Travel Guide to Belitung Island: Location, Transportation, Unique Features, Costs, and Tips

Belitung Island, also known as Belitung or in Indonesian as Pulau Belitung, is an island located in the Java Sea off the east coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. It is part of the Bangka-Belitung Islands province, which consists of two main islands: Bangka and Belitung.

Belitung Island has a total land area of approximately 4,771 square kilometers and is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique granite rock formations. It has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a tranquil getaway with natural beauty.

One of the most famous attractions on the island is Tanjung Tinggi Beach, known for its fine white sand and giant granite boulders that dot the shoreline. Another popular spot is the colorful fishing village of Tanjung Kelayang, which offers stunning views of the sea and nearby islands.

Belitung Island also played a significant role in Indonesian history as a source of tin mining during the Dutch colonial period. The island's tin mines were among the largest in the world during that time, and the industry brought significant wealth to the area. Today, visitors can explore some of the remaining tin mines and learn about the island's history and culture at the Belitung Museum.

Location and Transportation Details

Belitung Island is located in the Java Sea, off the east coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. It is part of the Bangka-Belitung Islands province, which is located in the western part of Indonesia.

There are several ways to get to Belitung Island, including by air and sea. The main airport on the island is H.A.S. Hanandjoeddin International Airport (TJQ), which is located in Tanjung Pandan, the capital city of Belitung Island. The airport has daily flights from Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, as well as other major cities in Indonesia.

Alternatively, visitors can also take a ferry from Tanjung Kelayang, located on the north coast of Belitung Island, to the neighboring island of Bangka. From Bangka, there are regular ferries to the mainland of Sumatra, as well as to other islands in the region.

Once on the island, visitors can rent a car or motorbike to explore the island's many attractions. Taxis and ojeks (motorcycle taxis) are also available for hire. Bicycles are also a popular way to get around, especially for exploring the quieter areas of the island. Many hotels and resorts on the island also offer shuttle services for their guests.

Special and Unique in Belitung Island

Belitung Island is known for its natural beauty, with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique granite rock formations. Some of the special and unique features of the island include:

1. Tanjung Tinggi Beach: This beach is famous for its unique granite boulders that are scattered along the shore, giving it a distinctive and picturesque landscape.
2. Lengkuas Island: This small island is located off the north coast of Belitung and is known for its picturesque lighthouse and coral reefs, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
3. Batu Belayar Island: This island is famous for its granite rock formation that looks like a giant sail, hence the name "Batu Belayar," which means "sailing rock" in Indonesian.
4. Belitung Museum: This museum provides visitors with an insight into the island's history and culture, including its tin-mining past, traditional customs, and local crafts.
5. Traditional House: Visitors can explore the traditional houses of Belitung Island, which are made of wood and bamboo and have a unique architectural style influenced by Chinese and Malay cultures.
6. Seafood cuisine: Belitung Island is known for its delicious seafood, especially its signature dish, "Gangan," which is a soup made with fish, coconut milk, and a blend of spices.
7. Traditional dance and music: Visitors can experience traditional dance and music performances that reflect the island's cultural heritage, including the "Tari Serampang Dua Belas," a dance performed by 12 female dancers.

Overall, Belitung Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights, making it a truly special destination to visit.

Average Service Fees

The average service fees for visiting Belitung Island will also vary depending on the activities and services you choose. Here are some estimated costs for your reference:

1. Tour packages: Tour packages for Belitung Island typically include transportation, accommodation, and activities. The cost of a tour package will depend on the duration of the tour and the type of activities included. A 2-day, 1-night tour package can cost around IDR 1,500,000 (USD 105) per person, while a 3-day, 2-night tour package can cost around IDR 3,000,000 (USD 210) per person.
2. Transportation: The cost of transportation will depend on the mode of transportation and distance. A taxi or ojek (motorcycle taxi) ride within the city can cost around IDR 20,000 - 50,000 (USD 1.4 - 3.5), while renting a car can cost around IDR 400,000 - 600,000 (USD 28 - 42) per day.
3. Activities: Activities such as island hopping, snorkeling, diving, and visiting museums may have different fees. Island hopping tours can cost around IDR 300,000 - 500,000 (USD 21 - 35) per person, while snorkeling and diving activities can cost around IDR 300,000 - 600,000 (USD 21 - 42) per person. Visiting the Belitung Museum has a fee of IDR 10,000 (USD 0.70) per person.
4. Food and drinks: Food and drinks are relatively affordable in Belitung Island. A typical meal at a local restaurant can cost around IDR 30,000 - 50,000 (USD 2 - 3.5) per person, while a cup of coffee or tea can cost around IDR 10,000 - 20,000 (USD 0.70 - 1.4).

It is always advisable to research and compare prices from multiple providers before making a booking to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.

Tips for Traveling to Belitung Island

If you are planning to travel to Belitung Island, here are some tips that may help make your trip more enjoyable:

1. Plan ahead: Research and plan your itinerary in advance, including transportation, accommodation, and activities. Make sure to book your accommodation and tours in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
2. Pack wisely: Pack light, comfortable clothing, and footwear suitable for the island's tropical weather. Don't forget to bring sunblock, mosquito repellent, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
3. Learn some basic Indonesian phrases: Knowing some basic Indonesian phrases can come in handy while communicating with locals.
4. Respect the local customs and culture: Belitung Island has its unique customs and culture, and it is essential to respect them. Dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites, and always ask for permission before taking photos of locals.
5. Try the local cuisine: Belitung Island is famous for its delicious seafood, and you should definitely try the local cuisine while you are there.
6. Be mindful of the environment: Belitung Island is known for its natural beauty, and it is crucial to be mindful of the environment. Do not litter, and try to minimize your use of single-use plastics.
7. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during the hot and humid weather.
8. Be open-minded: Keep an open mind and embrace the island's unique culture and lifestyle. Interact with locals, learn about their way of life, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your trip to Belitung Island and create an unforgettable travel experience.