Tourism Minister Sandiaga Drops a Pin in Indonesia's Version of Nepal

KOMPAS.com - Indonesia's Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno decided to stay in a humble guest house in Magelang regency on Java island to promote Butuh, a small settlement which is dubbed 'Nepal van Java' or Indonesia's Nepal of Java.  

Nestled at the foot of Mount Sumbing in Central Java, many people would think of Nepal when they see the houses and the scenic view in Butuh hamlet. 

"As I wake up in the morning, I don't regret staying here because the view and the sunrise is truly extraordinary," said Sandiaga on Saturday, April 3.

Besides, he also enjoyed the majestic atmosphere of Nepal Van Java throughout his stay, saying the place was worth visiting and photographing. He lauded the residents for keeping their place as one of the must-visit destinations in the country. 

The minister called on the tourism operators in Nepal van Java to embrace the latest technology for both payments and promotions in social media. 

Five must-visit places in Nepal Van Java:

1. Silancur Highland

Located in the southeast of Mount Sumbing, the tourist attraction shows beautiful mountains stretching on the east side, especially during the sunny weather. The view of the sunrise and sparkling lights of Magelang city is the main attraction for Silancur Highland. Tourists can build their tents to see the scenery. There are also parks filled with colorful flowers that can be one of the best places for taking photographs with mountains as the backdrop.  

2. Mangli Sky View

This tourist spot is located at an altitude of 1,570 meters above sea level to the east of Mount Sumbing. The expanse of clouds in the clear sky is a panoramic view presented by Mangli Sky View. Tourists can camp, enjoying the views of Mount Merapi, Merbabu, Andong, Telomoyo, Tidar, Giyanti, Ungaran, and Sumbing.

3. Silawe Waterfall

Enjoy the peacefulness and gain energy from the natural beauty while visiting the Curug Silawe or Silawe Waterfall, which is one of the recommended waterfalls in Magelang. Surrounded by the beautiful landscape of mountains and forest, its waterfall height is up to 60 meters.

4. Selogriyo Temple

Selogriyo temple trekking is one of the worth places to hike. Candisari Village in Windusari District holds an ancient relic that is thought to have been built during the ancient Mataram Kingdom. Besides its interesting structure, the temple and its surroundings disclose a very rich historical and cultural past.

5. Mount Sumbing

While traveling in the Butuh Hamlet, you can also try climbing Mount Sumbing, which is known as the second-highest point in Central Java Province. With this height, the natural panorama that is offered can widen the eyes—starting from a sea of clouds to beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

(Writers: Anggara Wikan Prasetya, Nabilla Ramadhian | Editor: Anggara Wikan Prasetya)

Sources:https://travel.kompas.com/read/2021/04/03/135534127/sandiaga-pilih-menginap-di-nepal-van-java-ketimbang-hotel-berbintang-seperti?page=all#page2.

https://travel.kompas.com/read/2020/09/20/170754727/5-tempat-wisata-sekitar-nepal-van-java-ada-silancur-highland?page=all#page2.