The Grace of Kerinci Mountain

[sunshine]

Mount Kerinci is the highest volcano in Indonesia and the highest Indonesian peak outside Papua (Irian Jaya). Much of the Kerinci Seblat National Park is located in the province of Jambi but the mountain itself is on the border with West Sumatra. At 3805 meters tall, it is the highest active volcano in Southeast Asia, and even rises above the iconic Mt. Fuji in Japan. Trekking up its forested slopes, protected in the Kerinci Seblat National Park, is extremely challenging as there are no switchbacks, for it is just straight up to the top along a ridge trail. But the views at the top are truly unbeatable, making the struggle and sweat worth it.

It is close to freezing at the top, so make sure you dress in layers and bring a warm beanie and gloves if you can. Best to avoid times of extended rain, but, as it sits within a tropical rainforest, be prepared for it. Most treks up the mountain start after an overnight in the village of Kersik Tuo, but it is also possible to begin from Sungai Penuh.

Although it is possible to get to the top and back in a very, very long day (minimum 12 hours hiking there and back), it is recommended that you spend a night on the mountain at Shelter 2 (3,040m) or even the more exposed Shelter 3 (3,306m). The summit is usually cloudy after mid-morning so if you want to admire the views it is best to plan on reaching the top for dawn the second day before making the descent back to Kersik Tua. The water sources are not reliable so make sure you take ample supplies.

Before exploring Kerinci Mountain, we need to obtain a National Park permit, available from one of the homestays in Kersik Tua, which currently costs a reasonable Rp 20,000. It is also a good idea to take a photocopy of your passport with you (for foreigner).

How to get there
There are regular flights to Padang’s International airport from Indonesia and neighbouring countries. It is then a long 6-8 hours drive to the starting point. There is public transport and ‘travel cars’ for which you share a car with others but it will take you most of a day.

[sunshine]

[penyamun]

indah sekali

[tommyvt]

Kerinci is the highest volcano in Indonesia and the third highest mount after Jaya Wijaya and Rinjani. It is located in Sumatera Island, Indonesia. The scenery is pretty cool, especially if it is a bright day. There is wild vegetation like big trees with mildew and tall shrubs, you know typically Indonesia, tropical country. When you get in to the jungle, you'll see the sky is green. This mountain is worth a try. You're not gonna regret it. Furthermore, there is a lake around this national park. Such an amazing place to visit if you love nature and adventure at the same time.

[cantik8]

There are seven popular tourist destination in Mount Kerinci which famous for visited by tourists, both domestic and foreign:


1. Rawa Bento
This natural destination is currently popular among tourists. Referred as the world's highest swamp, tourists need to take a boat that sails across the river to reach it.


2. Kasah Cave
You could also explore the earth through Mount Kerinci. Kasah Cave was discovered in 1963 which is a relic of ancient times. Has 150 meters length and 20 meters width, this cave has a corridor structure. Kasah Cave is one of the prehistoric sites in Kerinci Regency. This cave is thought as a home for ancient humans. There are several paintings and writing on the cave walls, as well as stone chairs and rooms with stones that resemble beds.


3. Khayangan Hill
Khayangan Hill is a favorite location for enjoying panoramic views over Kerinci. Renah Kayu Embum Village is the main sight. In addition, you could also enjoy the view of Kerinci Seblat National Park over here.


4. Aro Wood Tea Plantation
The eruption of Mount Kerinci also blessed the ground at its feet. Tea is one of the plantation products here. Kayu Aro Tea Plantation is a legacy from the Netherlands and is the first and oldest tea garden in Indonesia. For those who want to breathe fresh air, travel here is the right choice.


5. Semurup Hot Water
Volcanic activity gives birth to hot springs which are now used as public baths. But remember that not all hot springs can be submerged, because there are things that are more dangerous than healthy. One of the popular hot springs visited by tourists is Semurup Hot Water.


6. Lake Kerinci
Not only hot springs, mountain eruptions also gave birth to Lake Kerinci. You can do a lot ourism activities such as camping and fishing here.


7. Lake Kaco
Kaco means glass in the local language. The clear water in this lake is clear as glass. When the full moon come, the lake reflects a very beautiful view.


8. Kerinci Seblat National Park
Being the highest peak in Sumatra, Mount Kerinci stands above 3,805 meters above sea level. From the top, the climber can enjoy the view of Jambi town, Padang city, and the Indian Ocean. The mountain also surrounded by Kerinci Seblat National Park which is a habitat for Sumatran Tigers, Sumatran Elephants, and Sumatran Rhinos. Kerinci Seblat National Park is located in four provinces: West Sumatra, Jambi, Bengkulu, and South Sumatra.