Embung Nglanggeran
A serene man-made lake on an ancient volcano's slope, offering breathtaking sunrise/sunset views and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical sunrise & fewer crowds
Embung Nglanggeran
Best Time
Magical sunrise & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene man-made lake on an ancient volcano's slope, offering breathtaking sunrise/sunset views and a peaceful escape.
"Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations; this place is a perfect example."
🌅 Catch the Golden Hours
Visit for sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views and cooler temperatures. :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
Be prepared for stairs to reach the best viewpoints. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunrise & Sunset Spectacle
Top of the reservoir
Witness the sky ablaze with color over the ancient volcano. A truly magical experience.
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Gunung Api Purba Panorama
Overlooking the reservoir
Marvel at the unique landscape of the ancient Nglanggeran volcano from this elevated vantage point.
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Tranquil Reservoir Waters
Main reservoir area
Enjoy the serene beauty of the man-made lake, reflecting the sky and surrounding greenery.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Prepare for a Scenic Ascent
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Golden Hours
Visit for sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views and cooler temperatures. :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
Be prepared for stairs to reach the best viewpoints. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if visiting mid-day. The climb can be warm, but the breeze helps. :droplet:
📸 Don't Forget Your Camera
The scenic beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset, makes for incredible photo opportunities. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Golden Hours
Visit for sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views and cooler temperatures. :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
Be prepared for stairs to reach the best viewpoints. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if visiting mid-day. The climb can be warm, but the breeze helps. :droplet:
📸 Don't Forget Your Camera
The scenic beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset, makes for incredible photo opportunities. :iphone:
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
Expect a small entrance fee and parking cost, making it a budget-friendly destination. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking views of the ancient volcano and the stunning sunrise/sunset at Embung Nglanggeran. It's praised as a peaceful, scenic spot perfect for relaxation and photography, offering great value for its affordable entrance fee. Some note the climb involves stairs and roads can be challenging on exit.
"Awesomely beautiful ancient volcano view
Embung Nglanggeran – Hidden Gem with Stunning Views
Location Nglanggeran, Patuk, Gunungkidul
A peaceful and scenic spot in Gunungkidul, perfect for relaxing or catching a beautiful sunset. Embung Nglanggeran is a man-made lake located on the slope of the ancient volcano Gunung Api Purba. It’s not only used for irrigation, but also a great place to enjoy nature and fresh air.
The view from the top is amazing—especially during sunrise or sunset. You’ll get a wide panorama of green hills and the surrounding landscape. It’s a short walk up some stairs, but not too hard and definitely worth it.
Best Time to Visit Early morning or late afternoon
Bring a camera—sunsets here are beautiful!
Highly recommended if you're exploring Yogyakarta and want a calm spot with great views!"
Adhi Widyarthana
"People say difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations. This place might be a good example
Had to go thru endless, tall stairs but it's definitely worth it. I mean.. Listen to the serene sound!
I came at 2pm and the sun was k!lling me; fortunately, the soothing breeze can bring me back to life. So I suggest to go before 9am or after 4pm WIB for the best experience."
F Zahra
"This reservoir is located just south of the ancient Nglanggeran mountain. From this location you get a better view of the mountain range. There are a few traditional food stalls (warung) but most were closed during the Ramadhan. A number of strategically located gazebos for resting and photo spots are provided for the visitors. Best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, it gets really hot during mid-day."
Agus PD
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Embung Nglanggeran by car or motorbike. The journey from Yogyakarta city center takes approximately 1-1.5 hours. While the main road to reach the area is generally good, some exit roads might be less maintained. Consider using a GPS navigation app.
Public transportation options are limited and may require multiple transfers. Renting a motorbike or car is generally more convenient for reaching Embung Nglanggeran and exploring the Gunungkidul region.
The road leading to Embung Nglanggeran is generally well-maintained and accessible for most vehicles. However, some local roads or exit routes might be rougher, so drive cautiously.
Yes, there is a spacious parking area available for both cars and motorbikes at Embung Nglanggeran.
