Feasting the eyes on nature from Punthuk Setumbu hilltop

Wed, October 9, 2019 / 05:06 pm

+ See SlideShow

/

Visitors to Punthuk Setumbu take photos with Borobudur temple in the background. JP/Maksum Nur Fauzan
+ See SlideShow

/

Punthuk Setumbu can be reached by car or motorbike, followed by a 20-minute walk through the greenery to reach the top. JP/Maksum Nur Fauzan
+ See SlideShow

/

Visitors from across Indonesia and the globe flock to Punthuk Setumbu. JP/Maksum Nur Fauzan
+ See SlideShow

/

A platform is provided to enjoy the view and take photographs. JP/Maksum Nur Fauzan
+ See SlideShow

/

A visitor enjoys the fresh air of Punthuk Setumbu from the swings. JP/Maksum Nur Fauzan
+ See SlideShow

/

Gereja Ayam (Rooster Church) is a sought-after sight to behold apart from Borobudur temple. JP/Maksum Nur Fauzan
+ See SlideShow

/

Souvenirs are available for purchase at Punthuk Setumbu. JP/Maksum Nur Fauzan

Maksum Nur Fauzan

Be prepared to climb many steps to reach the top of Punthuk Setumbu, some 400 meters above sea level. The hill, gaining its fame through romantic Indonesian movie Ada Apa dengan Cinta? 2 (What’s Up with Cinta? 2) is located west of the Borobudur temple in Karangrejo village, Magelang regency, Central Java.

Punthuk Setumbu can be reached by car or motorbike, followed by a 20-minute walk through the greenery to reach the top.

While the walk uphill can be exhausting, the breathtaking scenery and fresh air at the top reward all the effort. Those who arrive in time for sunrise can watch it rise from behind Mount Merapi and Merbabu. The iconic Gereja Ayam (rooster church) and Borobudur temple are also in sight, enveloped in a light mist.

The picturesque view from Punthuk Setumbu makes the hill a favorite destination among local and foreign travelers alike, especially those who are into photography. It is said that the time to see Punthuk Setumbu at its best is between June and September.

Punthuk Setumbu was once an unnoticed patch of Mount Menoreh. The land was owned by a local resident when it was discovered by a photographer who took striking pictures of its view. Punthuk Setumbu rose to fame following that discovery. [mut]