national park, coating 1,453,500 hectares. Situated on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the park is known for its rich marine biodiversity and natural caves from ancient times, as well as the underwater caves of Tanjung Mangguar and the sulfurous hot springs of Misowaar Island.
6. Rumberpon Island
Rumberpon Island is definitely a hidden gem in Papua. Located in the north of Teluk Wondama regency, visitors can reach the island by boat from Manokwari in around 5 hours. One of the famous beaches of this island is Pasir Panjang Beach, which has a coastline of 6 kilometers, where visitors can snorkel, fish and swim.
7. Lake Sentani
Lake Sentani, located in Jayapura Regency, is the largest lake in the Papua region, covering an area of approximately 9,360 hectares. It is adorned with 22 small islands and produces up to 1,823 tonnes of fish per year.
Lake Sentani in Papua, Indonesia. (ANTARA/Evarukdijati/first)
8. Baliem Valley
Located in the highest mountains of Indonesia, Jayawijaya, the Baliem valley offers a magnificent panorama and rich cultural experiences. Covering an area of up to 1,600 square kilometers, this valley is 27 kilometers from the town of Wamena, Papua. It is home to the Dani, Yali and Lani tribes, who organize the famous Baliem Valley Festival almost every year.
9. Bosnik Beach
Located in the village of Woniki, Biak Est, or about 15 kilometers from the city center, Bosnik Beach offers beautiful clear blue waters. Visitors can pay Rp 10,000 for the entrance fee and rent a cabana for Rp 50,000 to enjoy the beach.
10. Bihewa Falls
This must-see waterfall in Papua is located in Makimi district, Nabire regency. It has a height of approximately 40 meters in seven levels and is surrounded by a variety of Papuan flora. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the blue pool.
MILA NOVITA
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