Things To Do In Dieng Plateau Wonosobo: A Guide To Explore The Nature, Culture, And Adventure

Things to do in Dieng — The Dieng Plateau is a beautiful destination in the highlands of Central Java, Indonesia. It offers natural beauty, cultural history, and spiritual places. 

Located in Wonosobo Regency, Dieng attracts visitors with its foggy landscapes, ancient temples, and stunning sunrises. Dieng has something for you whether you enjoy adventure, history, or just want a peaceful getaway.

READ ALSO: Yogyakarta Tour 3 Days to Borobudur Temple – Dieng Plateau – Prambanan Temple 

When planning your trip to Dieng, here are the top things to do in Dieng you should not miss.

Witness the Majestic Sikunir Sunrise

The first things to do in Dieng that comes in your list is a visit to Dieng isn’t complete without experiencing the famous Sikunir Sunrise. Located at 2,300 meters above sea level, Sikunir Hill is one of Java’s best sunrise spots. 

Start your hike around 4:00 AM, following the marked path, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes. The hike can be challenging, but the view is worth it. 

As the sun rises, the sky transforms with vibrant colors, creating what’s known as the “Golden Sunrise.” The cool mountain air and wide valley views make this an unforgettable experience.

Tips for Visiting Sikunir Hill:

Best Time to Visit: The best time to hike is during the dry season from May to September, when the weather is clearer. Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Physical and Mental Preparation: Sikunir is an easy hike, but physical preparation is recommended. Do light exercises like jogging or cycling beforehand. Mental preparation is also essential since hiking in the dark and cold can be challenging.

Hiking Route:  The trail is clear and has stairs to help hikers. It starts from Sembungan Village, the highest village on Java Island. Depending on your physical condition and speed, the hike takes 30 to 60 minutes.

Sunrise Timing: Arrive at the summit at least 30 minutes before sunrise, which in Dieng usually occurs between 5:00 AM and 5:30 AM. Check the sunrise forecast and adjust your hike accordingly.

Warm Clothing: Wear warm clothes because it can get windy and cold. To stay warm, wear knit or fleece gloves and socks. A turtleneck and leggings are a must, and loose jeans and light clothing will make movement easier.

Enjoy the View: On clear mornings, take your time to enjoy the summit views, which include Telaga Cebong Lake and mountains like Sindoro, Sumbing, Merapi, and Merbabu.

Hiking Etiquette: Respect the environment and other hikers. Do not litter, and avoid making loud noises.

Tour Guide Using a local tour guide is highly recommended for family and personal trips. A tour guide can help you discover beautiful spots.

What to bring:  Bring a flashlight or headlamp for the trek, as it will still be dark when you start. Also, get a snack and drink to keep you hydrated and energetic. 

Explore the Ancient Dieng Temples

Another things to do in Dieng is to explore the ancient Dieng Temples. Dieng is home to some of the oldest Hindu temples in Indonesia, dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries. 

The Dieng Temple Complex shows the area’s rich cultural and religious history. The temples are dedicated to Hindu gods like Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. Their detailed carvings and architectural designs are impressive.

The most notable temples in the complex include:

• Arjuna Temple: The most well-preserved temple, featuring classic Javanese Hindu architecture.
• Bima Temple: Known for its unique pyramid-shaped roof, which resembles the temples of South India.
• Gatotkaca Temple: Situated on a hill, offering a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape.

Exploring these ancient temples is like stepping back in time, and it’s a must-do activity for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.

Visit the Colorful Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon

The next things to do in Dieng is to visit the famous lake there. Dieng is famous for its stunning crater lakes, and Telaga Warna (Colorful Lake) and Telaga Pengilon (Mirror Lake) are two of the most beautiful. 

These lakes are located close to each other and are known for their unique colors, which change depending on the sunlight and the mineral content of the water.

Telaga Warna gets its name from the rainbow-like hues that appear on its surface, caused by the reflection of sunlight on the sulfur deposits in the water. 

Telaga Pengilon is known for its clear waters that reflect the surrounding landscape like a mirror. Both lakes are surrounded by green trees and plants, making them great places for photography, picnics, or just enjoying the natural beauty.

