The three nearby mountains of Slamet, Sindoro and Sumbing are often referred to as the "3S Mountains." Because of their close proximity, many hikers choose to conquer all three in one expedition. In addition, the hiking trails of these three mountains are not too extreme, making them attractive to a wide range of hikers.
Mount Slamet: The Highest in Central Java
Mount Slamet has an altitude of about 3,428 meters above sea level (masl) and is the highest mountain in Central Java. Overall, it ranks as the second highest mountain in Java after Mount Semeru. Located on the border of five regencies-Tegal, Pemalang, Brebes, Banyumas, and Purbalingga-Mount Slamet offers its own challenges. The terrain is quite tough due to the lack of water sources along the hiking trail and the thick fog that often changes. Even so, Mount Slamet remains one of the favorite destinations for climbers in Indonesia.
Mount Slamet Hiking Trail
Currently, there are about 12 hiking trails that can be used to reach the summit of Mount Slamet, including:
- Via Bambangan
- Via Gunung Malang
- Via Dipajaya
- Via Jurang Mangu
- Via Penakir
- Via Cemara Sakti
- Via Baturaden
- Via Guci
- Via Sawangan
- Via Dukuh Liwung
- Via Kaliwadas
- Via Kaligua
Mount Sindoro and Sumbing: The Twins of Central Java
Mount Sindoro and Sumbing are often referred to as "twin mountains" due to their close proximity. Mount Sumbing is about 3,371 meters above sea level, making it the third highest mountain in Central Java. Meanwhile, Mount Sindoro is ranked fourth with an altitude of 3,150m above sea level. Both are located on the border of three districts, namely Magelang, Wonosobo, and Temanggung.
Climbing these three mountains in one expedition is certainly not an easy task. Apart from requiring excellent stamina, logistical and mental preparation is also very important to keep the trip enjoyable.
Estimated Cost of Climbing Mount Sumbing
In addition to physical preparation, hikers also need to take into account the cost of the trip. The amount of cost depends on the mode of transportation chosen as well as other personal needs. The following is the estimated cost of traveling from Jakarta to Mount Sumbing via the Garung route:
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Transportation Jakarta - Wonosobo
- Buses from Rawamangun, Kalideres, or Pulogadung Terminal to Wonosobo: Rp70,000 - Rp85,000
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Transportation Wonosobo - Garung Sub-district
- Take public transportation (mini bus): Rp7,000 - Rp10,000
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Garung Sub-district Transportation - Hiking Post I
- Ojek to Garung Post I: Rp15,000 - Rp25,000 (depending on negotiation)
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Mount Sumbing Climbing Ticket
- SIMAKSI and entrance ticket: IDR 7,000 per person
Overall, the estimated cost of climbing these three mountains is around IDR 400,000, including round-trip travel costs. However, this figure does not include logistics, food and souvenirs. Make sure to bring extra cash so you don't have to struggle to find an ATM on the way.
Ready to conquer 3 mountains at once?
If you're interested in trying this 3S expedition, make sure you're well prepared, from equipment, physical condition, to budget. With good preparation, the climbing experience will be more exciting and fun. Happy adventure!