The reason Mount Papandayan is admired by many foreign people
Date:July 25, 2022
MondayMount Papandayan is the most preferred mountain for climbers. This Papandayan Natural Park is always crowded with visitors during holidays such as New Year's Day or National Holidays.
Mount Papandayan in the city of Garut is a volcanic mountain located between two villages, Sirnajaya and Kramatwangi, Cisurupan District, Garut.
This volcanic mountain has become one of the favorite tourist attractions, not only for climbers but also for local visitors.
Having a height of 2,665 meters above sea level, Mount Papandayan is quite tourist-friendly, especially for climbing activities.
According to several sources who often discuss past historical events. The charm of Mount Papandayan has been known since the colonial period. In fact, it was not only admired by the people who lived in West Java, but also the great figures of the world at that time.
One of them was Nicholas Alexandrovich or later known as Tsar Nicholas II when he came to Garut in 1891 ago. It is said in many sources, if he is quite amazed by the natural beauty of Garut which is known to be very beautiful and surrounded by many green mountains, one of which is Mount Papandayan.
Even according to the news published in the West Star newspaper, published on March 10, 1891, the last Russian Tsar who ruled from 1894 to 1918 had also hunted wild boars on Mount Cikuray 2821 masl, which is not so far from Mount Papandayan.
Then what is the beauty that is on Mount Papandayan?
In this travel log, I will share a little information and beauty that I have seen and also a portrait when climbing to Mount Papandayan some time ago. Because the distance is not so far from the center of Garut City, and it only takes 3 hours drive from Bandung City, I visit this mountain quite often. To enter the area of Mount Papandayan, we do not need certain conditions such as when going to climb to the mountain which is managed by the National Park. Except for current conditions, we are required to carry a health certificate as a condition for climbing and always use a mask when in public areas with many people.
As for the entrance ticket to Mount Papandayan, it is known to be quite expensive compared to other mountains. The following is a breakdown of the prices, weekday admission is $1 while holidays are around $2 and camping tickets are $4. If we bring a vehicle, of course we will rent a parking space for $5.
Although Mount Papandayan is often considered a less challenging mountain by climbers, its beauty is not inferior to higher mountains. There are many beautiful places that are perfect for taking pictures or selfies.
Starting from Pondok Salada which is overgrown with edelweiss flowers, the Dead Forest which is so exotic to Ghober Hoet which is very beautiful when used as a place to watch the sunrise.
As for the hiking trail itself, it's pretty sloping, even to get to the camp area located at Pondok Salada, we only need to walk about 2 hours from the parking area. If it's still considered heavy, friends can also rent a motorcycle taxi that can take friends to the desired place.
So don't be surprised if this mountain is highly recommended for beginners who want to try to get to know this adventure activity. The best time to visit Mount Papandayan is during the dry season, which is between April-September. In these months we can see the best views of Mount Papandayan.
Lead image
I am also a person who really likes nature and I also really liked climbing mountains when I was in college. And I think Mount Papandayan is one of the mountains that has a beautiful view.