How To Get To The Sacred Peak Of Mount Lawu

How to get to the sacred peak of Mount Lawu

Source: IDN Times

How to get to the sacred peak of Mount Lawu, one of the most famous mountains on the island of Java

and it’s a series of volcano tours in Indonesia

If previously we knew about Mount Merapi, Merbabu, Sumbing, and Mount Semeru as well as Mount Tangkuban Perahu in West Java then we should also talk about this mountain.

Mount Lawu is very famous for its stories and legends which are closely related to the mystical world

A glimpse of Mount Lawu

Mount Lawu, also known as Gunung Lawu, is a dormant stratovolcano located on the border of East Java and Central Java provinces in Indonesia.

It is one of the many volcanoes in the Indonesian archipelago and is part of the Sunda Arc,

which is a chain of volcanic islands and mountains that extends from Sumatra in the west to the Banda Sea in the east.

Fun facts about Mount Lawu

Here are some key facts about the mountain that you need to know, so you can prepare yourself to have some adventure on this mountain

Location

Mount Lawu is situated on the border of East Java and Central Java, with its highest peak reaching an elevation of approximately 3,265 meters (10,712 feet) above sea level.

Dormant Volcano

It is considered a dormant volcano, which means that it is not currently active but has the potential to erupt in the future. The last known eruption occurred in 1885.

Hiking and Trekking

It is a popular destination for hikers and trekkers.

Several trails lead to the summit, and the journey typically involves passing through lush forests and experiencing various microclimates.

Cultural Significance

The mountain is also significant in Javanese culture and religion.

It is home to several temples, including Candi Cetho and Candi Sukuh,

which are important pilgrimage sites for the Javanese people.

Biodiversity

The area around Mount Lawu is known for its rich biodiversity,

with a variety of plant and animal species found in the region.

Views and Sunsets

The summit of this mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views,

and it’s especially popular for watching the sunrise or sunset.

Weather

The weather on the mountain can be quite unpredictable,

so hikers are advised to be well-prepared for varying conditions,

including rain and cold temperatures at higher elevations.

Permits and Regulations

Hikers often need to obtain permits to access the mountain, and there are regulations in place to protect the natural environment and ensure the safety of visitors.

If you plan to visit or hike this mountain, it’s essential to check current regulations, weather conditions, and local advice before embarking on your journey.

Additionally, it’s advisable to be well-prepared with appropriate clothing, equipment, and supplies for your hike.

Mystical stories on Mount Lawu

Mount Lawu is also very famous for its mystical stories

There are many supernatural incidents told by climbers

This may be because in ancient times this mountain was the place where Javanese kings meditated

Even the king of Majapahit, namely the king of Brawijaya, is said to have liked to meditate on this mountain

So the Majapahit kingdom was very closely related to Mount Lawu

Likewise from the Mataram kingdom

Mount Lawu the mythology and cultural significance in Javanese tradition

Mount Lawu, like many other natural landmarks in Indonesia, has a rich mythology and cultural significance in Javanese tradition.

Here are a few aspects of the mythology and folklore associated with Mount Lawu:

Spiritual Significance

Mount Lawu is considered a sacred place in Javanese culture. It is believed to be the dwelling place of ancestral spirits and deities.

Pilgrims and hikers often pay their respects to these spirits and seek blessings before embarking on their journey.

Offerings and Rituals

The locals, especially the Javanese people, conduct rituals and ceremonies on and around Mount Lawu.

These rituals often involve offerings to appease the spirits believed to inhabit the mountain.

People make offerings such as flowers, food, and incense to show respect for the mountain and its spiritual significance.

The Connection to Javanese Mysticism

Mount Lawu is also connected to Javanese mysticism, known as Kejawen.

In Kejawen, certain natural features, including mountains, are believed to have mystical qualities and connections to the spiritual world.

Mount Lawu, with its serene and mystical atmosphere, plays a role in these belief systems

Do’s and Don’t when You Hike Mount Lawu

When visiting Mount Lawu or any other natural and protected area,

it’s important to follow a set of do’s and don’ts to ensure your safety, protect the environment, and respect local customs and regulations.

Here are some do’s and don’ts for visiting Mount Lawu:

Do’s

Obtain Necessary Permits

Check if permits are required to access the mountain and obtain them in advance. This helps authorities keep track of hikers and ensure safety.

Plan Ahead: Plan your trip, including transportation, accommodations, and supplies, well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.

Hike with a Guide

It’s highly recommended to hike with a local guide who knows the trails and the area. They can provide valuable insights and ensure your safety.

Respect the Environment

Leave no trace of your visit. Carry out all your trash and avoid littering. Stay on designated trails to minimize your impact on the ecosystem.

Pack Appropriately

Bring essential items such as warm clothing, rain gear, sufficient water, and food. Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions.

Hike Safely

Stay on marked trails and follow the recommended route. Keep track of your progress, and don’t venture off the path without a guide. Be cautious, especially in challenging terrain.

Stay Informed

Keep up to date on weather conditions and forecasts. Know the sunrise and sunset times, and time your hike accordingly.

Respect Local Culture

Mount Lawu is a place of cultural significance. Be respectful of local customs, temples, and shrines. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Minimize Noise

Keep noise levels to a minimum to preserve the peacefulness of the natural environment and respect the experience of other hikers.

Don’ts

Don’t Litter

Never leave trash or waste behind. Carry out all your garbage and dispose of it properly when you return to the base.

Don’t Start Late

Avoid starting your hike too late in the day, as it may become challenging to navigate the trails and reach the summit in time for sunrise or sunset.

Don’t Wander Off Trail

Stick to designated paths and avoid going off-trail. Venturing into unmarked areas can be dangerous and harmful to the environment.

Don’t Deface or Damage Natural or Cultural Sites

Do not carve, write, or otherwise deface rocks, trees, or cultural sites. Show respect for the heritage and the environment.

Don’t Disturb Wildlife

Refrain from approaching or disturbing wildlife you may encounter. Keep a safe distance and observe from afar.

Don’t Make Open Fires

Open fires can be dangerous in the dry mountain environment. Use camping stoves for cooking if necessary.

Don’t Ignore Local Customs

Pay attention to local customs and dress codes, especially when visiting temples or participating in cultural activities.

By adhering to these do’s and don’ts, you can have a safe and respectful experience while enjoying the beauty and natural heritage of Mount Lawu and its surrounding areas.

It’s essential to be a responsible and environmentally conscious visitor.

How do you get to the sacred peak of Mount Lawu?

Reaching Mount Lawu, located on the border of East Java and Central Java in Indonesia, typically involves traveling to the nearest base towns,

and from there, you can start your trek to the mountain.

The two primary base towns for accessing Mount Lawu are Tawangmangu (in Central Java) and Sarangan (in East Java).

Here are the general steps to reach Mount Lawu:

1. Arrive in Solo or Madiun (Major Cities)

The nearest major cities to Mount Lawu are Solo (Surakarta) in Central Java and Madiun in East Java.

You can reach these cities by train, or bus, or rent a motorbike in Yogyakarta ( if you start from Yogyakarta).

2. Travel to Base Town

If you arrive in Solo, You can take a bus or rent a car or motorbike to Tawangmangu, which is the primary base town for the Central Java side of Mount Lawu.

Tawangmangu is about 2-3 hours by road from Solo.

If you arrive in Madiun, You can take a bus or rent a car to Sarangan, the primary base town for the East Java side of Mount Lawu.

Sarangan is approximately 1.5-2 hours from Madiun

So, guys, now you know how to get to the sacred peak of Mount Lawu, Are you ready for adventure?