Bandung

Bandung
Name	Bandung
Native name	Kota Bandung
Settlement type	City
Motto	Gemah Ripah Wibawa Mukti
Coordinates	6, 54, 43, S...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Indonesia
Subdivision type1	Province
Subdivision name1	West Java
Established title	Founded
Established date	25 September 1810
Government type	City
Leader title	Mayor
Leader name	Yana Mulyana (Acting)
Area total km2	167.67
Elevation m	768
Population total	2,875,673
Population as of	2020 Census
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	WIB
Utc offset	+7
Postal code type	Postal code
Postal code	401xx, 402xx, 406xx
Area code	+62 22
Website	bandung.go.id

Bandung is the capital city of West Java province in Indonesia and the country's third-largest metropolis by population. Situated on a river basin surrounded by volcanic mountains, including Mount Tangkuban Perahu, its elevation gives it a notably cooler climate than most Indonesian cities. Renowned historically as the site of the 1955 Asian–African Conference, it is a major center for education, technology, and creative industries, often called the "Paris of Java" for its architectural heritage and vibrant culture.

History

The area was part of the Sunda Kingdom before coming under the influence of the Dutch East Indies in the 18th century. The city was officially established by Herman Willem Daendels in 1810, with its development accelerating after the construction of the Great Post Road and a railway connection to Jakarta. It became a preferred retreat for European planters and officials, leading to the construction of many Art Deco buildings in the Braga Street area. A pivotal moment in its modern history was hosting the 1955 Asian–African Conference, a gathering of states from Asia and Africa that led to the Non-Aligned Movement. During the Indonesian National Revolution, it was the site of the destructive Bandung Sea of Fire in 1946.

Geography and climate

The city lies in the highland plateau of Parahyangan, approximately 768 meters above sea level, and is surrounded by several volcanoes, most notably Mount Tangkuban Perahu to the north. The Cikapundung River flows through the city, dividing its northern and southern parts. It features a tropical rainforest climate moderated by altitude, with average temperatures ranging between 17°C and 26°C year-round, and experiences a distinct wet season from October to April. This topography has made it prone to flooding, leading to major infrastructure projects like the Cisangkuy River tunnel.

Demographics

With a population exceeding 2.8 million in the 2020 census, it is one of the most densely populated urban areas in Indonesia. The majority of residents are Sundanese people, with significant populations of Javanese, Chinese Indonesians, and other ethnic groups. Sundanese language is widely spoken alongside the national language, Indonesian. The predominant religion is Islam, with minority communities practicing Christianity, Buddhism, and Confucianism.

Economy

Historically an agricultural hub for quinine and tea plantations, its economy has diversified significantly. It is a major center for textile manufacturing, often called the "Textile City," and hosts numerous factories producing garments for domestic and international brands. The technology and creative sectors have grown rapidly, supported by institutions like the Telkom University and the Bandung Institute of Technology. Tourism is also vital, driven by shopping for local fashion, culinary tours, and visits to nearby natural attractions like Kawah Putih.

Culture and landmarks

The city is a cultural heartland for the Sundanese people, known for traditional arts like angklung music, wayang golek puppetry, and Sundanese dance. Key landmarks include the Gedung Sate, a government building with distinctive architecture, the modern Masjid Raya Bandung Provinsi Jawa Barat, and the historical Savoy Homann Hotel. The annual Bandung Fashion Week and the creative community along Braga Street highlight its contemporary cultural scene. Its culinary identity is defined by dishes such as sate Maranggi and batagor.

Education and research

It is considered one of Indonesia's primary educational cities, hosting prestigious institutions like the Bandung Institute of Technology, the nation's oldest technical university, and Padjadjaran University. Other notable schools include the Indonesia University of Education, Parahyangan Catholic University, and Telkom University. These institutions foster significant research in engineering, telecommunications, and the sciences, often collaborating with agencies such as the National Institute of Aeronautics and Space and the Indonesian Institute of Sciences.

Transportation

The city is served by Husein Sastranegara International Airport, which handles domestic and limited international flights. Rail connectivity is provided by Bandung railway station, a major hub on the line to Jakarta and part of the future Jakarta–Bandung high-speed rail project. Road access includes the Cipularang Toll Road linking it to the national capital. Public transportation within the city consists primarily of angkot minibuses, with ongoing development of the Bandung LRT and the integrated Trans Metro Bandung bus system to alleviate chronic traffic congestion.

Category:Populated places in West Java Category:Cities in Indonesia Category:Provincial capitals in Indonesia