The Memorable Climbing to the Panoramic Beauty at Mount Ciremai

As the highest mountain in West Java, Mount Ciremai is one of the main climbing destinations for the mountaineers, with the average visit per year approximately up to 15000. Administratively, Ciremai Mountain (3.078 m) included in three regency areas, namely Cirebon, Kuningan, and Majalengka, West Java province. Currently Ciremai Mountain is including in the area of Ciremai Mountain National Park (about 15000 ha total wide area).

Ciremai Mountain is a solitary volcano with two main craters, viz. the west crater (400 m radius) and the east crater (600 m radius). At about 2900 m altitude, there is a former eruption point, the so called Gowa Walet at the south slope. Mount Ciremai can be reached via various climbing routes. The most popular and accessible is via 3 routes, namely from the east-ward via Linggarjati (580 m), from the south-ward via Palutungan (1227 m), and from the west-ward via Maja (through Apui and Argalingga). Linggarjati route and Palutungan route are the most often used and recommended by the local forestry control authority. Linggarjati Village is the main climbing gate to Mount Ciremai. Linggarjati route is the steepest and hardest route, but this route is the most often traveled by the climbers. Palutungan route isn’t too steep like Linggarjati route, but the climbers have to add extra 2-3 hours of travel.

From the peak of Ciremai Mountain the climbers can see the fantastic panorama of Ciremai Mountain craters. The climbers can also enjoy the attractive view of Cirebon City, Majalengka City, Bandung City, Java Sea, Slamet Mountain, and the other mountains in West Java from afar. The more attractive view is presented when sun is rising from the Java Sea direction. It needs 2,5 hours to go around the peak and its craters. The natural panorama of Ciremai Mountain is quite unique and varied not only the charming sunrise moment at Mount Ciremai, but also the beautiful natural forest, waterfalls at the valley area, natural bathing place, and hot spring. Moreover, Ciremai Mountain area has the biodiversity collection of flora and fauna.

The climbing travel to Mount Ciremai needs averagely 8-11 hours and 5-6 hours to descend, so the climbers need to pitch the tents on the journey. Thus make sure that the travel is well prepared. Climbing at dry season is quite pleasing because of the more favorable weather. At dry season the climbing lane is less slippery and the panorama is brighter and clearer.