Mount Lawu, famous for its natural beauty, interesting hiking activities, and the myths and legends surrounding it, has various interesting facts that you need to know.
Mount Lawu, located on the border of Central Java and East Java, is one of the most famous mountains on the island of Java. In addition to offering stunning natural scenery, this mountain is also full of history, myths, and legends that add to its specialness.
From its status as an inactive volcano to its close relationship with the history of the Majapahit Kingdom, Mount Lawu holds various interesting stories that make it very worthy of exploration.
If you are planning a hike to this mountain, here are 10 interesting facts that you must know about Mount Lawu.
1. Volcano Status and Last Eruption
Mount Lawu, although not significantly active, is an active volcano with a “resting” status. The last recorded eruption occurred on November 28, 1885.
Although there have been no major eruptions for a long time, Mount Lawu still shows signs of volcanic activity such as fumaroles in the Candradimuka Crater on its southern side.
A strong smell of sulfur can often be smelled, and the dense vegetation in the area indicates underground activity, albeit in a very limited form.
2. The Legend of Prabu Brawijaya V and the Majapahit Kingdom
Mount Lawu is not only known for its scenery and challenging climbs, but also for its association with history and legends. One of the most famous is the legend of Prabu Brawijaya V, the last king of the Majapahit Kingdom.
It is said that, before the fall of his kingdom in the 15th century, Prabu Brawijaya V sought refuge and peace on the slopes of Mount Lawu.
This provides a deep spiritual dimension for the Javanese people, making this mountain not only a physical place, but also a place of mystical meaning and reverence.
3. Sukuh Temple and Cetho Temple on the Slopes of Mount Lawu
Around the slopes of Mount Lawu, you will find several interesting historical sites, including Sukuh Temple and Cetho Temple. Both of these temples date back to the end of the Majapahit Kingdom and have very unique designs and are full of symbolism.
Sukuh Temple, with its architecture that is different from other temples in Indonesia, has an even more mystical feel, while Cetho Temple, which is higher on the slopes of the mountain, also offers incredible views.
These two temples add to the historical and spiritual feel of Mount Lawu, making it an interesting place not only for climbers, but also for history lovers.
4. Has Three Main Peaks
Mount Lawu is known for its three main peaks which have their own names and uniqueness: Hargo Dalem, Hargo Dumiling, and Hargo Dumilah.
The highest peak is Hargo Dumilah, which is at an altitude of 3,256 meters above sea level and is the highest point of Mount Lawu.
According to Serat Centhini, Mount Lawu originally had up to 15 peaks, but these three main peaks remain the most famous and frequently visited by climbers.
5. The Highest Warung on Java Island
The peak of Mount Lawu is also home to one of the legendary warungs located at an altitude of 3,100 meters above sea level, namely Warung Mbok Yem. Established since 1980, this warung is the highest warung on Java Island.
Famous as a comfortable resting place for climbers, this warung provides food, hot drinks, and a place to relax for a moment before continuing the journey to the peak. Its existence has become an inseparable part of the climbing experience on Mount Lawu.
6. The Peak of Mount Lawu, One of the Highest Mountains in Java
With a height of 3,256 meters above sea level, Mount Lawu is in 6th place as the highest mountain on Java Island. Although there are higher mountains, Mount Lawu remains a popular destination among climbers, thanks to its challenging but not too extreme climbing terrain.
The natural beauty and views that can be enjoyed from the top of Mount Lawu are also a strong attraction for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
7. Four Known Hiking Trails
Mount Lawu has four hiking trails that climbers can choose from: Cemoro Kandang, Cemoro Sewu, Cetho Temple, and Singolangu. Each trail has its own uniqueness. The Cemoro Kandang trail, for example, is known as a relatively easier and more beginner-friendly hiking trail.
Meanwhile, the Cemoro Sewu and Cetho Temple trails offer steeper and more challenging terrain. The Singolangu trail, which is said to be the oldest hiking trail, also has its own appeal because it is the trail of Prabu Brawijaya V’s journey to this mountain.
8. The Presence of the Endemic Lawu Starling Bird
Mount Lawu is also home to an endemic bird known as the Lawu Starling (Jalak Gading). This bird is often seen in the afternoon in the post 2 area, which is located at an altitude of around 700 meters above sea level.
In Javanese myth, this bird is believed to be the incarnation of Wongso Menggolo, a loyal servant of Prabu Brawijaya V who was tasked with guarding and protecting the king’s descendants.
The presence of this bird adds to the mystical impression that envelops this mountain, making it more attractive to climbers and nature lovers.
9. Mount Lawu is Full of Sacred Places
Mount Lawu is also known as a place full of sacred sites. Many places are often visited to perform spiritual rituals, such as Gua Inten and Gua Slarong, which are considered places of meditation.
In addition, there are also a number of other places that are considered sacred by the community, such as Sendang Macan, Sambernyowo, and Sabdo Palon. These places provide a strong spiritual nuance for visitors who want to feel calm and peaceful in the midst of nature.
10. The Frightening Myth of the Devil’s Market
Mount Lawu is known for the myth of the Devil’s Market which is often discussed among climbers. It is said that this market appears on Friday Kliwon nights, and can be seen crowded with supernatural beings who transact with climbers.
There are many stories circulating about visitors who feel a very crowded market atmosphere, although this is only part of the myths and legends that have developed.
This Devil’s Market is part of the mysterious aura that surrounds Mount Lawu, adding to the haunted impression for those who climb it.
Mount Lawu is not only known for its natural beauty and challenging climbs, but also for the history and myths that surround it.
With its stunning peaks, diverse climbing routes, and the presence of sacred places and endemic birds, Mount Lawu offers a different climbing experience from other mountains in Java.
Don’t forget to respect the culture and myths that exist, because climbing Mount Lawu is not just a physical journey, but also a meaningful spiritual journey.
If you plan to conquer Mount Merapi, make sure to prepare yourself well and enjoy every beauty that this legendary mountain has to offer.