Kiskendo Cave in Kulon Progo Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region
Kulon Progo Regency is located in the west part of Yogyakarta Special Region. The region is surrounded by beautiful natural attractions and has become a recommended vacation destination for both adventurers and casual tourists. As for the reference, there is Kiskendo Cave, which is located in Sokomoyo Village at Girimulyo Sub-District. Not only the cave is beautiful, but it also offers an interesting history. It is said the cave was found in 1829 and became another region’s vacation site since 1964. Most visitors are those who want to conduct pilgrimage, caving, and photography, actually.
The Nuance
Kiskendo Cave is located in Menoreh Mountains and it resides near to other famous caves like Watu Blencong and Sumitro. It resides on 1200 meters above the sea level, so the cave offers a refreshing air up there. Still, the ambiance is both dark and damp inside. In terms of appearance, it is dominated by limestone, stalagmites, and stalactites. Thanks to the locals. They have installed some lighting inside, so visitors can explore the cave in a more comfortable manner. Another noticeable feature is the presence of an underwater river, emitting both red and white color. As for the depth, it is around 800 meters!
Exploring Kiskendo Cave
Visitors can do many things when spending their vacation in Kiskendo Cave. For example, it is related to history. They can simply ask villagers or local guides regarding history and further information of the cave, actually. It is said two giants lived there, called Mahesasura and Lembusuro. These two giants had a big fight with Sugriwo and Subali. It is also said many people often came to the cave to perform a hermitage. These people wanted to obtain both power and sanctity.
The next motive to visit Kiskendo Cave is none other than exploration or caving. Tourists can simply explore the cave and this can be done comfortably by hiring a local guide. During the exploration, tourists may see a majestic carving that tells the story regarding Sugriwo and Subali. This is carved on the wall by a local art community and has become the best ornament in the cave. Aside from this man-made feature, the cave also offers natural attractions in fact! These include the stalagmites, limestone, and stalactites. So, don’t forget to take photos of these later.
The next allure in Kiskendo Cave is none other than the underground river. It looks beautiful with two astonishing colors (red and white). Unfortunately, no one is allowed to get in the water. Next, during the exploration, visitors may find 9 small chambers, which were used for hermitage back then. The atmosphere is dark there, so be careful when walking.
Nearby Attractions
• Kedung Pedut Waterfall
• Waduk Sermo
• Lanang Mountain
• Krinjingan Mountain
• Grojogan Sewu
How to Get There
The best way to get to Yogyakarta City is indeed by airplane, especially for outsiders. From Jakarta City, in this case, tourists should take an airplane service at Soekarno – Hatta International Airport and head to Adisucipto Airport immediately. During good weather, this flight may take around 1 hour and 10 minutes or less. After arriving at Yogya, they must take Yogyakarta – Wates Street and head to Kulon Progo Regency right away. This trip would take around 54 minutes, as the distance is 36.7 km. Next, from Kulon Progo, they should take Jembatan Clereng Street and head to Kiskendo Cave at Sokomoyo Village. Have no worries. The distance is only 15.6 km, so the trip may take around 39 minutes or less.
Where to Stay
• Miri Sewu Homestay
