Striking an interesting balance between urban chaos and world-class education, Kupang is an Indonesian city that never fails to grow on first-time visitors. The university town is bordered by some fascinating natural wonders if you’re so inclined, but it offers just as much enjoyment and thrill in its bustling markets and rocky seafront. When in Kupang, what to do depends on what you want to experience. If a lazy day by the beach flanked by a majestic sunset sounds like your cup of tea, head to Pantai Tedis. A crystalline blue pool lies sequestered between rocks in Gua Kristal, a hidden gem frequented by locals. Then indulge in standard Indonesian fare in lamp-lit Pasar Malam. Read on to find out more about the top things to do in Kupang, Indonesia.
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1. Marvel at Oenesu Waterfall
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
A multi-level waterfall cascading over slippery rocks through a fine mist, Oenesu Waterfall is yet another natural wonder near Kupang. During the rainy season, water gushes thunderously from different levels to create an awe-inspiring sight; on dry days, the gush mellows into a trickle, making it perfect for visitors to splash around in the water. The trip to the waterfall may well be off the beaten track, but the stunning natural environment and the serenity on less crowded days make the journey worth it.
Air Terjun Oenesu
Address: Kelurahan Oenesu, Kecamatan Kupang Barat, Oenesu, Kupang Bar, Kupang, Nusa Tenggara Timur
2. Go back in time at Museum Nusa Tenggara Timur
Filled to the brim with artefacts and antiques from all across the province, Museum Nusa Tenggara Timur, along the Jalan Frans-Seda route, is a testament to the region’s past and bygone eras. It’s the best place to reflect on historical occasions weaved into the city’s legacy and understand more about the province’s culture. In an annexe separate to the main museum, a blue whale’s skeleton in all its entirety is on display for visitors to marvel at.
Museum Nusa Tenggara Timur
Address: Kayu Putih, Oebobo, Kupang City, East Nusa Tenggara
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 3:30pm (closed on Sat - Sun)
3. Savour local food at Pantai Tedis
If trying out Indonesian food is on your to-do list in Kupang (or even if it doesn’t feature), a visit to Pantai Tedis beach is a must. The lively haunt often plays host to vendors hawking delicacies to make any mouth water. When in Pantai Tedis, do as the locals do and throw down some pisang goreng with a side of chocolate and grated cheese. Wash down the sumptuous meal with rich smoothies made of the most refreshing of fruits.
Pantai Tedis
Address: Jl. Siliwangi, Lahilai Bissi Kopan, Kec. Kota Lama, Kota Kupang, Nusa Tenggara Timur
Opening hours: 5pm - 11pm (daily)
4. Shop to your heart’s content in Pasar Inpres
To the south of Kupang lies Pasar Inpres, a sprawling market that’s also considered the main one in the city. Load up on fruits and vegetables alongside locals to feel like you’re part of the community and its culture. If you’re looking for something to take back home as a souvenir, you’re in luck—you can find ti'i langga (leaf hats with a dramatic plume) in a shop or two here.
Pasar Inpres
Address: Pasar Inpres Kebunsayur, Jl. Letjen Suprapto, Marga Sari, Kec. Balikpapan Bar., Kota Balikpapan, Kalimantan Timur
Opening hours: 4am - 7pm (daily)
5. Take a dip in Crystal Cave
Kupang’s Crystal Cave, or Gua Kristal as it’s known locally, is a charming jewel tucked into the city’s west coast. For starters, it’s the perfect place to cool off from the hot sun that Indonesia is infamous for. Slice through the cool water for a few laps, laze around the edges, or get some social media-worthy photos—whatever you decide to do, Gua Kristal is worth the out-of-the-way sojourn from the main city.
Gua Kristal
Address: Bolok, West Kupang, Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara
6. Watch the sunset at Pantai Tablolong
About 25 kilometres away from Kupang lies the stunning Pantai Tablolong. Its main drawcard, naturally, is the long beach stretch bordered by clear water that you can’t resist taking a dip in. A tiny warung—a family-owned establishment—takes care of your needs if you feel peckish. Time your trip in such a way that you get to see the sunset as it’s said to be a spectacular natural show.
Pantai Tablolong
Address: Tablolong, West Kupang, Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
7. Hike up Mount Fatuleu
Up for a grand adventure? Kupang has just the natural wonder for you—the imposing Mount Fatuleu. This rugged mountain is a 1.5-hour drive away from Kupang, making it a great destination for a day trip out of the city. Not one for the faint-hearted, Mount Fatueleu’s terrain can range from rocky to downright difficult in some areas, so good shoes and prior hiking skills are a must. You can be sure though that the view from the top makes all the exertion worthwhile.
Mount Fatuleu
Address: Kupang
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
8. Cool your heels at Lasiana Beach
A stunning natural beauty just 12 kilometres outside of Kupang, Lasiana Beach is immensely popular for its white sand and calming waves. Wander around the unique natural setting of the site or engage in beachside sports such as volleyball and frisbee. Semau Island’s waters hide a relic of the past—a shipwrecked Japanese warship that was bombed in 1942 and sunk right where it was anchored. Apart from the shipwreck, the underwater sights include exotic fish and coral reefs.
Lasiana Beach
Address: Lasiana, Kelapa Lima, Kupang City, East Nusa Tenggara
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
9. Breathe fresh air at Nostalgia Park
This park is a cultural hub near NTT Regional Museum in Kupang. For many years now, it has played host to cultural events and concerts. Even on off days, people can be seen relaxing on the benches or chowing down on some delicious food from street stalls. The highlight of the park is World Peace Gong, a tribute of sorts to the country’s multi-ethnic, multi-religious social fabric. If you’ve been wanting to jog off jetlag or spend a warm day strolling along without an agenda, this is the perfect park to do so.
Nostalgia Park
Address: Oebufu, Oebobo, Kupang City, East Nusa Tenggara
10. Camplong Natural Park
A lush natural park enhanced by manmade amenities, Camplong Natural Park is 1.5 hours from Kupang. The drawcards of the park are the natural spring and the refreshing pool that’s fed by a constant flow of water. Cave of Mary overlooks the stone walkways and is set into a lush green backdrop that makes for lovely photographs.
Camplong Natural Park
Address: Oenaek, Kupang
Explore Indonesia's hidden gem
Bitten by the travel bug? A visit to Kupang will have you falling in love with delicious local cuisine and natural off-the-beaten-path marvels. Cross off these “things to do” from your list, and soon enough you’ll be a pro traveller in the amazing country of Indonesia!
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