Aurora K Mount Lawu, known for its natural beauty, rich legends, and exciting climbing activities, holds many interesting facts ranging from its status as a volcano to the mysterious myths surrounding it.
Mount Lawu is one of the most famous and most frequently climbed mountains on the island of Java. Located on the border of Central Java and East Java, this mountain offers extraordinary natural beauty and a number of interesting activities for climbers.
However, apart from its beauty, Mount Lawu is also known for the myths and history surrounding it.
From its status as a volcano to the legend of Prabu Brawijaya V, Mount Lawu not only captivates visitors with its stunning views but also with stories that have developed over the centuries. Here are 10 interesting facts about Mount Lawu that you should know.
1. Volcano Status and Last Eruption
Mount Lawu is included in the category of active volcanoes, although its status has now been declared “resting”.
The last recorded eruption occurred on November 28, 1885, which was the last known event in the history of this mountain.
Although it has been inactive for a long time, signs of fumarole activity can still be found, especially in the Candradimuka Crater area, which is located on the southern side of the mountain.
The distinctive smell of sulfur and the dense vegetation around the crater indicate that volcanic activity still exists, although in a very limited form.
2. The Legend of Prabu Brawijaya V and the Majapahit Kingdom
Mount Lawu has a very close relationship with the history and legend of Majapahit. It is said that Prabu Brawijaya V, the last king of the Majapahit Kingdom, exiled himself to the slopes of Mount Lawu before the collapse of his kingdom in the 15th century.
This mountain became a place to seek peace and tranquility away from the battles and conflicts that plagued his kingdom.
This legend adds a strong spiritual and magical dimension to the Javanese people, making this mountain a sacred place for some people.
3. Temples and Tomb Complexes Around the Slopes of Mount Lawu
The slopes of Mount Lawu are also rich in historical sites, including two famous temples, namely Sukuh Temple and Cetho Temple.
These two temples date back to the end of the Majapahit Kingdom and have distinctive architecture and are full of symbolism.
In addition, at the foot of Mount Lawu there is also a sacred tomb complex, such as Astana Girilayu and Astana Mangadeg, which are the resting places of the relatives of Praja Mangkunagaran.
Not far from there, there is Astana Giribangun, a tomb complex belonging to President Soeharto, which adds historical and spiritual value to the area around Mount Lawu.
4. Has Three Amazing Peaks
Mount Lawu is famous for its three amazing peaks, namely Hargo Dalem, Hargo Dumiling, and its highest peak, Hargo Dumilah.
The Hargo Dumilah peak is the highest point of Mount Lawu with a height of 3,256 meters above sea level and is marked by a triangulation monument.
According to Serat Centhini, Mount Lawu actually has 15 peaks, but these three main peaks are the most well-known to climbers and tourists. Each peak has its own charm, with extraordinary beautiful views from every point.
5. The Highest Warung in Java
Near the peak of Hargo Dumilah, there is a legendary warung known as Warung Mbok Yem. Located at an altitude of 3,100 meters above sea level, this warung is the highest warung in Java.
Established since 1980, Warung Mbok Yem not only provides food and warm drinks for climbers, but also serves as a resting place and iconic meeting point for those who conquer Mount Lawu. Its existence is part of an unforgettable climbing experience.
6. The 6th Highest Mountain in Java
With a height of 3,256 meters above sea level, Mount Lawu is the sixth highest mountain in Java.
Although there are many higher mountains in Java, Mount Lawu remains a popular choice for climbers because of its challenging yet relatively accessible climbing terrain.
The natural beauty and views from the top of Mount Lawu provide strong reasons why this mountain is so popular.
7. Four Challenging Climbing Routes
Mount Lawu has four main climbing routes that climbers can choose from, namely Cemoro Kandang, Cemoro Sewu, Cetho Temple, and Singolangu. Each of these routes has its own challenges.
Cemoro Kandang is the most friendly route for beginner climbers, while Cemoro Sewu and Cetho Temple have steeper and more challenging routes.
The Singolangu route is known as the oldest climbing route and is believed to be the footprint of Prabu Brawijaya V who headed to Mount Lawu to escape the pursuit of Raden Fatah’s troops.
8. The Presence of the Lawu Starling
On Mount Lawu, there is an endemic bird known as the Lawu Starling (Ivory Starling). This bird often appears in the afternoon in the post 2 area at an altitude of around 700 meters above sea level.
The Lawu Starling has its own myth for the local community, who believe that this bird is the incarnation of Wongso Menggolo, a loyal servant of King Brawijaya V. This bird is believed to guard and protect the descendants of Brawijaya who climb Mount Lawu.
9. Sacred Places Often Visited for Rituals
Mount Lawu is known as a sacred place for many people. A number of sites and caves on this mountain, such as Gua Inten and Gua Slarong, are places to meditate or perform spiritual rituals.
In addition, there are several other places that are considered sacred by the community, including Jolotundo, Sendang Macan, Sambernyowo, and Sabdo Palon. These places are often visited by those who want to worship or seek spiritual peace.
10. The Myth of the Devil’s Market
Mount Lawu is also famous for the myth of the Devil’s Market, which is believed to appear on Friday Kliwon nights.
Many stories from local people and climbers report that they saw or felt a very crowded market atmosphere at the top of the mountain.
This market is said to be filled with supernatural beings who transact with climbers or visitors who come.
Although this myth is difficult to prove, the Devil’s Market is part of the mysterious aura that is attached to Mount Lawu.
Mount Lawu not only offers enchanting natural scenery, but is also rich in history, legends, and myths that are interesting to explore.
From its status as a volcano, challenging climbing routes, to the spiritual stories that surround it, Mount Lawu is a place that holds many stories and unforgettable experiences for every climber.
For those of you who plan to climb Mount Merapi, make sure to prepare yourself well and respect the culture and myths that exist, because this trip is not just a climb, but also a spiritual journey and a meaningful adventure.
