Orchid Forest Cikole turned out to be the destination I was not expecting to enjoy — yet it became one of my favorite places in Bandung. Comparatively, a far cry from the underwhelming hot spring I had just visited, this forest retreat was a refreshing surprise!
After leaving Sari Ater Hot Springs, we drove downhill and found Orchid Forest Cikole conveniently located along the winding road. Firstly, the journey itself was a treat. We passed valleys of tea plantations and forests of towering pine trees that looked straight out of a movie. The view was simply breathtaking, though I can imagine the vibe feeling completely different if you visit at night.
When we arrived, we stepped out of the car to find ourselves surrounded by pine trees. Even the carpark was nestled in the forest, with pinecones scattered across the ground like little natural souvenirs. The entrance greeted us with a striking green arch, lush with vines and plants, setting the tone for what lay ahead. My first thought was, “Would this be more of a nature trail or a curated botanical garden?”
Since Orchid Forest Cikole sits in the mountainous region of Lembang, the weather was pleasantly cool! It was definitely perfect for walking and exploring around without breaking a sweat. Barely three minutes into the forest, we stumbled upon Aspasia Coffee. The cozy café was perched on an elevated platform overlooking the lush nature. My friend and I could not resist grabbing a cup of freshly brewed coffee. It was a perfect way to start the morning and fuel up before continuing our forest stroll.
Top Things to Do at Orchid Forest Cikole
1. Walk through the Pine Forest Trails
The main attraction here is simply the forest itself. I enjoyed walking along the pathways and scenic trails through towering pine trees. It felt like a peaceful escape from the city bustle. The mountain air was also fresh, and the occasional light mist make it a thrilling experience for us.
2. Explore the Orchid Houses
True to its name, Orchid Forest Cikole houses various orchid species from Indonesia and around the world. There was even a greenhouse area which showcases some of these blooms. Perhaps I was not paying too much attention, or the timing may not be right. I could have missed some visual treat while walking through the forest.
3. Enjoy a Coffee or Meal with a View
It was something we immediately did upon enter the forest. Aspasia Coffee, in particular, is a lovely spot to relax and enjoy a hot drink surrounded by nature. There was even a swing at the lower deck where you could have a little nostalgic fun as well. Aside from Aspasia Coffee, there were also a few other cafes like the Golden Pine along the way.
4. Cross the Iconic Suspension Bridge
One of the highlights is the long suspension bridge that connects parts of the forest. Undeniably, walking across it gives you a stunning bird’s-eye view of the pines below. It was an absolute must for anyone who loves a bit of adventure and Instagram-worthy shots.
5. Zipline across the Forest
For adventure seekers, you might want to go for the adrenaline-pumping ziplining challenge which I did! I paid for a ticket entry, put on the safety helmet and harness before jetting off! Evidently, it would make a great group activity or simply to enjoy the forest from a bird’s eye perspective. I was lucky as the staff allowed me to hold onto my mobile for videos. You could even purchase your zipline photos taken in midair at the counter too.
6. Visit the Rabbit Forest and Mini Farm
Families with kids will love the small petting areas where rabbits freely hop around. There were also parrots, a python, 2 sheep, ponies, and more. It could be fun if you do not mind the smell of the animals, which I tend to avoid.
In conclusion, Orchid Forest Cikole exceeded my expectations. What I thought would be just another tourist spot turned out to be a tranquil retreat that blends nature, aesthetic, and tranquility effortlessly. From the scent of nature to the warmth of a good cup of coffee, every moment here felt calming and cinematic.
If you are planning a trip to Bandung, do not skip this beautiful forest garden as it might just become one of your favorite spots too. Do check out my other travel reviews!