Those who have Bandung as one of their favourite regions to stay in surely are familiar with The Papandayan. Long established as one of the city’s iconic hotels, its refined luxury and distinctive Classic Elegance aesthetic cannot be replicated anywhere else. Now, after a meticulous and extensive renovation, this five-star hotel has re-emerged with a renewed sense of grandeur, its spaces reconsidered, and its sense of place reaffirmed.
Originally established in 1990, The Papandayan’s presence on Jalan Gatot Subroto is a silent witness to Bandung’s evolution, offering a retreat for those who seek both the convenience of an urban locale and the tranquility of an affluent sanctuary. The hotel’s first major overhaul in 2011 set the stage for its five-star status, refining its design language and amplifying its hospitality. But it is this most recent transformation, completed in late 2024, that solidifies its position as the luxury hotel in the city.
When you step into The Papandayan today, the atmosphere that welcomes you feels considered. Every little detail is well-thought out, focusing on the principle that everything must be a balance between warmth and sophistication. The interplay of textures and materials remains a defining feature, with the newly refurbished guest rooms embracing an organic palette of stone, wood, and locally inspired artistry.
The 172 rooms—ranging from The Classic to the Presidential Suite—have each been given a thoughtful update. Plush new carpets lend a sense of indulgence underfoot, while updated wallpapers and carefully designed lighting infuse the spaces with a softer, more inviting glow. Suite rooms now boast daybeds, an addition that not only enhances comfort but also extends the functionality of the space, making it equally suited for quiet contemplation or casual conversation over a pot of Javanese tea. This isn’t a luxury establishment simply because it is luxurious, but because it has character.
More striking, perhaps, is the transformation of the Suagi Ballroom. A 30-by-18-metre expanse of pillar-free space, it has always been one of the hotel’s architectural highlights. The recent renovations, however, have elevated it further, bespoke carpeting, intricate ceiling work, and ambient lighting adjustments—imbue the space with an even greater sense of drama and occasion. Meanwhile, four newly installed LED screens provide a modern technological edge, ensuring that events held within these walls are immersive.
Beyond the ballroom, The Papandayan’s meeting and function spaces have been similarly rejuvenated. The Cimanuk Room, accommodating up to 200 standing guests, has been updated alongside 14 other meeting rooms, ensuring that corporate gatherings, intimate discussions, and grand celebrations all find their place within the property. The commitment to refinement extends beyond the interiors—Pago Restaurant’s outdoor terrace, for instance, now features a retractable canopy, allowing guests to enjoy the Bandung breeze in comfort, whether under the midday sun or evening sky.
But renovations, in their truest sense, are not merely about aesthetics; they are about experience. Papandayan understands this. The Tropical Garden, Edelweiss Spa, and Fitness Centre remain integral to its offering, while the swimming pool—now heated— acknowledges the kind of subtle luxuries that make a difference to returning guests.
The Papandayan’s renewal is not about grandeur for grandeur’s sake, nor is it an attempt to chase fleeting trends. Instead, it is a quiet, confident stride into the future—one that ensures its guests continue to find comfort and sophistication, without sacrificing character. General Manager Bobby Renaldi encapsulates the hotel’s ethos with the phrase “Where You Can Experience a Balance in Life”, and it certainly sums it up all well.
For more information about The Papandayan, bookings, and reservations, visit their official website at thepapandayan.com
The Papandayan Hotel
Jalan Gatot Subroto No.83, Malabar
Kec. Lengkong, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat
