Why go somewhere over the rainbow when you can just hang out inside of it? Kampung Pelangi, a small village in Indonesia, has transformed itself into a stunning display of bright colours and whimsical designs, a huge departure from its former state of squalor.

The Central Java community, located in a southern district of Semarang, spent over $22k on the magnificent makeover in a bid to shake off its status as a degraded slum. Initiated by 54-year-old junior high principal Slamet Widodo, the project was inspired by at least 3 other towns in the country that adopted similar paint jobs, and has turned at least 232 homes in Kampung Pelangi into works of art. Creative murals adorning the walls of narrow passageways burst with life, giving a veritable pulse to the whole village.

Tourists have definitely taken early notice of Indonesia’s growing rainbow village trend, and have flocked to them accordingly, including Kampung Pelangi. The investments made in revamping the former slum are sure to pay off, as local businesses are already seeing a rise in souvenir and food sales, according to the Indonesian Builders Association. It goes without saying that the lively, bohemian atmosphere of this newfound hot spot is also gold for Instagram shots!

A former run-down slum in Central Java, Indonesia has received a dazzling makeover

Image credits: anomharya, arieprakhman

It all started when junior high school principal Slamet Widodo, 52, saw the need to improve his community

Image credits: arieprakhman

He proposed the painting of all 390 houses in Kampung Pelangi, his native village, in bright colours

Image credits: isnaininurul51

The government then pledged over $22k towards the initiative, and the transformation began

Image credits: kingkin.kin

Overseen by mayor Hendrar Prihadi, 232 homes in the area have now been adorned with art

Image credits: jalidin

The project encourages “the active involvement of citizens in the improvement of their home,” says Prihadi

Image credits: riza_fe

In addition to filling the town with art, residents will also undertake the cleaning of the nearby river

Image credits: nicolas_ertaf

Kampung Pelangi follows the example of at least 3 other former slums, including the famous Jodipan Village

Image credits: isnaininurul51

Since beautifying their village, Kampung Pelangi has seen a sudden increase in international tourism

Image credits: mzndoe

It’s no surprise why – these rainbow streets are gold for Instagram photos, and #kampungpelangi is blowing up

Image credits: amilantih

This rapid influx of visitors has led to a jump in local food and souvenir sales, benefiting the local economy

Image credits: anakhitssemarang

The future is bright and colourful for Kampung Pelangi thanks to the amazing power of art!

Image credits: tri_wahdatii

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