5 Refreshing Mountain Attractions in Banten
FOKUS - Are you looking for a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city? Do you want to enjoy the beauty of nature and the cool breeze of the mountains? If yes, then you should visit these five mountain attractions in Banten, a province in the western tip of Java island.
Banten is not only famous for its beaches and historical sites, but also for its stunning mountain scenery. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast, you will find something to suit your taste in Banten. In this article, we will introduce you to five of the best mountain attractions in Banten that will soothe your soul and refresh your mind.
1. Gunung Luhur or Negeri di Atas Awan (Country Above the Clouds)
Gunung Luhur, or Negeri di Atas Awan, is a popular spot for watching the sunrise and the sea of clouds. Located in Cikolelet village, Cinangka district, Serang regency, this place offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and villages. You can also see the majestic Mount Krakatau and the Sunda Strait from here.
To reach this place, you need to hike for about 30 minutes from the parking area. The trail is not too difficult, but you need to be careful of the slippery and rocky parts. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight if you plan to hike before dawn. You can also camp here overnight to enjoy the starry sky and the morning glory.
2. Kampung Domba Juhut (Juhut Sheep Village)
If you love animals and want to experience the rural life, you should visit Kampung Domba Juhut, or Juhut Sheep Village. This place is located in Juhut village, Karangtanjung district, Pandeglang regency. Here, you can interact with hundreds of sheep that roam freely in the green pasture. You can feed them, pet them, or take selfies with them.
Besides sheep, you can also see other animals such as cows, horses, rabbits, and chickens. You can also enjoy various activities such as horse riding, flying fox, ATV, archery, and fishing. There is also a restaurant that serves delicious dishes made from fresh ingredients, such as lamb satay, lamb soup, and fried chicken.
3. Curug Cipamiceunan (Cipamiceunan Waterfall)
Curug Cipamiceunan, or Cipamiceunan Waterfall, is one of the hidden gems in Banten. This waterfall is located in Cipamiceunan village, Cikeusik district, Pandeglang regency. It is about 70 meters high and has a clear blue pool at the bottom. The water is cold and refreshing, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
To reach this waterfall, you need to trek for about 45 minutes from the nearest village. The trek is quite challenging, as you need to cross rivers, climb rocks, and walk through dense forest. However, the scenery along the way is worth the effort. You will see lush green trees, colorful flowers, and exotic birds. You can also hear the soothing sound of the waterfall as you get closer.
4. Gunung Pilar (Pilar Mountain)
Gunung Pilar, or Pilar Mountain, is another great place to witness the sunrise and the sea of clouds. This mountain is located in Cikolelet village, Cinangka district, Serang regency. It is about 600 meters above sea level and has a flat peak that resembles a pillar. From here, you can see the magnificent view of the Sunda Strait, Mount Krakatau, and the surrounding hills.
To reach this mountain, you need to hike for about 15 minutes from the parking area. The hike is easy and suitable for beginners. You can also camp here overnight to enjoy the night sky and the morning breeze. There are several facilities available, such as toilets, showers, and gazebos.
5. Gunung Karang (Karang Mountain)
Gunung Karang, or Karang Mountain, is the highest mountain in Banten. It is located in Karangtanjung village, Karangtanjung district, Pandeglang regency. It is about 1,778 meters above sea level and has a diverse flora and fauna. You can find various species of plants, such as pine, mahogany, and orchid. You can also spot various animals, such as monkeys, deer, and eagles.
To reach this mountain, you need to hike for about 6 hours from the starting point. The hike is moderate to difficult, depending on your fitness level. You will pass through several terrains, such as forest, savanna, and rocky slopes. You will also encounter several water sources, such as springs, rivers, and waterfalls. The summit of the mountain offers a breathtaking view of the horizon and the clouds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions that people ask about the mountain attractions in Banten:
Q: When is the best time to visit the mountain attractions in Banten?
A: The best time to visit the mountain attractions in Banten is during the dry season, which is from April to October. During this time, the weather is sunny and clear, and the visibility is good. You can also avoid the rain and the mud that can make the hike more difficult.
Q: What are the things that I need to prepare before visiting the mountain attractions in Banten?
A: Some of the things that you need to prepare before visiting the mountain attractions in Banten are:
- A valid ID card or passport
- A health certificate or a negative COVID-19 test result
- A permit or a ticket from the local authority or the management
- A map or a guide of the area
- A backpack with essential items, such as water, snacks, clothes, jacket, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, flashlight, first aid kit, and personal hygiene items
- A tent, a sleeping bag, and a mat if you plan to camp overnight
- A camera or a smartphone to capture the moments
Q: How can I get to the mountain attractions in Banten?
A: You can get to the mountain attractions in Banten by using public transportation or private vehicles. If you use public transportation, you can take a bus or a train from Jakarta to Serang or Pandeglang. From there, you can take a minibus or a motorcycle taxi to the nearest village of the mountain attractions. If you use private vehicles, you can drive along the toll road from Jakarta to Merak and exit at Serang or Pandeglang. From there, you can follow the signboards to the mountain attractions.