Mount Gede Pangrango is one of the highest mountains in West Java after Mount Ciremai. The mountain has a long history, from its formation process to its designation as Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park (TNGGP).
Establishment
Mount Gede Pangrango was formed by the collision between the Eurasian plate and the Oceanic plate. Mount Pangrango itself formed from the subduction process between Java Island and the Indian Ocean, creating the majestic landscape we know today.
Eruption History
Mount Gede Pangrango was recorded to have experienced 27 eruptions from 1747 to 1957. The largest eruption occurred in 1840 with a VEI-3 scale. The first eruption of this mountain even formed hot springs which are now one of the popular tourist destinations.
Climbing and Exploration
Mount Gede has long attracted the interest of many researchers. One of the figures who made it to the top was Governor General Stamford Raffles in 1815. Until now, the hiking trail to the top of Mount Gede remains a favorite for hikers who want to enjoy its natural beauty.
Cibodas Nature Reserve and Biosphere Reserve
In 1889, the conservation area on Mount Gede was officially designated as the Cibodas Nature Reserve, making it the first conservation in Indonesia. Then, in 1978, the area was expanded to 14,000 hectares and designated as the Gunung Gede Pangrango Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.
Myths and Legends
Mount Gede is not only known for its beauty, but also for the myths that surround it. Local people believe that the mountain is inhabited by supernatural creatures such as kuntilanak and Aul, a mysterious figure with two heads.
Suryakencana Square: Sacred Beauty
Suryakencana Square is one of the most sacred places on Mount Gede. Locals believe that Raden Pangeran Suryakencana once meditated in this place with his family. Besides its spiritual value, Suryakencana Square also offers a mesmerizing view of the vast grasslands.
Edelweiss Eternal Flower
Mount Gede is home to the edelweiss flower, known as the "eternal flower". This flower can be found in the Gede Pangrango National Park area, especially in Suryakencana Square. Edelweiss is a rare plant that can last for hundreds of years and only grows on a few mountains in Indonesia.
Tea Plantation Development
In the 1830s, areas on the northern slopes of Mount Gede, such as Ciawi and Cikopo, began to be developed as tea plantations. To this day, tea plantations in the region remain an important part of the local economy and tourism.
Mount Gede Pangrango not only holds incredible natural beauty, but also a long history and mystical stories that are interesting to explore. With its status as a national park, the mountain continues to be preserved so that it remains a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.