December 4, 2014

PATUHA MOUNT

Gunung Patuha is just over 40km from Bandung city, near Sugih village in the district of Pasir Jambu. It is the highest peak in the large highland area between the Gede-Pangrango massif and the mountains of Garut. The word ‘patuha’ apparently comes from the words “Pak Tua” (old man). It’s actually a twin volcano – with two summit craters of very different character. The forest-covered north crater is the highest of the two and has been dormant for many centuries. The south crater, known as Kawah Putih (white crater), is a leading local tourist attraction. It is very popular with visitors at weekends and was first written about by Dr. Franz Wihelm Junghuhn (1809-1864), a Dutch botanist from Germany. He found that the high density of sulphur was making birds reluctant to fly over the crater. Locals still regard the area as haunted and the atmosphere is definitely one of eerie calm. During the 20th century, the Dutch built a sulfur mine which was later controlled by the Japanese military. Sulphur mine tunnels and the remanants of old buildings still exist to this day. There are also several ancient graves in the area. The car park is at an elevation of 2,200m so it’s a very easy climb to the top – there and back in less than two hours!
From Bandung, there are plenty of angkots serving the main road south-west to Soreang and Ciwidey and it is an easy day-trip from Bandung. However, you will have to change vehicle at least once so it is much better to avoid the waiting around and hire a taxi/private car. It takes approximately 90 minutes from the centre of Bandung to the top of the road at Kawah Putih. Beyond Ciwidey, the road is lined with strawberry fields, plants for sale and related produce. From this point, Kawah Putih is well signposted and it is very hard to miss the entrance gates. Since 1987 Kawah Putih has been an official tourist site and has an information centre and cafe. Entrance tickets are a very reasonable Rp. 12,000 and it is open from 7am until 5pm. Beyond the entrance gates, the road climbs up over 5km through delightful eucalyptus plantation to the crater car park. There are several places worth stopping at briefly to admire the view of other forested peaks in the distance.
When you reach the top of the road, there is a large area for vehicles and small warungs (shops), and some excellent places for having a picnic. Kawah Putih itself is very impressive – a misty turquoise crater lake surrounded by white rocks and sand. There is a smell of sulphur but it is not overpowering. To reach the summit of Gunung Patuha, leave the car park at the stone tree trunk and continue up through the forest on a well-defined path to the right of Kawah Putih. The trail is very clear although not many Kawah Putih visitors hike this way. After less than 30 minutes of ascent through the forest the edge of the old forested crater is reached. There is a flat area occasionally used for camping. From this point you can look down over the edge to the swampy, dormant northern crater floor. Apparently there were eruptions here several hundred years ago. From the camping spot, follow the less well-defined path leading left (west) through the forest along the edge of the crater. The trail ascends and descends and ascends again before you reach another flat, open area suitable for camping. This is the true summit and there is a small collection of rocks which could well be a grave of some sort. Sadly, views are very limited due to the density of the forest. According to local people, this summit area was used in the past as a meeting place of the ancestors of South Bandung and it is certainly a great place for quiet contemplation.

BONGKOK MOUNT

The steep and impressive Gunung Bongkok (sometimes mis-spelt ‘Bangkok’) lies just to the south of the equally imposing Gunung Parang. They are both of great interest to rock climbers as there are various vertical rock faces on their slopes. Despite being just a couple of hours from Jakarta, they are not often visited except by local villagers and occasional student hikers. Both peaks are stunning and it must surely only be a matter of time before these mountains become much more well-known.
Both peaks lie to the east of the large Jatiluhur reservoir near Purwakarta. The starting point for Gunung Bongkok is Cisarua, which is best accessed via Plered because the small farm roads from Purwakarta are incredibly bumpy and rocky and it would take at least 20 minutes just to get from Pasangrahan (starting point for Parang) to Cisarua. If in doubt, as for the school (sekolah) in Cisarua. It is best to allow 2 hours for the journey from Purakarta to Cisarua.
In Cisarua, there is a small warung where a couple of vehicles can be left. The local people are very friendly and would be more than willing to guide you to the top for a very modest fee. Cisarua is at an elevation of approximately 450m so it’s just 520 metres of ascent to reach the top, which can easily be done in 2 hours by most fit people. Building work is currently going on and there is a new track leading up from Cisarua towards the mountain itself. From here, in good weather you will be able to spot the huge gilstening andesite boulders which crown the peak of Bongkok.
Soon you will reach the end of where building work is underway and this is where a guide becomes essential. The farm trail leads up the hillside and follows a pleasant grassy strip for some distance. It’s a beautiful area – mango trees, cattle roaming freely and great views back down towards the huge reservoir.
After about 30 minutes of fairly standard upland farm hiking, you will reach the crest of the hill (650m) and this is where you must turn left onto the shoulder of the mountain. The area is full of bamboo trees and occasional large boulders. The trail soon gets much steeper and there are several rather tricky places where you will need to use both hands to ascend/descend large rocks and steep muddy areas. There is not much of a view here because of the trees, but think of this as a blessing because it would be oppressively hot outside the shade.
Soon you will reach the true summit ridge, where you turn left, pass an ancient grave and then finally spot the summit boulders of this superb mountain. Because of the size of the boulders, no trees can grow at the top of the mountain and so the views are absolutely stunning – the vastness of the Jatiluhur reservoir below, the phenomenal shape of neighbouring Gunung Parang, the vertical drops back down to the villages and the holy mountain of Gunung Sanggabuana on the other side of the reservoir. It is truly breathtaking.
The boulders are easily climbed so – unlike the densely vegetated Gn Parang – Bongkok can be bagged very easily. Do take great care however because a fall here would mean falling several hundred metres down the cliff face of the mountain. There is much animal life here – swallows love to swoop round the peak and in sunny conditions you will probably be able to see a few eagles soaring below you. There are also a number of flying ants so make sure to check for them every few minutes.
After enjoying an hour or two in the shade of the huge boulders, simply follow the trail back down to Cisarua. Because of a few steep, difficult sections of the trail it takes a little longer to descend that to climb. Allow 2 hours.

September 10, 2014

PAPANDAYAN MOUNT

Mount Papandayan is a complex stratovolcano, located in Garut Regency, West Java, Indonesia. At the summit, there are four large craters, and it contains active fumarole fields. The 1772 eruption caused the northeast flank to collapse, producing a catastrophic debris avalanche that destroyed 40 villages and killed nearly 3000 people. It truncated the volcano into a broad shape with two peaks and a flat 1.1 km wide of Alun-Alun crater in the middle, making it look like a twin volcano. One of the peaks is called Papandayan and the other is Mount Puntang. Since 1772, only small phreatic eruptions had occurred prior to an explosive eruption that began in November 2002.
Mount Papandayan is a large composite volcano. It is constructed of alternating layers of lava and ash, and other fragmental volcanic rock debris formed by explosive eruptions over the past several hundred years. A large horseshoe-shape crater extended to the northeast resulting in an avalanche deposit consisted of intermixed volcanic debris and alternated rocks, with steep-sided crater walls. Numerous small vents within the crater, known as Kawah Mas, Kawah Baru, Kawah Nangklak, Kawah Manuk and many other with solfataras emitting smoke and hot fumes from its inner sides.
The Mount Papandayan area is a popular touristic area. Tourists can walk across the crater and view phenomena such as bubbling mud pools, steam vents and sulfur deposits. The bubbling yellow crater (Kawah Papandayan or "Papandayan Crater") is a popular sight. Above the crater is the elfin forest and several meadows with the Javanese edelweiss
A visit to Mt. Papandayan is one of the most spectacular outings to an active volcano you can make. Golden sulphur crystals, hissing steam, boiling mud and water, blue and black creeks, all set in a large crater with a commanding view over the Garut Plain make this outing an unforgettable experience.
Access to the mountain is easy with any vehicle. Public buses take you only to within 9 km of the crater, so you either have to walk the rest of the way or take an ojek (private motorbike with driver).
Though you can drive directly to the rim of the crater, keep in mind that your safety is not guaranteed—hot steam and boiling water and mud can scald you badly, and many of the sharp-edged rocks are rather loose. Do be careful.
There are two routes to Mt. Papandayan: one from the Garut area in the east and the other from the west via Pengalengan. Note that the two routes do not connect—not even a jeep can drive the 1 km across the crater.
from the east
The eastern approach from Garut is by far the easiest. Good roads take you right to the lower edge of the crater. Between Cipanas and Garut is the Tarogong roundabout, 42 km from the Cileunyi toll road exit. When you come from the north (Bandung or Cipanas), head toward Garut and Papandayan at the Tarogong roundabout. Half a kilometer past the roundabout, turn off to the right to bypass Garut and follow the Papandayan road sign. Continue on past the turnoffs to Kamojang (7km) and Darajat (9 km). Some 15 km from Tarogong the road connects with the main Garut-Cikajang road. After another 7 km, in Cisurupan, where the main road takes a sharp turn to the left, you go straight up the hill. From here it’s 9 km to the crater.
The road winds up the mountain, at times steeply, but is reasonably well surfaced and should not pose a problem for any car. At the car park, parking and admission fees are required.
Approaching Mt. Papandayan across the Garut Plain, you can see the horseshoe shaped crater with a gaping hole to the northeast. This open side resulted when, on 11 August 1772, a terrible eruption shook the mountain and the whole Garut area. What had once been a solid mountain flank exploded sideways across the Garut Plain.
papandayan-2Geologists estimate that several cubic kilometers, or several thousand million tons, of rock mass were blown out that night. If trucks were loaded with that mass and lined up bumper-to-bumper, they would encircle the earth three dozen times! Small wonder that more than 3,000 people lost their lives during that eruption.
From the car park it’s a 20-minute walk to the middle of the crater, and now you see why it is sometimes called the “Golden Crater’s its central part is a dome of yellow sulphur. Sulphur vapor hisses out of many small fissures in the dome to form columns visible from far away.
Shining yellow crystals of crystallized steam are everywhere, and in one place have collected to form a statue like figure more than 2 meters high. In earlier times local people channeled the steam through pipes to control this crystallization process to be used for commercial purposes. Be extremely careful not to step on one of these old brittle pipes, for it is likely to break and release scalding steam.
You may wish to take a few samples of sulphur with you as souvenirs, but it would be best to wrap them first sulphuric acid may form and burn holes in fabrics. Apart from sulphur deposits, boiling springs and streams flow in dark blue and gray colors. Be sure to avoid the soft patch- es of ground.
Through the open northwestern side of the crater a fantastic view stretches before you across the whole Garut Plain and as far as Mt. Ciremai near Cirebon, 80 km away The Mt. Papandayan crater is truly a visual feast.
from the west
The western route takes you to the upper crater rim through some memorable scenery. Be forewarned, how- ever, that long sections of the road are often in poor repair and only passable with a jeep. Public transportation is unreliable. You can drive up either the Cisangkuy Valley or the Citarum Valley to the village of Santosa and then on to Mt. Papandayan (see the relevant sections in “South of Bandung”). From Bandung you may need about four hours to reach the crater on this route.

