Gunungkidul is another section of Yogyakarta province. Although Gunungkidul is far enough from the city, it’s where many amazing natural attractions are located. In fact, there are so many beautiful attractions in Gunungkidul Yogyakarta that you’ll definitely be conflicted about them. Don’t worry, because we are here to help you.
Embung Nglanggeran
Embung Nglanggeran is a man-made lake meant to collect water that will be used during the dry season. The lake and its surrounding area are appealing enough that it officially became a tourist spot in 2013.
Reaching Embung Nglanggeran is not that hard. All you need to do is take the stairs up and voila! A beautiful man-made pond is ready for you. Besides the lake, you can take a look at the orchards managed by the locals or admire the mountain views that can be seen from the lake. Those who like to challenge themselves can go to the forest nearby the pond and take some photoshoots there.
Goa Pindul
Goa Pindul (Pindul’s Cave) is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in the entire Yogyakarta province. The reason is no other because of the famous cave tubing done in Goa Pindul. Cave tubing is usually done on the cave’s river, as there is a river that flows from the mouth of the cave to its end. Since the river is pretty narrow, you can only line up the tubes like ants, but that’s the fun of it!
Once you’re done exploring the cave, you can stop by at the nearby restaurant and enjoy the local cuisine there. If one day is not enough for you, there are plenty of houses available for rent.
Air Terjun Sri Gethuk
If the heat is catching up, and you need to cool down, Air Terjun Sri Gethuk (Sri Gethuk Waterfalls) is the right place for you. The waterfall is known for its beautiful rock structure that makes the water flow beautifully. You can visit the waterfall any time of the year since it never runs out of the water, thanks to its three different springs.
Air Terjun Sri Gethuk has a myth of its own. Rumor has it that there is a mystical kingdom in the waterfall’s area, and the kingdom uses the waterfall to hide its precious gamelan (Traditional Javanese music instrument) set. Some people claimed that they had heard the sound of gamelan before, so the validity’s story is still up for debate.
If you don’t hear any mystical gamelan sound, don’t worry, as there are plenty of activities to do there. You can do rafting, cliff jumping, canoeing, and other activities that will test your guts.
Pantai Ngrenehan
Gunungkidul is a part of Yogyakarta province that has the privilege of hosting lots of beaches in their area, and Pantai Ngrenehan is no exception. In fact, Pantai Ngrenehan is one of the most famous beaches in Gunungkidul, making it one of the popular spots during holiday seasons.
Just like a typical beach in Indonesia, you will be treated with a majestic view of the water and the clear sand. You can enjoy the view while enjoying the local seafood dishes for photo spots. You can take pictures near the fishermen’s boats.
Hutan Pinus Bukit Becici
Gunungkidul has all the natural attractions you need. From caves to beaches, you’ll find them in Gunungkidul.
If the name sounds familiar, it’s because President Obama visited the forest with President Jokowi in 2017. Hutan Pinus is a forest that has pine trees planted everywhere. Since the forest is at the plateau, it has a cool and breezy atmosphere that is perfect for a picnic. In fact, picnics are the main activity most people do in the forest. Besides having a picnic, people can also rest at the hammocks provided by the locals there (although you have to pay for them).
If you’re too lazy to bring your own food, you can visit the food stalls and order some lunch to sate your hunger. Although the food is not exquisite, you can still enjoy local cuisine that can rival 5-star restaurants. Either way, you’ll be able to enjoy the calming and soothing atmosphere of the forest.
Goa Jomblang
Do you want to see the light from heaven? You can do so by visiting Goa Jomblang (Jomblang Cave) in Gunungkidul.
Before you visit the cave, it’s best to preserve your energy by resting enough. After all, Goa Jomblang is one of the hardest attractions to reach since you literally have to be brought down to the cave manually by the locals. However, once you’re inside, you will be basked by a ray of light from the big hole above the cave. You will need extra effort to get the heavenly light. Once you’re successful, though, you’ll feel the sense of satisfaction once you’re showered with the “heavenly” light.
Pantai Wediombo
Last but not least, we have another favorite spot by the local and international tourists. Although Pantai Wediombo is a beach, it is better known for its mesmerizing lagoon. Since the area is isolated from the city, the lagoon’s water is clear and pure. The lagoon’s clear blue water will definitely soothe your spirit and mind.
If you do not want to swim at the lagoon, you can bury your feet at Pantai Wediombo’s white sand. You can also wait for the sunset while sitting on the white sand. A clear lagoon, beautiful white sand, and a strategic spot for sunset. What’s better than this?