Around a decade ago, before the Indonesian blockbuster movie, Laskar Pelangi was released, Belitung was only an obscure island off-shore South Sumatra. Only a few people knew then that the island is surrounded by a hundred small islands and white-sand beaches most of which are decorated with surreal giant granite. Nowadays, many Indonesian travelers put Belitung on their bucket list.
LET’S DO THIS!
Belitung was then only an obscure island floating off-shore South Sumatra, overshadowed by the neighboring tin-mining island, Bangka. Yet, after the blockbuster movie, Laskar Pelangi was released more than a decade ago, the island emerged as one of the most favorite tourist destinations in Indonesia.
The movie unveils that Belitung has many beautiful beaches most of which are surrounded by giant granite. The most popular one is Tanjung Tinggi. The picturesque sunset beach is only half an hour ride from the capital city of Belitung, Tanjung Pandan.
But the most iconic tourist attractions of Belitung is the old lighthouse in Lengkuas island. The colonial heritage is accessible from Tanjung Kelayang beach. To get there you need to jump on a hop-in hop-off boat and sail for around thirty minutes.
The journey from Tanjung Kelayang to Lengkuas island usually includes detours to incredible islands such as Batu Berlayar, Pasir, Kepayang, and Kelayang. Do not forget your snorkel, masker, and fins as the shoreline of Lengkuas island is home for healthy coral-reef gardens.
After exploring the beautiful beaches and islands, there’s no better way to conclude your day than visiting one of many coffee houses around the island and mingle with the locals. #EscapeWithUs