September 9, 2014

CIREMEI MOUNT

Mount Ciremai National Park is located in the province of West Java, Indonesia. Some endemic or endangered flora and fauna are being protected in this national park, such as Pinus merkusii, Castanopsis javanica, Fragraera blumii, Villubrunes rubescens, Macaranga denticulatan, Lithocarpus sundaicus, Elaeocarpus stipularis, Ardisia cymosa, Platea latifolia, Leopard, Javan Muntjac, Zaglossus bruijni[citation needed], Javan Surili, Javan Hawk-eagle and Python species.
Mount Ceremai is adminis tratively included in the three districts, namely Kabupaten Cirebon, Kuningan and Majalengka Regency, West Java Province. The geographical position of the peak is located at 6 ° 53 '30 "latitude and 108 ° 24' 00" east, with an altitude of 3078 m above sea level. This mountain is the highest mountain in West Java.
This mountain has a double crater. Western crater radius is truncated by a crater 400 m east of radius 600 m. At an altitude of about 2900 m on the southern slope there are ex-point eruption Gowa called Swallow.
Now G. Ciremei included in the National Park area of Mount Ciremei (TNGC), which has a total area of approximately 15,000 hectares.
The name is derived from the word mountain Ciremei (Phyllanthus acidus, a type of plant small shrubs with rada sour fruit), but it is often called Ciremei, a symptom hiperkorek due to the many place names in the region Pasundan that use the prefix 'ci-' for the naming of places.
Mount Ciremei including Quaternary active volcano, type A (ie, magmatic volcanoes is still active since 1600), and shaped strato. This mountain is a volcano solitary, separated by a Fault Zone Cilacap - Brass from the group of West Java volcanoes east (ie row Galunggung Mountain, Thunder Mountain, the volcano, Mount Patuha to Mount Tangkuban Boat) located in Bandung Zone.
Ceremai is the third generation volcano. The first generation is a Pleistocene volcano located next to G. Ciremei, as an advanced Plio-Pleistocene volcanism above Tertiary rocks. Volcanism second generation is Mount Gegerhalang, which before the collapse to form Gegerhalang Caldera. And volcanism third generation in Holocene time form of G. Ciremei that grows on the north side Gegerhalang Caldera, which is estimated to occur in about 7,000 years ago (Situmorang 1991).
Eruption G. Ciremei recorded since 1698 and the last time occurred in 1937 with the shortest rest interval of 3 years and the longest 112 years. Three eruptions in 1772, 1775 and 1805 occurred in the central crater, but did not cause significant damage. The eruption of sulfur steam and copy the new fumaroles at the center of the crater wall occurred in 1917 and 1924. On June 24, 1937 - January 7, 1938 freatik eruption in the central crater and radial cracks. Distribution of ash reached an area of 52.500 square km (Kusumadinata, 1971). In 1947, 1955 and 1973 tectonic earthquake that struck the southwestern G. Ciremei presumably related to the fault structure trending southeast - northwest. Genesis quake damaged several buildings in the area west of Maja and Talaga G. Ciremei occurred in 1990 and 2001. Tremors felt in the east to the Village Cilimus G. Ciremei.
The forests are still experienced at Mount Ceremai stay longer at the top. On the bottom, especially in areas which in the past managed as production forests Perhutanioffice, these forests have been converted to pine forest (Pinus), or shrubs, which are formed due to repeated fires and grazing. Now, most of the forests under the height... m above sea level. managed in the form of agro-forestry (agro forests) by the local community.

