Semarang, March 24 2025 – A sharp rise in visitor numbers has been recorded at Candi Gedong Songo, as the mountainside heritage site gains renewed attention for offering more than just history—combining ancient temples, sweeping highland views, and demanding uphill trails that appeal to both cultural tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Perched on the slopes of Gunung Ungaran, the destination continues to draw crowds seeking a blend of heritage, nature, and active exploration.

The temple complex, believed to date back to the 9th century during the Sanjaya Dynasty, was first documented in 1804 by Thomas Stamford Raffles. Its name, derived from Javanese, translates as “nine buildings,” although fewer structures remain intact today. The temples are spread across varying elevations, a layout historians associate with religious practices tied to both worship and ascetic retreat.

Local tourism officials reported a noticeable spike in arrivals compared to regular weekends, attributing the increase to the extended holiday period and favorable weather conditions. Despite the influx, visitors were urged to remain cautious, particularly when navigating access roads.

Entrance from Rp10,000 to Rp25,000, with additional charges for facilities such as horse rentals and access to natural hot springs. For many families visiting during the holiday, these options provided convenience. “Horse riding really helps if you’re not up for the climb. The price is reasonable, and kids enjoy it,” said Adhim, 21, who visited with his family

Access to the site remained one of the main concerns during the holiday rush. The road leading up to the complex is steep, narrow, and winding, with several sharp inclines and descents. Increased traffic during the holiday heightened the risk of accidents, and local reports again highlighted incidents of brake failure along the route. Dhia, 23, a university student from Jogyakarta, emphasized the need for preparation. “The road is quite extreme, especially on a motorbike. You really need to make sure your brakes are in good condition. But once you arrive, the atmosphere is cool and relaxing,” she said.

From the main parking area, visitors continued on foot along uphill paths connecting the temple clusters. While physically demanding, the trek remained a key part of the experience, offering panoramic views of the surrounding highlands. Shafa, 24, a visitor from Yogyakarta, described the journey as worthwhile. “It’s not just beautiful—you can really feel the history. The walk is tiring, but the views make it worth it, also I love to do trail run sometimes so this place was new for me to try trail run while looking the tample” he said.

In addition to the temple structures, the site features several secondary attractions. A white statue of the Hindu figure Hanuman, locally known as Anoman, has become a popular photo point. Located slightly off the main trail before the third temple cluster, it is often missed by first-time visitors. The statue continues to be used for ritual purposes on certain occasions, reflecting the site’s ongoing cultural relevance.

Geothermal activity in the area is evident through natural hot springs that emit sulfuric steam, underscoring the volcanic characteristics of Gunung Ungaran. Many holiday visitors took the opportunity to bathe in the warm pools after trekking, citing both relaxation and traditional beliefs about their health benefits.

The surrounding landscape further enhanced the holiday atmosphere. Cool mountain air, expansive greenery, and frequent mist—particularly in the early morning and late afternoon—created a calm yet festive environment. A large open field between the fourth and fifth temple clusters was seen hosting small group gatherings and family activities throughout the day.

As visitor numbers peaked during the holiday period, local stakeholders faced the challenge of balancing accessibility with safety and preservation. Authorities continued to advise travelers to prepare both physically and mechanically before visiting, noting that while Candi Gedong Songo offers a rewarding experience, it also requires careful planning—especially during high-traffic periods such as the long holiday.

Refrences

Pariwisata Jawa Tengah. (n.d.). Candi Gedong Songo. https://share.google/yrkb8f2vWtno4uBgR

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