“Indonesia is beautiful!”, I will keep saying that over and over again out loud.
Writing this post on 17th August 2020, 75th celebration of Indonesian independence day, it is just right to say that I am feeling proud of Indonesia and its charms. Of course, we are still lack in many ways and need long and massive improvements, but I love my country and it always feels like home here.
2 weeks ago, we explored Madura! I lived in Surabaya for the longest time and cannot believe that I waited so long to visit a place just less than an hour drive from my house.
Out of 4 places that we had in mind, we only managed to visit 2; because the other two places was not reachable by car. These two places are starting gaining popularity on local tourism. However due to Covid-19 situation, the number of visitor coming to this place is steeply decreased.
BUKIT JADDIH (Jaddih Hill), BANGKALAN
Bukit Jaddih is an active white limestone mine. We went there on a Sunday, and we spot some trucks drove around the area.
The road to Bukit Jaddih is pretty straightforward and decent. Just follow the googlemaps here and you will arrive at the parking lot that you can explore the place on foot. You can also drive around the area by car to see uphill.
We spent total of Rp. 50.000 ~ USD 3.50 in Bukit Jaddih to pay various fees – 3 times.
Some tips – don’t forget to bring sunglasses because the white limestone reflects sun so brightly; and come on a sunny day because the white-blue contrast is so beautiful!
BUKIT KAPUR AROSBAYA (Arosbaya Limestone Hill) , BANGKALAN
Contrasting Bukit Jaddih, Bukit Kapur Arosbaya is a red limestone mine that is also still active.
The road to Bukit Kapur Arosbaya is fairly small and fit medium sized car. However, if you are coming with bigger car, you can stop by the entrance (before the small alley towards Bukit Kapur Arosbaya) and have some ojek driving you inside.
In total we spent Rp. 20.000 ~ USD 1.50 (for a car) here to park and roam around on foot. We gave some tips to local guide that stand by on the entrance to show us around and take family pictures.
Indiana Jones vibe all around this place! You can also go into the cave, and if you are lucky you might spot the light coming into the cave which is very beautiful. There were several warungs run by locals inside the area, we had to have coffee stop there for a coffee (and coconut) with a view!