September 7, 2014

IJEN MOUNT

The Ijen volcano complex is a group of stratovolcanoes, in East Java, Indonesia. It is inside a larger caldera Ijen, which is about 20 kilometers wide. The Gunung Merapi stratovolcano is the highest point of that complex.
West of Gunung Merapi is the Ijen volcano, which has a one-kilometer-wide turquoise-colored acid crater lake. The lake is the site of a labor-intensive sulfur mining operation, in which sulfur-laden baskets are carried by hand from the crater floor. Many other post-caldera cones and craters are located within the caldera or along its rim. The largest concentration of post-caldera cones forms an E-W-trending zone across the southern side of the caldera. The active crater at Kawah Ijen has an equivalent radius of 361 meters, a surface of 41 × 106 square meters. It is 200 meters deep and has a volume of 36 × 106 cubic meters. 

In 2008, explorer George Kourounis took a small rubber boat out onto the acid lake to measure its acidity. The pH of the sulfuric acid in the crater was measured to be 0.5.
An active vent at the edge of the lake is a source of elemental sulfur, and supports a mining operation. Escaping volcanic gasses are channeled through a network of ceramic pipes, resulting in condensation of molten sulfur. The sulfur, which is deep red in color when molten, pours slowly from the ends of these pipes and pools on the ground, turning bright yellow as it cools. The cooled material is broken into large pieces and carried out in baskets by the miners.
Typical loads range from 70–100 kilograms, and must be carried to the crater rim approximately 200 meters above before being carried several kilometers down the mountain. Most miners make this journey twice a day. The miners are paid by a nearby sugar refinery by the weight of sulfur transported; as of September 2010 the typical daily earnings were equivalent to approximately $13.00 US. The miners often use insufficient protection while working around the volcano and are susceptible to numerous respiratory complaints.

September 6, 2014

BROMO MOUNT

Mount Bromo (Indonesian: Gunung Bromo), is an active volcano and part of the Tengger massif, in East Java, Indonesia. At 2,329 metres (7,641 ft) it is not the highest peak of the massif, but is the most well known. The massif area is one of the most visited tourist attractions in East Java, Indonesia. The volcano belongs to the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The name of Bromo derived from Javanese pronunciation of Brahma, the Hindu creator god.
Mount Bromo sits in the middle of a vast plain called the "Sea of Sand" (Javanese: Segara Wedi or Indonesian: Lautan Pasir), a protected nature reserve since 1919. The typical way to visit Mount Bromo is from the nearby mountain village of Cemoro Lawang. From there it is possible to walk to the volcano in about 45 minutes, but it is also possible to take an organised jeep tour, which includes a stop at the viewpoint on Mount Penanjakan (2,770 m or 9,088 ft) (Indonesian: Gunung Penanjakan). The best views from Mount Bromo to the Sand Sea below and the surrounding volcanoes are at sunrise. The viewpoint on Mount Penanjakan can also be reached on foot in about two hours. From inside the caldera, sulfur is collected by workers.
On the fourteenth day of the Hindu festival of Yadnya Kasada, the Tenggerese people of Probolinggo, East Java, travel up the mountain in order to make offerings of fruit, rice, vegetables, flowers and sacrifices of livestock to the mountain gods by throwing them into the caldera of the volcano. The origin of the ritual lies in the 15th century legend where a princess named Roro Anteng started the principality of Tengger with her husband, Joko Seger. The couple were childless and therefore beseeched the assistance of the mountain gods. The gods granted them 24 children but stipulated that the 25th child, named Kesuma, must be thrown into the volcano as human sacrifice. The gods' request was implemented. The tradition of throwing sacrifices into the volcano to appease these ancient deities continues today and called Yadnya Kasada ceremony. Though fraught with danger, some locals risk climbing down into the crater in an attempt to recollect the sacrificed goods that believed could bring them good luck.
On the Segara Wedi sand plain sits a Hindu temple called Pura Luhur Poten. The temple holds a significant importance to the Tenggerese scatter across the mountainous villages such as Ngadisari, Wonokitri, Ngadas, Argosari, Ranu Prani, Ledok Ombo and Wonokerso. The temple organized annual Yadnya Kasada ceremony which lasts for about one month. On the 14th day, the Tenggerese will congregate at Pura Luhur Poten to ask for blessings from Ida Sang Hyang Widi Wasa and God of Mahameru (Mount Semeru). Then the mass will proceed along the crater edges of Mt Bromo where offerings will be thrown into the crater. The major difference between this temple with the Balinese ones are the type of stones and building materials. Pura Luhur Poten uses natural black stones from volcanoes nearby, while Balinese temples mostly made from red bricks. Inside this pura, there are several buildings and enclosures aligned in Mandala zone composition