Ride-sharing apps might be available for the initial part of the journey from Yogyakarta, but coverage can be spotty closer to the destination. It's advisable to have a backup plan or arrange transport in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around IDR 10,000 per person. This makes Embung Nglanggeran a great budget-friendly attraction.
Besides the entrance fee, you will also need to pay a small parking fee, usually around IDR 5,000 for cars.
Embung Nglanggeran is open very early, often around 5 AM, making it ideal for sunrise viewing. It remains open throughout the day, allowing for sunset visits as well.
No, advance booking is generally not required for Embung Nglanggeran. Tickets can be purchased upon arrival at the site.
Absolutely! Embung Nglanggeran is a perfect destination for a day trip from Yogyakarta, offering stunning natural beauty and a peaceful escape.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the reservoir offers the most iconic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The surrounding hills and the ancient volcano provide a dramatic backdrop. +1
The golden hours of sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Mid-day can be harsh, but the greenery is still vibrant.
Many visitors enjoy capturing the reflection of the sky in the reservoir, the panoramic views of the ancient volcano, and the staircases leading up to the viewpoints.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions during sunrise and sunset.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone to avoid issues.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The hike involves climbing a series of stairs to reach the main viewpoints. It's a moderate climb, taking about 5-10 minutes, and is generally considered worth the effort for the views.
Yes, there are strategically located gazebos for resting and photo spots. You'll also find traditional food stalls (warung) selling snacks and drinks, though some may be closed during certain periods like Ramadan.
The best way is to arrive early for sunrise or late afternoon for sunset. Take your time to enjoy the views, the fresh air, and the peaceful atmosphere.
Crowds can vary. Early mornings and late afternoons are generally less crowded than mid-day. Visiting on weekdays might also offer a more serene experience.
You can expect lush green hills, the unique geological formation of the ancient Nglanggeran volcano, and the serene man-made reservoir reflecting the sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat, making the experience more comfortable for everyone. The affordable entrance fee also makes it a budget-friendly outing for families looking to enjoy nature and stunning views without breaking the bank.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring your own snacks and water to save on costs, although there are affordable local food stalls available. The real value here is the spectacular scenery and the peaceful atmosphere, which are priceless. It's a perfect spot for a scenic picnic without the hefty price tag.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your best gear, including wide-angle lenses for landscapes and a tripod for low-light conditions. The unique geological formations of Gunung Api Purba provide a compelling subject, and the reflections in the reservoir add another layer of photographic interest.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel: Gunung Api Purba
+1The views from the top of the reservoir provide a stunning panorama of this ancient mountain range. It's not just a beautiful spot; it's a place where you can appreciate the powerful forces of nature that shaped the land over millennia. The contrast between the calm waters of the embung and the ruggedness of the ancient volcano is truly captivating.
Visitors often remark on how the 'difficult roads' lead to beautiful destinations, and the presence of Gunung Api Purba is a significant part of that beauty. It adds a sense of awe and wonder to the experience, making Embung Nglanggeran more than just a scenic lake.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography Tips
When composing your shots, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the panorama, including the reservoir, the volcano, and the sky. The reflections in the water can also create stunning symmetrical compositions. Don't forget to capture the details of the staircases leading up to the viewpoints, as they add a unique perspective to your photos.
+1For those interested in astrophotography, visiting after sunset can offer opportunities to capture the stars, especially if there's minimal light pollution. However, be mindful of safety and bring a reliable light source. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light photography to ensure sharp images.
The Serene Experience: Beyond the Views
Many travelers describe the experience as 'healing' and 'calming.' The man-made reservoir, originally built for agricultural irrigation, now serves as a peaceful sanctuary. The presence of gazebos offers comfortable spots to rest, reflect, and simply soak in the natural beauty.
Even after a rain shower, the area takes on a fresh, vibrant look, with the air feeling crisp and clean. This post-rain ambiance is particularly cherished by those seeking a refreshing natural experience.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit