Pandu war cemetery, inaugurated on 7 March 1948, is a solemn resting place located within the premise of Pandu public cemetery in Bandung. This war cemetery is accessible via a walk through the main entrance of the public cemetery, leading visitors down a 200-meter path to its gate. Pandu war cemetery serves as a poignant memorial, commemorating over 4,000 war victims, including civilians from nearby internment camps and military personnel from the Royal Dutch East Indies Army (KNIL). The cemetery is not only a testament to those who perished during the Japanese occupation but also the lives lost in the turbulent period following the end of World War II in 1945. As visitors pass through the wrought iron gates, they are greeted by a tranquil avenue lined with pine trees, leading to the cemetery’s central monuments.
Video: How to get to Ereveld Pandu
Pandu war cemetery’s history is deeply intertwined with significant events of World War II and the post-world war period. The cemetery’s inauguration on 7 March 1948 coincided with the sixth anniversary of the surrender of the Tjiater Pass (Tjiaterstelling) and the fall of the Dutch East Indies to Japan. This date was chosen to respect the memory of those who perished in the defense of the Tjiater Pass, including the 14 military personnel whose remains were reburied at the cemetery during the inauguration ceremony.
Ereveld Pandu’s layout is symbolic; when viewed from above, the cemetery is shaped like a sword, a powerful symbol facing the Tangkuban Perahu mountain. This design reflects the nearby Battle of the Tjiater Pass, which occurred at the mountain’s foothills, further emphasising the site’s historical significance.
The cemetery serves as the final resting place for war victims from diverse backgrounds, including many civillians and KNIL soldiers from Bandung and surrounding areas.Â
Over time, the cemetery became a final resting place for not only those who died in the area but also those who died elsewhere in the archipelago. Initially, the Graves Registration Unit of the KNIL developed 22 war cemeteries across Indonesia. However, in a significant consolidation effort during the 1960s, at the request of the Indonesian government, these war cemeteries were merged into the current seven war cemeteries in Java, including Pandu.
This cemetery, in particular, has seen the reburial of war victims from Muntok (1960), Palembang (1967), and Makassar (1968).Â
This tomb is dedicated to the unknown soldiers who lost their lives at war. At the top of this symbolic tomb, there is a sword, helmet, and a wreath of palm leaves. This monument serves as a tribute to those whose identities remain unknown, yet whose sacrifice is deeply honoured.
The General Monument, designed by architect A.W. Gmelig Meyling, is an eight-pillar structure that once stood within a small pond. This monument commemorates those who lost their lives in the pursuit of freedom and truth, serving as a central place of remembrance for all who perished.
This tomb is dedicated to the unknown civilians who perished during the war. The monument features a torch and a wreath of palm leaves, symbolizing remembrance and respect for the civilian victims whose identities remain unknown but whose suffering and sacrifices are acknowledged.
The KNIL Monument, unveiled on 15 August 15 1991, is a replica of the monument at the “Bronbeek” estate which serves as an elderly home for former military in Arnhem. Designed by Thérèse de Groot-Haider, this monument honours the soldiers of the Royal Dutch East Indies Army who served and sacrificed during the turbulent times of war.
This flagpole commemorates various battle sites, with their names inscribed around its base. A granite circle surrounds the flagpole, featuring the 12 zodiac signs and symbols of the four largest world religions, representing the diverse backgrounds of those buried here.
The Padalarang Monument is composed of five stone pillars and a book scroll, commemorating the members of a music group who died in a plane crash while on the way to perform and entertain soldiers. This monument highlights the broader spectrum of war casualties, honouring not only military personnel but also those who contributed to the war effort in supportive roles.
Surrounding the Flag Monument are 11 memorial stones dedicated to the victims of the Tjiater and Subang Kalidjati defense sites. Each stone is engraved with the emblem of the corresponding military unit, providing a specific tribute to the soldiers who fought and died in these battles. These stones stand as a lasting memorial to the bravery and resilience of these units.
The General Memorial is dedicated to all those who sacrificed themselves during the war but are not specifically mentioned or buried in the cemetery. This memorial serves as a respectful acknowledgment of the many individuals who paid the ultimate price, ensuring their memory is honoured and their sacrifices are not forgotten.
Gate
Logo of the Gravendienst en Residentie
Logo of the Gravendienst en Residentie
Parking Area
Parking Area
Parking Area
Flag Monument
General Monument
Symbolic Tomb for Unknown Soldiers
Symbolic Tomb for Unknown Civillians
Information Sign
Middle Post & List of War Victims
Welcoming Pilar to Section II
Welcoming Pilar to Section II
The Royal Netherlands East Indies Army Monument
Fish Pond
Symbolic Tomb & Vase
Memorial Stone
Memorial Stone
Tjiater Monument Flagpole
Padalarang Monument
11 Memorial Plaques for the Battle of Tjiater
Pendopo, Information Center & Guest Book
Toilet
Supervisor’s Office
Grave sign Workshop
Supervisor’s House
Connecting Gate to Pasteur Area
General Visits:
During visiting hours, Ereveld Pandu welcomes individuals and small groups to the serene grounds at their own pace, taking time to reflect on the histories and stories that the war cemetery holds. The tranquil paths and solemn monuments provide a contemplative environment for all who come to pay their respects.
Group Visitation and Tours:
For those interested in a more structured visit or group tours, it’s important to note the staff’s working hours. During these times, we may be able to accommodate group visits with a guided tour led by the war cemetery manager (with prior notice and confirmed availability). These tours offer a deeper insight into the significance of the site and the stories of those commemorated here, making them ideal for educational groups, organisations, or anyone looking to understand more about this historical site.
Guided Tours with Partner Organisations:
For visitors whose schedules do not align with our working hours, or who prefer a professional guided experience, we have partnered with reputable local guides in Bandung. Please let us know if you’re interested and we will redirect you to our partners.
If you’re interested in learning about the types of visits available at the war cemetery, please visit our  Visit Us page.
Media coverage, research, flying drones, professional photography sessions and conducting events within the war cenetery requires permission. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in maintaining the sanctity of this solemn space.
Every day, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Monday to Thursday, 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Friday, 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Saturday, 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM
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