September 4, 2014

TELOMOYO MOUNT

Mount Telomoyo is a strato -volcano in Central Java, Indonesia. The volcano was constructed over the southern flank of the eroded Pleistocene-age Soropati volcano, which has a height of 1,300 metres (4,300 ft)[2]. The Soropati volcano collapsed during the Pleistocene, leaving a U-shaped depression. Mount Telomoyo grows on the southern side of the depression, reaching over 600 metres (2,000 ft) above the depression's rim.
This small mountain lies near Salatiga, to the north of the huge Merbabu mountain. It is very easy to ‘climb’ because there is a road to the communications towers at the summit. Apparently it is very popular with paragliders. Entry is via Dalangan village, which lies to the south of the mountain, and you can actually drive all the way to the very top. In clear weather the views of the higher mountains of Central Java are fabulous, although the summit itself is a jungle of radio masts and antennae!
From Dalangan village (approximately 1,300m), there is a rusty Telomoyo sign which points the way to metal gates at the base of the mountain. It costs a very reasonable Rp5,000 for entry (per vehicle) and the gates are open from 8am until 5pm daily. The road is very bumpy in places but a regular car should be able to manage it. The only problem would be if you meet another car coming in the opposite direction as there aren’t many places to pull over to one side! You could always get an ojek (motorcycle taxi) from the village – lots of teenagers ride up the mountain at weekends. Alternatively you could even walk up the road – although it is several kilometres long it is very pleasant and there is even a mini waterfall. It would take less than 2 hours on foot, perhaps 3 hours to climb and descend again.
The view from the road itself is spectacular – Merbabu, Gunung Andong (the small pyramid mountain across the valley), Sumbing and Sindoro. Indeed, the view is better from the road than from the actual summit itself which is covered in transmitters. At the top, you may need to ask one of the workers in the mast compound to open the gates so you can turn your vehicle around more easily. It takes about 30 minutes each way by motorbike or car from the entrance gates.

September 3, 2014

TAMPOMAS MOUNT

Defined as the park attractions based on the Decree of the Minister of Agriculture. 423/Kpts/Um/7 / 1979 dated 5-7-1979 with an area of 1250 Ha According to government administration including District Cimalaka, Paseh, Conggeang, Buahdua and Tanjungkerta Sumedang District Tampomas Mountain is a mountain located in Area District intact Sumedang
Tofografi TWA region is mountainous with altitudes between 625-1684 masl According to Schmidt and Ferguson's classification of climate, including climate type B with an average annual rainfall is 3518 mm
Vegetation of this region including the type of mountain rain forest flora consists of a wide variety of woody trees and the types of classes liana and epiphyte Flora who dominate this region is Jamuju (Podocaipus imbricatus), Rasamala (Altingia excelsa) and Saninten (Castanea argentea) Several years ago the mountain was looted by the search Tampomas Bonsai plants. no half-hearted they are taking the truck every night Rich Mountain by the Bonsai, and in history without planted Thankful that in the northern part of the mountain that is in the area between Conggeang and Buahdua still preserved While in the south have been damaged by the excavation of sand.  Wild animals that live in this region is the hare (Tragullus javanicus), Forest Pig (Sus vitatus) Langur (Trachypfthecus auratus)
Also Java Tiger, tiger beetles, tiger Tutul, and mew Congkok Javan rhino is also thought to have lived in the mountain region Tampomas Cuman dear Now the beast - the beast, just stories from parents - parents first and several protected bird species such as Java Eagle (Spizaetus bartelsi)
Tourist attraction which attracts in the region of Mount Tampomas the summit of Mount Tampomas (Sangiang Taraje) with a height of ± 1684 masl and the top is an open area of ± 1 Ha This location has a high aesthetic value because of these places tourists can enjoy beautiful natural scenery to the Soil and its surroundings the crater holes and large rocks stained black to add richness to the beholder's imagination
In puncang there Tampomas Mount Cemetery Keramat is located ± 300 m towards the north peak Sangiang Taraje this place is better known by the name Pasarean and the moon - this place is crowded particular month visited the pejiarah from surrounding areas Sumedang
TWA Mount Tampomas currently managed by KPH Perhutanioffice Sumedang and number of facilities and infrastructure are still very minimal, there are currently only guardhouse, paths and postal ticket
Routes of travel to get to the location of Mountain Nature Park Tampomas: Bandung - Soil - Cibeureum Wetan - Cimalaka, as far as ± 53 km Cirebon - Duchy - Cibeureum Wetan ± 74 km From Cibeureum Wetan - Cimalaka to the location (entrance area) ± 6 km gravel road conditions

