A Sacred Journey to Mount Kelud: Rituals, Culture, and Culinary Delights

TheIndonesia.co - Tucked in the heart of East Java, the vibrant regency of Kediri offers more than meets the eye. Beyond its serene landscapes and lush greenery lies a spiritual and cultural heartbeat that comes alive each year on the slopes of one of Indonesia’s most fascinating active volcanoes: Mount Kelud. Towering at 1,731 meters above sea level, this mighty mountain is home to Larung Sesaji, a mesmerizing annual ritual that draws pilgrims, tourists, and curious wanderers alike. But the journey doesn't stop there—visitors can continue their exploration with a visit to Gereja Pohsarang, and a taste of Kediri's unique local cuisine, from tahu takwa to the smoky flavors of nasi goreng areng and the warm comfort of soto Kediri.

Larung Sesaji: A Ritual of Gratitude on Mount Kelud

Held in Sugihwaras Village, Ngancar District, the Larung Sesaji ceremony is not just a tradition; it's a community celebration of gratitude, fertility, and faith. Each year, villagers, farmers, government officials, and schoolchildren gather at Mount Kelud for this deeply symbolic event.

The ritual begins with a communal prayer, led by village elders, followed by the procession of offerings—sesaji—which include fruits, vegetables, traditional dishes, and cooked meals complete with side dishes. These are arranged into a towering gunungan, a cone-shaped mountain of harvest that symbolizes abundance and is later carried toward the crater of Mount Kelud and ceremoniously cast into it.

This ritual expresses thanks to God (Allah SWT) for the bountiful harvest and protection over the region. It also seeks blessings for continued prosperity and safety, especially considering Mount Kelud’s status as an active volcano with a dramatic eruption history.

Following the sacred offering, festivities unfold in the form of traditional dance, jaranan performances, reog ponorogo, and music that echo across the highland air. The climax of the event sees a spirited scramble among the crowd for pieces of the gunungan. Far from chaotic, this activity is full of joy and laughter, with participants eager to take home symbols of prosperity—believed to bring luck and fertility.

Cultural Preservation Meets Tourism Potential

According to Antara News Agency, Mustika Prayitno Adi, Acting Head of Kediri's Tourism and Culture Department, the Larung Sesaji is more than an annual ritual—it's a magnet for tourism. “It’s lively and meaningful. Visitors even come prepared with bags to collect produce from the gunungan,” he explains.

As Kediri looks to elevate its tourism profile on a national and even international scale, events like this play a crucial role. The local government is actively improving accessibility to Mount Kelud with better roads, lighting, signage, and safety facilities, ensuring the area remains inviting and secure for both domestic and foreign visitors.

Additionally, homestays and lodgings are being developed in partnership with local residents to accommodate the growing number of tourists. “It’s about preserving culture while boosting the economy,” says Mariana Dwi Novanti, the Village Head of Sugihwaras. She points out that post-COVID recovery has been possible thanks to the increase in tourist visits, which help support local vendors—from pineapple sellers to food hawkers.

Gereja Pohsarang: Spiritual Serenity Near Mount Kelud

Just a short drive from the slopes of Mount Kelud lies Gereja Pohsarang, a historic Catholic church with architecture that blends Javanese tradition with spiritual symbolism. Built in the 1930s, this pilgrimage site is a peaceful counterpoint to the energetic celebrations of Larung Sesaji.

The church complex features a serene candle garden, stations of the cross, and a replica of the Grotto of Lourdes, making it a popular destination for both religious visitors and architecture enthusiasts. Surrounded by shady trees and the calming sounds of nature, this sacred site provides a moment of reflection and calm—an ideal next stop after the dynamic events on Mount Kelud.

Taste of Kediri: A Culinary Journey

No journey to Kediri would be complete without indulging in its traditional foods, many of which are rarely found outside East Java. Here are three must-try dishes that will leave you craving more:

1. Tahu Takwa (Takwa Tofu)

Kediri is famously dubbed the City of Tofu, and tahu takwa is its proud culinary ambassador. Made from yellow soybeans and traditionally fermented, this tofu has a firm texture and slightly tangy flavour. It's often fried to a golden crisp and served with sambal or sweet soy sauce.

What makes it unique? The tofu gets its colour and aroma from turmeric and natural fermentation, giving it a distinct identity that even non-tofu lovers often appreciate.

2. Nasi Goreng Areng (Charcoal Fried Rice)

Smoky, bold, and full of personality, nasi goreng areng is unlike your average fried rice. Cooked over charcoal embers, this dish gets a rich, slightly burnt flavor that adds depth to the already savory ingredients—usually egg, chicken, and vegetables. It’s best enjoyed hot, straight from the wok, with pickled cucumbers and krupuk (crackers) on the side.

3. Soto Kediri

Warm your soul with a bowl of Soto Kediri, a chicken-based soup rich in lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric. The broth is golden and fragrant, served with shredded chicken, vermicelli noodles, bean sprouts, and a hard-boiled egg. A squeeze of lime and a spoonful of sambal make it sing.

Street vendors and local warungs (food stalls) across Kediri proudly serve these specialties. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations—hospitality is woven into the cultural fabric here.

Getting to Kediri and Mount Kelud

By Air:

• The nearest airport is Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya, about 3.5–4 hours from Kediri by car or bus.
• From the airport, you can hire a private car, use travel shuttle services, or hop on a train bound for Kediri Station.

By Train:

• Kediri is well-connected by train from major cities like Surabaya, Yogyakarta, Malang, and Jakarta.
• From Kediri Station, Mount Kelud is around 30–45 minutes by car or motorcycle.

By Road:

• Public buses and minivans (angkot) connect various parts of East Java to Kediri.
• Car rentals or ride-hailing apps like Grab are also available in larger cities.

Once in Ngancar District, local guides and signage will help direct you to Mount Kelud and its visitor area. The entrance fee is modest, and the view of the surrounding volcanic terrain—often veiled in mist—is worth every penny.

Where to Stay

Homestays in Sugihwaras and Ngancar: These are basic but clean, often offering warm local hospitality.

Hotels in Kediri City: Options range from budget inns to mid-range hotels like Grand Surya Hotel Kediri or Lotus Garden Hotel.

Eco-lodges near Kelud: Newer options are emerging for travelers seeking sustainability and nature immersion.

Final Thoughts: A Soulful Escape to Kediri

Whether you come for the spiritual energy of Larung Sesaji, the natural beauty of Mount Kelud, the sacred calm of Gereja Pohsarang, or the flavours of Kediri’s kitchens, one thing is certain: you’ll leave richer in spirit and story.

As tourism grows in this quiet corner of East Java, its heart remains deeply rooted in tradition, gratitude, and community. Kediri invites not just your footsteps, but your participation—in its rituals, flavors, and rhythms.

So pack your bags, bring an open heart, and let Mount Kelud and Kediri take you on a journey unlike any other.