Sendang Siwani in Wonogiri Regency, Central Java Province

A historical tourism always attracts tourists. In this case, everyone should not miss the chance to visit Wonogiri Regency and explore a place called Sendang Siwani. According to the locals, that site was once visited by a famous person namely Raden Mas Said. This person was involved in a guerilla against VOC. Actually, the site features a small lake and it is located in Matah Village at Selogiri Sub-District. Due to the historical value, tourists keep coming to learn the story from the locals. Some of them also take advantage of the site to conduct photography and relaxation, in fact.

The Nuance
Knowing the sacredness of Sendang Siwani, the locals have built a special place to conduct pilgrimage. Even several sacred statues reside in that area and the locals provide traditional umbrellas to protect those things. In special occasions, outsiders are often seen on the site. They often perform a pilgrimage and conduct praying for various purposes. In terms of nuance, the site doesn’t feel special at noon. However, it emits a mystical atmosphere at night! Visitors are even allowed to reach the small pond or lake that resides in that area.

Exploring Sendang Siwani
The most common reason for visiting Sendang Siwani is indeed to learn the history. In this case, tourists must find a reliable informant so they can get the story thoroughly. Usually, visitors may look for nearby villagers and ask some questions later. As an alternative, they can talk to their tour guide and get the information freely from the service. Still, the best source of information comes from the keepers who work on the site. Sometimes, though, it requires some fee to acquire the history from them.

Aside from common tourists, Sendang Siwani is also popular among those who want to participate in the legislative election. No wonder, many famous people are often seen on the site as they want to look for a blessing in that area. The locals call the procession “Ngalap Berkah”. It is because those people consider it sacred and is able to provide them with good fortunes. As the time goes by, the area becomes the spiritual tourist spot for both the locals and outsiders.

According to the keepers, the best time to visit Sendang Siwani is every Thursday night. At the time, tourists may meet many visitors who come from many regions. As for the best spots, there are two of them. The first one is located under the big tree and the other is located in the west part of Raden Mas Said’s petilasan. If tourists come at the right time, they may even see some people taking a bath in a nearby river. The purpose is to eradicate bad lucks, actually.

Nearby Attractions

• Kereta Kuda Monument
• Alas Kethu
• Gandul Mountain
• Laskar Pelangi

How to Get There
The distance between Semarang City and Wonogiri Regency is 169 km. That means the trip may take about 3 hours and 25 minutes to reach the destination. Have no worries. It becomes faster if tourists take Semarang – Solo Highway. From the downtown, their next destination is Matah Village at Selogiri Sub-District where the site resides. The distance is 25.7 km, so the trip takes approximately 51 minutes. As for the best route, it is Wonogiri – Ngadirojo Street.

Where to Stay

• Diafan Hotel
• Cendrawasih Hotel
• Dewi Anita Hotel
• Tifa Hotel