September 1, 2014

FIVE MYSTERY MOUNT ARJUNO

Mt.Arjuno with elevations of 3,339 masl located in Malang, East Java. In this mountain many found relics of the former Kingdom of Majapahit in addition to a variety of attractions such as the location of the waterfallHowever, it is said to climb Mt.Arjuno it should be - careful, because according to local stories, many climbers are lost and can not go home again. And here are 5 mystery Mt.Arjuno.
1. RELICS
In Mt.Arjuno there are many sites - heritage sites and Singasari Majapahit Empire. Some of these relics, namely, relics Antaboga grandparent, grandparent Abiyasa, Ayang Sekutrem, Sakri grandparent, grandparent Semar, grandparent Sepilar Sri Makutharama and heritageHowever according to the myths circulating, the relics guarded by Bambang Wisanggeni who is the son of Arjuna with Bathari Dresanala. The relics of the ancients used to perform austeritiesPeople believe, people who perform these austerities disappeared (disappeared with his body). People - muksa people are believed to still be in place and keep the premises until an unknown time.
www.belantaraindonesia.org

 2. LALI JIWO FOREST
Before reaching the summit of Mount Arjuno, there is a place called by the community as Lali Jiwo Alas means forest or forget themselves. According to local belief, people with malicious intent, if passing through the area will get lost and forget themselves.
According to the spiritual, the area was inhabited by the jinn. The climbers sometimes hear the sound of the orchestra and then disappeared. It is said that the climber was taken to be mated with the jinn of the areaAccording to myth, the climbers also must not violate some restrictions, such as climbers should not be an odd number, should not be wearing red (dominant red color), and do not damage the site - the site is scattered relics of the Majapahit Kingdom in the area of the ascent of Mount Arjuna.
www.belantaraindonesia.org


3. ARJUNA
It is said that Arjuna had done in a mountain hermitage fervently semala months - months. Then remove the light body and has tremendous power, to create a chaotic heaven.  Condrodimuko crater spewing lava, earth shaking, thunder boomed during the day, rain fell and caused a flood, and the mountain of Arjuna asceticism raised to the sky. The gods are concerned, then take action to stop the retreat of Arjuna.
Batara Ismaya then lowered to Earth transformed into Semar. With his power, cut off the top of the mountain where Semar Arjuna meditated and threw it to another place. Arjuna then awakened from his hermitage and receives advice from Semar not to retreat again. Then the hermitage called Mount Arjuna, and the cut was given the name of Mount Wukir.
www.belantaraindonesia.org

4. DIENG MARKET
On the ascent to the summit region Mt.Arjuno, believed there Dieng market or so-called ghost market. In the area of Dieng market there is the tomb of the climbers who never died on the spot. Its area is flat and broad is the area that would make a market.
That said, there are climbers who never open the hood in the area of ​​Dieng market for overnight prior to the summit. At night, he was surprised by the bustling atmosphere outside the tent, and he saw a very crowded market.
The climber is rumored around the market and bought a jacket. Then he returned to the tent, and when he wakes up tomorrow morning; the area around his tent deserted no one else and no trace - the former market. Bought the jacket is still there, but his change is given by the market traders turn into leaves.
www.belantaraindonesia.org

5. WELCOME EVENTS WEDDING
The mythical story of Mount Arjuna is often heard and has become the talk of the local community, such as the existence of chant music wedding greeter. The climbers or sulfur miners sometimes hear wedding greeter, the Javanese gamelan sound for weddings.
According to the people, when they hear the wedding greeter then it is better not to continue the climb to the summit of Mount Arjuna; because if it is forced to continue climbing the climber will usually get lost and disappear.
www.belantaraindonesia.org 

 

