Dieng is a tourist destination located in the highlands.
Administratively, Dieng Plateau is situated in Wonosobo and Banjarnegara Regency.
Often referred to as the "land above the clouds," its location is over 2,000 meters above sea level (masl), making it frequently covered by clouds, especially in the mornings and evenings. There are numerous attractions in the Dieng Plateau, such as mountains, hills, craters, temples, lakes, various culinary delights, hot spring pools, and more. Therefore, Dieng is an ideal tourist destination to visit during a long holiday, especially when the weather is hot and sunny.
How to Get There
Getting to Dieng can be an adventure in itself, as the plateau is surrounded by rolling hills and lush landscapes. Here’s how you can reach this fascinating destination:
By Air: The nearest major airport is Yogyakarta Adisucipto International Airport, approximately 120 km from Dieng. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a public bus to Wonosobo, the nearest town to Dieng. From Wonosobo, Dieng is about a 30-minute drive.
By Train: You can take a train to Wonosobo from Yogyakarta or Semarang. Once you arrive at Wonosobo train station, you can hire a taxi to reach Dieng Plateau.
By Bus: Buses to Wonosobo depart regularly from major cities like Yogyakarta, Semarang, and Jakarta. Once in Wonosobo, take a local minibus or taxi to Dieng.
Best Time to Visit Dieng
The best time to visit Dieng is during the dry season, which typically lasts from April to October. The weather is cool and clear, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Top Attractions in Dieng
Dieng Temple Complex (Arjuna Temple): The Dieng Temple complex is a group of ancient Hindu temples dating back to the 7th century. These temples, built from volcanic stone, offer a glimpse into the region's history and are dedicated to various deities.
Kawah Sikidang (Sikidang Crater): Kawah Sikidang is one of the most famous volcanic craters in Dieng. It is an active geothermal area with bubbling mud pools, sulfuric gas vents, and steaming craters. Visitors can walk around the area and admire the natural beauty while learning about the geological activity of the region.
Telaga Warna (Colorful Lake): Telaga Warna is a stunning, multi-colored lake, famous for its unique greenish-blue color. The color changes depending on the weather and time of day, creating a mesmerizing effect. The lake is located in a protected area surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful spot for nature lovers.
Sikunir Peak: For adventure enthusiasts, a sunrise trek to Sikunir Peak is a must. The hike is relatively short but steep, taking around 1-2 hours to reach the top. Once at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Dieng Plateau, especially during sunrise when the sky lights up in vibrant colors.
Candi Arjuna: Candi Arjuna is part of the Dieng Temple complex and is one of the oldest and most significant temples in the region. This temple complex features a series of small temples dedicated to Hindu deities and is a great spot for history buffs and photographers alike.
Entrance Fees
Dieng Temple Complex: The entrance fee to the Dieng Temple Complex is around $1.50 for domestic visitors and $3 for international tourists.
Kawah Sikidang: The fee for visiting the Sikidang Crater is approximately $1 per person.
Telaga Warna: The entrance fee for Telaga Warna is around $1 per person.
Sikunir Peak: There is no official entrance fee for hiking to Sikunir Peak, but some local guides may charge a fee for guiding the trek, usually around $5 per person.
Where to Stay
Dieng offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Some popular options include:
Budget: Guesthouses and homestays in Dieng start at approximately $10 to $20 per night, offering simple, clean rooms with basic amenities.
Mid-range: For more comfort, you can find hotels with prices ranging from $30 to $50 per night. These typically offer better facilities, including private bathrooms and hot water.
Luxury: There are a few more upscale resorts and hotels around the Dieng area, with rates starting at $70 per night. These accommodations offer modern amenities and often come with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Dieng Plateau is a breathtaking and underrated destination that offers travelers a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural richness. It’s a perfect getaway for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those looking to explore the off-the-beaten-path destinations in Indonesia!
Exploring DIENG Plateau | SIKUNIR, BALAP MERPATI, CANDI ARJUNA | Java, Indonesia
Video by The Lost Boys
