Dieng National Geopark: A Path Toward Sustainable Tourism Development

TheIndonesia.co - On May 7th, 2025, Dieng was officially designated a national geopark by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources through Decree No. 172.K/GL.01/MEM.G/2025. The total geopark area spans 319.36 square kilometers, with 161.25 km² in Banjarnegara and 158.11 km² in Wonosobo.

Dieng’s new status as a national geopark represents more than a title—it’s a commitment to preserving its extraordinary natural and cultural heritage while uplifting the local economy. With community involvement and environmental care, Dieng is on the right path to becoming not just a national treasure, but a global one.

The tourism community in the Dieng Plateau, particularly the members of Kelompok Sadar Wisata (Pokdarwis) Dieng Pandawa in Dieng Kulon Village, Banjarnegara Regency, Central Java, is hopeful that Dieng’s recent designation as a national geopark will enhance sustainable tourism in the region.

Alif Faozi, head of Pokdarwis Dieng Pandawa, according to Antara News Agency, expressed both appreciation and cautious optimism during a meeting in Dieng Kulon on Tuesday.

“I truly appreciate the friends who proposed the geopark status. I was involved in the early stages as well. Talking about geoparks brings both advantages and challenges,” Alif said.

According to him, the positive side of this designation lies in the recognition Dieng receives as a significant geological area—one that now carries national responsibility to preserve its natural and cultural heritage.

What Makes Dieng Special?

Alif believes Dieng is a perfect candidate for a geopark because of its rich and unique combination of geological, biological, and cultural diversity. With the new status, he emphasized the need for increased public outreach and awareness so that local communities can understand and benefit from this opportunity.

“A geopark shouldn't just be a branding tool. It must not become a boomerang, like what happened with the Toba Caldera Geopark, which despite its global status from UNESCO, received a warning due to community disengagement,” he explained.

The warning from UNESCO regarding the Toba Caldera highlights a key issue: the lack of active community involvement in the geopark’s management. Learning from this, Alif stressed that the development of Dieng’s geopark must begin with a strong and inclusive stakeholder consortium that involves every local institution.

What Is a Geopark?

According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), a geopark is a concept for sustainable regional development that integrates three key elements:

1. Geo-diversity – the variety of geological formations.
2. Biodiversity – the range of plant and animal life.
3. Cultural diversity – the rich traditions, beliefs, and heritage of local communities.

The main goal of a geopark is to boost the local economy while preserving these three interconnected elements. Geoparks promote responsible tourism, environmental education, and the protection of valuable heritage.

Alif compared the geopark status to his experience with sustainable tourism assessments, which include balancing environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and socioeconomic development.

“It’s not easy. Especially when Dieng was once a national concern due to environmental degradation. But it gave us the motivation to make changes—starting with eco-friendly farming practices and better waste management,” he said.

Environmental Challenges in Dieng

Alif acknowledged that some natural sites in Dieng face serious threats. One example is Telaga Balekambang, a sacred lake believed in local mythology to connect to the southern coast of Java and serve as a resting place for the ancestors.

Due to sedimentation and lack of conservation, Telaga Balekambang is now under threat.

“These are the things we need to evaluate and conserve. If we take proper action, Dieng has a real chance of becoming a global geopark,” Alif emphasized.

Toward Global Recognition

Alif is optimistic that Dieng can progress from national to global geopark status. He also shared that Dieng Kulon has been submitted as a candidate for a world-class tourism village. This proposal highlights similar values: strong environmental stewardship, community preparedness, and sustainable growth.

What is Dieng?

Dieng Plateau is a highland area located in Central Java, Indonesia, lying at around 2,000 meters above sea level. Known for its misty valleys, volcanic craters, and ancient temples, Dieng is often referred to as the “Land Above the Clouds.”

The name Dieng comes from the Old Javanese words "di" (place) and "hyang" (gods), meaning "Abode of the Gods." This is fitting, as the plateau is home to the oldest Hindu temple complex in Java and has long been a spiritual site.

Highlights of Dieng

• Colourful Lakes (Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon): Known for their changing hues caused by mineral content.
• Sikidang Crater: A bubbling volcanic crater with visible geothermal activity.
• Arjuna Temple Complex: Ancient Hindu temples dating back to the 8th century.
• Mount Prau: A popular hiking destination offering breathtaking sunrise views.
• Annual Dieng Culture Festival: Features local rituals, including the cutting of dreadlocked children's hair, traditional music, and lantern releases.

How to Get to Dieng

Dieng can be accessed via multiple routes depending on your starting point. It is located between Wonosobo and Banjarnegara in Central Java.

From Jakarta or Yogyakarta:

1. To Wonosobo:

Take a train or bus to Purwokerto or Yogyakarta.
From there, transfer to a local bus or rental car to Wonosobo.
Wonosobo is the closest large town and a gateway to Dieng.

2. From Wonosobo to Dieng:

Public minivans (angkot) or rented vehicles take about 1.5–2 hours via mountain roads.
The road is scenic but winding—motion sickness medication is advised.

By Air:

The nearest airports are:

• Ahmad Yani International Airport (Semarang)
• Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA)
  From either, continue by car or bus to Wonosobo, then on to Dieng.

Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (May to September) offers the clearest skies and best hiking conditions.
• Weather: Temperatures can drop to near freezing, especially at night—bring warm clothing.
• Local Customs: Respect religious sites and local traditions, especially during festivals.
• Sustainability: Support eco-friendly initiatives such as waste sorting and using local guides.