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North Toraja sand dunes offer alternative to Yogyakarta counterpart
Travelers looking for sand dunes may head to North Toraja in South Sulawesi.
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Visitors explore the Sumalu sand dunes in North Toraja, South Sulawesi. (Kompas/Citra Fany Samparaya)
The Sumalu sand dunes of North Toraja, South Sulawesi, offer an alternative to the dunes of Yogyakarta.
Kompas.com reported that the Sumalu sand dunes were relatively hilly with a dense texture, making it different from the flat-surfaced sand dunes of Yogyakarta.
Sumalu was formed by a natural process dominated by the wind, which brought sand from other areas and blew against the dunes from different directions, creating asymmetrical patterns, hence the curvy and terraced mountain look.
The North Toraja sand dunes are in two different locations. Dunes that were popularized in December 2016 can be found in front of Toraja Jemaat To’ Sapang church in Rantebua Salanggi, Rantebua village.
In September of last year, a sand dune in Buntu Rondo, also in Rantebua village, began to grow in popularity. To reach the dunes, one must park their vehicle in a designated area and walk for roughly 50 meters.
The sand dunes are a great place to enjoy sunrise and sunset, while sipping tea or coffee bought from vendors on site. Visitors are permitted to slide on the dunes or set up camp, although tents are not provided.
Read also: Trio of events to highlight South Sulawesi arts, culture
Located about 30 kilometers away from Rantepao town in North Toraja regency, the Sumalu sand dunes can be reached via car or motorbike. En route to the sand dunes are views of hills and traditional villages and a cool breeze can be expected upon arrival.(mut)
