Magelang is embraced by the majestic lines of mountains like Merapi and Merbabu, and enriched by historical tourism assets, including one of the wonders of the world, making this region in Central Java home to extraordinary natural and cultural beauty. As it readies itself for visitors heading to Borobudur Temple or Yogyakarta, Magelang hopes travelers will extend their journey to explore its captivating tourist villages.
Four villages in Mungkid District, Magelang, are pioneering their path as tourist villages, ready to attract visitors with natural, cultural, culinary, and artisanal attractions. Let’s take a closer look at what they have to offer, Pesona Friends!
Treko Tourist Village
A spring that flows year-round is the blessing that sustains Mudal Kali Gumuk’s natural swimming pool and river tubing at Kali Gono. The water from this spring is clear and refreshing, inviting everyone to enjoy a splash in its cool depths.
Another valuable asset here is the unity among residents and tourism workers who willingly come together to develop tourism, welcome guests, and keep the village clean. Within this spirit, creative young people like Agung, a visual arts teacher, volunteer their skills for digital promotion, logo design, and beautifying the village.
“In our village, everyone works together to build tourism, for the benefit of all,” he shared.
What do you think, Pesona Friends? Isn’t their spirit inspiring?
Pagersari Tourist Village
Who says traditional arts are only for the elderly? In this village, the youth are the drivers of tradition, including groups of young men who perform the Bendrongan dance. They belong to the Margoutomo Jathilan Art Studio and Marsudi Utomo Gamelan Ensemble, led by Mr. Sudaryono, the village head. The troupe is always ready to enliven traditional ceremonies, tourism events, and even often receives invitations to perform at Borobudur Temple.
To take home a piece of this village, Pesona Friends can buy Pothil Pak Slamet (a crunchy, savory cassava and coconut snack) or coconut fiber pot crafts by Badriah Kokedama.
Ambartawang Tourist Village
Celebrating the beauty of rice fields set against mountains and clouds, Andi, the local tourism promoter, and the villagers are developing a “Rice Field Path.” This scenic route through the fields is perfect for cycling enthusiasts. For a unique experience, vintage bikes are available to ride and use as photo props.
In terms of cultural tourism, the village is home to the Putra Kalang traditional arts group, known for its Topeng Ireng dance, which features unique costumes with tall feathered headdresses and jingles on both legs. The dance is accompanied by tiplak (similar to a tambourine), as it originated as an art form once used in the spread of Islam.
Gondang Tourist Village
Ms. Sri Rejeki, a teacher by profession, doesn’t let her daily responsibilities stop her from participating in her village’s cultural tourism. She dreams of building a dance and gamelan studio, a dream she pursues tirelessly. Her daughter, Anggi, is an active dancer at various events, known for performing the Bambangan Cakil dance, which she learned directly from Mbah Rohmat, the revered dance master in Gondang Village.
Now elderly, Mbah Rohmat has passed on the legacy of this dance to Anggi, who continues to keep its spirit alive through training, teaching, and wearing costumes crafted by her mentor.
