Sapta Ratna Pagoda in West Papua has become the new darling for tourists, both local and international. As a religious center for Buddhists, this pagoda is a symbol of multiculturalism in Sorong, and Indonesia in general, whose majority is Catholic.
The pagoda stands tall on a hilltop, providing an exquisite view of the city below, which has become its main attraction point for tourists. Now the majestic pagoda is deemed as the landmark of the city and one of the must-visit spots for visitors.
Short History
Built in 1996, this pagoda is relatively new. Even though Sapta Ratna Pagoda is now the epicenter for Buddhist worship in Sorong, the construction was intended as a burial center for the passing Buddhist ashes. But its location provides a great spot to enjoy sunrise and sunset, as well as the aesthetic structure that draws curiosity. Approximately 7.000 locals and foreigners visit the pagoda every month.
About the West Papua Pagoda
Sapta Ratna Pagoda consists of seven stories and is still actively used for religious worship. If you are lucky, you will be able to enter and explore the pagoda interior, since it is only open on certain days. But if you are not, you can enjoy sightseeing in the surrounding area where the vast blue sea and dense city view unfolds right below. In due time of your visit, you may stand still as witness the bright sky turns into a colorful canvas during sunset.
Despite being located on top of a hill, this pagoda is highly accessible near the main road where public transportations pass by. The pagoda is opened for public from 9 AM to 7 PM daily.
How to Get There
Downtown Sorong, West Papua is the most ideal starting point to get to the pagoda. You can take a taxi with a maximum of 4 passengers and get down on the roadside near the pagoda. It takes about ten minutes to walk from the main road to the pagoda. Beware of the steep gravel road, which is why it is best to avoid visiting during the rainy seasons.
Best Time to Visit Sapta Ratna Pagoda
The best time to visit the West Papua pagoda is in the late afternoon, when the sky is clear, and the weather is not too hot. You will also get to experience the sunset from its height. Make sure not to visit during the rainy or cloudy season if you do not want to miss the view.
To be able to enter the pagoda area, you must pay IDR10.000 for the entrance ticket. Since only local currency is accepted, make sure you bring some cash along during your visit.
Useful Tips When Visiting the Pagoda
For a comfortable walk around Sapta Ratna Pagoda, wearing light clothes is suggested. Do not forget to apply sunscreen to your skin and prepare an umbrella in case the weather gets too hot or for unexpected rainfall.
Other Things to Do in Sorong
While visiting Sapta Ratna Pagoda, you can enjoy hill-climbing to find a haven of nature in West Papua. Walk past the pagoda to find green hills and forest beyond to find healing. More than that, the ocean view from the height is magnificent too!
Since there are no lights along the way, you have to make sure to get back to the pagoda before nightfall.
Pasar Jembatan Puri
Get close to the locals’ ordinary life by visiting Pasar Jembatan Puri. Jembatan Puri is a small harbor where fishermen dock in the morning after fishing all night in the ocean. This activity is suitable for early birds who are looking for something interesting to do so early in the morning.
Pulau Dom
Pulau Dom or the Dom Island is another must-visit beside the Sapta Ratna Pagoda in West Papua. This small island is located right in front of the Sorong Harbour and also called the “old Sorong”. Pulau Dom offers many outdoor activities such as climbing a small mountain called Tangga Seribu or a thousand steps.
Kasuari Beach
When you hear the word “beach” do not expect white sand and a glistening blue ocean. Kasuari Beach may be far from fancy, but it is the best place if you want to find some peace and tranquility, far from the buzzing town. You can sit back and enjoy a refreshing coconut while waiting for sunset time.
Raja Ampat
This place is always included in everyone’s bucket list when they pay a visit to Papua. Raja Ampat offers a magnificent view of nature, from its surreal landscape to the heavenly underwater world for divers. You will have to travel around 2,5 to 3 hours from Sorong to get there by ferry.Sapta Ratna Pagoda is another destination for your bucket list while visiting West Papua. As the farthest island in Indonesia, everything about it always draws curiosity for visitors. Whenever you are ready, pack your bag and see the beauty for yourself!
