PENTINGSARI: A VILLAGE DESIGNED, DEVELOPED, CRAFTED, AND ENJOYED BY PEOPLE
Pentingsari Village is a hidden gem located 700 meters above sea level at the bottom of Mt. Merapi, one of the most active volcanoes on earth. This village offers a unique blend of stunning nature and rich cultural heritage. Despite being just 22.5 km away from the city of Yogyakarta, Pentingsari Village remains deeply traditional, making it an intriguing destination for those seeking an introduction to Indonesia’s ancient natives.
With its focus on nature, culture, agriculture, and environment, Pentingsari Village provides visitors with a deeper understanding of traditional culture, arts, and local wisdom that are deeply embedded in the hearts of its locals. Since 2008, Pentingsari has been developed as part of Yogyakarta’s Village Tourism Project.
The Transformation of Pentingsari Village
Pentingsari Village started as an underdeveloped village with infertile soil and an isolated location. The villagers had average low income levels. However, through mutual cooperation and hard work, the locals have transformed this village into a vibrant community that attracts people from all over the world.
Instead of focusing on luxury tourism, Pentingsari Village embraces its natural and authentic charm. Everything you see in the village is traditional and genuine. Visitors have the opportunity to observe rural life and learn from the wisdom of the locals. This display of local wisdom has garnered recognition from Sleman’s Regent who commended their system as “the people’s economy”.
Getting to Pentingsari Village
Getting to Pentingsari Village is relatively easy and takes about an hour by car from the center of Yogyakarta City. The village is located north of the city, facing the majestic Mt. Merapi.
Starting from the city center, you need to make your way to Jalan Kaliurang and then head to Jalan Pamungkas. At the fork, take a right onto Jalan Meces Pokoh. Keep going straight until you reach a junction with a gas station. From there, continue straight and take the first right onto Jalan Cangkringan. Follow this road until you reach Jalan Raya Merapi Golf in Wukirsari, about 2 kilometers away. Look for a badminton court on your right and take the first left from there. Then, take another left at the end and another left at the first turn, which is approximately 900 meters away. Pentingsari Village will be on your right.
Where to Stay
If you want an authentic experience in Pentingsari Village, many of the locals offer homestays with modest yet complete facilities. Staying in one of these homestays allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and get to know the highly hospitable people of Pentingsari Village directly.
The prices for homestays range from IDR 70,000 to IDR 200,000 per night, excluding tour rates and tickets.
Contact Information:
Pentingsari, Umbulharjo
Cangkringan,
Kabupaten Sleman,
Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55583
Phone: +62 856-3927-865 (Bayu)
Image source: www.ardiankusuma.com
