Pasar Kaget in Wamena City, Papua Province
It is likely all tourists come to the Wamena City of Jayawijaya Regency to visit natural attractions. It is true, but the region offers more than that. For instance, it has a unique place called Pasar Kaget. In terms of name, it means the "shock market". The location is near to Obia Village, which resides in the midst of the forest. That means tourists need to pass through a lush forest in order to find the market. Instead of being a burden, this trip gives a new experience to them. Not to mention visitors have the chance to buy uncommon souvenirs and goods there.
The Nuance
As mentioned earlier, Pasar Kaget is located in the middle of a forest. That means the nuance is serene and soothing due to the presence of big trees and a low number of visitors. Sellers display the goods on the mats on the ground. Various unique items are available including fangs necklaces, fruits, stone axes, and many more! Tourists can even buy “Koteka” (Papua’s traditional attire) there. As for the price, it varies depending on the rarity of the items.
Exploring Pasar Kaget
Before heading to Pasar Kaget, tourists must drop by at Obia Village first. The purpose is to find a local guide who knows the exact location of the market and who is able to help tourists regarding bargaining and collecting information. Have no worries. This service is considered affordable. For the information, a trip to the market involves a short trekking, so tourists should come with a good stamina. The market resides in the midst of a forest, after all.
The next tip is related to money. Everyone should carry enough cash when visiting Pasar Kaget. It is because they are likely to buy some souvenirs and many delicious fruits there. The most expensive item perhaps is the headgear that features stunning cassowary’s feathers. As an alternative, visitors can simply buy beautiful necklaces that come with boar’s fangs! It looks both attractive and tribal. The fact is tourists are allowed to bargain, so they can get cheaper prices from the sellers. What they need is only good communication skill.
The best thing is that tourists can shop and explore the nature at the same time in Pasar Kaget. They can even see the Dani Tribe, doing a transaction and communicating with each other. This experience is rare to get! Thus, those who visit Wamena should not miss the chance to visit the market later. Have no worries. The locals are always ready to help them regarding the direction and other important information.
Nearby Attractions
- Pasir Putih Aikima
- Susu Mountain
- Baliem Valley
How to Get There
The fastest way to get to Wamena City is by airplane. From Sentani Airport at Jayapura City, for example, the flight takes only about 30 minutes to reach Wamena Airport. It can be longer if tourists come from Soekarno – Hatta International Airport (which may take about 10 hours and 15 minutes). From Wamena, the next destination is Obia Village where tourists can rest for a while before heading to Pasar Kaget. It is also recommended to hire a local guide, though.
Where to Stay
- Baliem Valley Resort