May 22, 2014

SEMERU MOUNT

Semeru is Java’s highest peak and has been active for decades – a cloud of black volcanic ash and sand is frequently released from near the summit – sometimes once an hour, sometimes as often as every ten minutes. There have been numerous fatalities, but it is a popular and safe hike if you treat the mountain with respect and as Java’s highest peak, it is one of the finest hikes in Indonesia.
The trail starts at the village of Ranu Pani (2,109m) where there is basic accommodation available and you will need a minimum of two full days for the hike to the summit and back. There are many trekking agencies in East Java who offer jeep transport across the length and breadth of the National Park including the vast Bromo caldera and to Ranu Pani village itself from the city of Malang via Tumpang. Thankfully it is not yet possible to drive to the summit of Semeru! However, the road from Malang to Ranu Pani offers breathtaking views and reaches an elevation of over 2,400m at its highest point.
From Ranu Pani follow the road towards the lake which gives the village its name and make sure you take a right just before red entrance posts. A left turn up onto a narrow track through forest is just a couple of minutes further along and once you’re on this trail it is quite difficult to lose your way because there are frequent cement markers and green shelters at 2,284m, 2,346m and 2,426m respectively. The path is even paved at this point. Look out for monkeys in the area.
It’s a long 14km to Kalimati basecamp (2,669m) but the route goes via the beautiful Ranu Kumbolo lake (2,382m) which is a good camp spot in its own right. It can be reached in 4 hours from Ranu Pani but is famous for its low temperatures at night – frost is common so remember to take plenty of warm clothing and don’t leave your boots outside. There are a couple of huts on the far side of the lake before which the path ascends a hundred metres or so before descending again into an area which is sometimes covered in beautiful purple flowers. Kalimati – which lies beneath but in view of the rocky cone of Semeru summit itself – is another 3 hours of fantastic, easy hiking across savanna-esque landscapes and is perhaps marginally warmer. There is a somewhat shabby hut here and the flat area surrounding it is a very popular camping area and water is to be found about 15 minutes walk down to the right.
Another 2 km (one hour) is Arcopodo basecamp (2,912m), which is the best place to camp if you intend on reaching the summit at dawn and have the best chance of clear views and more importantly to avoid the worst of the gases. The path descends a little from Kalimati before ascending steeply up the forested base of the cone of Semeru itself. A lot of people choose to spend one night at Ranu Kumbolo and a second up at Arcopodo before making a pre-dawn ascent to the summit. There used to be a pair of statues at Arcopodo but it is presumed they were covered during landslides. There is plenty of flattish space for tents here – at least 10 – despite the generally steep pine forest terrain. It is about 3 hours from Arcopodo camp to the summit and the track is very steep. In some places lower down there are cement posts to guide you but many of them have long since toppled over and are buried in volcanic scree! The treeline ends at 3,110 and there are excellent views particularly to Arjuna. You may also spot some pre-dawn camera flashes from the famous viewpoint Gunung Pananjakan on the northern side of the Bromo caldera. The summit cone is very slippery with small volcanic rocks – definitely a case of two steps forward and one step back.
As you near the top you may literally feel the earth move as Semeru sends another cloud of volcanic sand into the air. There are lots of monuments to people have lost their lives up here but generally speaking the climb is safe – but do not head closer to the crater itself from the summit. The view from the rooftop of Java is as incredible as you might expect – a vast panorama of all of East Java’s major peaks, something to savour before the hike back to Ranu Pani, which can be done in one long day. The first section down the scree is a lot of fun – what takes 3 hours to climb takes just 1 hour to scree-slide down!
On the way back to Ranu Pani, the more adventurous may like to try an alternative route from Ranu Kumbolo back to the village via Gunung Ajekajek. It is a lot steeper – a 300m climb again – but marginally shorter in terms of both distance and time. If you have any energy left it makes an interesting alternative to the fairly bland plod along the normal route. Take a left turn at the lake and follow the path as it leads through lovely grassy flat landscapes before heading right up the hillside once more. After an hour you will be at the top of the pass (2,719m) which offers rarely-seen views of Semeru. Down below you in the opposite direction (north) is Ranu Pani and the Bromo caldera beyond. This now infrequently used trail used to be the main route to Semeru several decades ago.
And don't forget for visit to Sindoro Sumbing Mount.

