The Slope of Mount Merapi in Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region

Merapi Volcano has become one of the most famous mountains in Indonesia. Tourists can see and explore it during the visit in Yogyakarta Special Region, too! The good news is the mountain has some good spots for exploration, especially its slope! The locals call it Lereng Gunung Merapi and they take advantage of the spot for numerous activities like photography, trekking, exploration, sightseeing, and much more! The only challenge is related to the route, which is both challenging and rough. Thus, first-timers should come with either a porter or local guide later.

The Nuance
The beauty of the slope of Mount Merapi is undoubted. Once arriving at the slope, tourists are able to see the peak clearly (as long as there is no fog). The nuance feels refreshing as well, due to the cold and clean air in the morning. The views are amazing and the atmosphere is nice. What can beat these, actually? What is more? The site is known for its beautiful sunrise, so everyone should come early in the morning to witness it. As mentioned before, the route is challenging so everyone should explore the slope carefully. During the exploration, tourists are able to see 4 different towns including Boyolali, Klaten, Magelang, and Sleman from the slope!

Exploring the Slope of Mount Merapi
So, what tourists can do in the slope of Mount Merapi? Usually, they want to conduct trekking and exploration. The site has many interesting spots to explore, after all. Even though it comes with rocky surfaces and dry land, no one feels bored or tired when exploring the slope. Once again, those who never visited before should consider hiring a guide or porter. This person knows the route well and would give some tips during trekking.

The next common thing to do in the slope of Mount Merapi is called “Napak Tilas”. The purpose is simple, which is to visit nearby villages. These rural villages had become the victim of Merapi’s eruption back then. No wonder, visitors can still see the remains of damages in that area. It is allowed to take photos and explore the villages thoroughly! During the visit, tourists can also gather information and history by asking the locals.

After exploring the slope thoroughly, it is not recommended to go back home or to the hotel. The reason is that tourists should enjoy some nice local snacks and drinks first. Several traditional eateries operate in some parts of the slope, after all. They can enjoy numerous foods like Pecel and Jadah Tempe. As for the drink, the best one is Wedhang Gedhang! Don’t forget to try them all!

Nearby Attractions

• Kalikuning Park
• Kinahrejo Tourist Village
• Klangon Hill
• Merapi Bunker
• Pronojiwo Peak

How to Get There
It is easy to reach Merapi Slope as long as tourists choose the right routes. The first destination is Yogyakarta City and it can be done fast by airplane, especially for outsiders or those who live outside the region. From Jakarta City, for example, the flight may take about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Tourists can simply take an airplane at Soekarno – Hatta International Airport and head to Adisucipto Airport. From Yogyakarta, tourists must take Padjajaran Street and head to Sleman Regency. The distance is 9.9 km, so this trip would take around 16 minutes. After arriving at Sleman, the next destination is indeed Merapi Mountain. The distance is 18.6 km, so the trip may take around 32 minutes. As for the best route, it is Raya Merapi Golf Street.

Where to Stay

• Puri Indah Inn
• K Hotel