Have you ever heard of Javanese Lulur? If you have already visited a spa in Indonesia, or live in the country, then probably yes. But do you know what it is and how the ritual is done? Keep reading to find out more about this amazing spa treatment.
Used to cleanse, soften and purify the skin, the Javanese Lulur is a royal ritual that originally began in the palaces of Yogyakarta (on the island of Java, Indonesia) around the 17th century. Prospective brides used to complete the ritual every day, for 40 days, to prepare the skin for the big wedding night. But what was once an exclusive privilege of royalty, is now offered in various spas throughout Indonesia.
The entire process begins with a scrapping of the feet followed by a full-body massage. Next comes the lulur itself, which is a natural body scrub, made from saffron mixed with rice flour, traditional spices, and other roots, to remove dead skin cells. Then the yogurt is applied to the whole body to refresh and soften the complexion. To finish it off, an aromatic dip in the bathtub and, as you prepare to leave, the jamu* is given.
The lulur can be experienced individually but is also offered for couples who want to enjoy the moment together. Also, the length of the ritual varies depending on the spa chosen – in some cases, it can take up to 3 hours. The result is baby-soft skin with an enchanting look and feel.
* Jamu is a super elixir drink that has been part of the Javanese routine for over a thousand years. It is used to maintain good health, eliminate diseases, increase beauty, strength, and endurance. There are several versions, but the most popular form of the drink is made with saffron, ginger, tamarind, and honey.
Want to try other spa treatments in Indonesia? Then read more about the Balinese Boreh.
Where to try the Javanese Lulur in Jakarta
The Bimasena Spa
The Bimasema is the spa of The Dharmawangsa Hotel, which is a true urban oasis and is located in a lovely part of Jakarta. There the ritual can be done individually or as a couple and lasts 90 minutes, with prices starting at 1,100,000 IDR.
Four Seasons Hotel
The spa of the five-star Four Seasons Hotel offers a 90-minute lulur from 1,800,000 IDR.
Chi, The Spa
Chi, located in the Shangri-La Hotel, offers individual treatment, starting from two hours, at prices starting at 990,000 IDR.
Martha Tilaar Spa
Martha Tilaar is one of the most famous brands of Indonesian cosmetics, focused on using the local ingredients and valuing the country’s beauty tradition. The brand has the largest network of spas in Indonesia and has several locations in Jakarta and neighboring areas such as BSD and Bintaro. There the ritual lasts 2 hours and costs around 450,000 IDR.
Jamu Body Treatments
Providing a more economical option than the others, at Jamu Body Treatments, located in Cipete in the south of Jakarta, the ritual can be experienced for 430,000 IDR- without fees – and lasts for 2 hours. There the ritual is only available for individuals.
Puri Santi
Also located in the south of Jakarta, Puri Santi is the most economical option, offering only the lulur – just the exfoliation part of the ritual – at prices starting from 250,000 IDR for 1 hour of treatment. The bath with petals can be included for an additional fee.
When visiting Indonesia, take a few minutes (or hours) of your stay to experience the Javanese Lulur, and savor the experience of this royal treatment for a few moments.
And if you like the Javanese Lulur, be sure to try the Balinese Boreh, another Indonesian spa treatment.
Read other posts to help you plan your trip to Indonesia:
- Where to stay in Jakarta
- The 48-hour guide to Jakarta, a detailed itinerary
- Where to stay in Bali
- Itinerary to spend one week in Bali
- The perfect route to visit Java