May 15, 2014

GEDE - PANGRANGO MOUNT

The natural beauty of the mountains was never out to speak about. If you're traveling in Indonesia, do not miss to enjoy the beauty of Mount Gede Pangrango with a variety of very beautiful natural scenery. Feel the cool air in Suryakencana, or feel the freshness of mountain water of cibereum waterfalls . This mountains are situated in West Java, Indonesia. It evolved from already existing conservation areas, such as Cibodas Nature Reserve, Cimungkat Nature Reseve, Situgunung Recreational Park and Mount Gede Pangrango Nature Reserve, and has been the site of important biological and conservation research over the last century. In 1977 UNESCO declared it part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
Mount Gede is a favourite place for hiking and camping. Almost every weekend, adventurers often come to this place in order to conquest the summit of mount Gede, at a height of 2,958 above sea level. From the summit, we can see the summit of Mount Pangrango which looks like a triangle. Both are with the Mount Gede Pangrango National Park system. Visitors usually enter the park by one of the four gates of the park: the Cibodas, Gunung Putri, and Selabintana gates, all give access to the peaks; the Situ Gunung gate gives entrance to a lake area set aside mainly for family-style recreation. Cibodas gate is the most popular entrance gate and is the site of the park's headquarters.


To enter the park , we have to walk trough the Botanical Garden gate and come to the Guard House where we have to register our identity for personal security . Behind the guard house is the way to climb the mountains . On the way up , we come across a beautiful tropical forest . And we also can visit the waterfalls of Cibereum . It has a beautiful place and view . Walking about 4 hours , we will reach 'pos KANDANG BADAK' hut . On the way we will find two or three huts , spring and hot spring . In this place , we may enjoy taking a dip in that hot spring. We can stay overnight in pos KANDANG BADAK where cold water is also available . It is bifurcated path uphill from pos kandang badak ; the right one going towards Mt. Pangrango , and the left one going towards Mt.gede.


To reach the peak of Mt. Pangrango , we have to climb for 2 or 3 hours walking through natural forest at 1000 m high. The peak of Mt. Pangrango is located in a thick and moldy forest , from where no view is visible . It is very different if we climb to the peak of Mt. Gede . Climbing another 2 hours , we will reach the peak of Mt. Gede , we can enjoy a broad view of a scenic panorama and an exotic scene of the big wall Kaldera . Mt. Gede has three living crater. Climbing down the peak westward , we will find the field of javanese 'edelweis' flower , called as 'Lembah Surya Kencana '. In the south of the field there is a hut where we can take a rest . At the highest peak of Mt. Gede we can enjoy the panoramic view towards jakarta , cianjur and other places . If we climb down to the north , we can reach cipanas, or to the south is sukabumi. It takes about 3-4 hours to reach of any of these places.

From Jakarta, the area is two hours drive, usually via Cibodas Botanical Gardens, the most common routes leading to these mountains . From Bogor or Cianjur , we can travel by bus going towards Cipanas and get off at the entrance of Cibodas , approximately 2 km away from the west of Cipanas . From that bus stop , we can go towards the gate of Cibodas Botanical Garden by mini bus . We can obtain a permission of climbing from Mt. Gede Pangrango national park authority office beside the Cibodas Botanical Garden . Which is on the right side of the gate. Guides are also available here . For notify is we must bookmark first to make this permission minimal one week before we go to climb . We can obtain guide map of these national park from Wisma Cinta Alam . Enjoy the great adventure of Mount Gede national park
And don't forget visit to Semeru Mount.

May 13, 2014

MERBABU MOUNT

Community slopes of Mount Merbabu have a story . Narrative that is popular among residents and climbers are about the occult market called Market Satan . This market is used as a platform transactions between the unseen spirits . Really?

The story of Satan in Merbabu market has become a common story that is also known among climbers and nature pecintan . The place is even used as a climbing post . Climbers will set up a tent and rested here .  This location is so well known . The road is quite steep and complex terrain is not so prohibitive number of climbers to visit this location . Usually before reaching this spot climbers will stop to Kenthen Songo .  Market Satan is spoken in a number of nature lovers blog . Mystical tale seldom told. Climbers are more interested with captivating natural conditions .

May 12, 2014

SUMBING SINDORO TWIN MOUNT

Sindoro and cleft are two adjacent mountain , as well as having the shape and height are almost the same . High Sumbing about 3,340 m above sea level ( asl ) , slightly higher than the Sindoro ( 3,155 m asl ) .  If mapped , cleft located to the southwest of the city of Waterford and East of the town of Wonosobo . While the northwest side Sindoro Waterford sea danTimur Wonosobo . Communities in both regions was calling Sindoro as mountain - cleft twins . Both store the huge tourism potential , although not all of them can be managed optimally .In addition to the beautiful natural scenery , with cool and fresh air , areas of potential slope of cleft - Sindoro developed as agro-tourism , especially longan plantations , tobacco , vanilla , and coffee . Natural conditions is almost the same as the area of ​​Mount Mas , peak , Bogor .
 Mountains are filled with legends of epic heroism and loyalty couple was already familiar to the climbers . Many groups of nature lovers and Sindoro Cleft peak climbing , especially on certain days which has become a tradition .