A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bandung vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bandung

Bandung is a scenic, laidback, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a breathtaking, undeveloped, and remote national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Bandung and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bandung. Although Bandung and Mount Aspiring National Park are popular destinations, Bandung has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bandung is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Bandung is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is popular for its fashion and shopping outlets, its local street food, and its cooler temperatures. It is also well known for White Crater (Kawah Putih Ciwidey). Mount Aspiring National Park is famous for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Bandung different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park and Bandung. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Bandung
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bandung is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bandung can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with museums and landmarks like the Sri Baduga Museum, which displays prehistoric artifacts. There's also the Asian African Conference Museum, a geology museum, and the Indonesia Postal Museum. The Mandala Wangsit Siliwangi Museum shows items relating to Indonesian wars and weapons while the Virajati Seskoad Museum has information on the Indonesian Army school.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bandung
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bandung is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bandung is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city is a wonderful foodie destination with tons of street food and local options. The population is predominantly Sundanese, and the cuisine reflects that. The dishes involve a lot of raw vegetables and fresh ingredients. Make sure you try the batagor (fried tofu), soto Bandung (meat soup), and siomay (fish or chicken dumplings).

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Bandung
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bandung is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bandung. There's a large student population and a number of bars around town. The nightlife has a laidback vibe and many people enjoy hanging out with friends a local pub.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Bandung
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. Also, Bandung is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Mount Aspiring National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Bandung. There are tons of great hiking trails just outside of town. Some are undiscovered while others are more popular. The trails will take you through forests, by volcanoes, and to dramatic craters.


Is the Shopping Better in Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Bandung
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bandung is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Bandung make it a world-class shopping destination. This is the ultimate shopping destination in Indonesia. Visitors come from throughout the country and abroad to buy designer goods and name brands, often at a discount price. You'll find both knock-offs and authentic merchandise, so be aware when you're purchasing something, which you might be buying.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Bandung
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bandung is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very family-friendly destination. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bandung. Kids will enjoy taking in a cultural show with traditional dance and music. Near the city you can also get outside and enjoy the stunning scenery at White Crater or Gunung Tangkuban Perahu. There's also the Bandung Geological Museum and Trans Studio amusement park.

Is Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Bandung
Mount Aspiring National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Bandung and Mount Aspiring National Park make for a very good place to visit.

Bandung makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most honeymooners make their way to a beautiful Indonesian beach, if you're looking for a break from the heat then this city makes a good stopover. The city is near many beautiful outdoor settings such as the White Crater. There are also many nice luxury resorts and hotels.

Couples visit Mount Aspiring National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.


Is Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bandung
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bandung is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Mount Aspiring National Park. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Bandung is a great city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers love Indonesia and this city is no exception. There are plenty of hostels around town and many great activities to enjoy.

Is Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Students?

Bandung
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bandung is a nice place to visit for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Bandung is a good city to visit for students. Many of the expats in town are students, so you'll have a number of people to hang out with. This is also an affordable town for study abroad.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Is Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bandung
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bandung is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Bandung has a few public transit options. There are both public buses and a public van service (Angkutan Kota) that operates on set routes.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.


Is Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Bandung
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bandung is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its ease of walking around.

Bandung is a very walkable city. There are a number of walkable neighborhoods around town.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable city. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Bandung Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Bandung?

How long in Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Bandung because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Bandung, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

Families should spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Bandung. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Mount Aspiring National Park , it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bandung than Mount Aspiring National Park . You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bandung that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bandung than Mount Aspiring National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bandung.


  • How many days in Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bandung 2-3 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The laidback destination of Bandung offers shopping and museums. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bandung. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bandung has to offer.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer.


Five days in Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Bandung is a fun place to experience. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and shopping around the laidback city of Bandung. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Aspiring National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Bandung?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bandung is $41, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $116. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bandung and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bandung $22
    Mount Aspiring National Park $63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bandung $44
    Mount Aspiring National Park $126
Compare Hotels in Bandung and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bandung


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bandung Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bandung $6.00
    Mount Aspiring National Park $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bandung

Also for Bandung, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Cipanas Thermal to Jakarta Airport CGK Departure Transfer: $28
  • Private Transfer from Mampang to Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP): $32
  • Private Transfer from Pajajaran to Bandung Airport (BDO): $36
  • Private Transfer from Paledang to Bandung Airport (BDO): $36
  • Private Transfer Bandung Airport (BDO) to Dago: $36
  • Private Transfer from Sadang Serang to Bandung Airport (BDO): $36
  • Private Transfer from Cihanjuang Rahayu to Bandung Airport (BDO): $36
  • Private Transfer Bandung Airport (BDO) to Kec. Cibeunying Kidul 40124: $36
  • Private Transfer from Cikole to Bandung Airport (BDO): $36
  • Private Transfer from Sukabungah to Bandung Airport (BDO): $36
  • Private Transfer from Malabar to Bandung Airport (BDO): $36
  • Private Transfer Bandung Airport (BDO) to Malabar: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Bandung or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Bandung change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bandung $15
    Mount Aspiring National Park $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bandung

For Bandung, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Bandung Food Tour: $67

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bandung $5.90
    Mount Aspiring National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Bandung

For Bandung, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private Guided Sightseeing Day Tour of Bandung: $43
  • Daytrip Costum White Crater Volcano Mount Tour Guide Bandung: $49
  • Kawah Putih tour - Day trip Ticket etc all including : $50
  • Private Guided Sightseeing Day Tour of Bandung: $50
  • Lembang Tour From Bandung: $51
  • Private Tour to Patuhan Volcanic Crater and Angklung Show: $54
  • Bandung:Kawah Putih,Volcano,HotSpring,Mud Bathing,Lake Tour: $57
  • Kawah Putih Tour From Bandung City: $58
  • Private Tour to Bandung Volcano Hot Springs and Mud bathing: $59
  • Tangkuban Parahu Volcano North Bandung Private Tour : $65
  • White Crater Day Trip Private Tour Bandung Kawah Putih All In: $66
  • Private Rafting Adventure in Pangalengan with Lunch: $66

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bandung $3.60
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.44


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bandung and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. And not only is Bandung much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bandung is in Asia and Mount Aspiring National Park is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Bandung would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bandung and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Mount Aspiring National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mount Aspiring National Park than you might in Bandung.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bandung Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.