Hike to the Sikidang Crater

The next things to do in Dieng is visiting Sikidang Crater. For those who love adventure, visiting the Sikidang Crater is a must. This active volcanic crater is one of the most accessible in Dieng, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s geothermal activity. 

The crater is named after the Javanese word “kidang,” which means deer, due to the way the steam vents (fumaroles) move around the crater, resembling the movement of a deer.

As you approach the crater, you’ll be greeted by bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and the distinct smell of sulfur. The area is surrounded by a barren landscape, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. 

While the hike to the crater is relatively easy, it’s important to stay on the marked paths and follow safety guidelines, as the ground can be unstable in some areas.

Discover the Mystical Kailasa Museum

The Kailasa Museum is located near the Dieng Temple Complex. It has many artifacts and information about the history, culture, and geology of the Dieng Plateau. The museum is named after Mount Kailash, a sacred mountain in Hinduism. It features a collection of ancient statues, inscriptions, and relics found in the area.

The museum highlights a collection of stone statues of Hindu deities. These statues give insight into the religious practices of ancient Javanese people. The museum also has exhibits on Dieng’s natural history, including information about the region’s volcanic activity, plants, and animals.

Visiting the Kailasa Museum is a great way to deepen your understanding of Dieng’s rich heritage.

Hike to Mount Prau 

Mount Prau is a popular hiking destination in the Dieng Plateau, Central Java, Indonesia. It is 2,565 meters high and provides stunning views and fresh air. Many visitors come to Mount Prau to enjoy its natural beauty and have an adventurous hike. It is one of the popular things to do in Dieng. 

One of the main reasons to visit Mount Prau is its famous sunrise. Many hikers start their journey early in the morning to catch the breathtaking sunrise at the summit. The sky often turns beautiful shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a perfect view. A “sea of clouds” covers the surrounding hills, making the view magical.

The mountain is also known for its wide, green meadows filled with colorful wildflowers. During the blooming season, yellow, purple, and white flowers spread across the hills, making it a great spot for photos.

Experience the Local Culture and Cuisine

Dieng is not just about natural beauty and ancient temples; it’s also a place where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and savor the unique flavors of Javanese cuisine. 

The people of Dieng are known for their warm hospitality, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.

When it comes to food, Dieng offers a variety of traditional dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Make sure that trying the local food in Wonosobo becomes one of the things to do in Dieng that you will not skip. Some must-try dishes include:

– Mie Ongklok: A noodle dish made with thick, chewy noodles, served with a savory peanut sauce and topped with vegetables and fried shallots.

– Tempeh Mendoan: A type of fried tempeh that is lightly battered and served with a spicy dipping sauce.

– Carica: A sweet and tangy fruit that is native to Dieng, often made into jams, juices, or candies.

Visit the Dieng Plateau Theater

For a more immersive experience, consider visiting the Dieng Plateau Theater, where you can watch a documentary film about the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders. 

The theater offers a great introduction to the region and is a good way to learn more about the places you’ll visit during your trip.

The film covers topics such as the formation of the Dieng Plateau, the significance of the temples, and the unique flora and fauna that can be found in the area. It’s a great way to start your journey and gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and significance of Dieng.

Explore the Dieng Volcanic Complex

The Dieng Plateau is part of a larger volcanic area with both active and dormant volcanoes. If you are interested in geology and volcanoes, exploring the Dieng Volcanic Complex can be very exciting. You will find several craters, hot springs, and geothermal fields, which show the powerful forces that shape the Earth.

Sileri Crater is a popular spot in the volcanic complex. It is known for its bubbling mud pools and steaming vents. The crater is located near the village of Sileri and attracts many tourists who want to see the geothermal activity up close.

Conclusion

The Dieng Plateau is a destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. From the breathtaking Sikunir Sunrise to the ancient temples, colorful lakes, and geothermal wonders, Dieng has something for everyone. 

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature and culture, Dieng is a place that will leave you with lasting memories.

So pack your bags, put on your hiking shoes, and get ready to explore the enchanting Dieng Plateau. With its misty landscapes, ancient temples, and warm hospitality, Dieng is a destination that will capture your heart and soul.