Have you ever dreamed of visiting a tropical island paradise, where you can relax on white sandy beaches, swim in crystal clear waters, and explore lush green forests? If so, you might want to check out Pulau Bidadari, a hidden gem in Flores, Indonesia.
Pulau Bidadari, which means "Island of Angels" in Indonesian, is one of the many islands that make up the Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is famous for its natural beauty and biodiversity, as well as its historical and cultural attractions.
In this article, we will give you a comprehensive guide to Pulau Bidadari, including how to get there, what to do and see, where to stay and eat, and more. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo escape, Pulau Bidadari has something for everyone.
How to Get to Pulau Bidadari
The easiest way to get to Pulau Bidadari is by flying to Labuan Bajo, the main gateway to the Komodo National Park. Labuan Bajo is a small town on the western tip of Flores, and it has an airport that connects to major cities in Indonesia, such as Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya.
From Labuan Bajo, you can take a boat to Pulau Bidadari, which is about 10 kilometers away. There are several options for boat trips, ranging from private speedboats, shared boats, or liveaboard boats. The travel time and cost depend on the type of boat and the number of passengers, but it usually takes around 30 minutes and costs around 200,000 IDR (14 USD) per person.
The best time to visit Pulau Bidadari is between April and October, when the weather is dry and sunny, and the sea is calm and clear. However, you can also visit the island during the rainy season, which lasts from November to March, as long as you are prepared for occasional showers and choppy waves.
What to Do and See on Pulau Bidadari
Pulau Bidadari is a small island, with a circumference of only 2 kilometers, but it has a lot to offer to its visitors. Here are some of the main attractions and activities on the island:
Beaches:
Pulau Bidadari has several beautiful beaches, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. The beaches are clean and quiet, and the water is warm and turquoise. You can swim, snorkel, kayak, or just relax on the shore. Some of the best beaches on the island are Pantai Pasir Putih, Pantai Pasir Merah, and Pantai Pasir Hitam, which have different colors of sand due to the volcanic origin of the island.
Forests:
Pulau Bidadari is also home to a dense forest, where you can explore the flora and fauna of the island. The forest is rich in biodiversity, and you can spot various plants and animals, such as coconut trees, orchids, ferns, monkeys, deer, birds, and butterflies. You can also hike to the top of the island, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding islands and the ocean.
Plants and Animals:
Pulau Bidadari is not only a paradise for nature lovers, but also for plant and animal enthusiasts. The island has a botanical garden, where you can learn about the different species of plants that grow on the island, such as medicinal herbs, spices, fruits, and flowers. You can also visit the animal sanctuary, where you can see and interact with some of the endangered animals that live on the island, such as the Komodo dragon, the flying fox, the sea turtle, and the dolphin.
History and Culture:
Pulau Bidadari is not only a natural wonder, but also a historical and cultural treasure. The island has a rich and diverse history, dating back to the prehistoric times, when it was inhabited by the ancestors of the Flores people. You can visit some of the archaeological sites on the island, such as the cave paintings, the megalithic stones, and the ancient tombs. You can also learn about the culture and traditions of the local people, who are mostly fishermen and farmers. You can join them in their daily activities, such as fishing, farming, weaving, and cooking, and experience their hospitality and generosity.
Where to Stay and Eat on Pulau Bidadari
Pulau Bidadari has a limited number of accommodation and dining options, but they are enough to cater to the needs and preferences of the visitors. Here are some of the best places to stay and eat on the island:
Bidadari Eco Resort:
This is the only resort on the island, and it offers a comfortable and eco-friendly stay. The resort has 15 wooden cottages, each with a private bathroom, a fan, and a balcony. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, and a dive center. The resort is located on the beach, and it has a stunning view of the sunset and the stars. The resort charges around 1,500,000 IDR (105 USD) per night, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and boat transfers.
Bidadari Homestay:
This is a cheaper and more authentic alternative to the resort, and it offers a cozy and friendly stay. The homestay has 10 simple rooms, each with a shared bathroom, a fan, and a mosquito net. The homestay also has a communal kitchen, a dining area, and a garden. The homestay is located in the village, and it has a close connection with the local community. The homestay charges around 300,000 IDR (21 USD) per night, including breakfast and dinner.
Bidadari Restaurant:
This is the main restaurant on the island, and it serves a variety of dishes, mostly based on seafood, chicken, and vegetables. The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan options, as well as snacks and drinks. The restaurant is open from 7 am to 10 pm, and it has a spacious and airy dining area. The restaurant charges around 100,000 IDR (7 USD) per meal, including water and tea.
Bidadari Cafe:
This is a small and cozy cafe on the island, and it offers a selection of coffee, tea, juice, and cake. The cafe also sells some souvenirs, such as handicrafts, t-shirts, and postcards. The cafe is open from 8 am to 6 pm, and it has a charming and colorful decor. The cafe charges around 20,000 IDR (1.4 USD) per drink or cake.
Pulau Bidadari is a hidden gem in Flores, Indonesia, that deserves more attention and appreciation. The island is a perfect destination for those who love nature, history, and culture, and who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Pulau Bidadari is a place where you can experience the beauty and diversity of Indonesia, and where you can create unforgettable memories.
If you are interested in visiting Pulau Bidadari, or any other places in Flores, Indonesia, you can book your trip with Tripoto, the leading online travel platform in India. Tripoto offers a wide range of travel packages, tours, and activities, that suit your budget, preference, and needs. Tripoto also provides a platform where you can share your travel stories, photos, and videos, and connect with other travelers around the world.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Pulau Bidadari today, and discover the hidden gem in Flores, Indonesia. You won't regret it. Thank you for reading, and happy travels!