Dieng Plateau Travel Guide

Discover the rich culture, beautiful scenery, and thrilling outdoor adventures of Dieng Plateau, central Java, Indonesia.


Introduction to Dieng Plateau

Dieng Plateau is a beautiful upland area located in Central Java, Indonesia. The area is known for its beautiful rolling hills, steaming craters, and misty landscapes. Located at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level, Dieng Plateau is surrounded by high mountains such as Mount Prau, Mount Merbabu, and Mount Merapi. Due to its altitudinal range, Dieng Plateau offers comfortable temperatures all year round, making it a popular destination for travelers who want to escape the hot and humid weather of Java.

List of Places to Visit in Dieng Plateau

Dieng Plateau features a wide range of attractions that cater to different interests. Below are some of the must-see destinations in Dieng Plateau:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Dieng Plateau has a rich cultural heritage that is preserved through various museums and historical places. Some of the most significant ones are:

  • Dieng Cultural Festival: A four-day event that showcases the cultural performances of the Dieng people. The festival takes place every August.

  • Arjuna Temple Complex: This ancient temple complex dates back to the eighth century and features four temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

  • Sikidang Crater: Considered sacred by the Dieng people, this volcanic crater offers visitors the chance to witness the natural forces of geothermal activity while enjoying beautiful scenery.

Natural Attractions of Dieng Plateau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dieng Plateau is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, featuring a landscape of rolling hills, steaming craters, and breathtaking views. Some of the best natural attractions in the area include:

  • Mount Sikunir: This peak offers a beautiful view of the Dieng Plateau and is one of the most popular hikes in the area.

  • Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon: These two volcanic lakes offer stunning views and unique coloration due to mineral deposits.

  • Sileri Crater: A beautiful volcanic crater located near the Arjuna Temple that is still active.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dieng Plateau

For those seeking outdoor adventures, Dieng Plateau offers an array of hiking and biking routes that cater to different skill levels. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Mount Prau Summit Hike: This challenging yet rewarding hike provides breathtaking views of surrounding mountains, rice paddies, and small villages.

  • Pedaling around the Plateau: This bike route offers visitors the chance to explore the stunning scenery of Dieng Plateau at a leisurely pace.

Best Things to Do in Dieng Plateau: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other things to do in Dieng Plateau. Some of the best activities and tours in the area include:

  • Dieng Plateau Sunrise Tour: Witness the beautiful sunrise above the mountains and explore some of the best attractions of Dieng Plateau in one go.

  • Dieng Plateau Agricultural Tour: Visit local farms and gain insights into the traditional farming practices of the Dieng people such as organic farming, rubber plantation, local tuff crops, and fish farming at Tetebatu Fisheries.

  • Traditional Food Tour: Sample traditional Javanese cuisine from local restaurants and street vendors that offer authentic Dieng dishes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dieng Plateau

Dieng Plateau offers visitors an array of attractions, making it a great place for a week-long itinerary. Here’s one suggestion:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and check-in
Day 2 Sunrise at Mount Sikunir, visit Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon
Day 3 Visit Sikidang Crater, Sileri Crater, and Arjuna Temple Complex
Day 4 Hike to Mount Prau’s summit
Day 5 Explore local villages around Dieng Plateau
Day 6 Dieng Plateau Agricultural Tour
Day 7 Traditional Food Tour and departure

Food and Drink Scene of Dieng Plateau

Indonesia is known for its diverse cuisine influenced by various cultures, and Dieng Plateau is no exception. The area offers a unique blend of Javanese and Dieng cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buntil: A savory meatball of minced pork or beef wrapped in young jackfruit leaves.

  • Nasi Tutug: A Javanese dish consisting of steamed rice mixed with mashed fermented cassava leaves.

  • Mie Ongklok: Fresh noodle soup with vegetables and fried shallots.

Local Beverages

  • Wedang Uwuh: A traditional herbal drink made from ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, lemongrass, and cloves.

  • Arak Dieng: A locally made whiskey crafted from the fermented sticky rice and cassava tubers.

Where to Stay in Dieng Plateau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dieng Plateau offers a wide range of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the best options include:

  • Mashuri Hotel: A budget-friendly option located within walking distance of the Dieng Market.

  • Hotel Bumi Perkemahan Dieng: A beautiful yet affordable campsite option that offers stunning sunrise views.

  • Hotel Villa Pakusaji: A luxury option located near the beautiful Pakusaji River, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

What to Buy in Dieng Plateau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Dieng Plateau is known for its agricultural products and unique souvenirs. Some of the best local products to bring home include:

  • Tahu Dieng: A type of tofu made from soybeans, lemon juice, and vinegar that is unique to Dieng.

  • Local Tuff Crafts: Handmade crafts made from the volcanic rock of Dieng Plateau.

Local Culture and Customs of Dieng Plateau

The people of Dieng Plateau belong to the Javanese ethnic group and have a distinct culture and customs. The area’s cultural practices are evident in its religious rituals, traditional farming practices, and unique cuisine. Visitors should respect local customs and cultural practices during their stay.

Best Time to Visit Dieng Plateau

Dieng Plateau offers comfortable temperatures all year round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to September. This period is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, and the weather is relatively cool, making it perfect for trekking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dieng Plateau

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Take care of the surrounding environment by not littering.

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.

  • Take photos of people without their permission.

  • Buy or consume illegal drugs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dieng Plateau

Dieng Plateau is relatively safe; however, visitors should take precautions by hiking or biking in groups and avoiding empty or dark places at night.

Health in Dieng Plateau

Visitors should stay hydrated while venturing around Dieng Plateau, as high altitude can cause dehydration. Visitors may also want to carry polarizing glasses and sunscreen to protect themselves from strong sunlight.

Getting to Dieng Plateau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dieng Plateau

  • Ahmad Yani International Airport in Semarang City (130 km away)

  • Adisucipto International Airport in Yogyakarta (130 km away)

Bus Stations Near Dieng Plateau

  • Wonosobo Bus Station (around 30 km away)

  • Purwokerto Bus Station (around 70 km away)

Other Options

Visitors may also hire a private car, taxi, or motorbike to go to Dieng Plateau.

How to Get Around in Dieng Plateau

Visitors can hire a motorbike or car to explore Dieng Plateau. It is also possible to hire a local guide to navigate visitors through the area’s many tourist spots.

Where to Go Next from Dieng Plateau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Borobudur Temple (135 km away)

  • Yogyakarta City (135 km away)

  • Solo City (220 km away)

Conclusion

Dieng Plateau is a beautiful destination that has something for every traveler. Visitors can enjoy stunning mountain views, explore ancient temples, and sample delicious local cuisine. Its natural beauty, rich culture, and outdoor adventure make it an unforgettable destination that should be on every traveler’s list when visiting Indonesia.

Hindu temples dating back to the 8th century Hindu temples dating back to the 8th century The hills around Dieng are intensively farmed. The hills around Dieng are intensively farmed. Mount Sindoro at the Dieng Plateau Mount Sindoro at the Dieng Plateau Steaming fumarole at Sikidang Steaming fumarole at Sikidang Panorama view from Mount Prau Panorama view from Mount Prau