Southern Mountainous Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Southern Mountainous in East Java with this comprehensive travel guide featuring cultural and natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodation, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, nearby destinations, and more.


Introduction to Southern Mountainous

Located in East Java, Indonesia, Southern Mountainous is a breathtaking region known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The area is home to majestic mountains, lush forests, ancient temples, and museums that showcase the rich history and traditions of the region. Southern Mountainous is home to several minority communities, making it a melting pot of diverse cultures and customs that are worth exploring.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Mountainous

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

As a region steeped in history and culture, Southern Mountainous has several museums and historical sites worth visiting.

  • Trowulan Museum: This museum is dedicated to the ancient Majapahit Kingdom and houses a collection of artifacts, relics, and sculptures from the era. The museum also has a garden that features replicas of famous Majapahit temples.
  • Majapahit Hindu Temple: Located in the ruins of the ancient capital of the Majapahit Kingdom, this temple dates back to the 14th century and is a testament to the architectural genius of the era.
  • Soekarno House: This is the childhood home of Indonesia’s first president, Soekarno. The house has been preserved as a museum and contains personal belongings and artifacts belonging to the late president.

Natural Attractions of Southern Mountainous: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Southern Mountainous is home to several natural attractions that are worth visiting, including mountains, waterfalls, and forests.

  • Mount Bromo: This iconic volcano is one of the most popular tourist attractions in East Java, and for good reason. Visitors can either hike to the top or take a jeep tour to witness the breathtaking views from the summit.
  • Madakaripura Waterfall: This is a majestic waterfall hidden deep in the forests of East Java. Visitors can either trek to the waterfall or hire a local guide to take them there.
  • Ijen Crater: This is another volcano that stands out for its turquoise-colored crater lake. Visitors can hike to the top and marvel at the stunning views from the rim.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Mountainous

The rugged terrain of Southern Mountainous makes it a popular destination for hiking and biking trails. Here are some popular routes:

  • Mount Bromo Sunrise Hike: This is a popular trail that starts before dawn and takes you to the summit of Mount Bromo to witness the sunrise.
  • Ijen Crater Trek: This is a challenging trek that takes you to the top of Ijen Crater to witness the turquoise-colored crater lake.
  • Sukamade Turtle Beach Trail: This trail takes you through the rainforests of Southern Mountainous to reach a secluded beach where turtles lay their eggs.

Best Things to Do in Southern Mountainous: Activities and Tours

Southern Mountainous offers a range of activities and tours that cater to travelers with different interests. Here are some popular options:

  • Cooking classes: Learn to cook traditional Indonesian dishes using authentic spices and herbs.
  • Volcano tours: Experience the thrill of hiking to the summit of a volcano and marvel at the stunning views.
  • Cultural tours: Visit local villages and learn about the traditions and customs of the people who live in Southern Mountainous.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Mountainous

Day 1: Mount Bromo Sunrise Hike Day 2: Trowulan Museum Day 3: Sukamade Turtle Beach Trail Day 4: Ijen Crater Trek Day 5: Majapahit Hindu Temple Day 6: Soekarno House Day 7: Free day to explore the area

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Mountainous

Must-Try Dishes

Southern Mountainous is known for its bold and spicy flavors, with several dishes that deserve attention from culinary enthusiasts.

  • Rawon: This is a traditional beef soup that is black in color due to the use of keluak nuts.
  • Sate Klathak: This is a grilled meat skewer that is marinated in a spicy sauce and served with rice cakes.
  • Soto Ayam: This is a flavorful chicken soup that is served with rice and topped with shredded chicken, beansprouts, and herbs.

Local Beverages

Indonesia has a rich coffee culture, and Southern Mountainous is no exception. Some popular beverages you can try include:

  • Luwak coffee: This coffee is made from beans that have been eaten and excreted by civets, giving it a unique flavor.
  • Jamu: This is a traditional herbal drink made from spices, roots, and fruits. It is believed to have medicinal properties.

Where to Stay in Southern Mountainous: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southern Mountainous has several accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

  • Jiwa Laut Resort: This is a luxurious resort located near the beach that offers stunning views of the ocean.
  • Bromo Permai Hotel: This is a budget-friendly hotel that is located close to Mount Bromo and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Guesthouse and homestays: For those who want to experience local culture and hospitality, there are several guesthouses and homestays that can be found in Southern Mountainous.

What to Buy in Southern Mountainous: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Southern Mountainous is known for its handicrafts, spices, and traditional textiles. Some popular souvenirs to bring home include:

  • Batik textiles: These are colorful fabrics that have been hand-dyed using a traditional technique called batik.
  • Jamu products: You can find various products made from herbs used in traditional Indonesian medicine, such as massage oils and bath salts.
  • Wooden handicrafts: Southern Mountainous has several skilled woodworkers who make beautiful furniture, carvings, and household items.

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Mountainous

Southern Mountainous is home to several minority communities, such as the Tengger and Osing. These communities have their own unique customs and traditions that are worth exploring. Visitors should respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Southern Mountainous

The best time to visit Southern Mountainous is between May and September when the weather is dry and cool. The months between October and April are rainy and humid, making it difficult to hike and explore the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Mountainous

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Carry sufficient cash, as not all establishments accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural attractions
  • Disturb wildlife or marine life
  • Purchase items made from endangered species.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Mountainous

Southern Mountainous is generally a safe area to visit, with low levels of violent crime. However, travelers should be cautious of pickpockets and should avoid displaying valuable items openly.

Health in Southern Mountainous

Visitors should take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before traveling and carry insect repellent and mosquito nets.

Getting to Southern Mountainous: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Southern Mountainous

  • Surabaya Airport: This is the nearest international airport to Southern Mountainous and is located approximately 3 hours away.

Bus Stations Near Southern Mountainous

  • Bungurasih Bus Station: This is a popular bus station in Surabaya that offers regular bus services to Southern Mountainous.
  • Probolinggo Bus Station: This is another option for those using public transportation to get to Southern Mountainous.

Other Options

Private taxis and rental cars are also available.

How to Get Around in Southern Mountainous

Local buses and motorbikes are the most common modes of transportation in Southern Mountainous. Taxis and rental cars are also available for those who prefer more privacy and convenience.

Where to Go Next from Southern Mountainous: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some popular destinations to visit after Southern Mountainous include:

  • Mount Kelud: Located in Kediri, Mount Kelud is an active volcano that is known for its surreal beauty.
  • Banyuwangi: Known as the gateway to Bali, Banyuwangi is a scenic town that offers beaches, waterfalls, and natural hot springs.

Conclusion

Southern Mountainous is a stunning region that is rich in culture and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in hiking, exploring ancient temples, tasting new foods, or simply enjoying the scenery, Southern Mountainous has something to offer everyone. With this travel guide, you are now equipped with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful part of Indonesia.

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