Kawah Putih is a turquoise sulfur crater lake roughly 45 km south of central Bandung, in the Ciwidey highlands at about 2,100 meters above sea level. The drive takes around 1.5-2 hours each way by car, on a winding mountain road — a route best covered with a driver familiar with the area, since the last stretch is a narrow, sloped access road up to the crater's parking area.
What to expect at Kawah Putih
The lake's color shifts between turquoise, white, and pale green depending on sulfur content and light conditions, which is why it's called "Kawah Putih" (White Crater). The air carries a mild sulfur smell near the water's edge, and temperatures at this elevation are noticeably cold — most visitors underestimate how cool it gets and arrive without a jacket.
What else is nearby in Ciwidey
- Ranca Upas — a camping area known for semi-wild deer roaming the grounds.
- Situ Patenggang — a crater lake with boat rides, often paired with Kawah Putih in a single day.
- Strawberry and tea plantations — Ciwidey's highland farms are similar to Lembang's, with several strawberry-picking spots along the main road.
Distance and travel time
| From | Distance | Drive time |
|---|---|---|
| Central Bandung | ~45 km | 1.5-2 hours |
| Ciwidey town center | ~8 km | 20-30 min |
| Situ Patenggang | ~10 km | 20-30 min |
Have a question about your trip?
Chat on WhatsAppBooking a car for Kawah Putih
Because of the narrow mountain roads and limited parking near the crater, a Hiace or smaller vehicle with an experienced driver is the practical choice — a big bus generally isn't suitable for the final approach road. Fuel and driver are included in every rental; see the full rental price list for current rates, or check our guide to choosing a vehicle rental in Bandung if you're unsure which vehicle size fits your group.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I plan for a Kawah Putih day trip? A full day is recommended — roughly 3-4 hours round-trip driving plus 2-3 hours at the crater and any nearby stops like Situ Patenggang.
What should I bring? A jacket for the cold air, comfortable walking shoes for the crater rim path, and a mask if you're sensitive to the sulfur smell.
Is Kawah Putih suitable for elderly visitors or young children? Yes — the main viewing area is a short, flat walk from the parking area, though the walk down to the water's edge involves stairs.
Book your Kawah Putih trip
Message us on WhatsApp with your travel date, and our team will confirm vehicle availability and the exact itinerary for your Ciwidey day trip from Bandung.
