The Origin of the Name of Mount Papandayan
The name Mount Papandayan comes from folklore that developed in the community. In the past, when crossing this mountain, there was often a mysterious sound resembling the clanking of iron forged by a blacksmith. The smoke billowing from the crater further strengthens the impression. Therefore, the ancient people called it "Mount Pandai" (iron craftsman), which in Sundanese is called Papandayan.
Location and Hiking Trails
Mount Papandayan, with an altitude of 2,665 meters above sea level (masl), is a stratovolcano type volcano. stratovolcano located about 70 km from Bandung City, precisely in Garut Regency, West Java. Administratively, the mountain is included in Simajaya Village and Keramat Wangi Village, Cisurupan District, Garut Regency, and Neglawangi Village, Kertasari District, Bandung Regency.
Hiking trails Mount Papandayan is relatively easy and very suitable for beginner climbers. Its location is also quite easily accessible from various big cities such as Jakarta and Bandung, making it a popular choice for nature-loving travelers.
Ecotourism Attraction of Mount Papandayan
1. Crater of Mount Papandayan
The mountain has four main craters that offer unique views, namely:
- Mas Crater
- New Crater
- Nangklak Crater
- Manuk Crater
One of the most interesting is Nangklak Craterwhich is the remnant of a devastating eruption in November 2002. The view of the crater is mesmerizing with the crater walls formed from the eruption. In addition, along the hiking trail, there are many magma holes that emit smoke and water vapor, creating an exotic natural atmosphere and adding to the attraction for tourists.
Before the 2002 eruption, there was a large crater called Balagadama Crater. However, the eruption turned this crater into a volcanic lake which is now part of the main crater landscape.
2. Dead Forest
Dead Forest is an area created by the 2002 eruption, where hot clouds scorched the surrounding trees. Today, the area is filled with dry, leafless tree trunks that create an exotic atmosphere. exotic atmospheresimilar to a setting in a horror or post-apocalyptic movie like Mad Max: Fury Road.
Many tourists and photographers come to the Dead Forest to capture its natural beauty. This spot is also a favorite place for hikers to take pictures and enjoy the unique mystical atmosphere.
3. Javanese Edelweiss Field
At Pondok Salada, one of the camping areas on Mount Papandayan, there are many JavaneseEdelweiss trees (Anaphalis javanica). In addition, the Tegal Alun area also has a large Edelweiss field, but it is included in the nature reserve area, so not all tourists can access it. To enter Tegal Alun, a Conservation Area Entry Permit (SIMAKSI ) is required from the West Java Natural Resources Conservation Center (BBKSDA).
Mount Papandayan is known as one of the mountains in Indonesia that has extensiveEdelweiss fields, although a major fire in 2015 wiped out most of the Edelweiss in the area.
Fun Activities at Mount Papandayan
1. Exploring the Crater
Mount Papandayan is one of the volcanoes that is safe to visit the crater. Not all volcanoes in the world have direct access to their craters, so crater exploration is a mandatory activity for tourists who come here.
2. Mountain Climbing
For hikers, hiking or trekking are the main activities at Papandayan. The mountain has relatively easy hiking trails, making a full-day hike possible for those with a fast pace of travel. However, for those who want to enjoy the night atmosphere and see the sunrise, a two-day-one-night hike is the right choice.
3. Nature Photography
Papandayan offers many interesting photography spots, both for professional photographers and tourists who like to take pictures. One of the best spots to enjoy and capture the sunrise is on the cliff between Hoogbert's Hut and Pondok Salada.
4. Camping
For those who want to enjoy a night out in nature, camping at Mount Papandayan is an experience not to be missed. There are several camping areas, including:
- Camp David (near the parking area)
- Hoogbert's Hut / Scrooge's Hut
- Salada Cottage
Camping here offers the experience of enjoying the cool mountain air, brewing hot coffee in front of a campfire, and seeing the star-filled sky at night.
5. Corporate Outing and Family Gathering
Apart from being a climbing destination, Mount Papandayan is also often used as a location for corporate outings or family gatherings. The complete facilities in this tourist area make it an option for companies and families who want to enjoy nature tourism comfortably.
Conclusion
Mount Papandayan is one of the best climbing destinations in West Java that is suitable for beginner climbers and tourists who want to enjoy the beauty of nature. With attractions such as unique volcanic craters, exotic Dead Forest, and stunning Edelweiss fields, Papandayan offers a complete travel experience.
Various exciting activities such as crater exploration, climbing, photography, camping, and family gathering can be done here. With easy access and friendly hiking trails, Mount Papandayan is the right choice for anyone who wants to explore the beauty of Indonesian nature.